The iPhone 18 Pro Max’s Battery Is a Beast, but Save $100 and Stick to Last Year’s Model
Do the math to make sure the upgrade makes sense.
During Apple's "Surprise and shine" event, the company unveiled the iPhone 18 Pro Max, setting it apart with impressive battery upgrades. The new iPhone boasts faster performance from the A20 Pro processor, a camera with AI-driven automatic aperture adjustment, and a larger vapor chamber. However, the standout feature is the significantly enhanced battery life, compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Apple claims that the iPhone 18 Pro Max can deliver 45 hours of video playback and approximately 30 hours of usage on a single charge, making it a worthy upgrade for those seeking a longer-lasting device. The new model is also expected to feature faster wireless charging, with 15 minutes of wired charging reportedly putting the phone at 50%.
In contrast, the iPhone 17 Pro Max achieved 39 hours of video playback, and our testing revealed that its battery sustained 49% after just 20 minutes of use. The price difference between the two models is minimal, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max starting at $1,299 for the 256GB option, only $100 more than the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
While the expanded battery life may be appealing, the question remains whether it justifies the slightly higher cost. For users who primarily use their phones for basic tasks and do not spend excessive time watching videos, the iPhone 17 Pro Max might offer sufficient battery life without the premium price tag. Additionally, considering the recent CNET survey, which revealed that 55% of US adults prioritize affordability in phone upgrades, the additional $100 may not be worth the investment for everyone.
If the iPhone 17 Pro Max remains available at a lower price, it could be a more budget-friendly option that still delivers a satisfactory battery life experience. Retailers and mobile carriers may also offer deals or trade-in programs that could make the newer model more affordable. Ultimately, consumers should weigh the benefits of the upgraded battery against their individual needs and budget before making a decision.
Written by urgent.news from CNET's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
