If you’ve been waiting to buy an iPhone, now might be your best chance. Apple’s iPhone 15 has dropped below the ₹50,000 mark during Amazon’s Diwali Sale, making it cheaper than the newer iPhone 16e. But the big question remains — is the iPhone 15 still worth buying in 2025, or should you stretch your budget for the iPhone 16e?
Let’s break it down and find out whether this festive deal is really worth it.
iPhone 15 Price Drop: Now Under ₹50,000
During Amazon’s Diwali Sale, which ends on October 20, the iPhone 15 (128GB variant) has received a major discount. The smartphone, which originally costs ₹59,900, is now available for just ₹49,999 — a 17% price cut.
In addition to the flat discount, buyers can also avail bank and exchange offers to further bring the price down.
Here’s how it breaks down:
- Flat sale discount: ₹9,901 off the original price
- Bank offer: ₹750 instant discount on HDFC credit card purchases
- Exchange offer: Up to ₹47,450 off, depending on the device’s model and condition
That means, in the best-case scenario, you could get the iPhone 15 for nearly ₹45,000 or even less, making it one of the most affordable iPhones available this festive season.
iPhone 15 vs iPhone 16e: What’s the Difference?
At first glance, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16e look very similar — both feature the same size and display type. However, there are some key differences under the hood that could help you decide which one fits your needs better.
Display
Both models sport a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate, ensuring excellent color accuracy and clarity.
However, the iPhone 15 has an edge when it comes to brightness, offering up to 2000 nits peak brightness compared to the iPhone 16e’s 1600 nits. That makes the iPhone 15 easier to use in bright outdoor conditions.
Performance
This is where the iPhone 16e pulls ahead. The iPhone 15 runs on the A16 Bionic chip paired with 6GB of RAM, which still offers excellent performance for multitasking, gaming, and photography.
Meanwhile, the iPhone 16e features Apple’s newer A18 chip with 8GB of RAM, which not only improves raw performance but also enables support for Apple Intelligence — Apple’s new suite of AI features introduced in 2025.
So, if you’re looking for the latest AI-driven tools like smart Siri suggestions, AI photo editing, and live transcription, you’ll need the iPhone 16e. Unfortunately, the iPhone 15 misses out on these due to hardware limitations.
Camera
The iPhone 15 features a dual rear camera setup — a 48MP main sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. This allows for excellent detail, accurate color reproduction, and versatility when shooting photos and videos.
In comparison, the iPhone 16e comes with a single 48MP rear camera, which may limit wide-angle capabilities.
For photography lovers, the iPhone 15 clearly offers more flexibility, especially if you like shooting landscapes or group shots.
Battery and Charging
Both models offer similar battery life, easily lasting a full day with moderate use. Apple claims both can handle up to 20 hours of video playback.
Charging speed and overall battery endurance are nearly identical, though the A18 chip in the iPhone 16e delivers slightly better power efficiency.
Performance in 2025: Still Fast, Still Reliable
Despite being two generations old, the iPhone 15 continues to deliver smooth and reliable performance. The A16 Bionic chip remains extremely capable in 2025, handling everything from high-end gaming to 4K video recording effortlessly.
The phone runs on iOS 18, ensuring you get the latest security updates and new features for at least three more years. For most users — students, professionals, and casual gamers — the iPhone 15 still feels fast and future-ready.
However, if you’re someone who wants to explore Apple’s new AI ecosystem (Apple Intelligence), then you’ll have to look at the newer iPhone 16 lineup.
Build Quality and Design: Classic and Durable
The iPhone 15 continues Apple’s premium design language with aerospace-grade aluminum sides and color-infused glass on the back. It’s also lighter and more comfortable to hold than the iPhone 16e.
Available in five color options — Pink, Yellow, Green, Blue, and Black — the iPhone 15 looks stylish even today.
It also features the Dynamic Island, a feature introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro, offering a smart way to view alerts, calls, and notifications seamlessly.
Camera Experience: Still Excellent in 2025
Even in 2025, the 48MP main camera on the iPhone 15 performs brilliantly. Photos come out sharp, colors look natural, and video quality remains among the best in the segment.
The Cinematic Mode, Photonic Engine, and Smart HDR 5 enhance shots in all lighting conditions. The 12MP ultrawide camera also allows creative shooting angles — something you won’t get with the single-lens setup on the iPhone 16e.
For selfie lovers, the 12MP front camera supports 4K video recording and Smart HDR, making it ideal for social media creators.
Should You Buy the iPhone 15 in 2025?
If your priority is performance, camera quality, and a premium experience at a great price, the iPhone 15 is an excellent choice — especially at ₹49,999 or less.
It still feels fast, looks modern, and takes stunning photos. For users who don’t need AI features or the newest chip, it offers unbeatable value.
However, if you want long-term software support, Apple Intelligence integration, and slightly better efficiency, the iPhone 16e is worth the extra money.
Final Verdict: iPhone 15 Still Holds Strong Value
The iPhone 15 may be two generations old, but it remains a solid and reliable smartphone even in 2025. Its powerful A16 Bionic chip, dynamic display, and dual-camera system continue to deliver a flagship-level experience.
At under ₹50,000, it’s the most affordable way to own a modern iPhone with premium design and performance.
