iPhone 16: Prices, Models & Comparison with iPhone 17e (2026)
Apple has just shaken up the market with the announcement of the iPhone 17e, but the iPhone 16 lineup is more relevant than ever. With whispers of price drops and the new features of the latest model, it's easy to get confused. How do the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max really stack up today? Should you grab one of these or go for the new iPhone 17e? We're breaking it down, no-nonsense style.
iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max: The Key Differences
The iPhone 16 family, launched last Spring, marked a real leap forward. All models are powered by the A18 chip, built for AI and the most demanding games. But each version has its own personality:
- iPhone 16: The most accessible, with its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, a 48MP dual-camera setup, and the new Action button. Perfect for those who want the essentials without compromise.
- iPhone 16 Plus: The exact same core, but with a massive 6.7-inch screen and battery life that easily stretches to two days. The endurance king.
- iPhone 16 Pro: The screen jumps to 6.3 inches (up from 6.1 on the previous gen), featuring ProMotion 120Hz technology. The triple-lens system adds a 5x telephoto lens, and the new camera control button is a real game-changer for photographers.
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: The absolute beast. A 6.9-inch display, the best battery life of any iPhone, and video capabilities that are practically cinematic. For those who want no compromises.
iPhone 16 Prices in 2026: Good Deal or Not?
With the arrival of the iPhone 17e, officially unveiled this week, prices for the iPhone 16 range have logically started to drop. You can now find the iPhone 16 for under A$1,500 from some retailers, and the iPhone 16 Plus dipping below A$1,700. The Pro models are holding their value better but are starting to see some price softening.
So, is it time to buy? If you don't need the absolute latest innovation, this is clearly a fantastic deal. The iPhone 16 Pro Max remains a powerhouse, and its camera is still top-tier. At a reduced price, it's an absolute steal.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 17e: Which One to Choose?
The iPhone 17e, the new kid on the block, arrives with a slightly tweaked design and a more aggressive entry-level price. But here's the catch: under the hood, it shares most of its components with the iPhone 16. The difference really comes down to the screen (no ProMotion on the 17e) and the number of camera lenses.
If you're tossing up between an iPhone 16 Pro and an iPhone 17e, it all depends on your priorities. The Pro will give you a superior screen, optical zoom, and a more premium finish. The 17e, on the other hand, is lighter and might have slightly better battery life thanks to its optimised chip.
In short, for photo and video buffs, the iPhone 16 Pro or Pro Max remains unbeatable. For everyday, no-fuss use, the iPhone 16 or even the iPhone 16 Plus will do the job perfectly, especially with the current discounts. As for the iPhone 17e, it'll appeal to those who want the latest model on a budget, even if it means skimping on a few features.
Either way, the iPhone 16 lineup isn't done yet. It still represents the best value for money from the Apple team, and that's set to last for a while.