8 iPhones with 120Hz Displays: Your Complete Guide

Bad news first: If you want 120Hz on an iPhone, you need a Pro model. Period. Apple has kept this smooth display tech exclusive to their premium lineup since 2021, which means the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are stuck with the same 60Hz screens we've had for years, according to SlashGear.

This hit me when helping my cousin upgrade from her Android. She couldn't figure out why Apple's "latest" iPhone felt choppier than her old phone. The answer? She was looking at the wrong models.

Understanding which iPhones actually have 120Hz displays is crucial before making your purchase, especially when considering which iPhone 16 phone cases will work best with your device's specific features.

Table of Contents

• What You Need to Know (TL;DR)

• Why 120Hz Actually Matters

• The 8 iPhones with 120Hz

• Breaking Down Each Model

• Who Actually Benefits from 120Hz?

• Real Talk on Choosing

• Protecting Your Premium Phone

• The Bottom Line

  
  

What You Need to Know (TL;DR)

• Only 8 iPhones have 120Hz: all Pro and Pro Max models from 2021 onward

• Standard iPhones (including iPhone 16) still use 60Hz displays

• 120Hz makes scrolling, gaming, and touch input noticeably smoother

• Older Pro models offer the same core experience for less money

• Gaming enthusiasts and content creators benefit most from the technology

• Budget-conscious users can find 120Hz capability in older Pro models like iPhone 13 Pro

  
  

Why 120Hz Actually Matters

Apple calls their version "ProMotion," but it's really just variable refresh rate technology that adjusts from 1Hz to 120Hz based on what you're doing. Reading a static page? It drops to save battery. Scrolling through social media? It ramps up for smooth motion.

The difference is immediately obvious once you try it. Everything feels more responsive and fluid - like your finger is directly connected to what's happening on screen. Understanding the iPhone refresh rate differences helps explain why Pro models command premium pricing.

Think of it like the difference between a flipbook and smooth video. Regular iPhone displays refresh 60 times per second - fine for most tasks. ProMotion can hit 120 refreshes per second when you need it, then drop to 1Hz when displaying something static like your always-on display.

Real-world impact:

• Gaming: More responsive controls, smoother motion

• Scrolling: No more stuttery social media feeds

• Drawing/Design: Stylus input feels natural, not laggy

• Battery: Smart enough to conserve power when you don't need the speed

  
  

The 8 iPhones with 120Hz

Here's every 120Hz iPhone Apple has ever made, organized by generation to help you understand what you're getting with each model.

Current Models (2024):

• iPhone 16 Pro (6.3")

• iPhone 16 Pro Max (6.9")

  
  

Previous Generations:

• iPhone 15 Pro & Pro Max (2023)

• iPhone 14 Pro & Pro Max (2022)

• iPhone 13 Pro & Pro Max (2021)

  
  

Which Should You Choose?

Budget pick: iPhone 13 Pro - Same core 120Hz experience, much lower price
Sweet spot: iPhone 15 Pro - Modern features without paying for the absolute latest
Go big: iPhone 16 Pro Max - Largest screen, newest optimizations

The iPhone 13 Pro can only go down to 10Hz (vs 1Hz on newer models), but honestly? You won't notice the difference in daily use.

Breaking Down Each Model

iPhone 16 Pro Series (Latest)

The 16 Pro got a size bump to 6.3" while the Pro Max stretched to 6.9". Apple refined the ProMotion algorithms, so transitions between refresh rates are even smoother. If you're buying new and can afford it, these are obviously the best.

For those considering this 120Hz iPhone, understanding the best iPhone 16 Pro cases available can help protect your investment while maintaining access to all ProMotion features.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max represents the ultimate 120Hz experience with its massive display. Content creators particularly appreciate this model's combination of ProMotion technology with advanced video recording capabilities.

iPhone 15 Pro Series

Still current-gen with all the modern features. The sweet spot for most people - you get excellent 120Hz performance without paying the "latest model" premium. USB-C, titanium build, great cameras.

This generation introduced several refinements to ProMotion that make the 120Hz experience more consistent across different apps and usage scenarios.

iPhone 14 Pro Series

This generation introduced the Dynamic Island and always-on display. The 1Hz capability means your lock screen can stay visible without killing your battery. Solid choice if you find a good deal.

The Dynamic Island debuted with this model, creating an interesting interaction between the new interface element and ProMotion technology. The 120Hz refresh rate makes Dynamic Island animations feel more natural and responsive.

iPhone 13 Pro Series (The Budget 120Hz Option)

The OG ProMotion iPhones. Sure, they only go down to 10Hz instead of 1Hz, but you'll never notice. No always-on display, but the core 120Hz experience is identical to newer models. Perfect if you want smooth scrolling without the premium price.

This groundbreaking model introduced ProMotion to the iPhone lineup in 2021. For users wanting to experience 120Hz without paying current-generation prices, the iPhone 13 Pro offers excellent value while maintaining compatibility with all current apps and iOS features.

Who Actually Benefits from 120Hz?

Your usage patterns should drive your decision more than specifications alone. Heavy gamers will notice the difference between iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro performance, while casual users might find the older model perfectly adequate for their needs.

You'll love it if you:

• Game on your phone regularly

• Scroll through social media constantly

• Use drawing/design apps

• Just want everything to feel more premium

  
  

You might not care if you:

• Mainly use your phone for calls and texts

• Don't notice display differences easily

• Want to save money for other priorities

  
  

When choosing between models, remember that iPhone vs Samsung comparisons often highlight Apple's superior optimization of 120Hz technology across their ecosystem.

Real Talk on Choosing

Don't get caught up in having the absolute latest. A refurbished iPhone 13 Pro will give you 95% of the 120Hz experience for way less money. The improvements between generations are incremental - the jump from 60Hz to 120Hz is what matters most.

Budget considerations play a crucial role since 120Hz capability requires choosing a Pro model. The price jump from standard to Pro can be substantial, but refurbished or previous-generation Pro models offer more affordable entry points into 120Hz technology.

Quick decision guide:

• Tight budget? iPhone 13 Pro (refurbished)

• Want modern features? iPhone 15 Pro

• Need the biggest screen? Any Pro Max model

• Money no object? iPhone 16 Pro Max

  
  

Consider how long you plan to keep your device. Current-generation models will receive iOS updates longer, but even the iPhone 13 Pro should remain supported for several more years.

Protecting Your Premium Phone

Since you're spending Pro money, don't cheap out on protection. A cracked 120Hz display is just an expensive paperweight. Investing in a 120Hz iPhone means you're carrying around premium technology that deserves proper protection.

Rokform's military-grade iPhone cases provide the protection your expensive 120Hz display needs without interfering with touch sensitivity or visual quality. The rugged polycarbonate construction can handle 6-foot drops while maintaining full access to your smooth ProMotion experience.

Look for cases that:

• Actually protect against drops (not just scratches)

• Don't interfere with touch sensitivity

• Maintain screen clarity and responsiveness

  
  

For active users who chose 120Hz technology for its superior responsiveness during gaming, navigation, or content creation, Rokform cases ensure your device stays functional in challenging environments. The patented RokLock™ mounting system keeps your iPhone secure during motorcycle rides, hiking adventures, or intense gaming sessions.

Whether you're using your device for motorcycle navigation or need the best phone mount for bikes, protecting your 120Hz investment is essential.

Military-grade protection exists that won't ruin your premium experience. Your smooth ProMotion display deserves protection that works as hard as you paid for it to.

Understanding what makes the most protective phone cases can help you make an informed decision about safeguarding your premium 120Hz display investment.

The Bottom Line

Apple's 120Hz strategy is straightforward: Pro models only, take it or leave it. It's frustrating but predictable. The technology genuinely makes a difference once you experience it, but don't feel pressured to buy the newest model.

The reality of iPhone 120Hz availability is simpler than Apple's marketing might suggest - you need a Pro model, period. Standard iPhones, regardless of generation, stick with 60Hz displays that feel noticeably less smooth once you've experienced ProMotion technology.

Whether you go with a 2021 iPhone 13 Pro or spring for the latest iPhone 16 Pro Max, you're getting that same core smooth experience. Pick based on your budget and how long you plan to keep the phone.

Your choice between the eight available 120Hz iPhones should depend on your budget, desired screen size, and how long you plan to keep the device. The iPhone 13 Pro remains an excellent entry point into 120Hz technology, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max represents the pinnacle of Apple's current display capabilities.

The 60Hz vs 120Hz difference is real and noticeable. The differences between 120Hz generations? Much less so. Don't overlook the importance of protecting your investment - premium 120Hz iPhones command premium prices, making proper case protection essential for maintaining both functionality and resale value.