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iPhone 15 Pro Max Vs iPhone 17 Pro Max

  • 1-year minimum warranty
  • Free delivery on all orders
  • Free 30-day returns
iPhone 15 Pro Max
Starting at

Refurbished price:677.00

Versus €1,489.00 new

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iPhone 17 Pro Max
Starting at

Refurbished price:1,119.00

Versus €1,489.00 new

See options

Differences at a glance

The iPhone 15 Pro Max (2023) and the iPhone 17 Pro Max (2025) represent large-format smartphones from Apple's flagship lineup. While both devices share a focus on high-end capability and premium build design, the iPhone 17 Pro Max introduces generational hardware enhancements, increased memory capacity, and refined camera versatility compared to its predecessor. Both models operate within the iOS ecosystem, though the newer model benefits from a later baseline operating system and extended software support timelines.

Available Models

Colour

Storage (GB)

Scores

Durability

The iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Pro Max differ primarily in their release timelines and projected hardware longevity, though both are built to receive multi-year software updates from Apple.

  • Release timeline and age: The iPhone 15 Pro Max debuted in late 2023, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max entered the market two years later in late 2025, giving the newer model an extended hardware lifespan.
  • Software support window: Both devices follow typical Apple support cycles of five to six years, but the iPhone 17 Pro Max extends security and feature updates further into the future due to its newer release date.
  • Repairability and durability: Both models feature water resistance ratings and durable glass-and-titanium framing, maintaining comparable repair structures and expected physical endurance under normal daily use.

Year of Release

2023

2025

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

System responsiveness and daily multitasking capabilities differ noticeably based on internal hardware generational advances and memory allocations between the two models.

  • Multitasking capacity: The iPhone 17 Pro Max features a higher amount of system memory, allowing demanding background applications and heavy multitasking workflows to run with fewer reloads compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
  • Application speed: Both devices handle everyday tasks, web browsing, and demanding mobile games smoothly, though the newer processor architecture in the iPhone 17 Pro Max offers additional headroom for intensive tasks and thermal efficiency.
  • Battery behavior: The iPhone 17 Pro Max benefits from a physically larger battery cell and more power-efficient internal components, extending continuous usage hours under heavy daily loads beyond what the iPhone 15 Pro Max delivers.

Screen quality

Visual immersion and display technology are key strengths for both large-screen devices, offering vibrant output and smooth motion handling.

  • Display technology and size: Both models utilize OLED display panels with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz for fluid scrolling, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max expanding the physical screen dimensions slightly for an expansive viewing area.
  • Clarity and resolution: High pixel density ensures sharp text rendering, detailed photo viewing, and clear media playback on both devices without noticeable individual pixelation.
  • Outdoor visibility: Both smartphones reach high peak brightness levels to maintain legibility under direct sunlight, though newer panel engineering on the iPhone 17 Pro Max provides subtle enhancements in bright ambient conditions.

Resolution

1290 x 2796

2868x1320

Screen type

LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR

Audiovisual

Photography, video recording, and audio output capabilities evolve across these generations, catering to mobile creators and media consumers alike.

  • Rear camera systems: The iPhone 15 Pro Max includes a triple-lens setup featuring optical zoom capabilities, whereas the iPhone 17 Pro Max incorporates higher-resolution sensors across its entire rear lens array for enhanced detail preservation at various focal lengths.
  • Low-light and video capture: Both devices record high-definition video with stabilization features, but the newer model handles challenging low-light environments and high-contrast scenes with refined noise reduction.
  • Audio and media consumption: Built-in stereo speakers on both models deliver clear sound output for casual video viewing and calls, supported by multi-microphone arrays for voice clarity.

Main camera

48 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

18 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Physical dimensions, connectivity standards, and daily handling characteristics reflect subtle design evolution between the two iterations.

  • Handling and dimensions: The iPhone 17 Pro Max features a slightly larger chassis and minor weight adjustments compared to the titanium frame of the iPhone 15 Pro Max, impacting pocket fit and one-handed reach.
  • Connectivity standards: Both models support 5G networks and USB-C connectivity, with the newer device incorporating updated wireless communication chips for stable network connections.
  • Biometrics and sensors: Face recognition via front sensor arrays and standard spatial awareness sensors are included on both units for secure authentication and orientation tracking.

Weight

221 g

233 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.9

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

What the community thinks

User feedback across community forums highlights distinct preferences for each device depending on individual priorities. Owners of the iPhone 15 Pro Max frequently praise its reliable battery life, capable zoom lens, and durable titanium body that remains competitive years after its release. Common discussions around the model sometimes note minor thermal warmth during extended gaming sessions. Meanwhile, users of the iPhone 17 Pro Max emphasize its expanded screen estate, enhanced multitasking stability from increased memory, and improved battery stamina as standout daily benefits, though some point out its larger physical footprint as less comfortable for smaller hands.

Users prioritizing maximum longevity, expansive screen dimensions, and heavy multitasking performance may prefer the iPhone 17 Pro Max, while users focused on core flagship performance at a different stage of the product lifecycle often find the iPhone 15 Pro Max well-suited to their needs. For those exploring sustainable purchasing options, a quality-assured refurbished option provides a reliable, eco-friendly alternative that extends device life cycles without sacrificing core capabilities. Ultimately, the choice depends on which generation aligns best with your specific daily usage requirements.