When considering the purchase of a new iPhone, one of the key factors is the amount of storage it offers. With the myriad of apps, photos, videos, and data we use daily, having enough storage on our devices is crucial. The iPhone lineup has evolved over the years, and with each new model, Apple has increased the storage capacity to meet the demands of modern usage.
Which iPhone Has the Most Storage: Comparison Guide
When choosing an iPhone, storage capacity is one of the most important factors to consider. Unlike Android phones, iPhones don’t support expandable storage via microSD cards, so you’re stuck with whatever capacity you choose at purchase. This guide will help you understand the storage options available across Apple’s current iPhone lineup.
Current iPhone Storage Options (2025)
Based on the latest information, Apple currently sells nine iPhone models with varying storage configurations. The most recent addition to the lineup is the iPhone 16e, which launched in February 2025.
iPhone Storage Comparison Table
| iPhone Model | Storage Options | Starting Price Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | Highest | Most expensive configuration available |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | High | Professional features with ample storage |
| iPhone 16 Plus | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Mid-High | Large screen, good storage options |
| iPhone 16 | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Mid | Standard flagship model |
| iPhone 16e | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | Lowest | Newest but most budget-friendly |
| iPhone 15 | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Mid | Previous generation |
| iPhone 15 Plus | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Mid-High | Previous generation large screen |
| iPhone 14 | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Mid-Low | Two generations old |
| iPhone SE (3rd gen) | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | Budget | Compact design, limited storage |
Note: Storage options may vary by region and availability
Which iPhone Has the Most Storage?
The iPhone 16 Pro Max offers the highest storage capacity at 2TB, making it the clear winner for users who need maximum storage space. This model represents the most expensive configuration in Apple’s current lineup.
Storage Recommendations by User Type
Power Users & Content Creators
- Recommended: iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB or 2TB)
- Best for: 4K video recording, large photo libraries, professional apps
Photography Enthusiasts
- Recommended: iPhone 16 Pro (512GB or 1TB)
- Best for: ProRAW photos, extensive editing apps, backup storage
Average Users
- Recommended: iPhone 16 or iPhone 15 (256GB)
- Best for: Apps, photos, music, and general usage
Budget-Conscious Users
- Recommended: iPhone 16e (128GB or 256GB)
- The iPhone 16e is noted as the cheapest model in the current lineup
Key Storage Considerations
- No Expandable Storage: Unlike some Android phones, iPhones cannot add storage later
- System Storage: The operating system and pre-installed apps take up several GB
- iCloud Integration: Apple’s cloud storage can supplement device storage but requires ongoing subscription
- Future-Proofing: Apps and media files continue to grow in size over time
Final Recommendations
The iPhone 16 Pro Max with 2TB of storage currently offers the most storage capacity available in any iPhone. However, for most users, 256GB to 512GB provides a good balance of capacity and value. As noted by experts, you should “buy as much storage as you can afford” since it cannot be upgraded later
Key Takeaways
- Storage is a key factor in choosing an iPhone, with the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max offering up to 1TB.
- The iPhone 13 and 13 mini provide ample storage, with capacities up to 512GB.
- Storage options have expanded over the years to accommodate increasing data use.
iPhone Models and Storage Options
Choosing the right iPhone involves considering how much storage space you need. Storage options vary across models, with some offering up to 1 terabyte (TB).
Overview of iPhone Storage Capacities
Historically, iPhones have offered a range of storage capacities. The earliest models had modest storage, but today’s options are much larger. Here are common storage sizes you might come across:
- 128GB: Good for everyday use
- 256GB: Suitable for more apps and media
- 512GB: Ample space for extensive app libraries and high-res photos
- 1TB: Maximum space available, particularly for power users or professionals
Each iPhone model typically starts with a base storage size and offers higher capacities for a price increase.
Recent iPhone Models with the Most Storage
The latest iPhones come with substantial storage options. For instance:
- iPhone 13 mini and iPhone 13 start at 128GB and go up to 512GB.
- iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max offer a new peak with 1TB options, catering to those who need top-tier storage.
Apple introduced the 1TB option with the iPhone 13 Pro models, responding to the demand for more space to store photos, videos, and apps. The increase in maximum storage over time reflects growing data needs. As the most expensive iPhones, the Pro models justify their cost with features like these higher storage capacities. Prior to the iPhone 13 series, the iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max also offered significant storage, up to 512GB, but not the 1TB found in their successors. Comparatively, the iPhone 11 Pro series marked the end of the line for the 256GB as the highest available storage before the introduction of the half terabyte and terabyte options.
Managing and Utilizing iPhone Storage
Effective iPhone storage management ensures that your device maintains peak performance while holding all your important photos, videos, apps, and documents. This section explains how to keep track of your usage and optimize space using iCloud.
How to Check and Manage Storage Settings
To check your iPhone’s storage capacity, go to Settings, tap General, and then select iPhone Storage. This area gives a detailed view of what’s consuming space. The iPhone also offers recommendations for freeing up space, like reviewing large attachments in Mail or deleting unused apps. You can also see a list of all apps and the storage each one uses. Delete apps you no longer need by tapping on the app name and choosing Delete App.
Optimizing iPhone Storage with iCloud
Using iCloud is a smart way to keep your photos and videos without using up all your iPhone storage. In Settings, tap Photos and turn on iCloud Photos. This setting uploads your library to iCloud and you can choose Optimize iPhone Storage to keep smaller, space-saving versions on your device. Content like documents, projects, and notes can also be stored on iCloud Drive, helping you access files on any device while freeing up iPhone space.
