What’s the difference between the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus?

 iPhone 15 vs iPhone 15 Plus: Is the Bigger Model Really Better?

Apple’s September launches always stir the pot — but in 2024, the differences between the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus have sparked real conversation. Are you just paying more for a bigger screen, or is there more to it?

Quick answer: The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus share nearly all the same features, including the A16 Bionic chip, camera setup, and Dynamic Island. The key differences? Battery life and screen size. That’s it. But those differences matter more than you think.

Let’s break it down so you can decide if the bigger model is worth the extra spend.

What’s the main difference between iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus?

Here’s a head-to-head snapshot to start:

FeatureiPhone 15iPhone 15 Plus
Display Size6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED
Battery LifeUp to 20 hours video playbackUp to 26 hours video playback
Weight171g201g
Price (AUD RRP)From $1,499From $1,649
ChipsetA16 BionicA16 Bionic
Camera48MP + 12MP dual lens48MP + 12MP dual lens
Build & DesignAluminium with colour-infused glassSame as iPhone 15
Dynamic IslandYesYes

So yes — aside from size and battery, these are essentially the same phone.

Is the iPhone 15 Plus just a bigger version?

Pretty much, yes — but size isn’t just about how it feels in your hand.

A 6.7-inch screen isn’t only for streaming or scrolling Instagram. If you’re a heavy mobile user (think lots of emails, editing docs on the go, or regular FaceTime chats), that extra real estate adds genuine usability.

The Plus model is for those who don’t want to splurge on a Pro Max but still want a big-screen iPhone experience.

How different is the battery life, really?

Apple quotes 26 hours of video playback on the iPhone 15 Plus vs 20 hours on the standard 15. That’s a 30% bump — significant for travellers, gig workers, or tradies on long shifts.

Anyone who’s watched their battery drop like a stone by 3pm will feel the difference.

And yes, real-world tests back this up. Reviewers consistently report an extra 4–6 hours of use on the Plus. That’s not marketing fluff — it’s behavioural science in action: people perceive longer battery life as peace of mind, even if they rarely hit zero.

Which one is better for your hand size or comfort?

This is where it gets personal.

  • iPhone 15 (6.1") is easier for one-handed use, fits in smaller pockets, and is less fatiguing to hold for long periods.

  • iPhone 15 Plus (6.7") may feel unwieldy for smaller hands or tight jeans, but offers a more immersive experience.

If you’ve ever dropped your phone trying to reach the top corner — you know the struggle.

Think about how you use your phone: Is it mostly calls, messages, and maps? Or are you watching YouTube, editing videos, or reading eBooks?

Comfort is cognitive. Choice architecture suggests we often lean towards the “middle” or “Goldilocks” option — but here, there’s no middle. You’re choosing compact convenience vs extended comfort.

Are there any hidden differences in camera quality?

Not really.

Both models come with:

  • Main Camera: 48MP sensor that shoots high-res photos and 24MP smart default images

  • Ultra-Wide: 12MP lens

  • Portrait Mode with Focus and Depth Control

  • Night Mode, Smart HDR 5, and Photonic Engine

The Plus doesn’t sneak in any hidden camera advantages — it just gives you a bigger viewfinder.

If photography is your game, you'd be looking at the Pro or Pro Max for extra features like 5x optical zoom or ProRAW formats.

Is it worth paying more for the iPhone 15 Plus?

Here’s the value equation.

The iPhone 15 Plus is about $150 more than the standard 15. For that, you’re getting:

  • A larger, more cinematic screen

  • Up to 30% longer battery life

  • Better experience for streaming, gaming, and multitasking

But if portability, lighter weight, and easier handling matter more — save the $150.

Here’s where Cialdini’s principle of Commitment & Consistency kicks in: If you’ve always used a regular-size iPhone, switching to the Plus may feel like a leap. People often stick to what they’ve used before — even if their habits have changed.

What about cases and accessories?

One thing to keep in mind: your iPhone 15 case won’t fit the 15 Plus.

Despite the same camera and design layout, the difference in height and width means each model needs its own specific case.

This is where many buyers get caught out — they assume "15" means interchangeable. It doesn’t.

A slimline silicone case that fits snugly on the 15 will be too small for the Plus. And vice versa — trying to cram a 15 into a Plus case is a no-go.

For a side-by-side visual and accessories breakdown, this Apple comparison page does a solid job.

Which model is better for kids, seniors or less tech-savvy users?

  • Kids & Teens: The standard iPhone 15 is lighter, more portable, and slightly less expensive — better for school bags and smaller hands.

  • Seniors: The larger screen on the Plus is a game-changer for visibility, FaceTime calls, and touch targets.

  • Tech-Anxious Users: Either model works, but those who want simplicity with less bulk might lean toward the 15.

Realistically, both are "overkill" for basic phone use — but the iPhone ecosystem is about more than calls and texts. If you're gifting, ask yourself: will they appreciate the screen size, or just find it cumbersome?

FAQ

Q: Can I use the same charger for both models?
Yes. Both use USB-C charging, introduced this year across the lineup.

Q: Are both models water-resistant?
Yes. They carry an IP68 rating, good for accidental splashes and quick dunks.

Q: Is the A16 chip good enough for gaming and heavy apps?
Definitely. It’s the same chip that powered the iPhone 14 Pro last year — still very capable for anything on the App Store.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus comes down to your lifestyle. Do you value compact comfort or immersive usability? Do you charge overnight, or need every ounce of battery life for long days?

Either way, keep in mind that your accessories won’t be cross-compatible. If you’re upgrading, take a moment to choose the right iphone 15 case that suits your model — it’s an easy detail to overlook, and one that can save you hassle (and scratches) down the track.

And for a more technical comparison with specs galore, check out GSM Arena’s iPhone 15 vs 15 Plus page— a reliable go-to for the nitty-gritty.

In the end, the choice isn’t just about size. It’s about how you live with your phone — and which one fits your life best.

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