Which iPhone has the Best Camera in 2024?
“Have you seen the photos people are posting with the iPhone 16 Pro Max?” Emily asked her friend, Liam, excitedly. “They’re breathtaking!”
Liam leaned back, slightly skeptical. “Sure, but how much better can the iPhone 16 Pro Max be compared to the iPhone 15 Pro? Is the upgrade really that big?”
Emily grinned. “Well, that’s the thing! It’s not just about upgrading to a new model anymore. With every new iPhone, the camera features keep evolving. But is the iPhone 16 Pro Max truly the best camera in 2024, or is it just hype?”
This conversation is one we’ve all had—whether with a friend, on social media, or even in our heads. As Apple continues to release new iPhones, the big question remains: Which iPhone truly has the best camera in 2024?
The Key Contenders: iPhone 16 Pro Max vs iPhone 15 Pro Max
Let’s break it down. Both iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro Max have amazing camera systems, but why would one be better than the other?
iPhone 16 Pro Max: The New King?
The iPhone 16 Pro Max, which was launched in 2024, was perhaps the most highly anticipated yet for many reasons. Its new 50MP main sensor and telephoto capabilities have users particularly excited.
- 50MP Main Camera: The iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts a 50MP sensor (up from the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s 48MP unit), delivering more detail for crisper, more vivid photos.
- 6x Optical Zoom: The 6x optical zoom is a game changer, especially if you’re someone who enjoys taking photos of faraway subjects.
- ProRAW and Photonic Engine: Apple’s Photonic Engine continues to improve image quality, even in low lighting. Combined with ProRAW, you can make extreme changes while editing your photos after shooting.
Night Mode has gotten even better. You can now take even sharper and more detailed photos in low-light environments.
“So, it sounds like the iPhone 16 Pro Max is unbeatable,” Liam said, nodding. “But is it really worth upgrading from the 15 Pro Max?”
iPhone 15 Pro Max: Last Year’s Powerhouse
Despite the buzz around the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the iPhone 15 Pro Max still holds its ground with impressive camera features:
- 48MP Sensor: Though the 15 Pro Max has a slightly smaller sensor compared to the 16, its 48MP camera was revolutionary just a year ago and continues to deliver stunning photos.
- 3x Optical Zoom: The iPhone 15 Pro Max’s zoom capabilities are less powerful than the iPhone 16’s, but they’re still great for casual photography.
- ProRAW Support: Same as iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro Max has ProRAW. Users can edit easily.
“So, if I got the iPhone 15 Pro Max, I’m not missing out, right?” Liam thought out loud. “But what if I have an older phone?”
iPhone 14 Pro Max: Still Good?
For those with older phones like the iPhone 14 Pro Max, camera tech difference is huge. This phone came in 2022 and was popular for its camera stuff:
- 48MP Main Camera: iPhone 14 Pro Max doesn’t have all the telephoto features newer models do, but that 48MP sensor is still decent.
- Cinematic Mode: This was one of first iPhones with Cinematic Mode for videos, making it look more like a movie.
If you move from iPhone 14 Pro Max or earlier to either the iPhone 15 Pro Max or iPhone 16 Pro Max, you’ll see big upgrades, especially in zoom, night pics, and resolution.
“If I had the 14 Pro Max, I’d likely upgrade,” Liam said. “What about people still using the iPhone 13 or earlier? How do they fit into all this?”
iPhone 13 Pro and earlier models
For those still clinging to an iPhone 13 Pro or older, the cameras are still good, but they lack many of the advanced features we’re used to today:
- 12MP Main Camera: The iPhone 13 Pro is distinctly low on resolution with a 12-megapixel sensor.
- Absence of ProRAW: This generation does not feature Apple’s ProRAW format, which makes it look a little less post-processing-friendly and image-editing-agile than the newer models.
- Night Mode: Reasonable nighttime shots, but nothing approaching the newer iPhones.
It’s still a solid phone,” Sarah said. “But if you’re serious about photography, upgrading would make a huge difference.”
So, Which iPhone Has the Best Camera?
Mike asked the million-dollar question, “So, after all this talk, which iPhone has the best camera in 2024?
Sarah paused, considering. If you’re asking for the best of the best, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is hard to beat.” However, she quickly said that “if you a hearty photographer coming from the iPhone 15 Pro Max, I’m not sure it’s enough of a difference to upgrade”, then.
Conclusion: Overall Winner
The Ultimate Winner In the end, the iPhone 16 Pro Max takes the crown for having the best camera in 2024, thanks to its superior zoom, higher resolution, and advanced processing features.
However, the iPhone 15 Pro Max remains an excellent choice for those who don’t need the absolute latest and greatest.
Emily smiled. “Whether you are jumping up from an older model or simply adore taking snaps, both phones won’t disappoint. However, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is where it will be at if you want that absolute best.”
Liam grinned. OK, you convinced me. Well, looks like I’m going to be upgrading soon!