iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: What’s the difference?
All the differences between iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro Max
Deciding between the iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max? This review digs into the key differences, helping you figure out if the upgrade is worth it.
Key Takeaways:
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max was released in September 2023, two years after the iPhone 13 Pro Max which debuted in September 2021.
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max is superior in terms of processor, camera system, and design.
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max is also lighter and has a more refined overall design.
- There is a noticeable difference in price and availability between the two models.
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max introduces subtle refinements in design and finally switches to USB-C, while the 13 Pro Max retains the older Lightning port.
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Contents
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Release dates
Apple’s a creature of habit when it comes to iPhone launches – they love September. The iPhone 13 Pro Max debuted in September 2021, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max hit shelves in September 2023. So, if you’re on the fence about upgrading, there’s a solid two-year difference between these models. Now, does that time gap translate to mind-blowing tech advancements? Well, that’s exactly what this review digs into. Let’s see if the newer iPhone brings enough bang for your buck to ditch your trusty 13 Pro Max.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Spec
| Feature | iPhone 15 Pro Max Spec | iPhone 13 Pro Max Spec |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 159.9 x 76.7 x 8.3 mm (6.30 x 3.02 x 0.33 in) | 160.8 x 78.1 x 7.7 mm (6.33 x 3.07 x 0.30 in) |
| Weight | 221 g (7.80 oz) | 240 g (8.47 oz) |
| Build | Glass front (Corning-made glass), glass back (Corning-made glass), titanium frame (grade 5) | Glass front (Corning-made glass), glass back (Corning-made glass), stainless steel frame |
| SIM | Dual SIM (nano-SIM, eSIM) | Dual SIM (nano-SIM, eSIM) |
| DISPLAY | OLED, 6.7″, 120Hz, 1290×2796 pixels | OLED, 6.7″, 120Hz, 1284×2778 pixels |
| PLATFORM | iOS 17, upgradable to iOS 17.2 | iOS 15, upgradable to iOS 17.2 |
| CPU | Hexa-core (2×3.78 GHz + 4×2.11 GHz) | Hexa-core (2×3.23 GHz Avalanche + 4×1.82 GHz Blizzard) |
| GPU | Apple GPU (6-core graphics) | Apple GPU (5-core graphics) |
| Chipset | Apple A17 Pro (3 nm) | Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) |
| Memory | RAM8GB (256GB, 512GB, 1TB) | RAM6GB (128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB) |
| Main Camera | 48MP main/12MP ultrawide/12MP telephoto w/ 5x zoom | 12MP main/12MP ultrawide/12MP telephoto w/ 3x zoom |
| SELFIE CAMERA | 12MP | 12MP |
| Sound | Stereo speakers | Stereo speakers |
| Battery (Type, charging) | Li-Ion, 4441 mAh | Li-Ion, 4323 mAh |
| Price | 1199$ | 1099$ at launch |
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Price and availability
When it comes to the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro Max, there’s a noticeable difference in price and availability. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, released in September 2023, is priced higher than its predecessor, the iPhone 13 Pro Max. However, it’s important to note that prices can vary depending on the region. Here’s a quick comparison of their prices in the US, UK, and EU:
| Region | iPhone 15 Pro Max (128 GB) | iPhone 13 Pro Max (128 GB) |
|---|---|---|
| US | $1,199 | $1099 (launch price) |
| UK | £1309 | £1049 (launch price) |
| EU | € 1,449 | €1249 (launch price) |
Remember, these prices are subject to change and may vary based on the storage capacity of the device. So, it’s always a good idea to check the latest prices on the official Apple website or authorized retailers. In terms of availability, both models are widely available in these regions. So, whether you’re eyeing the advanced features of the iPhone 15 Pro Max or the more budget-friendly iPhone 13 Pro Max, you’ve got options. Ultimately, the choice between these two powerhouse devices comes down to your individual needs and budget.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Design and size
Both phones boast Apple’s premium design, but the iPhone 15 Pro Max introduces subtle refinements. Its rounded frame feels better in hand, and the use of titanium makes it noticeably lighter than the 13 Pro Max. Dimensions also see slight changes – the 15 Pro Max is marginally thinner in width and length (thanks to slimmer bezels) but slightly thicker. Unfortunately, this means your old 13 Pro Max case won’t fit.
A major shift is Apple finally ditching Lightning for USB-C in the 15 Pro Max, while the 13 Pro Max retains the older port. Neither phone has a headphone jack, so you’ll need wireless headphones or an adapter.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Display
Both the iPhone 15 Pro Max and 13 Pro Max boast impressive 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED screens. The 15 Pro Max nudges ahead with a slightly better resolution (2796×1290) and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits for HDR content, compared to the 13 Pro Max’s 2778×1284 resolution and 1,200-nit brightness.
But the real standout isn’t the screen itself, it’s the bezels. Apple has slimmed down the bezels on the iPhone 15, boosting the screen-to-body ratio. Plus, the 15 Pro Max features the Dynamic Island, a refinement over the 13 Pro Max’s notch. So, while the changes might seem subtle, they add up to a more immersive viewing experience.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Software
The iPhone 15 Pro Max will obviously ship with the latest version of iOS, whereas the iPhone 13 Pro Max likely won’t see major updates beyond iOS 17. This means the 15 Pro Max will boast more cutting-edge features, longer software support, and potentially smoother performance optimized for its newer hardware. However, Apple does a great job supporting older iPhones for several years, so the iPhone 13 Pro Max should still receive security updates and remain perfectly functional for a decent amount of time.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Camera
In the camera showdown between the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro Max, the former steals the limelight. The iPhone 15 Pro Max sports a triple-camera setup with a 48MP main sensor and dual 12MP ultrawide and telephoto lenses. It offers more control over settings like focal length and zoom, a boon for photography enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the iPhone 13 Pro Max, while boasting a robust camera setup and excellent low-light performance, falls short with its 12MP main rear camera. It’s still a solid choice for the average user, but for those seeking the best in mobile photography, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the clear winner.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Performance
The iPhone 15 Pro Max clearly outshines the iPhone 13 Pro Max. Equipped with Apple’s cutting-edge A17 Pro chip, the iPhone 15 Pro Max promises top-tier performance, swift responsiveness, and seamless multitasking. It also boasts 8GB of RAM and storage options up to a whopping 1TB. The iPhone 13 Pro Max, powered by the A15 Bionic chip, still delivers decent performance, but falls short when compared to its successor. With 6GB of RAM and similar storage options, it’s a solid choice, but for those seeking the latest and greatest, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the clear winner.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Battery life and Charging
While the iPhone 15 Pro Max does have a slightly larger battery than the 13 Pro Max, it’s not a huge difference. Apple claims that the 15 Pro Max can deliver up to 29 hours of video playback, just an hour more than the 13 Pro Max.
Both phones should comfortably last you a full day with typical use and support both 20W wired and 15W MagSafe wireless charging. So, you can expect similar charging speeds with a compatible adapter. But here’s the kicker – you can now use any USB-C cable or charger with your iPhone 15 Pro Max. Now, that’s a welcome change!
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Verdict
Unsurprisingly, a direct comparison of these two top-tier smartphones reveals that the iPhone 15 Pro Max outshines its predecessor, the iPhone 13 Pro Max. It boasts an impressive processor, an advanced camera system, and a design that is not only sleeker and lighter but also more polished. If you’re seeking the pinnacle of what Apple can provide and are willing to pay a premium for it, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is an excellent choice.
