Apple‘s iPhone 11 series elevated the benchmark for premium smartphones in 2019. Two models in particular, the iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max, pushed boundaries even further with their brilliant OLED displays, versatile triple camera systems and industry-leading power.
But there are some important distinctions beyond their Pro nameplates. And for shoppers deciding between these exceptional devices, even subtle differences can impact day-to-day experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max across 10 key categories. Read on to see which phone checks the most boxes for your needs.
Display Technology – A Battle of Inches
The most instantly recognizable variance between the two Pro models is display size. The iPhone 11 Pro Max lives up to its name with a downright massive 6.5” diagonal Super Retina XDR screen. It provides expansive real estate for watching videos, viewing photos or simply browsing the web. Whether your preference is games, media or multitasking, the Pro Max display immerses you in content.
By comparison, the iPhone 11 Pro‘s panel measures 5.8” across. So while not as envelope-pushing in sheer size, it still offers extremely vivid image quality. In fact, with equal 2436×1125 resolution but smaller surface area, the 11 Pro generates sharper pixel density at 458 ppi next to the Pro Max’s 458 ppi. Regardless of which you choose, both screens utilize precision OLED technology. This means pure blacks for added contrast and screen uniformity only high-end displays can achieve. You’ll also appreciate excellent brightness levels up to 1200 nits when outdoors.
Design and Ergonomics – The Best for Your Hand
A phone’s physical attributes play a big role in convenience and comfort during everyday use. Here too the 11 Pro and Pro Max take different approaches. Despite close dimensions of 71.4mm x 144mm x 8.1mm for the Pro and 77.8mm x 158mm x 8.1mm for the Max, Apple’s engineering keeps extra bulk Minimal. Slim profile designs with stainless steel frames exude durability and craftsmanship.
However the Pro Max hits the scales at a hefty 226g – 38 grams over its smaller 188g kin. And for individuals with smaller hands or pockets, manhandling nearly half a pound of phone poses challenges. Reaching across 6.5 inches of display can strain fingers during one-handed operation as well. But phablet fans who watch movies or game on the go may welcome the spacious screen real estate. Just be wary of potential fatigue over very long sessions.
In terms of resilience, both phones utilize the same durable glass face and back that resist scratches and scuffs during daily carry. And repeat drop tests confirm improved defenses against cracks or dents over past iPhone generations. Credit revised materials and internal reinforcement. For peace of mind in hazrdous conditions, the 11 Pro lineup also carries IP68 protection against brief dust and water submersion.
Blazing Speed Backed by Cutting-Edge Hardware
Processing performance plays a pivotal role when smartphones multitask intensive apps and services. Here the A13 Bionic chip inside both iPhone 11 models demonstrates its muscle. Based on benchmarks from AnTuTu and Geekbench, Apple’s latest silicon posts commanding leads over rivals from Samsung, Google and Huawei. Translated to real world use, the A13 juggles productivity, social media, games and beyond with barely a hiccup.
You can attribute swift response times in part to the 4GB memory configuration plus software and hardware integration that iOS excels at. Even with countless apps opened simultaneously, jumping between them or reopening proves near instant. Whether hammering through work projects or binging seasons of Stranger Things, neither Pro model leaves you waiting long thanks to blistering iPhone 11 speeds.
Camera Technology – Imaging Powerhouses
Ask iPhone loyalists their favorite feature and many pick the camera. Since its early days, Apple continually pushes boundaries here with cutting-edge lenses, advanced processing and clever software. The iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max represent the best implementations yet. Identical rear modules contain three 12MP sensors: wide angle, ultrawide and 2x optical telephoto. This combination enables immense creative freedom.
Switching between perspectives happens seamlessly to capture sweeping landscape vistas, tall architecture, intimate portraits and more. Improved low light sensitivity and HDR contrast retain noise-free image quality when lighting dims. Apple even applies sophisticated post-processing for depth mapping and noise reduction using the A13 Bionic‘s machine learning capabilities. Photos and 4K video look spectacular across the board thanks to one of the most powerful camera systems found in any smartphone today.
Battery and Charging – All Day Endurance
While showstopping cameras may garner headlines, battery life holds equal importance for on-the-go professionals. Here the Pro Max’s taller dimensions allow room for a more sizable 3969 mAh pack compared to 3046 mAh in the smaller Pro. Translated to real world runtime, Apple quotes the Max lasting up to 5 hours beyond the iPhone XS Max. Whereas the middle child Pro survives nearly 4 hours longer than the XS.
Of course usage habits greatly influence charge cycles, as does iOS 13’s efficiency. Enable special modes to stretch battery further if desired. And when power eventually runs low, the included fast charger regains a 50% charge in just 30 minutes. Qi wireless charging also comes standard if you invest in a compatible stand or pad. With wise adjustments, either Pro model should supply enough juice to comfortably span a full day of mixed engagement.
Biometric Security – Keeping Data Safe
Privacy and smartphone security represent growing concerns as mobile devices ingest more sensitive information. Both iPhone 11 models provide robust protection starting with Face ID. By projecting 30,000 infrared dots to map unique facial characteristics, Apple’s biometric system reliably unlocks the Pro or Pro Max even in pitch black. The technology offers immense convenience by simply waking your phone and glancing at the front camera.
Several safeguards ensure spoofing attempts and false matches remain virtually impossible. Only your own face will open access. Beyond that, encrypted data keeps hackers at bay while apps必须 request access to aspects like location or contacts. Strict vetting for the iOS App Store prevents malware downloads seen on Android. For corporations and government, the iPhone 11 Pro lineup checks all boxes for a hardened content creation and collaboration device approved for internal use.
Connectivity, Audio and Platform Longevity
With cellular data speeds now reaching gigabit classifications thanks to WiFi 6 and 5G early rollouts, keeping pace requires agile hardware inside. Again Apple equips both Pro models identically: each touts compatibility with a wide array of LTE networks across 30 supported bands including several 5G compliant ones still emerging. Bluetooth 5.0 LE and NFC round out close-proximity and wireless payment options.
Call quality sounds similarly crisp rendered through the earpiece or loudspeaker for conferencing. Stereo speakers powered by Dolby Atmos decode spatial soundfields for immersive movie and music playback without bulky headphones. Even wired listening shines courtesy the Lightning jack’s hi-res DAC that drives audiophile-grade headphones.
Lastly, Apple’s history of providing long-term iOS support ensures years of guaranteed updates. Given the advanced A13 Bionic processor, you can anticipate the iPhone 11 Pro easily handling refined operating systems and apps down the road just like its predecessors. This extends useful lifespan compared to Android phones often abandoned after 12-18 months.
Pricing – A Modest Premium for Max Features
Considering elevated capabilities, Apple’s iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max demand premium value at launch. Currently the Pro begins around $900 unlocked with baseline 64GB storage. Doubling capacity to 128GB adds $50, then 256GB crosses the $1000 threshold. Range-topping 512GB configurations eclipse $1200.
The iPhone 11 Pro Max fetches a modest upcharge across identical tiers. So expect to pay an extra $100 or so for the super-sized model depending on current rates and promotions. Though certainly not cheap, consider financing options to spread costs over 12 or 24 months. Also look for seasonal deals tied to holidays or device refreshes if timing flexibility allows.
The Verdict – Who Should Buy Each Model?
For shoppers weighing these premium iPhone contemporaries, we recommend the Pro Max first and foremost for voracious multimedia consumers thanks to that expansive 6.5” canvas. Mobile gamers likewise benefit from added visual immersion, as do creative pros editing 4K video and photography. Better still, the Max’s superior battery life keeps power flowing through extended binges when getting work finished is critical.
Alternatively, everyday individuals who crave Apple’s hardware polish in more pocketable dimensions find a trusty partner with the iPhone 11 Pro. You retain nearly all functionality save some battery performance. But that tradeoff also brings savings upfront and easier one-handed ergonomics. Regardless of your final choice between these two category leaders, few devices available today convey such breadth, style and refinement.
And those were the key reasons for picking either Apple’s iPhone 11 Pro or the iPhone Pro Max as your next ultra-premium smartphone. We covered lots of ground through display quality, imaging excellence, sustained speed, endurance and overall design. Hopefully the detailed comparison gives clearer direction deciding which model best fits your needs and budget long term. Let us know your personal pick in the comments below!
