Released in September 2023 , the iPhone 15 introduced several notable improvements: a 48 MP camera , a USB-C port , an A16 Bionic chip , and the Dynamic Island (previously found on the Pro models).
But in 2025 , when the iPhone 16 and 17 are expected , is the iPhone 15 still a good choice ? Is it still powerful, reliable and relevant compared to newer models, or should you opt for an iPhone 14 or 15 Pro?
π Let's see if the iPhone 15 is still worth it in 2025.
1. The iPhone 15 in 2025: Performance and Longevity
The iPhone 15 features the A16 Bionic chip, the same one found in the iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max .
1.1. Power and speed
β
Smooth and fast , even with demanding applications.
β
Compatible with iOS 19 and probably up to iOS 22 (update until 2028).
β
Gaming and multitasking without lag thanks to the 6-core GPU.
π‘ Verdict: The A16 Bionic is still very powerful in 2025 , guaranteeing excellent longevity.
2. Screen: A Nice Improvement But Still 60 Hz
The iPhone 15 has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display , similar to the iPhone 14 but with improved brightness .
| Criteria | iPhone 14 | iPhone 15 |
|---|---|---|
| Size and technology | 6.1 inch OLED | 6.1 inch OLED |
| Max brightness (HDR) | 1,200 nits | 2,000 nits β (best outdoor visibility) |
| Display frequency | 60 Hz β | 60 Hz β |
| Dynamic Island | β No | β Yes (replaces the notch) |
π Negative point: Still 60 Hz β The Pro models (iPhone 13 Pro, 14 Pro, 15 Pro) have 120 Hz , offering much better fluidity.
π‘ Verdict: The iPhone 15's screen is excellent but lacks 120Hz , a drawback if you're looking for maximum fluidity.
3. Camera: The Real Big Plus of the iPhone 15
The iPhone 15 brings a big improvement in photography , notably with its 48 MP sensor , compared to 12 MP on the iPhone 14 .
| Criteria | iPhone 14 | iPhone 15 |
|---|---|---|
| Main sensor | 12 MP | 48 MP (ProRAW mode, x2 zoom) β |
| Ultra wide angle | 12 MP | 12 MP |
| Night Mode | β | β Better software processing |
| Optical zoom | β No (digital only) | β Yes (x2 optical) |
πΈ Advantages of the iPhone 15 in photos:
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Sharper and more detailed photos thanks to 48 MP.
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Possibility of x2 zoom without loss of quality.
β
Better low light performance.
π‘ Verdict: The iPhone 15 is a huge step forward in photography , much better than the iPhone 14 and almost on par with the Pro models.
4. Battery Life: Slight Improvement, But Not Revolutionary
π Battery:
- iPhone 14 : 3,279 mAh
- iPhone 15 : 3,349 mAh (+70 mAh, slight improvement)
π Autonomy in normal use:
| Use | iPhone 14 | iPhone 15 |
|---|---|---|
| Navigation / social networks | 3 p.m. | 4 p.m. β |
| Video streaming | 11 a.m. | 12h β |
| Games / Heavy Use | 6-7h | 7-8h β |
π‘ Verdict: The iPhone 15 lasts slightly longer than the iPhone 14 , but remains below an iPhone 15 Pro Max or iPhone 14 Plus .
5. USB-C Port: A Practical Change
π Major difference between iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 :
| Model | Charging port | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 14 | Lightning β | Slower charging, Apple accessories only |
| iPhone 15 | USB-C β | Faster charging, compatible with all USB-C cables |
π‘ Verdict: USB-C is a big plus for the iPhone 15, making it easier to charge and compatible with other devices.
6. iPhone 15 in 2025: Buy or Avoid?
π° Estimated price in 2025:
- New: β¬750-850
- Refurbished: β¬600-700
π Good choice if:
β
You want a great camera (48 MP, 2x zoom).
β
Looking for an iPhone with USB-C for more compatibility.
β
You like Dynamic Island and better screen brightness.
β
You want an iPhone that will last for several years (up to iOS 22-23).
π« Avoid if:
β You want a 120 Hz screen β Choose an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro .
β Looking for longer battery life β iPhone 15 Plus or Pro Max recommended .
β You want to save β The iPhone 14 remains a good, cheaper option.
7. Alternatives to the iPhone 15 in 2025
| Model | Why choose it? | Estimated Price (Refurbished) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 14 | Cheaper, similar performance | 500-600β¬ |
| iPhone 15 Plus | Better battery life and larger screen | 700-800β¬ |
| iPhone 15 Pro | 120 Hz screen, 3x zoom, A17 Pro | 900-1000β¬ |
| iPhone 14 Pro | 120Hz display, 48MP sensor, A16 Bionic | 750-850β¬ |
π‘ If you want to save money , the iPhone 14 is still very powerful and much cheaper. If you're looking for a 120 Hz display , get an iPhone 15 Pro or 14 Pro .
Conclusion: Is the iPhone 15 Worth It in 2025?
| Criteria | iPhone 15 in 2025 |
|---|---|
| β‘ Performances | β Still powerful, iOS 22+ compatible |
| πΈ Camera | β 48 MP sensor, huge improvement |
| π Autonomy | β Good, but not the best |
| πΊ Screen | β Bright OLED, but still 60 Hz |
| π USB-C | β Big advantage over the iPhone 14 |
| π° Price | β οΈ More expensive, but more durable than the iPhone 14 |
π₯ Final Verdict: YES, the iPhone 15 is worth it in 2025!
It offers a great camera, better battery life, and USB-C , making it a great long-term choice .



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