iPhone Ranking: As Apple gears up to launch the iPhone 16, it’s a good time to reflect on the 17 years of iPhone innovation. While the iPhone 16 may be the newest model, it’s technically the 18th generation, including the “S” models. Since its debut in 2007, Apple has released 42 different iPhone models, and each has had its share of success or disappointment.
So, which iPhone stands out as the best of all time, and which failed to impress? Let’s take a look at the rankings, from the best iPhone models to the ones that fell short.
1. iPhone 5s (2013)
The iPhone 5s is often considered a revolutionary device. It introduced Touch ID, had 4G connectivity, and combined powerful hardware in a sleek design. It was also the last iPhone with a 4-inch display, which some users still fondly remember.
2. iPhone X (2017)
The iPhone X marked a significant shift for Apple. It introduced the edge-to-edge OLED display, Face ID, and gesture navigation. While the price and battery life left something to be desired, its futuristic design cemented its place in iPhone history.
3. iPhone 4 (2010)
The iPhone 4 was a game-changer, featuring a sleek glass back and flat-edged design. It also introduced the Retina display, which dramatically improved screen clarity. Although it was not without controversy (remember “Antennagate”?), it remains a fan favorite for its design and performance.
4. iPhone 4s (2011)
The iPhone 4s kept the sleek design of the iPhone 4 but came with important upgrades. It introduced Siri, Apple’s voice assistant, which was a groundbreaking feature at the time. The camera also saw improvements, making the iPhone 4s a well-rounded device. While it didn’t have a new design, its internal upgrades made it stand out.
5. iPhone (2007)
The original iPhone was the phone that started it all. Although it lacked features we take for granted today—such as an App Store, 3G, and even copy-and-paste—it changed how we use phones. Its multi-touch screen and design were revolutionary. While its specs are laughable by today’s standards, it set the foundation for all smartphones.
6. iPhone SE (2016)
The first iPhone SE was a blend of affordability and performance. It borrowed the design of the iPhone 5s but had the hardware of the iPhone 6s. It was marketed as a cheaper option, priced under $500. This phone was a great option for people who didn’t want a big phone but still wanted good performance.
7. iPhone 12 mini and 13 mini (2020, 2021)
For fans of smaller phones, the iPhone 12 mini and 13 mini were ideal. They had the same features as their larger siblings but in a more compact size. However, the mini models didn’t sell as well as expected, which led to their discontinuation. Despite this, the people who bought the mini versions loved their performance and portability.
8. iPhone 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max (2019)
The iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max brought big improvements in battery life and camera performance. It was also the last iPhone with rounded edges before Apple returned to flat designs. These phones are well-known for their ability to last all day on a single charge, which was a big win for users who hated carrying extra battery packs.
9. iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus (2014)
The iPhone 6 series was Apple’s first venture into larger screens, offering 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch displays. This marked a significant shift for Apple, moving toward bigger phones. However, the series was also famous for the bendgate controversy, where the phones bent in users’ pockets. Despite that, the larger screens were a hit.
10. iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus (2023)
The iPhone 15 and 15 Plus brought in several exciting changes, including a Dynamic Island, a USB-C charging port, and an updated design with a matte glass back. These phones even launched with a slight price drop, making them a fantastic option for users looking for a modern iPhone without breaking the bank.
11. iPhone 12 (2020)
The iPhone 12 was a well-rounded device that hit the sweet spot between performance and price. It introduced OLED displays across all models and came with 5G connectivity. The iPhone 12 became the standard choice for many users who didn’t need the premium features of the Pro models.
12. iPhone 12 Pro, 13 Pro, and 14 Pro (2020, 2021, 2022)
The Pro models released in 2020, 2021, and 2022 made incremental improvements, particularly in camera performance and battery life. The Dynamic Island on the 14 Pro introduced an interactive way to manage notifications. These phones were top choices for users who wanted the best features.
13. iPhone 5 (2012)
The iPhone 5 gave us a slightly larger screen at 4 inches and introduced the Lightning port, which stuck around until 2023. It was sleek and powerful but had one problem—the black model scratched easily. Despite this, it was a huge hit thanks to its design and speed.
14. iPhone 13 (2021)
The iPhone 13 wasn’t revolutionary, but it was a solid phone that offered great performance and battery life. It didn’t have any major flaws but also didn’t stand out much compared to the Pro models released at the same time.
15. iPhone 6s and 6s Plus (2015)
The iPhone 6s series brought improvements like 3D Touch, but it didn’t receive as much love as other iPhones. The 6s and 6s Plus were still good phones, especially for those who liked the larger form factor.
16. iPhone SE (2020)
The second iPhone SE combined the design of the iPhone 8 with the internals of the iPhone 11. It was a practical, affordable option for people who wanted an iPhone with a home button, though it wasn’t groundbreaking.
Conclusion
Every iPhone has had its own unique place in Apple’s lineup, and each model has fans and critics. From the groundbreaking designs of the iPhone X and iPhone 5s to the affordable SE models, Apple has delivered a wide variety of options to cater to different preferences.
