Apple iPhone 15 (128 GB) – Black Review: Is It Worth Upgrading?



Apple’s iPhone 15 lineup has been one of the most talked-about releases this year. The iPhone 15 (128 GB) in Black stands out as the “entry-level” model, but don’t let that fool you—it packs a lot of power and refinement. Here’s my full review, broken down into the good, the not-so-good, and whether it’s worth buying.

First Impressions

  • Sleek, premium matte black finish (feels less fingerprint-prone than older glossy designs).

  • Lighter and thinner than expected, very comfortable to hold.

  • Familiar iPhone look, but the slightly curved edges make it feel fresh.

  • Unboxing experience: classic Apple minimalism with just the essentials (USB-C cable this time).

Key Features That Stand Out

  • USB-C charging port – finally! More convenient, especially if you already use a MacBook or iPad.

  • Dynamic Island – now standard on iPhone 15, no more notch. It feels fun and useful for alerts, music, and navigation.

  • Super Retina XDR display (6.1-inch) – vibrant colors, deep blacks, great for Netflix, YouTube, and gaming.

  • A16 Bionic chip (last year’s Pro-level chip) – blazing fast, smooth multitasking, handles gaming easily.

  • Dual-camera system with a new 48MP main sensor – sharper photos, especially in good lighting.

  • Night mode improvements – much better low-light shots compared to iPhone 13/14.

  • iOS 17 – customizable lock screens, improved widgets, and smoother overall feel.

Everyday Use

  • Battery life: Easily lasts a full day with normal use (social media, camera, calls, streaming).

  • Performance: No lags, apps open instantly, heavy games run smoothly.

  • Heat management: Warms up during long gaming or 4K video recording, but not alarming.

  • Speakers: Loud and clear, good stereo balance.

Things I Liked

  • Clean, modern black color (looks professional and minimal).

  • USB-C makes charging less frustrating.

  • Camera is a big leap from older iPhones, even without Pro features.

  • Bright and smooth display, perfect for outdoor use.

  • Dynamic Island feels more than a gimmick—it actually improves multitasking.

Things That Could Be Better

  • Still 60Hz refresh rate – competitors in this price range offer smoother 120Hz displays.

  • No telephoto lens – zoom shots aren’t as sharp as the Pro models.

  • Base storage starts at 128 GB (good enough for many, but heavy users might need 256 GB).

  • Charging speed is still slower compared to Android flagships.

  • Price feels high, especially outside the US.

Who Should Buy the iPhone 15 (128 GB)?

✅ Perfect for you if:

  • You’re using an older iPhone (11, 12, or earlier) and want a meaningful upgrade.

  • You want a premium iPhone experience without paying Pro/Pro Max prices.

  • You value design, smooth performance, and reliable cameras.

❌ Maybe skip if:

  • You already have an iPhone 14 or 14 Pro (not a big jump).

  • You need telephoto zoom or ProMotion display.

  • You’re after the absolute best battery life (Pro Max is better here).

Final Verdict

The iPhone 15 (128 GB) in Black feels like the sweet spot in Apple’s lineup. It brings the Pro-level A16 chip, Dynamic Island, and a much-improved 48MP camera without breaking into ultra-premium territory. It’s sleek, fast, and reliable—though Apple could have done better with a higher refresh rate and faster charging.

👉 If you’re upgrading from an older iPhone, this is a fantastic buy. If you own the iPhone 14, you might want to wait another year.