The iPhone 13 Pro Max is a 2021 flagship that still holds up in 2026 thanks to a 120Hz ProMotion OLED, a telephoto camera, and stainless steel build. The iPhone 16 Plus is a 2024 non-Pro model built around Apple's A18 chip, Apple Intelligence, and a longer battery life. Both cost a similar amount right now depending on storage and condition. This head-to-head compares specs, cameras, battery, software support, and pricing so you can decide whether a discounted former Pro or a newer, AI-ready Plus is the smarter buy today.
Quick Answer: Choose the iPhone 13 Pro Max if you want a 120Hz ProMotion display, a telephoto lens, and Pro-tier build at a discount. Choose the iPhone 16 Plus if you want Apple Intelligence, longer battery life, USB-C, and several more years of major iOS updates.
Released in September 2021, the iPhone 13 Pro Max was Apple's largest and most capable phone of its generation. It introduced the 120Hz ProMotion display to iPhone, added sensor-shift stabilization on the main camera, and paired the A15 Bionic chip with a 6GB RAM Pro configuration. In 2026, it survives as a discounted new-old-stock or refurbished pick that still delivers Pro-grade hardware for those willing to trade the newest features for a lower price.
1.1 Key Specifications
1.2 Editor Scoring
Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max
Best Value ProA discounted former flagship with a 120Hz ProMotion OLED, 3x telephoto camera, and stainless steel build. Ideal if you want Pro-tier hardware without paying 2026 flagship prices.
Check Price2. Apple iPhone 16 Plus: Product Information
Announced in September 2024, the iPhone 16 Plus is Apple's larger non-Pro phone built for the Apple Intelligence era. It runs the A18 chip with 8GB of RAM, adds a Camera Control button, ships with USB-C, and delivers the longest battery life of any 6.7-inch non-Pro iPhone to date. It skips the 120Hz ProMotion display and the telephoto lens found on Pro Max models but offers a fresher software runway and generative AI features.
2.1 Key Specifications
2.2 Editor Scoring
Apple iPhone 16 Plus
Best AI ReadyApple Intelligence, USB-C, 8GB RAM, and the longest-lasting 6.7-inch non-Pro iPhone to date. Best if you want a phone that will still feel current in 4-5 years.
Check Price3. iPhone 13 Pro Max vs iPhone 16 Plus: Comparison Table
| Feature | iPhone 13 Pro Max | iPhone 16 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2021 | 2024 Winner |
| Display | 6.7" OLED, 120Hz ProMotion Winner | 6.7" OLED, 60Hz, 2000 nits peak |
| Chip | A15 Bionic | A18 Winner |
| RAM | 6GB | 8GB Winner |
| Apple Intelligence | Not supported | Supported Winner |
| Main Camera | 12MP wide | 48MP Fusion wide Winner |
| Telephoto | Yes, 3x optical Winner | No (2x digital crop) |
| Battery Life | ~28h video (4,352 mAh) | ~27h video, better efficiency (4,674 mAh) Winner |
| Connector | Lightning | USB-C Winner |
| Frame | Stainless steel Winner | Aluminum |
| Software Runway | 2-3 more major iOS updates (est.) | 5-6 more major iOS updates (est.) Winner |
| Typical 2026 Price | Lower (refurb/used) Winner | Higher (new, current gen) |
See both models across major retailers in one place. Compare the iPhone 16 Plus on ShopFox and set a price drop alert.
4. Real User Feedback: iPhone 13 Pro Max
Owners consistently praise the display and camera versatility, and long-term users often note that iOS updates have kept the phone feeling smooth. Common complaints in 2026 revolve around Lightning-only charging, weight, and the absence of Apple Intelligence features. For a full breakdown of verified owner feedback and star ratings, see the iPhone 13 Pro Max user reviews on ShopFox.
4.1 Key Feedback Themes
- Triple-camera system with dedicated 3x telephoto
- Solid stainless steel + Ceramic Shield build
- Long battery life relative to its era
- Excellent used and refurbished pricing
- Lightning port (slower USB 2.0 speeds)
- Heavier at ~240g
- Shorter remaining iOS update window
5. Real User Feedback: iPhone 16 Plus
Reviewers and buyers highlight the battery life, cool-running A18 chip, and USB-C convenience. The main criticism is the 60Hz refresh rate, which feels dated next to Pro models and even mid-range Android phones. For verified owner reviews and detailed sentiment, see the iPhone 16 Plus user reviews on ShopFox.
5.1 Key Feedback Themes
- Best-in-class battery life for a 6.7" non-Pro iPhone
- USB-C with faster wired charging and standard cables
- Brighter outdoor peak (2000 nits)
- Longer software support window (est. 5-6 more iOS versions)
- No telephoto lens
- No always-on display
- Aluminum feels less premium than steel
How We Researched This
This comparison is based on Apple's published specifications, professional editorial reviews from outlets that publicly document their testing methodologies, aggregated owner reviews, and publicly available battery and camera benchmarks. We did not perform first-hand lab testing for this article; recommendations reflect research and cross-referenced consensus rather than in-house measurements.
6. Which One Should You Choose?
The choice comes down to what you value most: legacy Pro-tier hardware at a steep discount, or a newer non-Pro built for the Apple Intelligence era with a longer software life. Both are great big-screen iPhones for most people; neither is the obviously wrong answer, so anchor on your top two priorities.
6.1 Expert Opinion
Video reviewers who have compared these models in 2025-2026 tend to reach a similar conclusion: if you already own or can find a well-preserved 13 Pro Max at a strong price, its display and camera versatility still punch above their weight. But if you are buying new or expect to keep the phone for four or more years, the iPhone 16 Plus is the more sensible long-term investment because of Apple Intelligence, USB-C, and a longer update runway. Neither camp calls the other choice a mistake.
Choose iPhone 13 Pro Max If…
You want ProMotion 120Hz, a real 3x telephoto lens, and Pro-grade build materials at a fraction of new-flagship pricing. Best for photo enthusiasts, casual gamers, and anyone upgrading from an iPhone 11 or older who does not need Apple Intelligence.
View PriceChoose iPhone 16 Plus If…
You want the longest battery life, Apple Intelligence, USB-C, and years of major iOS updates ahead. Best for buyers who plan to keep their phone 4+ years, lean into on-device AI features, or want a newer camera pipeline with a 48MP main sensor.
View Price7. Purchase Timing & Market Cycle Advice
Because these phones sit at different points in their lifecycle, the best time to buy each one differs. The 13 Pro Max is now purely a discount / refurbished play, while the 16 Plus follows Apple's predictable annual pricing rhythm.
7.1 iPhone 13 Pro Max Timing
Apple no longer sells this model new, so prices are driven by the certified refurbished and secondary markets. Prices typically dip in the weeks after each new iPhone launch (mid-September to October) and again during Black Friday and post-holiday clearance in January. Battery health is the most important variable, so filter for 90%+ battery health when shopping used. Check the iPhone 13 Pro Max price history on ShopFox and set a price alert with ShopFox to catch the next dip.
7.2 iPhone 16 Plus Timing
The 16 Plus was launched at Apple's standard "Plus" price and typically sees its first meaningful discounts around Black Friday, Boxing Day, and again when the next generation launches. Carrier trade-in offers and unlocked refurbished units at authorized resellers often beat Apple's direct pricing. Compare iPhone 16 Plus prices on ShopFox and set a drop alert if you're not in a rush.
7.3 Category Context
Both phones sit in the large-screen premium slot within the broader cell phones category on ShopFox, where you can benchmark them against current flagship Android alternatives and other iPhone models before you commit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iPhone 13 Pro Max still worth buying in 2026?
Yes, provided you find it discounted and with strong battery health. It still runs current iOS, offers 120Hz ProMotion, a bright OLED, and a versatile triple-camera system with 3x telephoto. The two main drawbacks are the lack of Apple Intelligence support and a shorter remaining update window compared with the iPhone 16 series. For most price-sensitive buyers who prioritize display and cameras over on-device AI, it is still a strong pick.
Does the iPhone 16 Plus have ProMotion 120Hz?
No. Apple continues to reserve ProMotion 120Hz for the Pro line. The iPhone 16 Plus uses a 60Hz OLED, albeit a very bright one at 2000 nits peak outdoor brightness. If a high refresh rate is a must, either step up to a Pro model or consider the iPhone 13 Pro Max, whose 120Hz ProMotion display remains excellent even in 2026.
Which has the better camera overall?
It depends on how you shoot. The iPhone 16 Plus has a newer 48MP main sensor with better computational pipelines and improved low-light detail, but it lacks a dedicated telephoto lens. The 13 Pro Max has a lower-resolution main sensor but adds a real 3x optical telephoto and LiDAR. For everyday photos and video, the 16 Plus is more consistent; for zoom and portraits at distance, the 13 Pro Max still has the edge.
How long will each phone receive iOS updates?
Apple does not publish a fixed policy, but historically iPhones receive around 6-7 major iOS updates. Based on that pattern, the iPhone 13 Pro Max (2021) likely has roughly 2-3 major iOS versions of support left, while the iPhone 16 Plus (2024) likely has around 5-6 major versions remaining. If long-term software support matters, the 16 Plus is meaningfully ahead.
Is USB-C worth switching for?
For most users, yes. USB-C on the iPhone 16 Plus means one cable for your MacBook, iPad, headphones, and accessories, plus faster wired charging. Note that the 16 Plus's USB-C port runs at USB 2.0 speeds, so it is not faster than Pro-model transfers, but it is a significant convenience win over Lightning on the 13 Pro Max.
Can I run Apple Intelligence on the iPhone 13 Pro Max?
No. Apple Intelligence requires the A17 Pro chip or newer with at least 8GB of RAM. The 13 Pro Max uses A15 Bionic with 6GB RAM, so it is not eligible for on-device generative features, Writing Tools, Image Playground, or the redesigned Siri. If those features matter to you, the iPhone 16 Plus is the clear pick between these two.
Which one has better battery life in real use?
Both are big-battery iPhones, but the 16 Plus edges out a brand-new 13 Pro Max thanks to the A18's efficiency and a slightly larger 4,674 mAh cell. In practice, most owners get a full heavy-use day with charge to spare on the 16 Plus. A used 13 Pro Max's real-world endurance depends heavily on remaining battery health; always check that figure before buying.
Should I wait for the next iPhone instead?
If your current phone is holding up and you are past mid-year, waiting for Apple's next launch cycle can be sensible - either to buy the newer model or to catch a price drop on the 16 Plus. If your current phone is struggling, buy now and set a price alert as a safety net. Historically, buying a Plus/Max model early in its cycle and keeping it for 4+ years produces the best cost-per-year outcome.
Are refurbished iPhones safe to buy?
Certified refurbished units from Apple or reputable resellers are generally safe: they include diagnostics, replacement parts where needed, a fresh battery in some tiers, and a limited warranty. The main risks are buying "used" listings from unknown sellers with unclear battery health or blacklisted IMEIs. Always verify battery health (aim for 90%+), warranty terms, and return policy before purchasing.
Conclusion
The iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Plus solve the same problem - a large iPhone that lasts all day - from opposite directions. The 13 Pro Max is the value pick, offering discounted Pro-tier hardware with ProMotion and a real telephoto lens, at the cost of Lightning charging and no Apple Intelligence. The 16 Plus is the future-proof pick: newer chip, more RAM, longer software runway, USB-C, and on-device AI, but you give up 120Hz and telephoto. If cash is tight and cameras matter, take the 13 Pro Max. If you plan to keep this phone for four or more years, the 16 Plus is the smarter buy. Whichever one you choose, compare live prices and set a drop alert before you check out.