CNET Tests Show iPhone 18 Pro Max Has Longest Battery Life Ever

CNET lab testing confirms that the iPhone 18 Pro Max delivers the longest overall battery life of any iPhone Apple has ever manufactured. The publication’s evaluation of the new devices highlights significant improvements in power efficiency and charging speed for the latest Pro lineup.

The testing results stem from a comprehensive evaluation that included battery stress tests, video streaming endurance checks, and both wired and wireless charging measurements. According to CNET, the 18 Pro Max outperformed all prior models in overall longevity. The smaller iPhone 18 Pro distinguished itself as the fastest-charging iPhone, reaching 53% charge in just 15 minutes and 82% in 30 minutes during wired charging tests.

Hardware and Software Drivers

The improved performance is attributed to a combination of hardware upgrades and software optimizations. A teardown by tech repair site iFixIt revealed that both the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max contain larger batteries than their iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max counterparts. This physical increase in capacity works alongside the power-efficient A20 Pro chip and iOS 27, which includes behind-the-scenes improvements designed to reduce power consumption.

Despite these advancements, older models remain competitive in specific scenarios. The iPhone 16 Plus, a prior-generation device, still achieved the best score in CNET’s 45-minute multitasking battery stress test. It edged out both the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the new iPhone 18 Pro Max by a single percentage point in that specific metric.

Market Context and Pricing

The battery improvements arrive as Apple raises prices for its premium devices. The iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max begins at $1,299. These price points position the new phones as premium offerings that must justify their cost beyond yearly iterations. The enhanced battery life and faster charging serve as key differentiators for consumers considering the upgrade from the iPhone 17 series.

The new Pro models were overshadowed at launch by the iPhone Duo, a device featuring a passport-size design with a folding screen. However, CNET’s testing indicates that the Pro models offer substantial value through their endurance and charging capabilities. Both the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max earned CNET Editors’ Choice Awards based on their performance in these rigorous lab evaluations.

What should you do?

Users upgrading from older models should verify their charging accessories to ensure they support the faster charging speeds of the new iPhone 18 Pro. Those prioritizing maximum battery life may find the Pro Max model more suitable for heavy usage. Consumers should also monitor iOS 27 updates for further power management improvements.

What to do and how to stay safe: Apple

• Check that your current charging cable and power adapter support the fast charging capabilities of the new iPhone 18 Pro.
• Review your battery health settings in iOS 27 to optimize power consumption for your specific usage patterns.
• Compare the battery life of the iPhone 18 Pro Max against your current device to determine if the upgrade is necessary.
• Monitor official Apple support pages for any future software updates that may further enhance battery performance.

General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

Which iPhone has the longest battery life?

According to CNET testing, the iPhone 18 Pro Max has the longest overall battery life of any iPhone to date.

How fast does the iPhone 18 Pro charge?

The iPhone 18 Pro is the fastest-charging iPhone, reaching 53% in 15 minutes and 82% in 30 minutes.

Why do the new iPhones have better battery life?

The improvements are due to larger batteries, the power-efficient A20 Pro chip, and iOS 27 power consumption optimizations.