Two years after its release, the iPhone 15 Pro Max remains a formidable device. But in a world of folding phones and AI-first devices, is it still worth buying in 2026?
A Design That Aged Well
The titanium frame introduced with the 15 Pro series has become an industry standard. It's still lightweight, durable, and feels premium. The Action Button, while now common, was a pioneer feature that many still find indispensable.
Performance: The A17 Pro Today
Even in 2026, the A17 Pro chip handles everything you throw at it. While it may not match the raw AI processing power of the A19, it breezes through iOS 19 updates, heavy gaming, and 4K video editing without breaking a sweat.
Camera: Still Top Tier?
The 5x telephoto lens is still excellent. Computational photography has improved via software updates, keeping the 15 Pro Max competitive. However, it lacks the advanced 3D spatial capture capabilities of the latest models.
Verdict 2026
If you can find it refurbished or on sale, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the best value premium iPhone in 2026. It offers 90% of the flagship experience for a fraction of the price.
Pros
- Still incredible performance
- Excellent build quality
- Great value in 2026
Cons
- Slower charging compared to 2026 standards
- Lacks latest AI hardware features