iPhone 13 Vs iPhone 15 Plus

iPhone 13
iPhone 13
Starting at

Refurbished price:£182.00

Versus £599.00 new

See options
iPhone 15 Plus
iPhone 15 Plus
Starting at

Refurbished price:£345.00

Versus £799.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 13, launched in 2021, and the iPhone 15 Plus, released in 2023, represent two distinct eras of the modern smartphone experience. While the iPhone 13 remains a popular choice for those seeking a standard, reliable device, the iPhone 15 Plus introduces a larger form factor and several modern hardware updates that change how users interact with their phones. Both devices run on the iOS operating system, providing a familiar and seamless interface, though the newer model integrates more recent software features designed for its specific hardware layout.

The primary differences between these two models lie in their physical size, the transition from the traditional notch to a more interactive display area, and the shift toward a universal charging standard. For those considering an eco-friendly alternative, selecting a quality-assured refurbished option for either of these models can provide a high-performance experience while supporting more sustainable consumption habits.

Scores

Durability

When evaluating the longevity of these two smartphones, the release dates play a significant role in determining how long each will remain compatible with the latest software updates and security features.

  • Software Support Window: The iPhone 15 Plus, being two years newer than the iPhone 13, is expected to receive official iOS updates for a significantly longer period, likely extending its functional life well into the late 2020s.
  • Internal Architecture: The iPhone 15 Plus features a more modular internal design compared to the iPhone 13, which simplifies common repairs such as battery replacements and rear glass fixes, potentially extending the physical lifespan of the device.
  • Long-term Reliability: While the iPhone 13 has proven to be a sturdy and reliable handset over the years, the iPhone 15 Plus offers more performance headroom to handle the increasing demands of future applications without slowing down.

Year of Release

2021

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance differences between these generations are most evident when multitasking between heavy applications or during long sessions of high-definition gaming where efficiency is key.

  • System Fluidity: The iPhone 15 Plus operates with a more efficient internal processor that allows for smoother transitions between apps and faster processing of complex tasks like high-resolution photo editing.
  • Battery Endurance: Due to its larger physical footprint, the iPhone 15 Plus houses a much larger battery, offering exceptional usage time that can easily last through a full day of heavy use or two days of light use, whereas the iPhone 13 typically requires a nightly charge.
  • Memory Management: The newer model is better equipped to keep multiple applications active in the background, reducing the frequency of apps restarting when you switch back to them after using other tools.

Memory

4 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display experience is perhaps the most noticeable differentiator, as the two devices offer vastly different screen sizes and brightness capabilities for various environments.

  • Display Real Estate: The iPhone 15 Plus features a expansive 6.7-inch screen that is ideal for watching films or reading long documents, while the iPhone 13 offers a more compact 6.1-inch display that is easier to navigate with one hand.
  • Outdoor Visibility: Users will find the iPhone 15 Plus much easier to use in bright sunlight, as its screen can reach significantly higher brightness levels compared to the more modest peak brightness of the iPhone 13.
  • Interactive Interface: The iPhone 15 Plus replaces the static notch at the top of the screen with a dynamic area that expands and contracts to show alerts and background activities, providing a more modern and integrated user experience.

Resolution

1170 x 2532

1290 x 2796

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones are capable of capturing high-quality imagery, but the iPhone 15 Plus introduces a significant leap in sensor technology that benefits everyday photography and video recording.

  • Image Resolution: The primary camera on the iPhone 15 Plus captures significantly more detail than the iPhone 13, allowing users to crop into photos or print them in larger formats without losing clarity.
  • Video Stabilisation: The iPhone 15 Plus includes an advanced stabilisation mode that acts like a virtual gimbal, making handheld videos look incredibly smooth even if the person filming is running or moving quickly.
  • Low-Light Clarity: Thanks to improved light-gathering capabilities and more advanced software processing, the iPhone 15 Plus produces cleaner images with more accurate colours in dim environments like restaurants or evening outdoor settings.

Main camera

12 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical daily usage is often defined by the small details, such as the type of cables you need to carry and how the device feels in your hand or pocket.

  • Universal Connectivity: The iPhone 15 Plus adopts the USB-C standard, meaning you can likely use the same cable to charge your phone, laptop, and tablet, whereas the iPhone 13 still relies on the older Lightning connector.
  • Handling and Weight: The iPhone 13 is lighter and more pocket-friendly, making it a better choice for those who prefer a device that doesn't feel bulky, while the iPhone 15 Plus has a more substantial presence due to its size.
  • Build Materials: The iPhone 15 Plus features a colour-infused glass back with a matte finish that is more resistant to fingerprints compared to the glossy back found on the iPhone 13.

Weight

173 g

201 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C

In summary, the choice between the iPhone 13 and the iPhone 15 Plus depends largely on your priorities regarding screen size, battery life, and future-proofing. Based on common user feedback from various tech forums, the iPhone 13 is frequently praised for its comfortable size and its ability to still perform all daily tasks with ease. However, some users have noted that its battery life can feel limited if they are away from a charger for an entire day. Conversely, the iPhone 15 Plus is widely celebrated as a "battery king," with many owners expressing relief at no longer needing to carry a portable power bank. The main criticism for the 15 Plus usually centres on its large size, which some find difficult to manage without two hands.

Users who prioritise portability and a classic design will find the iPhone 13 to be a highly capable and straightforward companion for their daily needs. Those who spend a significant amount of time consuming media, playing games, or who simply want the peace of mind that comes with a long-lasting battery should lean toward the iPhone 15 Plus. Choosing a sustainable choice like a quality-assured refurbished model for either device is an excellent way to access these technologies while reducing environmental impact. Ultimately, both phones offer a high-quality experience, but the iPhone 15 Plus provides a more modern set of features that will likely stay relevant for a longer period.

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