iPhone 16: Prices, Models, and How It Stacks Up Against the iPhone 17e (2026)
Apple has just shaken up the market with the announcement of the iPhone 17e, but the iPhone 16 line-up is more relevant than ever. Between rumours of price drops and the new features of the latest model, it's easy to get lost. How do the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max really hold up today? Should you snap one up or opt for the new iPhone 17e? We're here to give you the straight talk.
iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max: The Key Differences
The iPhone 16 family, launched last autumn, marked a real leap forward. All models come with the A18 chip, a processor 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: Exactly the same core, but with a massive 6.7-inch screen and battery life that easily lasts two days. The endurance king.
- iPhone 16 Pro: The screen jumps to 6.3 inches (up from 6.1 on the previous generation), featuring ProMotion 120Hz technology. The triple-lens system adds a 5x telephoto camera, and the new Camera Control button is a real game-changer for photographers.
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: The powerhouse. A 6.9-inch display, the best battery life of any iPhone, and video capabilities that are cinema-grade. For those who want absolutely no compromises.
iPhone 16 Prices in 2026: A 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 £800 with some retailers, and the iPhone 16 Plus dipping below the £900 mark. The Pro models are holding their value better but are starting to see some price softening.
So, is it the right time to buy? If you don't need the absolute latest innovation, it's clearly an excellent opportunity. The iPhone 16 Pro Max remains a performance beast, and its camera is still the one to beat. 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 refreshed design and a more aggressive entry-level price. But be aware: under the hood, it shares most of its components with the iPhone 16. The main differences come down to the screen (no ProMotion on the 17e) and the number of camera sensors.
If you're torn between an iPhone 16 Pro and an iPhone 17e, it all depends on your priorities. The Pro will give you a superior display, an optical zoom lens, and more premium finishes. The 17e, on the other hand, is lighter and might offer slightly better battery life thanks to its marginally optimised chip.
In short, for photography and video enthusiasts, the iPhone 16 Pro or Pro Max is still unbeatable. For everyday use without the frills, 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 will appeal to those who want the latest model on a budget, even if it means missing out on a few features.
Either way, the iPhone 16 line-up isn't going anywhere. It still represents the best value for money from the Apple brand, and it will for a long time to come.