It’s 2025, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max is still turning heads on the market, even though rumors of the iPhone 16 Pro Max have already started swirling. After using this device for several months, it’s clear why Apple’s biggest flagship remains so popular in Pakistan and globally. Here’s my hands‑on review, focused on its real‑world performance, camera tests, and what you can expect to pay in mid‑2025.
Design & Build Refined but Familiar
At first glance, the iPhone 15 Pro Max looks a lot like last year’s model – but you quickly notice the difference when you hold it.
- The titanium frame keeps it strong yet noticeably lighter than the iPhone 14 Pro Max.
- The slightly rounded edges make it more comfortable to grip, especially for long scrolling or gaming sessions.
- And yes, there’s the new USB‑C port – a long‑awaited change that makes charging and data transfer far easier, especially for those who already use modern laptops and accessories.
The back glass feels premium and resists fingerprints fairly well. But let’s be real: almost everyone still puts a case on it.
Display Simply Stunning
Apple’s 6.7‑inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion (120Hz) remains one of the best screens you’ll find on any phone in 2025.
Colors are rich, brightness is superb (peaking over 2,000 nits outdoors), and HDR content from Netflix or YouTube looks cinematic.
Whether you’re watching 4K videos, editing photos, or just reading the news, it’s smooth, sharp, and immersive.
Camera Test Real World Photos & Video
Now for the part everyone cares about: the cameras. On paper, the iPhone 15 Pro Max has:
- 48MP main sensor with improved low‑light capability
- 12MP ultra‑wide
- 12MP 5x periscope telephoto lens
But how does it do in daily life?
Daylight photos:
Sharp, natural colors, and balanced contrast. Unlike some Android phones that boost saturation, Apple sticks to realistic tones.
Low‑light & night mode:
A real strength. Photos at night keep detail without looking too artificial. The larger sensor and computational photography shine here.
Zoom:
The new 5x optical zoom is excellent for portraits and distant shots – detailed without obvious noise.
Video:
Still the industry leader. Shooting in 4K60, especially in cinematic mode, gives beautiful background blur. And the new log video support (great for editors and YouTubers) is a pro feature that works impressively well.
Overall, while some Android phones like the Galaxy S24 Ultra have slightly more flexible zoom ranges, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is hard to beat for consistent, reliable photos and best‑in‑class video.
Performance Fast & Future Proof
Powered by Apple’s A17 Pro chip, the iPhone 15 Pro Max easily handles everything:
- Heavy games like Genshin Impact and PUBG Mobile at high settings
- Video editing in CapCut or LumaFusion
- Running multiple apps in split‑screen / floating windows (thanks to iOS 17 features)
Benchmarks aside, in daily use it’s smooth, responsive, and unlikely to slow down for years.
Plus, battery life remains solid: about 6‑7 hours of screen‑on time, often getting through a full day even with heavy use.
USB C & Charging Welcome Change
Switching to USB‑C finally means:
- Faster data transfers, especially if you shoot ProRes video
- One charger for iPad, MacBook, and iPhone
- Easier accessory ecosystem
Charging speed isn’t as fast as some Android rivals it takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to fully charge – but it’s acceptable.
iOS 17 & Software
The iPhone 15 Pro Max shipped with iOS 17 and now runs iOS 18 beta for many users:
- StandBy mode turns your phone into a smart desk display
- Improved widgets and interactive lock screen
- New AI‑powered auto‑reply and editing tools in Messages (in iOS 18)
As always, you can expect 5‑6 years of software updates, which is a huge plus for resale value.
Price in 2025 Pakistan & Global
As of mid‑2025, new units and PTA‑approved iPhones cost roughly:
- PKR 485,000–545,000 for 256GB
- PKR 580,000–650,000 for 512GB or 1TB
In Dubai & US markets, prices are lower, but after taxes/import duties, Pakistani buyers pay a premium.
Used/refurbished units are starting to drop below PKR 400,000 – so it’s becoming a better deal for buyers who don’t mind gently used devices.
Pros & Cons Quick Summary
Pros:
✔ Fantastic camera consistency (photo + video)
✔ Best software support and ecosystem
✔ Beautiful, bright display
✔ A17 Pro performance is future‑proof
✔ Lighter titanium design & USB‑C
Cons:
✘ Expensive, especially in Pakistan
✘ Charging speed is slower than rivals
✘ Limited to 5x optical zoom (some competitors offer 10x)
Should You Still Buy in 2025?
If you want:
- The best all‑round video camera in your pocket
- Great resale value
- Reliable daily performance and updates until at least 2029
The iPhone 15 Pro Max remains a brilliant choice, especially as prices slowly drop.
But if you must have the latest, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is rumored to bring new AI features and camera upgrades – so it may be worth waiting.
Final thoughts
Even in 2025, the iPhone 15 Pro Max proves why Apple’s flagships keep their value and fanbase: balanced design, excellent cameras, smooth software, and reliable updates.
If you get a good deal, it’s still one of the smartest buys this year.
