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The iPhone 16 Pro Max is still one of Apple’s most powerful smartphones, although 17-series models have been released. The iPhone 13 Pro Max, on the other hand, despite its age, is still an attractive choice – especially in the refurbished version, where price plays first fiddle. It’s worth checking out what these two flagships share and have in common, and for whom they will be the best option.
Before we get into the details, let’s check out the differences in technical specifications between the iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro Max. The table will help you quickly see what has changed between the two flagships.
| Specifications | iPhone 16 Pro Max | iPhone 13 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 6.9″ Super Retina XDR OLED, ProMotion 120 Hz, higher brightness HDR | 6.7″ Super Retina XDR OLED, ProMotion 120 Hz, HDR up to 1200 nits |
| Processor | A18 Pro – the latest in performance and AI support | A15 Bionic – still very powerful |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6 GB |
| Cameras | Triple set + better zoom and AI modes | Triple set of 12 MP + LiDAR, great night shots |
| Battery | Even longer runtime with the A18 Pro | 4352 mAh, up to 28 h of video playback |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| System and support | iOS 18, updates for years to come | iOS 18, but closer to the end of the support cycle |
| Availability | 2024 flagship | 2021 model, mainly available as refurbished |
At first glance, the two models are very similar, but the design differences are specific.
iPhone 13 Pro Max Case:
Dimensions: 160.8 × 78.1 × 7.65 mm
Weight: 238 g
Frame: stainless steel
Glass: Ceramic Shield
Certification: IP68
iPhone 16 Pro Max Case:
Dimensions: 163 × 77.6 × 8.25 mm
Weight: 227 g
Frame: aerospace grade titanium (Grade 5)
Thinner bezels around the screen
Certification: IP68
The difference of 11 grams may seem small, but with such a large smartphone it is noticeable. The 16 Pro Max is taller and minimally thicker, but lighter thanks to its titanium construction.
However, if you’re after solidity and a “massive” premium feel – the steel frame on the 13 Pro Max still makes a very good impression, especially on a refurbished model in great visual condition.
Both models offer a screen with 120 Hz refresh rate (ProMotion), but the differences in performance are apparent.
The screen on the iPhone 13 Pro Max:
6.7″ Super Retina XDR OLED
Resolution: 2778 × 1284 px
Density: 458 ppi
Typical brightness: 1000 nits
HDR: 1200 nits
The screen on the iPhone 16 Pro Max
6.9″ Super Retina XDR OLED
Resolution: 2868 × 1320 px
Density: 460 ppi
Typical brightness: 1000 nits
HDR: 1600 nits
Brightness in full sunlight: up to 2000 nits
The 0.2-inch difference means more working space, but the biggest change is the maximum brightness – up to 2,000 nits outdoors. In practice, this means better readability in bright sunlight.
For everyday use, social media or Netflix, the 13 Pro Max still offers a screen that doesn’t stand apart from flagships.
Here the generational difference is most noticeable.
iPhone 13 Pro Max:
Processor: A15 Bionic (5 nm)
CPU: 6 cores
GPU: 5 cores
RAM: 6 GB
iPhone 16 Pro Max:
Processor: A18 Pro (3 nm)
CPU: 6 next-generation cores
GPU: 6 cores
RAM: 8 GB
A smaller technological process (3 nm vs 5 nm) means:
higher productivity,
better energy efficiency,
greater power reserve for future iOS versions.
In benchmarks, differences can exceed 30-40% in favor of the A18 Pro.
In everyday use (Instagram, YouTube, banking apps) both models run smoothly. The differences can be seen mainly in:
AAA games,
4K video editing,
working with large files.
This is a section where generational change is very clear.
Cameras in iPhone 13 Pro Max
Main: 12 MP (f/1.5)
Ultra-wide: 12 MP
Telephoto lens: 12 MP
Optical zoom: 3×
Stabilization: sensor-shift OIS
Video: 4K up to 60 fps
Cameras on the iPhone 16 Pro Max:
Main: 48 MP
Tetraprismic telephoto lens: 5× optical zoom
Improved night mode
Advanced HDR processing
Professional video modes
In good light, the differences are not always drastic. On the other hand:
At high zoom (5× vs 3×),
In night photography,
in more challenging scenes
16 Pro Max offers noticeably more detail.
For most users who post photos on social media, the 13 Pro Max still provides a very high level of quality.
The difference in operating time is greater than you might think.
Battery in iPhone 13 Pro Max
Capacity: 4352 mAh
Up to 28 hours of video playback
Battery in iPhone 16 Pro Max
Capacity: 4685 mAh
Up to 33 hours of video playback
That’s up to a 5-hour difference according to Apple’s statement. In addition, the A18 Pro’s 3nm process improves energy efficiency.
In practice:
13 Pro Max easily withstands a full day of heavy use
16 Pro Max gives greater margin of safety
The 16 series has years of updates ahead of it. The iPhone 13 Pro Max runs on iOS 18, but will lose access to subsequent versions over time – probably within 2-3 years. So if you’re looking to maximize the “lifetime” of your system, the 16 Pro Max will be more reliable.
And this is where it gets most interesting. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is hardware for those willing to spend more. The iPhone 13 Pro Max, especially in a refurbished version, costs much less and still offers flagship capabilities. However, it is worth remembering that this is not the only option – on the market for refurbished models you can also find the iPhone 14 Pro Max or iPhone 15 Pro Max, which rank in the middle and also give great value for money.
When you buy a refurbished smartphone, you not only save money, but also the environment. It’s a second life for electronics and less electro-waste. More and more people are choosing this solution – precisely because you can have flagship equipment without overpaying.
Yes, it’s still a solid phone with a strong battery and a great screen.
Yes, it’s a financial saving and eco-friendly choice. With the guarantee and verification by partners, the purchase is safe.
Yes, but mainly when shooting from a greater distance. The iPhone 16 Pro Max captures more detail at 5× optical zoom. In typical photos (1× or 2×), the differences are much smaller.
Probably about 2-3 more years of full iOS support.
Both phones are Apple flagships, but they are separated by four years of technology development. Differences in performance, cameras and battery life may determine the choice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
I’m passionate about refurbished electronics – I show that you can have great equipment without overpaying and without adding more electronics junk. On the blog, I share my knowledge and experience to inspire smarter and more informed technology choices.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
I’m passionate about refurbished electronics – I show that you can have great equipment without overpaying and without adding more electronics junk. On the blog, I share my knowledge and experience to inspire smarter and more informed technology choices.
