Apple’s iPhone chips are built around the A-series system-on-a-chip (SoC). If you’re comparing performance, estimating battery life, or checking feature support, the A-series chip is usually the single most useful spec to know.
This iPhone chip list maps each iPhone model (including iPhone SE) to its A-series chip. It’s organized so you can find your model fast, then cross-check it when needed.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick note: Apple has shipped multiple generations quickly, and some chips are reused across models. That’s why the list focuses on model names exactly as Apple markets them.
Recommended Free Tools
What iPhone chips mean (A-series vs. the model name)
The iPhone model name (for example, iPhone 13 Pro Max) tells you the product generation. The A-series chip (for example, A15 Bionic) tells you the compute and graphics hardware inside that generation.
#1 Best Overall
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
- Please check with your carrier to verify compatibility.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charging cable.
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
For most users, the chip matters more than smaller marketing details (like storage bump tiers). The chip influences CPU performance, GPU performance, machine-learning acceleration, camera processing, and features tied to Neural Engine capability.
Complete iPhone chip list by model (A-series)
Use the tables below to match your iPhone model to the A-series chip. If you’re looking for your exact model year, match the model name first (including Pro/Pro Max or SE).
iPhone and iPhone Plus models
| iPhone model | A-series chip | Release year |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 5 / 5c / 5s | A6 / A6 / A7 | 2013 |
| iPhone 6 / 6 Plus | A8 / A8 | 2014 |
| iPhone 6s / 6s Plus | A9 / A9 | 2015 |
| iPhone SE (1st gen) | A9 | 2016 |
| iPhone 7 / 7 Plus | A10 Fusion / A10 Fusion | 2016 |
| iPhone 8 / 8 Plus | A11 Bionic / A11 Bionic | 2017 |
| iPhone X | A11 Bionic | 2017 |
| iPhone XR | A12 Bionic | 2018 |
| iPhone XS / XS Max | A12 Bionic | 2018 |
| iPhone 11 | A13 Bionic | 2019 |
| iPhone 11 Pro / Pro Max | A13 Bionic | 2019 |
| iPhone SE (2nd gen) | A13 Bionic | 2020 |
| iPhone 12 / 12 mini | A14 Bionic | 2020 |
| iPhone 12 Pro / Pro Max | A14 Bionic | 2020 |
| iPhone 13 / 13 mini | A15 Bionic | 2021 |
| iPhone 14 / 14 Plus | A15 Bionic | 2022 |
| iPhone 15 / 15 Plus | A16 Bionic | 2023 |
iPhone Pro and Pro Max models
| iPhone model | A-series chip | Release year |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 11 Pro / Pro Max | A13 Bionic | 2019 |
| iPhone 12 Pro / Pro Max | A14 Bionic | 2020 |
| iPhone 13 Pro / Pro Max | A15 Bionic | 2021 |
| iPhone 14 Pro / Pro Max | A16 Bionic | 2022 |
| iPhone 15 Pro / Pro Max | A17 Pro | 2023 |
Notice the “same chip family” pattern: iPhone 14 Pro line moved to A16 Bionic, while the non-Pro line stayed on A15 Bionic. That split is one reason many people mix up A-series chips when shopping used phones.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
iPhone SE models
| iPhone model | A-series chip | Release year |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone SE (1st gen) | A9 | 2016 |
| iPhone SE (2nd gen) | A13 Bionic | 2020 |
| iPhone SE (3rd gen) | A15 Bionic | 2022 |
How to confirm the A-series chip on your iPhone
There are two practical approaches: identify your exact iPhone model (best for accuracy), or infer the chip through benchmark tooling (useful if you inherited a device with unclear listings).
Check model + year (most reliable)
Start with the exact model name you have. If you’re buying used, the box, receipt, or seller listing usually names the model. Then match it to the table above.
If you’re doing this on the phone itself, you can grab your model identifier from iOS so you can confirm the exact generation.
Rank #2
- 6.9" LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision, 1320x2868px at 460ppi, 1000 nits (typ), 2000 nits (HBM), 4685mAh Battery
- 1TB, 8GB RAM, Apple A18 Pro (3nm), Hexa-core (2x4.05 GHz + 4x2.42 GHz), Apple GPU 6-core, iOS 18, upgradable to iOS 18.3
- Rear camera: 48MP, f/1.8 (wide) + 12MP, f/2.8 (periscope telephoto) 5x optical zoom + 48MP, f/2.2 (ultrawide), TOF 3D LiDAR scanner (depth), Front Camera: 12MP, f/1.9 (wide)
- 2G: 850/900/1800/1900, 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100, 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/13/14/17/18/19/20/25/26/28/29/30/32/34/38/39/40/41/42/48/53/66/71, 1/2/3/5/7/8/12/14/20/25/26/28/29/30/38/40/41/48/53/66/70/71/75/76/77/78/79/258/260/261 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Dual eSIM
- Unlocked for freedom to choose your carrier. Compatible with both GSM & CDMA networks. The phone is unlocked to work with all GSM Carriers & CDMA Carriers Including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint., Etc.
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to General → About.
- Look for Model Name and Model Number.
- Use the model name to match the correct row in the iPhone chip list.
If the seller only says something like “iPhone 13,” confirm whether it’s actually iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, or 13 Pro Max—those differences matter for chip and GPU differences.
Use benchmark tools (when you need an exact match)
Benchmark apps can display a device profile that often maps to the chip generation. This is useful when a listing is vague or a device has been refurbished with swapped parts and the cosmetics don’t help.
- Geekbench: frequently shows a CPU/device profile alongside performance scores.
- CPU identifier apps: some show chip family and model, but results vary by app.
When you use benchmarks, compare the reported device profile to the model name you think you own. If the benchmark claims an A17 Pro profile but your listing says “iPhone 15,” double-check the model type (Pro vs. non-Pro).
What you can and can’t see in iOS
iOS does not reliably show a simple “Chip: A16 Bionic” line in the Settings interface. You can usually identify the device generation by model name/model number, but for chip labeling you typically need a match table (like this one) or third-party tooling.
Common confusion and gotchas
Most mistakes come from chip splits between Pro and non-Pro lines, and from the fact that Apple reuses chips across multiple models.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallA-series naming that sounds similar
Example pattern: A15 Bionic appears on both iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 non-Pro models. That’s not a typo—it’s how Apple handled the 2022 baseline generation.
Rank #3
- 6.1inch Super Retina XDR display. Aluminum with color-infused glass back. Ring/Silent switch
- Dynamic Island. A magical way to interact with iPhone. A16 Bionic chip with 5-core GPU
- Advanced dual-camera system. 48MP Main | Ultra Wide. Super-high-resolution photos (24MP and 48MP). Next-generation portraits with Focus and Depth Control. 4X optical zoom range
- Emergency SOS via satellite. Crash Detection. Roadside Assistance via satellite
- Up to 26 hours video playback. USB C, Supports USB 2. Face ID
Another common confusion: iPhone 15 Pro uses A17 Pro, but iPhone 15 and 15 Plus stay on A16 Bionic. If someone says “iPhone 15 has A17,” ask whether it’s Pro.
Same chip across multiple models
Apple often keeps a chip for a “class” of phones. For example, A14 Bionic appears on iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max.
So if you’re deciding what’s “more powerful” between two different models, don’t stop at chip generation—camera features and display tech also change. But for raw compute and Neural Engine capability, the A-series match is the anchor.
Region, refurbished units, and replaced parts
Chip identity is tied to the logic board, so typical repairs won’t change the A-series chip. However, refurb listings sometimes show confusing marketing names, and third-party sellers may mix up “Pro” vs “Pro Max” or “mini” vs “standard.”
Always verify your exact model name and then map it to the chip list. If the device is unlocked vs carrier-locked, that still won’t affect the chip.
Performance expectations by chip tier (quick reference)
This isn’t a benchmark guide, but a practical ordering. If you’re comparing buying options, treat newer A-series chips as generally better for sustained performance, camera processing speed, and heavier ML tasks.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length.
- This product is eligible for a replacement or refund within 90 days of receipt if you are not satisfied.
- Product may come in generic Box.
| A-series generation | Common models in this guide | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| A9 | iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, SE (1st gen) | Basic iOS use, light apps |
| A10 Fusion | iPhone 7, 7 Plus | Everyday browsing and messaging |
| A11 Bionic | iPhone 8, 8 Plus, X | Older flagship-feel apps |
| A12 Bionic | iPhone XR, XS, XS Max | Smoother mid-range experience |
| A13 Bionic | iPhone 11, 11 Pro, SE (2nd gen) | Better longevity vs older chips |
| A14 Bionic | iPhone 12 family | Strong all-around performance |
| A15 Bionic | iPhone 13 family, iPhone 14 non-Pro, SE (3rd gen) | Good performance with modern features |
| A16 Bionic | iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15 / 15 Plus | Modern UI and camera processing |
| A17 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max | Top-tier performance in this timeframe |
Troubleshooting when your model doesn’t seem to match the list
If you’re confident about your iPhone model name but the chip you find online doesn’t match, use this checklist to avoid false conclusions.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteWrong model identifier
First, confirm whether you’re dealing with Pro or non-Pro, and whether it’s Plus, mini, or Pro Max. Those labels are the most frequent cause of mismatches.
- Compare the exact text: for example, “iPhone 15 Pro Max” vs “iPhone 15 Plus.”
- On the phone: go to Settings → General → About and confirm the Model Name.
- Then match the model name to the correct table.
Marketing confusion (numbering vs. generation)
Some sites or sellers may shorten names (like “iPhone 15 Pro” into “iPhone 15”). If your phone is actually iPhone 15 Pro, the chip should be A17 Pro—no matter what shorthand is used.
Testing confusion (benchmark results)
If a benchmark app claims the wrong chip family, don’t assume the table is wrong. Benchmark tooling can display device profiles imperfectly, especially on apps that aren’t updated for newer hardware.
Try one of these fixes:
- Run the benchmark again after a reboot.
- Confirm your exact model name via Settings → General → About.
- Use a second benchmark app to cross-check the reported device profile.
Alternatives if you only care about speed or iOS support
Chip lists are great for hardware comparisons, but you may also want to know what you can actually run—apps, features, and OS updates.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Choose by iOS compatibility instead of the chip name
If your goal is “will this phone run the latest iOS and the apps I use,” check Apple’s iOS compatibility requirements for the specific iPhone model. Chip generation matters, but support policy is what determines update availability.
Best Value
- 6.7inch Super Retina XDR display. ProMotion technology. Always-On display. Titanium with textured matte glass back. Action button
- Dynamic Island. A magical way to interact with iPhone. A17 Pro chip with 6-core GPU
- Pro camera system. 48MP Main | Ultra Wide| Telephoto. Super-high-resolution photos (24MP and 48MP). Next-generation portraits with Focus and Depth Control. Up to 10x optical zoom range
- Emergency SOS via satellite. Crash Detection. Roadside Assistance via satellite
- Up to 29 hours video playback. USB-C, Supports USB 3 for up to 20x faster transfers. Face ID
Focus on RAM and storage for real-world behavior
Two phones with similar A-series chips can feel different depending on RAM, storage type, and how the system manages memory pressure. For day-to-day responsiveness, storage speed and capacity (free space) matter too.
FAQs about iPhone A-series chips
Is the A-series chip the same as the iPhone model year?
No. The A-series chip is the processor inside the model. Multiple iPhone models in the same year may share a chip, and some models can share chips across years.
Does iPhone SE use the same chip as other iPhones?
Often, yes. For example, iPhone SE (2nd gen) uses A13 Bionic (the same compute generation as iPhone 11), and iPhone SE (3rd gen) uses A15 Bionic.
Why does iPhone 14 Pro have a different chip than iPhone 14?
Apple split the baseline and Pro lines. iPhone 14 and 14 Plus use A15 Bionic, while iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max use A16 Bionic.
What chip is in iPhone 15 Pro?
iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max use A17 Pro.
What chip is in iPhone 15 (non-Pro)?
iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus use A16 Bionic.
Final Thoughts
Once you know your iPhone’s exact model name, the A-series chip match becomes straightforward. This iPhone chip list is designed to remove guesswork—especially the Pro vs non-Pro splits that cause most confusion.
If you want, tell me your exact iPhone model name (including mini/Pro/Pro Max/Plus or SE generation) and I’ll confirm the A-series chip and what that typically means for performance and longevity.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
