The latest iPhones continue to enrich our digital lives with their rapid evolution and high performance. However, finding "the perfect device for you" from the new models released every year and the wide range of lineups available is a difficult task. This is especially true for those who prioritize cost-effectiveness but also demand uncompromising performance, making the choice of which iPhone to buy a major concern.

In this article, we will focus on the "performance" of iPhones in 2025, thoroughly compare models from the latest releases to popular older models on the used market, and present them in a unique ranking format. We will clearly explain key performance indicators such as CPU, GPU, and AI processing capabilities, and delve into which uses each model is best suited for.

Furthermore, for those who are concerned about "Are used iPhones really okay?", we will explain smart ways to choose a high-performance iPhone even when buying used, as well as the "safe, affordable, and practical" services offered by PRODIG. By reading this article, you will be able to find the perfect high-performance iPhone for you and make a smartphone choice you won't regret.

【Latest 2025 Edition】Thorough Explanation of iPhone Performance Rankings

iPhone performance is largely dependent on the generation of the A-series chip installed. The CPU directly impacts app launch and processing speed, the GPU affects game graphics and video editing fluidity, and in recent years, the performance of the Neural Engine, which handles AI processing, has also become important. Here, we comprehensively evaluate these factors and present a top 5 iPhone performance ranking for 2025. This ranking considers comfort in all scenarios, from high-load tasks to daily use. While benchmark scores are just reference values, we will explain the strengths and weaknesses of each model based on actual user experience. We hope this ranking helps you find which model offers the "best performance" you are looking for.

Ranking Evaluation Criteria and Performance Details of Each Model

iPhone performance evaluation primarily considers the performance of the CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine, as well as the overall user experience they provide. As objective indicators, we include reference scores for AnTuTu benchmark (overall score) and Geekbench 6 (single-core/multi-core), along with refresh rate and display resolution. These values are merely guidelines, and actual user experience may vary depending on the usage environment and individual differences.

1st Place: iPhone 16 Pro Max

The iPhone 16 Pro Max, sitting at the pinnacle of current iPhones, boasts Apple's latest A18 Pro chip, delivering overwhelming processing power. In terms of CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine, it achieves top-tier performance that is second to none, effortlessly handling demanding 3D games at maximum settings and even professional-level 4K video editing on the device. In particular, the responsiveness of the latest AI-powered features is surprisingly fast, allowing for smooth real-time photo processing and advanced voice recognition. The large ProMotion display supports a 120Hz refresh rate, making every operation incredibly fluid. Battery life is also exceptionally long, providing peace of mind even with heavy daily use. For users seeking the best performance and a large screen experience, this is truly the ultimate device.

2nd Place: iPhone 16 Pro

The iPhone 16 Pro, like the iPhone 16 Pro Max in first place, features the latest A18 Pro chip. Therefore, it delivers top-tier performance in terms of processing power, almost on par with the Pro Max. Its CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine are all extremely powerful, allowing it to comfortably handle the latest games and professional creative tasks. The main differences from the Pro Max are the display size and battery capacity, making it the ideal model for users who want the best performance in a more compact size. It is recommended for those who prioritize one-handed usability but don't want to compromise on performance. The camera performance also features the same cutting-edge technology as the Pro Max.

3rd Place: iPhone 16

While different from the Pro models, the iPhone 16 features the latest A18 chip, boasting more than enough performance for everyday use. With processing power comparable to or even exceeding previous generation Pro models, it can handle most daily tasks like social media, web browsing, video streaming, photography, and general app usage very comfortably. It runs the latest iOS smoothly and should remain comfortable to use for several years. Battery life has also been improved, providing peace of mind for all-day use. This is an ideal choice for those who want a new model but at a more affordable price than the Pro models, or for those who prioritize a balance between performance and price.

4th Place: iPhone 15 Pro Max

The iPhone 15 Pro Max, the top-tier model of the previous generation, is equipped with the A17 Pro chip and still boasts very high processing performance in 2025. While it lags slightly behind the latest iPhone 16 series, its performance remains top-class, offering more than enough comfortable operation for most users. It can handle demanding games and video editing without issue, and its large screen and excellent battery life are also major attractions. Prices on the used market have become more affordable, making it a highly cost-effective option for those who can't afford a new iPhone 16 series but want a high-performance iPhone at the lowest possible price.

5th Place: iPhone 15 Pro

The iPhone 15 Pro, like the iPhone 15 Pro Max in 4th place, is equipped with the A17 Pro chip and offers high processing performance. It is a more compact size than the Pro Max, making it an ideal model for those who prioritize a balance between high performance and portability. It can handle a wide range of tasks, from daily use to some gaming and creative work. It is also widely available on the used market, making it relatively easy to find in good condition. Recommended for users who are not particular about the latest Pro model but want to combine high performance with compactness.

Click here for a list of PRODIG's used iPhone products
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/iphone

High-Performance Models Worth Noting Outside the Ranking (Cost-Performance Options)

While not included in the ranking above, for those who prioritize cost-effectiveness but still desire sufficient high performance, the following older models are also strong contenders. Since these models have been released for several years, they can be obtained at very affordable prices on the used market and can handle daily use as well as some high-load tasks.

• iPhone 14 Series (iPhone 14 Pro Max / Pro / Plus / Standard) Equipped with the A16 Bionic chip, it still boasts very high processing performance in 2025. The Pro models, in particular, feature the latest functions such as Dynamic Island and always-on display, making them a great value on the used market.
   
  Click here for a list of PRODIG's used iPhone 14 series
  https://prodig-shop.com/collections/iphone-14series
  
  

• iPhone 13 Series (iPhone 13 Pro Max / Pro / mini / Standard) Equipped with the A15 Bionic chip, it offers perfectly adequate performance for daily use. Most games can also be played comfortably. The iPhone 13 mini, in particular, remains popular among users who prefer a compact size.
  
  
  Click here for a list of PRODIG's used iPhone 13 series
  https://prodig-shop.com/collections/iphone-13series
  
  

• iPhone 12 Series (iPhone 12 Pro Max / Pro / mini / Standard) Equipped with the A14 Bionic chip, it has been several years since its release, but it can still run many apps comfortably. It is also ideal for a first iPhone or as a secondary device.
  
  
  Click here for a list of PRODIG's used iPhone 12 series
  https://prodig-shop.com/collections/iphone-12series
  
  

These models are also available in large numbers at PRODIG's online store. Get a high-performance iPhone smartly with reliable, quality-checked used products.

Get a High-Performance iPhone Affordably and Safely with PRODIG!

PRODIG's mission is to provide customers with "safe, affordable, and practical" used iPhones. For those who find new iPhones too expensive or want to smartly upgrade their smartphone without sticking to the latest models, PRODIG's online store will be the ideal choice. We offer a wide selection of carefully chosen, high-quality used iPhones and provide detailed product information and extensive support to ensure customer satisfaction. We also offer a service to buy back unwanted smartphones at a fair price, allowing customers to get a new iPhone even more affordably by combining purchase and trade-in. Through PRODIG, we will do our best to support you in making your smartphone life richer.

PRODIG Online Store's iPhone Lineup and Quality Assurance

PRODIG's online store offers a wide range of used iPhones, from the latest iPhone 16 series to the cost-effective iPhone 12 series. Each model comes with a rich selection of storage capacities and color variations, striving to meet the diverse needs of our customers. For example, for those seeking the latest high performance, we recommend high-end models such as the iPhone 15 Pro Max or iPhone 14 Pro, while for those who want sufficient performance for daily use and an affordable price, we recommend the iPhone SE (3rd generation) or iPhone 13 series.

The biggest reason why customers choose PRODIG is ourunique quality standards and thorough inspection process. For every iPhone that comes in, our expert staff rigorously checks various items, including battery status, button operation, camera function, display, and communication functions. This ensures that customers can "confidently" purchase used products. Furthermore, the condition of the products is clearly indicated with explicit criteria such as A rank (very good), B rank (good), and C rank (some signs of use), and detailed information is provided along with photos, allowing customers to choose products with confidence. Even in the unlikely event of an initial defect, PRODIG has its own warranty system, ensuring peace of mind even after purchase.

Learn more about PRODIG's peace of mind warranty
https://prodig-shop.com/pages/guarantee

Click here for a list of PRODIG's used iPhone products
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/iphone

Smartly Sell Unwanted Smartphones! PRODIG's Buyback Service and Secrets to High-Value Buybacks

Another way to get a new iPhone affordably is to sell your current unwanted smartphone through PRODIG's buyback service. PRODIG buys back your smartphone at a fair price, allowing you to use that money towards the purchase of a new iPhone, thereby supporting a smart upgrade.

To sell your unwanted smartphone for the highest possible price, there are several key points to consider. First, it is crucial to "know the market price." The buyback price of a smartphone fluctuates significantly depending on market supply and demand, model newness, condition, and even the time of year. PRODIG's buyback site offers a free appraisal to help you understand the current market value, so you can know in advance how much your smartphone is worth. Understanding this market value will help you determine if the appraised price is fair and lead to a satisfactory transaction.

To aim for a high-value buyback, please also practice the following tips:

• Sell early: Smartphones tend to lose value as new models are released, so consider selling as soon as you stop using them. The longer you wait, the more likely the buyback price will decrease.

• Include accessories: If all original accessories such as the box, charger, earphones, and SIM pin are included, the appraisal value is likely to increase. The goal is to make it as close to its original purchase condition as possible.

• Clean thoroughly: Carefully wipe off fingerprints, dirt, and dust from the main unit and screen, and make it as clean as possible. The visual impression significantly affects the appraisal.

• Ensure data erasure: For personal information protection, always back up your data and perform a factory reset to completely erase all data before selling. This ensures a secure transaction. PRODIG also provides appropriate advice on data erasure.

• Thorough operation check: Before selling, it's important to check basic functions yourself, such as power on/off, button operation, camera function, Wi-Fi connectivity, and charging capability. Demonstrating that it works properly leads to a smooth appraisal.

The process from buyback to purchase is very smooth. You can start by requesting a free appraisal from PRODIG's buyback website. If you are satisfied with the appraised price, you can send your smartphone using the specified method, and after inspection by our expert staff, payment will be made promptly. By using the funds from this buyback for the purchase of a new iPhone on the PRODIG online store, you can significantly reduce your effective financial burden. To get a new iPhone smartly, affordably, and safely, please take advantage of PRODIG's buyback service.

Sell your unwanted smartphone to PRODIG too! Upgrade smartly!
https://prodig-kaitori.com/

Frequently Asked Questions: Resolving iPhone Performance Queries

When considering purchasing an iPhone, especially a used one, various questions about performance are likely to arise. Here, we answer frequently asked questions and provide information to help you choose an iPhone with confidence and use it comfortably for a long time. We will focus on specific questions such as how quickly iPhone performance becomes obsolete, how to interpret benchmark scores, and whether used iPhones can still receive the latest OS updates. By addressing these questions, we hope to deepen your understanding of iPhone performance and help you choose the model that best suits your needs. At PRODIG, we prioritize resolving customer questions and concerns and supporting you in making a satisfying smartphone choice.

How quickly does iPhone performance become obsolete?

The term "obsolete" when referring to iPhone performance generally means that it can no longer keep up with the requirements of new apps and OS. However, because iPhones are equipped with Apple's proprietary A-series chips, they tend to maintain high performance for a very long time compared to Android smartphones. Specifically, iOS major updates are often provided for about 5 years from release, and major apps usually work without issues. For example, even the iPhone 12 series, released in 2020, still maintains sufficient performance for daily use in 2025.

However, for demanding uses that require particularly high processing power, such as high-load latest 3D games or professional video editing apps, you might start to feel the performance limits after about 3-4 years from release. For general web browsing, social media, video streaming, and photography, models older than 5 years can often still be used comfortably. The rate of obsolescence varies significantly depending on your usage habits and the requirements of apps you plan to use in the future. If you constantly want to use the latest technology and high-load apps, choosing a relatively newer model is wise. On the other hand, if daily use is your main focus, models from several generations ago can still offer sufficient performance and save you money.

How to interpret benchmark scores?

Benchmark scores are metrics that quantify the processing performance of a smartphone's CPU and GPU, allowing for objective comparison. AnTuTu Benchmark and Geekbench are well-known examples, and by using these apps to measure and compare iPhone performance, you can understand the performance differences between different models.

• CPU Score: Affects app launch speed and multitasking capabilities. A higher score means you can run multiple apps smoothly simultaneously and perform complex calculations quickly.

• GPU Score: Affects game graphics processing and video editing rendering speed. A higher score means smoother gameplay for high-quality games and faster video rendering.

Benchmark scores are merely a guide, and actual user experience may differ. For example, even with a high score, if the OS optimization is insufficient, the perceived speed might not be as good as expected. However, they are very effective tools for comparing the relative performance differences between different models. They are particularly useful when choosing a used iPhone and wanting to objectively determine its performance level. It's advisable to consider benchmark scores in conjunction with your own usage (e.g., whether you frequently play games or edit videos).

Is OS update possible even for used iPhones?

Yes, used iPhones can generally be updated to the latest iOS. iPhone OS updates have a defined support period for each model, and regardless of whether it's new or used, you can update to the latest iOS within that support period. Apple typically provides major iOS updates for about 5-7 years from the iPhone's release. For example, the iPhone 12 series, released in 2020, can still be updated to the latest iOS in 2025.

OS updates not only add new features but also include security enhancements and bug fixes, so it's always recommended to keep your device up to date. When purchasing a used iPhone, it's a good idea to check which iOS version the model currently supports and for how long updates are expected to be provided. All iPhones handled by PRODIG are obtained through legitimate channels and have no restrictions regarding OS updates. You can safely enjoy the latest features and security.

Finally

In this article, we have explained in detail everything from iPhone performance rankings to tips for wisely choosing a used iPhone, and PRODIG's services. While the latest iPhones are certainly appealing, if you prioritize cost performance, a used iPhone is a very strong option. In particular, at PRODIG, we fully support our customers in acquiring high-performance iPhones with peace of mind through strict quality standards and comprehensive warranties.

If you felt anxious about "used products," we hope this article has helped lower that psychological barrier a little. PRODIG's online store offers a wide variety of iPhones to suit your needs, and you are sure to find the perfect one for you. Additionally, by wisely selling your unneeded smartphone through PRODIG's trade-in service and using it towards the purchase of a new iPhone, you can switch to a new device even more affordably.

Don't miss this opportunity! Get your new iPhone smartly and affordably with PRODIG today!

View the entire PRODIG online store!
https://prodig-shop.com/

For selling your unneeded smartphone, choose PRODIG! Make a smart switch!
https://prodig-kaitori.com/