Apple has been at the forefront of smartphone innovation, and with each new release, the iPhone lineup has become more versatile. In this guide, we compare the features of every iPhone from the iPhone 12 onward to help you decide which one to buy in 2025 based on your needs and budget.
The Lineup at a Glance
| Model | Year Released | Key Features | Current Pricing (2025) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 12 Series | 2020 | A14 Bionic chip, 5G, OLED display, Ceramic Shield | From $399 | Budget-conscious buyers |
| iPhone 13 Series | 2021 | A15 Bionic chip, improved battery life, better cameras | From $499 | All-rounders |
| iPhone 14 Series | 2022 | Crash Detection, Always-On display (Pro), Dynamic Island (Pro) | From $599 | Early adopters of new tech |
| iPhone 15 Series | 2023 | USB-C, Titanium frame (Pro models), A17 Pro chip (Pro models) | From $699 | Professionals and gamers |
| iPhone 16 Series | 2024 | Enhanced AI features, Periscope zoom (Pro Max), A18 Bionic chip | From $799 | Photography enthusiasts |
Detailed Comparisons
iPhone 12 Series: The Budget-Friendly Choice
The iPhone 12 lineup introduced 5G and set a new standard with OLED displays across all models. The A14 Bionic chip, while aging, still performs adequately for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming.
- Pros: Affordable, still receives iOS updates, durable Ceramic Shield.
- Cons: Shorter battery life, lacks advanced camera features.
- Best For: Students, casual users, or those on a tight budget.
iPhone 13 Series: A Balanced Performer
The iPhone 13 series refined the 12’s formula, offering better battery life and improved camera performance with features like Cinematic Mode. The A15 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance for years to come.
- Pros: Great value, solid performance, excellent battery life.
- Cons: Lacks USB-C, minor upgrade over the iPhone 12.
- Best For: Most users who want a reliable phone without splurging.
iPhone 14 Series: Stepping Into Modernity
With features like Crash Detection and the Dynamic Island on Pro models, the iPhone 14 series marked a shift toward enhanced user experience. The Always-On display on Pro models is perfect for productivity.
- Pros: Safety features, Dynamic Island, excellent cameras.
- Cons: Incremental updates, still uses Lightning port.
- Best For: Tech enthusiasts and safety-conscious users.
iPhone 15 Series: USB-C and Titanium Elegance
The iPhone 15 series finally brought USB-C to the lineup, making charging and data transfer more convenient. The Pro models’ titanium frame reduces weight, and the A17 Pro chip ensures top-tier performance.
- Pros: USB-C, lightweight design, powerful chip.
- Cons: Expensive, incremental updates for non-Pro models.
- Best For: Professionals, gamers, and those wanting cutting-edge hardware.
iPhone 16 Series: Pushing Boundaries
The latest iPhone 16 series introduces advanced AI capabilities and a periscope zoom for the Pro Max model, catering to photography enthusiasts. The A18 Bionic chip makes it the fastest iPhone yet.
- Pros: Best-in-class cameras, long-term software support, blazing performance.
- Cons: Premium price tag, overkill for casual users.
- Best For: Content creators, photographers, and power users.
