iPhone 16 Pro Max in 2026: Why is the older flagship still a better buy than the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
Despite a significant price reduction of up to 12 million VND compared to the previous generation, the iPhone 16 Pro Max still boasts superior specifications with the A18 Pro chip and a premium 6.9-inch display.
By mid-2026, the mobile market is witnessing a real consumer trend: instead of chasing the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max, users are focusing their attention on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. This is considered the "golden" time to own the previous flagship model, as its usability remains at its peak while the cost has significantly decreased.
Cost-effective: Price difference of up to 12 million VND.
In June 2026, the iPhone 16 Pro Max saw a record-breaking price drop. Specifically, the standard 256GB used version (like new 99%) is now priced at only around 24,990,000 VND. For brand new, sealed VN/A models, the price remains around 29,890,000 VND. Even devices with minor scratches are priced at just over 21 million VND.
Compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which starts at 35 million VND, choosing the iPhone 16 Pro Max saves users between 5 and 12 million VND. This is a significant difference, while the actual user experience between the two generations is almost indistinguishable, making it difficult for users to upgrade at all costs.
Design and display: The pinnacle of 6.9-inch screens.
Physically, the iPhone 16 Pro Max retains its premium quality with a titanium frame combined with ultra-durable glass. This material not only ensures sturdiness but also optimizes weight, providing a more comfortable grip compared to older generations with steel frames. The device also meets the highest IP68 water and dust resistance standard.
The biggest highlight is the 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display – the largest screen in Apple's smartphone history. With sharp resolution, a pixel density of 460 ppi, and 120Hz ProMotion technology, all tasks, from entertainment to work, are smooth even in bright light conditions.
A18 Pro chip performance: Enduring power on a 3nm process.
Hidden beneath its sleek exterior is the cutting-edge A18 Pro processor, manufactured using a 3nm process. Combined with a 6-core GPU and 8GB of RAM, this device is more than capable of handling the most demanding tasks of 2026, such as rendering 4K video or complex AI models. Below is a detailed specifications table for the device:
| Specifications | Configuration details |
|---|---|
| Screen | 6.9 inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz ProMotion |
| Microprocessors | Apple A18 Pro (3nm process) |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Battery | 4685 mAh (Continuous video playback for 29 hours) |
| Rear camera | Main 48MP, Ultrawide 48MP, Telephoto 12MP (5x Zoom) |
| Connect | 5G, Wi-Fi 7, high-speed USB-C |
Impressive camera system and battery life.
Despite being released some time ago, the iPhone 16 Pro Max's triple rear camera system remains among the best on the market. The 48MP main sensor, along with the telephoto lens supporting 5x optical zoom, allows for professional-grade photography and videography in Dolby Vision and ProRes standards. For content creators, this remains a powerful tool, comparable to the latest models.
Furthermore, the 4685 mAh battery provides long-lasting usage time, with the ability to play videos continuously for up to 29 hours. Combined with modern connectivity standards such as Wi-Fi 7 and a high-speed USB-C port, the iPhone 16 Pro Max confidently asserts its position as one of the most worthwhile smartphones to buy today in terms of performance-to-price ratio.
