iPhone 15 Pro Max in 2025 Review

Today, we’re talking about a device that’s close to my heart: the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Well, here’s the thing: with the iPhone 16 Pro Max now out, prices for the 15 Pro Max have dropped. But does that make it a smart buy today? Or is it just yesterday’s news? Let’s unpack this together.

I’ve been using this phone daily since launch, and honestly? It’s been a trusty companion. But I’m not here to sugarcoat anything. We’ll talk about its strengths, its quirks, and whether it still holds up in 2025. Spoiler: You might be surprised.

Oh, and quick disclaimer—this isn’t sponsored. Apple hasn’t sent me a single titanium-coated penny. These are just my honest thoughts. Let’s get into it!

A Little History & Why This Phone Matters.

When the iPhone 15 Pro Max launched in 2023, it was a big deal. For starters, it was Apple’s first Pro Max model to ditch stainless steel for a titanium frame—lighter, tougher, and way more premium-feeling. It also introduced the 5x periscope zoom, a first for iPhones, and brought the A17 Pro chip, which promised console-level gaming.

Fast-forward to 2025: The iPhone 16 Pro Max is here with a slightly bigger screen, a new camera button, and a tweaked design. But here’s the kicker: the 15 Pro Max still shares 90% of its DNA with its successor. If you’re eyeing a premium iPhone without the latest premium price, this might be your golden ticket.

Design

Let’s start with the design. The 15 Pro Max’s titanium frame isn’t just about looks—it’s 21 grams lighter than the stainless steel 14 Pro Max. After 1 year plus of daily use, my unit still feels rock-solid. No dents, no scratches (though I’d still recommend a case if you’re clumsy like me).

Now, the iPhone 16 Pro Max added a dedicated camera control button on the right side. Is that a game-changer? For photographers, maybe. But in my day-to-day? I’ve never once thought, “Man, I wish I had an extra button here.” The 15 Pro Max’s clicky, tactile buttons get the job done just fine.

The biggest difference between the 15 and 16 Pro Max is size. The 15 Pro Max has a 6.7-inch screen, while the 16 bumps it up to 6.9 inches. Here’s my take: 6.7 inches is the sweet spot. It’s big enough for movies and multitasking but still manageable for one-handed use. The 16 Pro Max? It’s almost too wide—my thumb starts cramping after a few minutes of scrolling.

Display

Display-side. Both phones share the same Super Retina XDR OLED tech: 120Hz ProMotion, Dynamic Island, and eye-searing 2000-nit brightness. Apple claims the 16 Pro Max has thinner bezels and a brighter panel, but squint all you want—you won’t notice the difference in real life.

I’ve used both phones outdoors, and the 15 Pro Max’s screen is just as readable in direct sunlight. The Dynamic Island? Still smooth as butter for notifications and live activities. And let’s not forget the Always-On Display—a lifesaver for checking the time or weather without waking the phone.

Is the 16 Pro Max’s display technically better? Sure. But unless you’re holding them side by side, the 15 Pro Max’s screen feels every bit as premium.

Performance

Performance-wise. Under the hood, the iPhone 15 Pro Max packs the A17 Pro chip. The 16 Pro Max has the A18 Pro, but let’s be real: both chips are overkill for 99% of users. Apps launch instantly, multitasking is seamless, and even demanding games like Resident Evil Village run at buttery 60 FPS, though you will feel the heat if you play it for long, an issue that Apple claims to have fixed on the iPhone 16 series. But hey, who would play console games on their phone all the time? why not just use a real console?.

The 16 Pro Max does have a new cooling system with graphene sheets. But unless you’re editing 8K video or gaming for hours, the 15 Pro Max stays cool to the touch. I’ve never had it throttle or lag, even during marathon photo sessions.

Also Read: iPhone 15 Plus Review in 2025

And guess what? Apple Intelligence (their AI suite) runs flawlessly here. Whether it’s live voicemail transcription or photo retouching, the A17 Pro handles it all without breaking a sweat.

Apple’s known for long-term support, and the 15 Pro Max will likely get updates until 2028-2030. Now, it’s rocking iOS 18.3 with all the bells and whistles: redesigned Control Center, smarter Siri, and enhanced privacy features.

I’ve had zero issues with software compatibility. Every app I’ve thrown at it—from Adobe Lightroom to CapCut—works perfectly. If you’re worried about obsolescence, don’t be. This phone’s got years left in the tank.

Battery Life

Now, how’s the battery life?. The 4441 milliAmpere-hour battery was impressive in 2023, and it’s still solid in 2025. On average, I get 6-7 hours of screen time—enough for a full day of emails, YouTube, and social media.

Charging’s decent too. 50% in 30 minutes with a 20 Watt adapter. Wireless MagSafe charging works great.

Camera

Alright, the camera. The 15 Pro Max’s camera system is 95% identical to the 16 Pro Max. You’ve got the same 48 MegaPixel main sensor, 5x periscope zoom, and stellar computational photography. Shots are crisp, colors are vibrant, and Night Mode is witchcraft.

The only difference? The 16 Pro Max’s ultrawide camera jumps to 48 MegaPixel vs. 12 MegaPixel here. But unless you’re pixel-peeping or printing billboards, you won’t care. For Instagram stories and family photos, the 15 Pro Max still delivers.

Oh, and 3D spatial video? It’s a fun gimmick for Apple Vision Pro users, but hardly a must-have.

The Downsides: Let’s Keep It Real.

No phone’s perfect. Here’s where the 15 Pro Max shows the differences:

• No Camera Control Button: If you’re a photography geek, you might miss the 16 Pro Max’s dedicated button.

• Thicker Bezels: They’re only noticeable if you’re really nitpicking.

• Warmer Under Load: The 16 Pro Max’s cooling system is better for heavy tasks, but casual users won’t notice.

Conclusion: Who Should Buy This in 2025?

So, is the iPhone 15 Pro Max still worth it? Absolutely—if you’re smart about it.

• Buy It If: You want a premium iPhone with 95% still latest and greatest from Apple for less than the 16 Pro Max.

• Keep It If: You already own one. The upgrades in the 16 Pro Max aren’t worth the cash.

• Use It As a Companion Phone: Pair it with a compact Android or a foldable for the best of both worlds.

Alright, we just reached the end of the discussion. Last month, I snapped a sunset shot during a hike, and guess what? The 5x zoom captured every ridge on the mountains like I was standing there. No overheating, no fuss. That’s the magic of Apple’s A17 Pro—it’s not just specs on paper, it’s reliability in your pocket.

If you’re eyeing this phone, ask yourself: do you need the shiny new button on the 16 Pro Max? Or is saving cash for that dream vacation smarter?

What do you think? Is the iPhone 15 Pro Max still on your radar? Or are you holding out for the 17? Let me know in the comments—I read every single one. And if this video helped you, give it a thumbs up. It means the world.

Thanks for hanging out, friends. Stay humble, stay curious, and I’ll catch you in the next one. You’re awesome. Peace!