Choosing between the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max can be challenging, especially when both models boast cutting-edge technology and impressive specifications. In this comparison guide, we will delve into the nuanced differences between these two entries in Apple’s iPhone evolution to help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
From screen size and battery life to camera capabilities and overall performance, each model offers unique advantages. Whether you prioritize a more compact design or crave extended battery performance, understanding these distinctions will ensure you make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and usage demands. Read on to discover how the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max compare.
iPhone 13 Pro vs. iPhone 13 Pro Max: Main Differences
- The iPhone 13 Pro Max is significantly larger than the iPhone 13 Pro.
- The iPhone 13 Pro Max has a higher-resolution display.
iPhone 13 Pro: Key Highlights
- A smaller and lighter phone that may be more portable for some users.
- Uses the powerful A15 Bionic Chip.
- Integrated ProMotion technology for a dynamic experience, whether you’re gaming or just browsing social media.
iPhone 13 Pro Max: Key Highlights
- A longer overall battery life.
- A larger screen to make the most out of games and movies.
- ProRes video recording to capture life’s special moments.
iPhone 13 Pro vs. iPhone 13 Pro Max Overview
| Feature | iPhone 13 Pro | iPhone 13 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | September 24, 2021 | September 24, 2021 |
| Dimensions | 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.30 in | 6.33 x 3.07 x 0.31 in |
| Weight | 7.16 oz | 8.39 oz |
| Storage Capacity | 128 GB 256 GB 512 GB 1 TB |
128 GB 256 GB 512 GB 1TB |
| Finish Colours | Alpine Green Silver Gold Graphite Sierra Blue |
Alpine Green Silver Gold Graphite Sierra Blue |
| Screen Size | 6.1 in (diagonal) | 6.7 in (diagonal) |
| Display | Super Retina XDR display All-Screen OLED display 1200 nits max brightness ProMotion technology |
Super Retina XDR display All-Screen OLED 2000 nits max brightness ProMotion technology |
| Resolution | 2532-by-1170-pixel resolution at 460 ppi | 2778 x 1284 pixel resolution at 458 ppi |
| Chip | A15 Bionic Chip | A15 Bionic Chip |
| Water and Dust Resistance | Rated IP68 | Rated IP68 |
| Front Camera | 12 MP True Depth f/2.2 aperture |
12 MP True Depth f/2.2 aperture |
| Rear Camera | Pro Camera System Main: 12MP, f/1.5 aperture Ultra Wide: 12MP, f/1.8 aperture Telephoto: 12MP, f/2.8 aperture Up to 3x Optical Zoom |
Pro Camera System Main: 12MP, f/1.5 aperture Ultra Wide: 12MP, f/1.8 aperture Telephoto: 12MP, f/2.8 aperture Up to 3x Optical Zoom |
| Video Recording | 4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps 1080p HD video recording at 25 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps HDR video recording with Dolby Vision up to 4K at 60 fps ProRes video recording up to 4k at 30 fps (1080p at 30 fps for 128GB capacity) |
4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps 1080p HD video recording at 25 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps HDR video recording with Dolby Vision up to 4K at 60fps ProRes video recording up to 4K at 30 fps (1080p at 30 fps for 128GB capacity) |
| Battery | Video Playback: Up to 22 hours Streamed Video Playback: Up to 20 hours Audio playback: Up to 75 hours |
Video Playback: Up to 28 hours Streamed Video Playback: Up to 25 hours Audio playback: Up to 95 hours |
| Charging | Fast charging: Up to 50% charge in 30 minutes. Wireless charging (MagSafe and Qi) |
Fast charging: Up to 50% charge in 30 minutes. Wireless charging (MagSafe and Qi) |
| Sensors | Barometer Three-axis gyro Accelerometer Proximity sensor Ambient light sensors |
Barometer Three-axiz gyro Accelerometer Proximity sensor Ambient light sensors |
| Face ID | Yes | Yes |
| Apple Pay | Yes | Yes |
| SIM Card | Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM) Two active eSIMs or nano-SIM and eSIM |
Dual SIM Two active eSIMs or nano-SIM and eSIM |
iPhone 13 Pro vs. iPhone 13 Pro Max Specs: Complete Comparison
The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are both high-performing devices. Read on as we delve into the subtle differences in usage and performance.
Design
Both of these iPhones retain Apple’s signature, intuitive design from the relative placement of buttons, ports, and cameras while diverging significantly in overall size and weight:
- iPhone 13 Pro: 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.30 in, weighing 7.16 oz
- iPhone 13 Pro Max: 6.33 x 3.07 x 0.30 in, weighing 8.39 oz
Due to the difference in dimensions, the screens are also different sizes. The iPhone 13 Pro has a 6.1 in (diagonal) screen, while the iPhone 13 Pro Max has a 6.7 in (diagonal) screen.
To improve the durability and scratch resistance of these iPhones when compared to others on the market, both are made from stainless steel and have a textured matte glass back, which pairs safety with style. They also have Ceramic Shield fronts to protect the viewing area of your iPhone from any accidental drops.
Display
Both iPhone models feature the cutting-edge Super Retina XDR display, with all-screen OLED design ensuring a deeply immersive visual experience. These displays are engineered to deliver exceptional colour accuracy and contrast, with a peak brightness of 1200 nits, which makes them highly effective under various lighting conditions, including bright outdoor environments. This is particularly useful for users who spend a lot of time outdoors or in brightly lit areas, as it enhances readability and viewing comfort.
Each model also incorporates Apple’s ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the screen refresh rate up to 120Hz. This capability not only makes motion content look smoother but also enhances the responsiveness of the touchscreen. This is especially beneficial for gaming and for users who enjoy high-definition video content, as it provides a more fluid and engaging user experience.
These features represent significant strides in enhancing user interaction and visual display capabilities. The use of OLED technology for deeper blacks and more vibrant colours, combined with high brightness levels and adaptive refresh rates, showcases Apple’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobile technology. This advancement not only improves the device’s aesthetic enjoyment but also its practical functionality, providing a compelling reason for tech enthusiasts and everyday users to upgrade.
Performance
Both iPhones are equipped with the A15 Bionic Chip, a powerful processor that significantly enhances the overall performance and efficiency of the devices over prior models. This chip is designed to elevate the user experience, especially for those who rely on their phones for more than just basic tasks.
With the A15 Bionic Chip, users can expect faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and enhanced graphics for gaming and video applications. This improvement in processing power also means that the iPhone can handle more demanding applications, such as augmented reality and professional-grade photo and video editing software, with ease. For daily activities, this translates to a more responsive and reliable phone that can keep up with the user’s needs, from navigation and communication to entertainment and productivity.
Camera
The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are equipped with a sophisticated Pro Camera System on the back that features a trio of lenses—main, ultra-wide, and telephoto. This advanced setup allows users to capture professional-grade photos and videos with remarkable ease.
The main lens delivers sharp, vivid images across various lighting conditions, making it versatile for everyday shots. For expansive scenes, the ultra-wide lens offers a 120-degree field of view, ideal for capturing large groups or tight spaces where stepping back isn’t an option. Meanwhile, the telephoto lens is perfect for zooming in on distant subjects without losing clarity, making it invaluable for detailed nature and landscape photography. This combination ensures that users have the right lens for any scenario, enhancing their photography and videography experiences significantly.
Operating System
Both the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max were initially launched with Apple’s iOS 15, and they continue to support the latest operating system, iOS 17, at the time of writing. iOS is the software platform that powers iPhone devices, providing the interface and functionalities users interact with daily. With each iteration, iOS brings enhancements that improve security, efficiency, and user experience.
iOS 15 introduced features such as Focus mode, which helps manage notifications and apps based on what the user is currently doing, and Live Text in photos, allowing users to interact with text captured in images. It also improved FaceTime with spatial audio and portrait mode, making calls feel more natural and focused.
By remaining compatible with the latest iOS versions, the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max ensure that users can benefit from the latest security updates, feature enhancements, and overall system improvements, thus enhancing the longevity and utility of their devices.
Storage
The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max both come in the same wide array of storage options, from 128 GP to 1 TB, meaning that you can find an iPhone that fits both your storage needs and your budget.
- 128 GB: This more limited storage option may require you to move data off your phone regularly to free up space, but it is generally available at a lower price point than the other models.
- 256 GB: This model’s added storage means you can store most of your data on your phone without worrying about transferring it. It also retains a more affordable price compared to the other models.
- 512 GB: With this high capacity, most users will never have to worry about their storage, making it perfect for creatives and gamers.
1 TB: The biggest but most expensive option, this works best for people who work from their phones and need to store mass amounts of data that they can access in an instant.
Battery and Charging
The iPhone 13 Pro Max has an advantage over the iPhone 13 Pro when comparing their battery life for audio, streamed video, and regular video playback. The iPhone 13 Pro Max boasts an exceptional video playback time of up to 28 hours and streamed video for up to 25 hours. Meanwhile, the iPhone 13 Pro still has an impressive 22 hours of video playback and up to 20 hours of streamed video.
For audio playback, the iPhone 13 Pro Max has up to 95 hours of listening time, while the iPhone 13 Pro has up to 75 hours. With both phones, you can watch or listen to whatever you want for a long time before worrying about recharging.
If you do find yourself needing to recharge, both iPhones feature fast charging up to 50% in just 30 minutes, meaning you can get back to your podcast, music, or video quickly. They’re also both compatible with MagSafe and Qi Wireless systems, letting you choose which charging system is better for you.
Audio
Both the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max deliver an exceptional audio experience, featuring spatial audio playback and Dolby Atmos support. This advanced audio technology creates a rich, immersive soundscape that enhances every sound, whether you’re deeply engrossed in a game or losing yourself in your favourite music playlist.
These iPhones are also highly versatile in terms of audio compatibility, supporting a wide array of formats. This flexibility allows you to play and upload your audio files in whichever format you prefer, including MP3, AAC, Apple Lossless, FLAC, and both Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus. This broad support ensures that whether you are streaming or playing files stored on your device, you can enjoy them in the highest quality without worrying about format restrictions.
Features
Safety: Both iPhones offer emergency SOS, allowing you to contact help quickly. You can select emergency contacts to be alerted after you finish an emergency call.
Security: Both are protected by Face ID, meaning only you or another authorized user can access your iPhone when locked.
Splash, Water, and Dust Resistance: Both are rated IP86, and they can be submerged for up to 30 minutes at a maximum depth of 6 meters.
SIM Card: Both phones offer dual SIM, allowing for two active eSIMs or a nano-SIM and eSIM.
Price Comparison
When purchasing a phone on the Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) market, prices can fluctuate regularly. The iPhone 13 Pro can cost as low as $699, while the iPhone 13 Pro Max is only slightly more expensive, starting at $799.
* Price updated as of October 2024
Availability
Both iPhone models are only available through the CPO market, so their availability is subject to market fluctuation and retailer availability. With a bit of patience and research, though, you can get great deals on high-quality phones.
At Mobile Klinik, we proudly offer both iPhone models in CPO condition. We rigorously test and inspect all our new iPhones to ensure that users’ needs are met and that they get the best experience (and longest life) out of their new phones.
What’s The Verdict?
Both the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are high-performing phones, giving you a lot of the same features at comparable prices. When choosing which one is right for you, however, consider the following questions:
- How important is screen size to me?
- How do I feel about the size and weight of the phone?
- What kind of battery life do I need?
- How much storage do I require?
- What is my budget?
By answering these questions, you can better determine which phone model will be the right choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max The Same Size?
No. The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are noticeably different in size and weight.
- iPhone 13 Pro: 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.30 in, weighing 7.16 oz
- iPhone 13 Pro Max: 6.33 x 3.07 x 0.30 in, weighing 8.39 oz
This size difference means the screens are also different sizes. The iPhone 13 Pro has a 6.1 in (diagonal) screen, while the iPhone 13 Pro Max has a 6.7 in (diagonal) screen.
When Were The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max Released?
The iPhone 13 Pro was released on September 24, 2021, as was the iPhone Pro Max.
Can You Use The Same Case For The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max?
No, cases are not compatible across these iPhone models. The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are notably different in size, meaning that a case purchased for one cannot be used on the other model.
Is The iPhone 13 Pro Max More Expensive Than The iPhone 13 Pro?
Both iPhone models are only available through verified resellers and the CPO market, so the prices will vary based on the market and availability. In general, the iPhone 13 Pro Max, which can start at $799, will be more expensive than the iPhone 13 Pro, which can cost $699.