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?
👉 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
✅ Smooth and fast , even with demanding applications.
✅ Compatible with iOS 19 and probably up to iOS 22 (update until 2028).
✅ Gaming and multitasking without lag thanks to the 6-core GPU.
💡 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 ✅ (best outdoor visibility) |
Display frequency | 60 Hz ❌ | 60 Hz ❌ |
Dynamic Island | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (replaces the notch) |
👎 Negative point: Still 60 Hz → The Pro models (iPhone 13 Pro, 14 Pro, 15 Pro) have 120 Hz , offering much better fluidity.
💡 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) ✅ |
Ultra wide angle | 12 MP | 12 MP |
Night Mode | ✅ | ✅ Better software processing |
Optical zoom | ❌ No (digital only) | ✅ Yes (x2 optical) |
📸 Advantages of the iPhone 15 in photos:
✅ Sharper and more detailed photos thanks to 48 MP.
✅ Possibility of x2 zoom without loss of quality.
✅ Better low light performance.
💡 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
🔋 Battery:
- iPhone 14 : 3,279 mAh
- iPhone 15 : 3,349 mAh (+70 mAh, slight improvement)
📌 Autonomy in normal use:
Use | iPhone 14 | iPhone 15 |
---|---|---|
Navigation / social networks | 3 p.m. | 4 p.m. ✅ |
Video streaming | 11 a.m. | 12h ✅ |
Games / Heavy Use | 6-7h | 7-8h ✅ |
💡 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
📌 Major difference between iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 :
Model | Charging port | Benefits |
---|---|---|
iPhone 14 | Lightning ❌ | Slower charging, Apple accessories only |
iPhone 15 | USB-C ✅ | Faster charging, compatible with all USB-C cables |
💡 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?
💰 Estimated price in 2025:
- New: €750-850
- Refurbished: €600-700
📌 Good choice if:
✅ You want a great camera (48 MP, 2x zoom).
✅ Looking for an iPhone with USB-C for more compatibility.
✅ You like Dynamic Island and better screen brightness.
✅ You want an iPhone that will last for several years (up to iOS 22-23).
🚫 Avoid if:
❌ You want a 120 Hz screen → Choose an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro .
❌ Looking for longer battery life → iPhone 15 Plus or Pro Max recommended .
❌ You want to save → 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 | 500-600€ |
iPhone 15 Plus | Better battery life and larger screen | 700-800€ |
iPhone 15 Pro | 120 Hz screen, 3x zoom, A17 Pro | 900-1000€ |
iPhone 14 Pro | 120Hz display, 48MP sensor, A16 Bionic | 750-850€ |
💡 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 |
---|---|
⚡ Performances | ✅ Still powerful, iOS 22+ compatible |
📸 Camera | ✅ 48 MP sensor, huge improvement |
🔋 Autonomy | ✅ Good, but not the best |
📺 Screen | ✅ Bright OLED, but still 60 Hz |
🔌 USB-C | ✅ Big advantage over the iPhone 14 |
💰 Price | ⚠️ More expensive, but more durable than the iPhone 14 |
🥇 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 .
Which is the best iPhone between the iPhone 14 and the iPhone 15?
Is the iPhone 14 still worth it in 2025?