iPhone 15 Plus (2024) Review: Big-Screen Bliss, But Not Without Compromise

I’ve spent a good amount of time with the iPhone 15 Plus, and let me tell you, it’s a big phone in every sense of the word. If you crave a massive screen and impressive battery life, this might be your perfect match. But is it worth the trade-offs? Let’s dive in.

Design & Build: Sleek and Familiar, with a USB-C Twist

The iPhone 15 Plus looks and feels very much like an iPhone. It’s sleek, with flat edges and a matte glass back that feels premium in the hand. The aluminum frame is sturdy, and the phone is surprisingly lightweight given its size. The most notable change is the switch from Lightning to USB-C, a long-overdue move that brings it in line with the rest of the tech world.

Display: Big, Bright, and Beautiful (But Not ProMotion)

The 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display is the star of the show. It’s bright, vivid, and perfect for watching videos or playing games. However, it lacks the 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate found on the Pro models, so scrolling isn’t as buttery smooth. Still, for everyday use, it’s more than adequate. The Dynamic Island, a clever way to integrate the front-facing camera and sensors, is a fun addition that adds a bit of personality to the phone.

Performance: A16 Bionic Chip Delivers

Powered by the A16 Bionic chip, the iPhone 15 Plus flies through tasks. Whether you’re editing photos, playing games, or just scrolling through social media, it handles everything with ease. Multitasking is a breeze, and apps open and close quickly. Benchmark tests show that it’s one of the fastest phones on the market, and I haven’t experienced any lag or slowdown in my time with it.

Camera: 48MP Main Sensor Shines

The camera system is a definite improvement over the previous generation. The 48-megapixel main sensor captures incredibly detailed photos with vibrant colors, especially in good lighting. The ultrawide lens is great for landscape shots, and the 2x telephoto lens is handy for portraits. Low-light performance is good, but not as impressive as the Pro models, which have larger sensors and better image processing.

Battery Life: A Marathon Runner

This is where the iPhone 15 Plus truly shines. The battery life is phenomenal. Even with heavy usage, including streaming videos and playing games, I consistently got through a full day and then some. In fact, I often had around 40% battery remaining at the end of the day. If you’re someone who hates constantly charging your phone, the 15 Plus will be a lifesaver.

Software & User Experience: iOS 17, a Familiar Friend

iOS 17 is a smooth and intuitive operating system that’s easy to navigate. It comes with new features like StandBy Mode, which turns your iPhone into a smart display when charging, and the Journal app, which helps you document your life. If you’re used to iOS, you’ll feel right at home.

Connectivity & Additional Features: Embracing the Future

The iPhone 15 Plus comes with all the connectivity options you’d expect from a flagship phone, including 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3. It’s also IP68 water and dust resistant, so you don’t have to worry about accidental spills or splashes.

Buying Recommendation:

Who’s it for? The iPhone 15 Plus is perfect for those who want a big-screen phone with exceptional battery life. It’s ideal for media consumption, gaming, and anyone who spends a lot of time on their phone.

Pros:

• Massive, beautiful display
• Incredible battery life
• Excellent performance
• Great camera in most conditions
• Familiar and easy-to-use iOS 17

Cons:

• No ProMotion display
• Low-light camera performance could be better
• It’s a big phone, might not be comfortable for everyone
• No charger included in the box

Overall:

The iPhone 15 Plus is a fantastic phone that offers a lot of value, especially if you prioritize battery life and a large screen. It’s not the most revolutionary iPhone, but it’s a solid upgrade that delivers a great overall experience. If you’re looking for a big-screen iPhone and don’t need the Pro model’s bells and whistles, the iPhone 15 Plus is worth considering.

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