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ALTERNATIVES
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REVIEWS
Scored using Smartphones Methodology v1.0
Smartphones Methodology v1.0
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Products in this category are scored under Frontum Smartphones Methodology v1.0: technical specifications plus authentic consumer ratings, with 0% commercial bias.
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Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) Review | 197 Data compared

Avg. price:~£1,140RAM capacity:8 GBInternal storage:256 GBScreen size:6.9 inchesMain camera megapixels:48 MP & 48 MP & 12 MP

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) Review: Compare 197 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Smartphones category and whether it is worth buying.

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB)
8.2/10

Overall score

Score
8.2/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the smartphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best smartphones on the market.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 91% of models
Score components

90%

8.1

Technical score

10%

9.3

User score

★Better than 91% of smartphones
7.1

Value for money

Value for money
7.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartphone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartphone with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 71% of models
Score components

70%

8.2

Overall score

30%

4.5

Price

▼Worse than 71%
8.1

Technical score

Technical score
8.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 89% of models
Score components

25%

7.8

Performance & Hardware

18%

9.0

Camera

15%

8.9

Display

15%

6.6

Battery

10%

9.3

Software

10%

8.7

Connectivity

4%

4.4

Audio

3%

7.4

Design

▲Better than 89%
9.3

User score

User score
9.3/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters
When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 99% of models
Score components

70%

9.0

User ratings

30%

10

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
★Better than 99%
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Best rankings
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Technical Specifications of smartphone Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB)

Technical score
Technical score
8.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 89% of models
Score components:

25%

7.8

Performance & Hardware

18%

9.0

Camera

15%

8.9

Display

15%

6.6

Battery

10%

9.3

Software

10%

8.7

Connectivity

4%

4.4

Audio

3%

7.4

Design

8.1
User score
User score
9.3/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters
When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 99% of models
Score components

70%

9.0

User ratings

30%

10

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
9.3
Popularity
Popularity
10/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartphone.
When it matters
When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 94% of models
Popularity:
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 94.1% of smartphones.
10
Value for money
Value for money
7.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartphone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartphone with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 71% of models
Score components:

70%

8.2

Overall score

30%

4.5

Price

7.1
Brand name
Apple
Processor model
Apple A18 Pro
This smartphone uses the Apple A18 Pro processor which is faster than processors in 94.5% of smartphones.
RAM capacity
8 GB
Market range: <4 GB – >16 GB
This smartphone has a RAM capacity of 8 GB which is larger than the RAM capacity of 28.5% of smartphones and equal to that of 30.4% of smartphones.
Internal storage
256 GB
Market range: <64 GB – >512 GB
This smartphone has an internal storage capacity of 256 GB which is larger than the storage of 38.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 38.3% of smartphones.
CPU boost clock speed
3.89 GHz
Market range: <2 GHz – >3.3 GHz
The CPU boost clock speed of this smartphone is 3.89 GHz which is higher than the boost speed of 95.2% of smartphones.
Show more
Operating system
iOS
This smartphone uses the iOS operating system, which outperforms that of 1%.
iOS 18
Android version
N/A
Direct OS updates
yes
This smartphone receives direct OS updates. 20.6% of smartphones receive direct updates.
Open-source OS
no
This smartphone does not use an open-source OS. 94.6% of smartphones use an open-source OS.
Dark mode
yes
This smartphone offers dark mode. 95.8% of smartphones support this feature.
Show more
Multi-lens main camera
yes
This smartphone includes a multi-lens main camera system. 93.7% of smartphones include multi-lens setups.
Main camera megapixels
48 MP & 48 MP & 12 MP
Market range: <10 – >100
This smartphone has a main camera resolution of 48 MP & 48 MP & 12 MP which is lower than that of 75.4% of smartphones.
Main camera aperture
f/1.8
This smartphone has a main camera aperture of f/1.8 which is narrower than that of 71.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 5% of smartphones.
Main camera sensor area
71.4 mm²
Market range: <19.7 mm² – >71.4 mm²
This smartphone has a main camera sensor area of 71.4 mm² which is larger than the main camera sensor area of 89.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.6% of smartphones.
Main camera pixel size
1.22 µm
Market range: <0.64 µm – >1.22 µm
This smartphone has a main camera pixel size of 1.22 µm which is larger than in 88.8% of smartphones and equal to the size in 3% of smartphones.
2.44 binned
Show more
Number of SIM slots
2
Market range: <1 – >6
This smartphone has 2 SIM slots, which is more than in 3.8% of smartphones and equal to the number in 96.1% of smartphones.
Cellular module
yes
This smartphone includes a cellular module. 100% of smartphones include cellular modules.
5G connectivity
yes
This smartphone supports 5G connectivity. 66.9% of smartphones support 5G.
LTE support
yes
This smartphone supports LTE. 99.7% of smartphones include LTE connectivity.
Wi-Fi connectivity
yes
This smartphone supports Wi-Fi connectivity. 100% of smartphones offer Wi-Fi support.
Show more
Screen size
6.9 inches
Market range: <6.3 inches – >6.82 inches
This smartphone has a screen size of 6.9 inches which is larger than the screens of 93.8% of smartphones and equal to those of 2.6% of smartphones.
Screen resolution
1320x 2868 px
This smartphone has a screen resolution of 1320x2868 px which is higher than that of 91.1% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.1% of smartphones.
Pixel density
460 ppi
Market range: <264 ppi – >460 ppi
This smartphone has a pixel density of 460 ppi which is higher than that of 88.2% of smartphones and equal to that of 3.3% of smartphones.
Display type
OLED/AMOLED
This smartphone uses a OLED/AMOLED display type. 58.6% of smartphones use this display technology.
Refresh rate
120 Hz
Market range: <60 Hz – >144 Hz
This smartphone supports a refresh rate of 120 Hz which is higher than in 34.7% of smartphones and equal to that in 55.2% of smartphones.
Show more
Battery capacity
4,676 mAh
Market range: <4k mAh – >7k mAh
This smartphone has a battery capacity of 4,676 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 76.1% of smartphones.
Charging speed
45 W
Market range: <15 W – >90 W
This smartphone supports charging speeds of 45 W which is faster than in 57.1% of smartphones and equal to speeds in 6.6% of smartphones.
Fast charging
yes
This smartphone supports fast charging. 93.1% of smartphones support fast charging.
GSMArena full wired charge time
?
Wireless charging
yes
This smartphone supports wireless charging. 25.2% of smartphones support wireless charging.
Show more
Stereo speakers
yes
This smartphone includes stereo speakers. 64.4% of smartphones provide stereo audio.
3.5 mm headphone jack
no
This smartphone does not include a 3.5 mm headphone jack. 45.5% of smartphones offer this port.
Number of microphones
4
Market range: <1 – >3
This smartphone includes 4 microphones, which is more than in 96.9% of smartphones and equal to the number in 3.1% of smartphones.
FM radio
no
This smartphone does not include an FM radio. 34.2% of smartphones offer FM radio functionality.
aptX Lossless
no
This smartphone does not support aptX Lossless. 12.9% of smartphones provide aptX Lossless.
Show more
Height
163 mm
Market range: <156.2 mm – >171.56 mm
This smartphone has a height of 163 mm which is shorter than 57.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 1.3% of smartphones.
Width
77.6 mm
Market range: <73.1 mm – >81 mm
This smartphone has a width of 77.6 mm which is wider than 79.9% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.7% of smartphones.
Thickness
8.3 mm
Market range: <7.53 mm – >10.5 mm
This smartphone has a thickness of 8.3 mm which is thinner than 44.7% of smartphones and equal to that of 6.1% of smartphones.
Weight
227 g
Market range: <175 g – >256 g
This smartphone weighs 227 g which is heavier than 84.7% of smartphones and equal to the weight of 0.4% of smartphones.
Device volume
100,408 cm³
Market range: <80 cm³ – >190 cm³
This smartphone has a device volume of 100,408 cm³ which is larger than 67.3% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.9% of smartphones.
Show more

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) vs the average smartphone

246810TotalPerformance & HardwareSoftwareCameraConnectivityDisplayBatteryAudioDesign
  • 5 x higher optical zoom
    This smartphone offers higher optical zoom than the average smartphone (5 x vs 0 x).
    5 x vs 0 x
  • 2.23x larger main camera sensor area
    This smartphone has a larger main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (71.4 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average main camera sensor area is 32 mm².
    71.4 mm² vs 32 mm²
  • Has optical image stabilization
    This smartphone has optical image stabilization (OIS), the average smartphone does not. 48.3% of smartphones feature OIS.
  • 50% smaller process node
    This smartphone uses a smaller process node than the average smartphone (3 nm vs 6 nm). The average process node size is 6 nm.
    3 nm vs 6 nm
  • 62.1% higher CPU boost clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU boost clock speed than the average smartphone (3.9 GHz vs 2.4 GHz). The average smartphone has a boost clock speed of 2.4 GHz.
    3.89 GHz vs 2.4 GHz
  • Supports wireless charging
    This smartphone supports wireless charging, the average smartphone does not. 25.2% of smartphones are wireless charging compatible.
  • 3.03x higher screen brightness
    This smartphone has a higher screen brightness than the average smartphone (2000 nits vs 660 nits). The average smartphone brightness is 660 nits.
    2,000 nits vs 660 nits
  • Direct OS updates
    This smartphone supports direct OS updates, the average smartphone does not. 20.6% of smartphones support this feature.
  • 16.4% higher user score
    User score
    9.3/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
    When it matters
    When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
    Score distribution
    ▼
    ▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
    the average smartphone
    Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) has a higher user score than the average smartphone (9.31 vs 8.000).
    9.31 vs 8
  • 83.9% more popular
    Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) is more popular than the average smartphone (10 vs 5.4).
    10 vs 5.44
  • 62.1% higher CPU boost clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU boost clock speed than the average smartphone (3.9 GHz vs 2.4 GHz). The average smartphone has a boost clock speed of 2.4 GHz.
    3.89 GHz vs 2.4 GHz
  • 50% smaller process node
    This smartphone uses a smaller process node than the average smartphone (3 nm vs 6 nm). The average process node size is 6 nm.
    3 nm vs 6 nm
  • Higher CPU base clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU base clock speed than the average smartphone (2x3.89 GHz & 4x2.2 GHz vs 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz). The average smartphone has a base clock speed of 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz.
    2x3.89 GHz & 4x2.2 GHz vs 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz
  • 66.7% lower TDP
    This smartphone has a lower TDP than the average smartphone (10 W vs 6 W). The average TDP for smartphones is 6 W.
    10 W vs 6 W
  • Better processor
    This smartphone features a better processor than the average smartphone (Apple A18 Pro vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3).
    Apple A18 Pro vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3
  • 3.08x higher memory bandwidth
    This smartphone has higher memory bandwidth than the average smartphone (78.8 GB/s vs 25.6 GB/s). The average memory bandwidth is 25.6 GB/s.
    78.8 GB/s vs 25.6 GB/s
  • 3.65x higher PassMark single-core benchmark
    This smartphone has a better PassMark single-core score than the average smartphone (3,604 vs 988). The average single-core score is 988.
    3,604 vs 988
  • 56.8% faster GPU clock
    This smartphone has a higher GPU frequency than the average smartphone (1490 MHz vs 950 MHz). The average smartphone GPU frequency is 950 MHz.
    1,490 MHz vs 950 MHz
  • 3.38x higher Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
    This smartphone scores better in Geekbench 6 multi-core than the average smartphone (8,550 vs 2,533). The average smartphone scores 2,533 in multi-core.
    8,550 vs 2,533
  • 2.92x higher PassMark benchmark
    This smartphone achieves a higher PassMark score than the average smartphone (12,810 vs 4,389). The average smartphone PassMark score is 4,389.
    12,810 vs 4,389
  • 3.86x higher 3DMark Wild Life Extreme benchmark
    This smartphone performs better in 3DMark Wild Life Extreme than the average smartphone (4,731 vs 1,226). The average smartphone scores 1,226.
    4,731 vs 1,226
  • 6x more L1
    This smartphone has more L1 cache than the average smartphone (192 KB vs 32 KB). The average L1 cache is 32 KB.
    192 KB vs 32 KB
  • Newer DDR memory version
    This smartphone supports a newer DDR version than the average smartphone (5 vs 4). The average DDR version is 4.
    5 vs 4
  • 74.5% faster memory speed
    This smartphone supports faster memory speed than the average smartphone (4800 MHz vs 2750 MHz). The average smartphone supports 2750 MHz memory speed.
    4,800 MHz vs 2,750 MHz
  • 94.2% more transistors
    This smartphone has more transistors than the average smartphone (20000 million vs 10300 million). The average smartphone includes 10300 million transistors.
    20,000 million vs 10,300 million
  • 2.8x higher 3DMark Steel Nomad benchmark
    This smartphone performs better in 3DMark Steel Nomad benchmark than the average smartphone (1,704 vs 608). The average score is 608.
    1,704 vs 608
  • 3x more shader units
    This smartphone features more shader units than the average smartphone (768 vs 256). The average smartphone has 256 shader units.
    768 vs 256
  • Direct OS updates
    This smartphone supports direct OS updates, the average smartphone does not. 20.6% of smartphones support this feature.
  • Higher on-device AI tier
    This smartphone runs on the productivity AI tier, while the average smartphone runs on fundamental, enabling stronger on-device AI features.
    Writing Tools, Clean Up, Priority Messages, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, Siri Overhaul
    productivity vs fundamental
  • Includes cross-site tracking protection
    This smartphone supports cross-site tracking prevention, the average smartphone does not. 32.2% of smartphones include this feature.
  • Supports AirPlay
    This smartphone supports AirPlay, the average smartphone does not. 2.3% of smartphones are AirPlay compatible.
  • Supports Shareplay
    This smartphone supports SharePlay, the average smartphone does not. 2.1% of smartphones include this feature.
  • Supports fast boot
    This smartphone supports fast boot, the average smartphone does not. 22.6% of smartphones include fast boot capabilities.
  • 5 x higher optical zoom
    This smartphone offers higher optical zoom than the average smartphone (5 x vs 0 x).
    5 x vs 0 x
  • 2.23x larger main camera sensor area
    This smartphone has a larger main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (71.4 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average main camera sensor area is 32 mm².
    71.4 mm² vs 32 mm²
  • Has optical image stabilization
    This smartphone has optical image stabilization (OIS), the average smartphone does not. 48.3% of smartphones feature OIS.
  • 0.42 µm larger main camera pixel size
    This smartphone has a larger main camera pixel size than the average smartphone (1.2 µm vs 0.8 µm). The average pixel size is 0.8 µm.
    2.44 binned
    1.22 µm vs 0.8 µm
  • Better main camera video
    This smartphone records better main camera video than the average smartphone. 22.60x of smartphones support 4K or higher.
    2160x120 fps vs 2160x30 fps
  • 30.8% higher DxOMark Mobile score
    This smartphone has a higher DxOMark Mobile score than the average smartphone (157 vs 120). The average smartphone scores 120.
    157 vs 120
  • Supports RAW photo capture
    This smartphone supports RAW photo capture, the average smartphone does not. 37.1% of smartphones allow RAW files.
  • 54.1% higher DxOMark Selfie score
    This smartphone has a higher DxOMark Selfie score than the average smartphone (151 vs 98). The average smartphone scores 98 for selfies.
    151 vs 98
  • Uses a BSI sensor
    This smartphone uses a BSI sensor, the average smartphone does not. 40.5% of smartphones include BSI sensors.
  • Wider front camera aperture
    This smartphone has a wider front camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/1.9 vs f/2.2). The average aperture is f/2.2.
    f/1.9 vs f/2.2
  • Supports Dolby Vision video recording
    This smartphone supports Dolby Vision video recording, the average smartphone does not. 10.7% of smartphones support Dolby Vision.
  • Has a multi-lens front camera
    This smartphone features a multi-lens front camera, the average smartphone does not. 18% of smartphones have multiple front lenses.
  • Supports laser autofocus
    This smartphone features laser autofocus, the average smartphone does not. 21.4% of smartphones include laser AF.
  • Allows manual shutter speed
    This smartphone allows manual shutter speed control, the average smartphone does not. 29.8% of smartphones include this.
  • 1 more flash LEDs
    This smartphone has more flash LEDs than the average smartphone (2 vs 1). The average smartphone has 1 flash LEDs.
    2 vs 1
  • Supports HDR10 video recording
    This smartphone supports HDR10 video recording, the average smartphone does not. 35.9% of smartphones support HDR10.
  • Has a dual-tone LED flash
    This smartphone features a dual-tone LED flash, the average smartphone does not. 41.4% of smartphones include dual-tone flash.
  • Has a pro camera setup
    This smartphone features a pro camera setup, the average smartphone does not. 9.4% of smartphones include professional-grade camera hardware.
  • Has 3D facial recognition
    This smartphone features 3D facial recognition, the average smartphone does not. 4.3% of smartphones support 3D face unlock.
  • Newer Wi-Fi version
    This smartphone supports a newer Wi-Fi version than the average smartphone (Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)). The average smartphone uses Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n).
    Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
  • Newer USB version
    This smartphone supports a newer USB version than the average smartphone (3.2 vs 2). The average version is USB 2.0.
    3.2 vs 2.0
  • Includes crash detection
    This smartphone features crash detection, the average smartphone does not. 5.7% of smartphones include automatic crash detection.
  • Supports satellite SOS
    This smartphone supports satellite SOS functionality, the average smartphone does not. 8.1% of smartphones offer satellite emergency services.
  • Has a barometer
    This smartphone features a barometer, the average smartphone does not. 19.9% of smartphones include a barometer.
  • Has an infrared sensor
    This smartphone includes an infrared sensor, the average smartphone does not. 33.3% of smartphones feature an IR blaster.
  • Newer Bluetooth version
    This smartphone supports a newer Bluetooth version than the average smartphone (5.3 vs 5.2). The average version is Bluetooth 5.2.
    5.3 vs 5.2
  • 3.03x higher screen brightness
    This smartphone has a higher screen brightness than the average smartphone (2000 nits vs 660 nits). The average smartphone brightness is 660 nits.
    2,000 nits vs 660 nits
  • Higher screen resolution
    This smartphone has a higher screen resolution than the average smartphone (1320x2868 px vs 1080x2400 px). The average smartphone resolution is 1080x2400 px.
    1320x2868 px vs 1080x2400 px
  • 0.23 inches inch larger screen size
    This smartphone has a larger screen size than the average smartphone (6.9 inches vs 6.67 inches). The average smartphone screen is 6.67 inches.
    6.9 inches vs 6.67 inches
  • Better display glass type
    This smartphone features a better display glass type than the average smartphone (Ceramic Shield vs Corning Gorilla Glass 5). The average smartphone uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection.
    Ceramic Shield vs Corning Gorilla Glass 5
  • 16.5% higher pixel density
    This smartphone has a higher pixel density than the average smartphone (460 ppi vs 395 ppi). The average smartphone has a pixel density of 395 ppi.
    460 ppi vs 395 ppi
  • Supports Dolby Vision support
    This smartphone supports Dolby Vision, the average smartphone does not. 17.3% of smartphones are Dolby Vision compatible.
  • Supports HDR10+ support
    This smartphone supports HDR10+, the average smartphone does not. 22.2% of smartphones include HDR10+ support.
  • Supports HDR10 support
    This smartphone supports HDR10, the average smartphone does not. 42.7% of smartphones are HDR10 compatible.
  • 1,000 nits higher peak brightness
    This smartphone has a higher peak brightness than the average smartphone (2000 nits vs 1000 nits). The average peak brightness is 1000 nits.
    2,000 nits vs 1,000 nits
  • Has an always-on display
    This smartphone features an always-on display, the average smartphone does not. 49.2% of smartphones offer always-on functionality.
  • Higher contrast ratio
    This smartphone has a higher contrast ratio than the average smartphone (2000000:1 vs 1000000:1). The average smartphone contrast ratio is 1000000:1.
    AMOLED/OLED displays have an effectively infinite contrast ratio
    2,000,000:1 vs 1,000,000:1
  • Supports wireless charging
    This smartphone supports wireless charging, the average smartphone does not. 25.2% of smartphones are wireless charging compatible.
  • 36.4% faster charging speed
    This smartphone supports a faster charging speed than the average smartphone (45 W vs 33 W). The average charging speed is 33 W.
    45 W vs 33 W
  • 25% faster wireless charging speed
    This smartphone supports a faster wireless charging speed than the average smartphone (25 W vs 20 W). The average speed is 20 W.
    25 W vs 20 W
  • 2 more microphone/s
    This smartphone has more microphones than the average smartphone (4 vs 2). The average smartphone has 2 microphones.
    4 vs 2
  • 6 m deeper water resistance
    This smartphone has a deeper water resistance rating than the average smartphone (6 m vs 0 m). The average depth rating is 0 m.
    6 m vs 0 m
  • Is designed for seniors
    This smartphone is designed specifically for seniors, the average smartphone is not. 17% of smartphones are senior-friendly.
  • Better IP rating
    This smartphone has a better IP rating than the average smartphone (IP68 vs IP67). The average IP rating is IP67.
    IP68 vs IP67
  • Narrower main camera aperture
    This smartphone has a narrower main camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/1.8 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4). The average smartphone aperture is f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4.
    f/1.8 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4
  • Lacks multithreading support
    This smartphone does not support multithreading, the average smartphone does. 80.5% of smartphones support multithreading.
  • No LDAC support
    This smartphone does not support LDAC, the average smartphone does. 60.3% of smartphones support LDAC.
  • No memory card slot
    This smartphone does not have a memory card slot, the average smartphone does. 53.5% of smartphones feature expandable storage.
  • 42.9% lower maximum RAM capacity
    This smartphone supports less maximum RAM than the average smartphone (8 GB vs 14 GB). The average smartphone supports 14 GB of RAM.
    8 GB vs 14 GB
  • No aptX HD
    This smartphone does not support aptX HD, the average smartphone does. 50.7% of smartphones support aptX HD.
  • Lower-resolution main camera
    This smartphone has a lower-resolution main camera than the average smartphone (48 MP & 48 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP). The average smartphone has a 50 MP & 8 MP main camera.
    48 MP & 48 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP
  • No ultra power-saving mode
    This smartphone does not have an ultra power-saving mode, the average smartphone does. 93.8% of smartphones include ultra power-saving.
  • 4.38x more expensive
    Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) is more expensive than the average smartphone (£1,140 vs £260).
    £1,140 vs £260
  • 3.3% worse value for money
    Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) has worse value for money than the average smartphone (7.1 vs 7.3).
    7.1 vs 7.34
  • Lacks multithreading support
    This smartphone does not support multithreading, the average smartphone does. 80.5% of smartphones support multithreading.
  • 42.9% lower maximum RAM capacity
    This smartphone supports less maximum RAM than the average smartphone (8 GB vs 14 GB). The average smartphone supports 14 GB of RAM.
    8 GB vs 14 GB
  • 2 fewer CPU threads
    This smartphone supports fewer CPU threads than the average smartphone (6 vs 8). The average smartphone supports 8 threads.
    6 vs 8
  • Lacks multi-user mode
    User score
    9.3/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
    When it matters
    When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
    Score distribution
    ▼
    ▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
    the average smartphone
    Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) does not support multi-user mode, the average smartphone does. 96.4% of smartphones allow multiple user profiles.
  • No split-screen support
    This smartphone does not support split-screen, the average smartphone does. %^^ of smartphones allow split-screen multitasking.
  • Runs closed-source/proprietary OS only
    This smartphone does not use an open-source OS, the average smartphone does. 94.6% of smartphones use open-source systems.
  • Narrower main camera aperture
    This smartphone has a narrower main camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/1.8 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4). The average smartphone aperture is f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4.
    f/1.8 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4
  • Lower-resolution main camera
    This smartphone has a lower-resolution main camera than the average smartphone (48 MP & 48 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP). The average smartphone has a 50 MP & 8 MP main camera.
    48 MP & 48 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP
  • Lower front camera megapixels
    This smartphone has lower front camera megapixels than the average smartphone (12 MP vs 16 MP). The average smartphone has a 16 MP front camera.
    12 MP vs 16 MP
  • No memory card slot
    This smartphone does not have a memory card slot, the average smartphone does. 53.5% of smartphones feature expandable storage.
  • No fingerprint scanner
    This smartphone does not have a fingerprint scanner, the average smartphone does. 96.4% of smartphones include a fingerprint scanner.
  • 50% lower touch sampling rate
    This smartphone has a lower touch sampling rate than the average smartphone (120 Hz vs 240 Hz). The average smartphone has a sampling rate of 240 Hz.
    120 Hz vs 240 Hz
  • No ultra power-saving mode
    This smartphone does not have an ultra power-saving mode, the average smartphone does. 93.8% of smartphones include ultra power-saving.
  • 6.5% smaller battery capacity
    This smartphone has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartphone (4676 mAh vs 5000 mAh). The average smartphone has a capacity of 5000 mAh.
    4,676 mAh vs 5,000 mAh
  • No LDAC support
    This smartphone does not support LDAC, the average smartphone does. 60.3% of smartphones support LDAC.
  • No aptX HD
    This smartphone does not support aptX HD, the average smartphone does. 50.7% of smartphones support aptX HD.
  • 15.7% heavier
    This smartphone is heavier than the average smartphone (227 g vs 196.2 g). The average smartphone weighs 196.2 g.
    227 g vs 196.2 g
  • 1.6 mm wider
    This smartphone is wider than the average smartphone (77.6 mm vs 76 mm). The average smartphone has a width of 76 mm.
    77.6 mm vs 76 mm
  • Poor brand origin
    This smartphone has a poorer brand origin compared to the average smartphone. 0.00% of smartphones come from top-tier brand origins.
    United States vs China

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

C
cnn.com
03/03/2025
Summary of the review
Three months with the iPhone 16 Pro Max: what I learned - CNN
M
markellisreviews.com
02/12/2024
Summary of the review
iPhone 16 Pro Max Review: 3 Months Later
T
tomsguide.com
01/10/2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max review | Tom's Guide
P
phonearena.com
30/11/2025
Summary of the review
iPhone 16 Pro Max review: bigger screen, bigger opportunities
S
stuff.tv
10/10/2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max review: even pro-ier and max-ier
T
thehindu.com
15/10/2024
Summary of the review
iPhone 16 Pro Max Review: Bigger, more powerful, and ready for on-device AI
D
dxomark.com
25/06/2025
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Camera test - Retested
T
techadvisor.com
04/10/2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Review: More Than Meets The Eye
T
thurrott.com
22/10/2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Review - Thurrott.com
C
cnet.com
18/09/2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max Review - CNET
P
pcmag.com
23/09/2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Review | PCMag
T
trustedreviews.com
13/11/2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Review
T
techradar.com
18/09/2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max review: a beautiful, intelligent beast
T
theguardian.com
04/11/2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max review: totally maxed out
I
igen.fr
26/09/2024
Summary of the review
iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max Review: The Luxury of a Reign's End
(Translated)Show original
J
journaldugeek.com
30/09/2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max review: A simple iteration
(Translated)Show original
L
lesnumeriques.com
1er novembre 2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Review: Apple continues to go bigger, even without AI
(Translated)Show original
G
global.techradar.com
24/09/2024
Summary of the review
iPhone 16 Pro Max Review: The Perfect Balance of Style and Performance
(Translated)Show original
C
cnetfrance.fr
10/10/2024
Summary of the review
iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max Review: An efficient but frustrating update
(Translated)Show original
J
journaldugeek.com
30/09/2024
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max Review: A Simple Iteration Awaiting Apple Intelligence
(Translated)Show original

Third-party reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
Reviews last updated: August 2026 · How we calculate this

What we like about Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB)

  • Huge and high-quality 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display with 120Hz ProMotion.
  • Excellent, often multi-day, battery life, the longest in an iPhone.
  • Blazingly fast and smooth performance powered by the A18 Pro chip.
  • Great cameras including 5x optical zoom, 48MP main and ultrawide lenses, and excellent 4K 120fps video quality.
  • Premium build quality with a durable titanium frame and thin bezels.
  • Useful new Action button and a dedicated Camera Control button (once mastered).
  • High-quality audio recording features, such as the new audio mix feature that cuts out background noise.
  • Face ID remains fast and reliable.
  • USB-C port offers fast file transfers.
  • Strong fundamentals; it just works as expected of an iPhone.

What we don't like about Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB)

  • Very expensive price point.
  • Large and heavy, making it difficult to handle, use with one hand, or fit into pockets.
  • Initial Apple Intelligence features are disappointing, basic, and still rolling out via future updates.
  • Camera Control button can be tricky to use, too sensitive, or causes the phone to shake when pressed firmly for a photo.
  • Minimal upgrades over its predecessor (iPhone 15 Pro Max), making an upgrade less compelling for some users.
  • Speakers have inconsistent sound quality, especially at lower volumes.
  • Some users reported technical bugs and glitches with the initial iOS 18 software (though updates improved stability).
  • Charging speed is slow compared to many Android competitors.
  • Overheating issues have been reported by some users during charging or simple tasks.
  • Lackluster spam call and text blocking functionality.

Verdict

The Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max is a flagship smartphone featuring the powerful A18 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. It boasts a large 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a 120Hz ProMotion adaptive refresh rate and minimal bezels. The Pro camera system includes a 48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, and a 12MP 5x telephoto lens, offering impressive optical and digital zoom capabilities, 4K 120fps video recording, and a new physical Camera Control button for enhanced photography. Key pros include exceptional battery life (up to 33 hours of video playback), a durable titanium design, Wi-Fi 7 support, and the integration of the Apple Intelligence system. Potential cons may include its high price point, large size which might not appeal to everyone, and reports of the device becoming warm during intensive tasks.

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