3 iPhones worth buying in spring 2025 — for every taste and budget

Spring is the perfect time to snag a new iPhone. By March or April, prices on current models dip noticeably, and with the next generation still months away, these devices remain fresh and cutting-edge. Plus, a recent drop in the dollar exchange rate has made Apple gadgets a tad more affordable. Why not seize the moment? We’ve picked three iPhone models that strike the ideal balance of price and performance for spring 2025. Let’s dive into what they offer.

iPhone 16e: An Affordable Entry into Apple’s Ecosystem

As recently as March 10, we suggested holding off on the iPhone 16e, but just ten days later, the landscape shifted. Now, it’s a solid buy! What changed? In Russia, the base model’s price has dropped another 10,000 rubles, starting at 54,000 rubles on marketplaces like Yandex Market. It’s likely to settle around 48,000–50,000 soon—a steal for a brand-new Apple device.

What makes the iPhone 16e shine? It’s powered by the robust A18 chip, ensuring years of top-tier performance. Add stellar battery life, Apple’s new in-house modem for reliable connectivity, and a decent main camera. Downsides? A prominent notch, no extra lenses, and no direct MagSafe support. If you can overlook these trade-offs, it’s your ticket in.

iPhone 16: The Sweet Spot

The base iPhone 16 costs about 10,000 rubles more than the 16e—around 64,000 rubles. What’s the premium for? It outclasses the 16e in nearly every way, except perhaps battery life. You get a vivid OLED display with Dynamic Island, an enhanced main camera paired with a 12MP ultrawide lens, a handy Camera Control button, and the latest ultra-tough Ceramic Shield glass.

Who’s it for? Anyone seeking a balance of cost and capability without chasing “pro” features. Drawbacks include a modest 128 GB base storage that fills up fast and a 60 Hz refresh rate that feels dated for 2025. Still, that’s par for the course with standard models.

iPhone 16 Pro Max: For Those Who Want the Best

If you’re in it for the long haul, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is your match. This flagship boasts a 6.9-inch ProMotion OLED display (up to 120 Hz), a titanium frame, and IP68 water and dust resistance. The A18 Pro chip tackles any task, while its triple-camera system with 5x optical zoom delivers jaw-dropping shots. Its battery lasts up to 33 hours of video playback—an iPhone record.

Any weak spots? Charging could be faster, Apple Pay doesn’t work everywhere, and some App Store apps remain unavailable in certain regions. Otherwise, it’s a premium device that earns its price tag.

Why Spring?

Buying an iPhone in spring is a savvy move. Prices soften after the winter frenzy, yet the devices stay relevant. The dollar’s dip only sweetens the deal. The iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, and iPhone 16 Pro Max cater to different comfort and performance levels, but each delivers value this season.