The iPhone 18 Pro is Apple’s new 6.3-inch flagship, and its biggest change is a main camera with a physically adjustable aperture, a first for any iPhone. It also brings the 2nm A20 Pro chip, better cooling and a longer battery life. It is also expensive: in Pakistan the official PTA-approved model starts at Rs 565,000. This review covers the price in Pakistan and the USA, specifications, camera, battery and who should actually buy it.
Quick verdict
Buy it if you are upgrading from an iPhone 15 Pro or older, you care about camera control, or you want the longest-lasting Pro in the smaller size.
Skip it if you already own an iPhone 17 Pro that works well for you. The upgrade is real but modest, and it costs about Rs 74,000 more than the iPhone 17 Pro’s starting price in Pakistan.
Main drawback: the price. The base model costs $1,199 in the USA and Rs 565,000 in Pakistan.
Price in PakistanFrom Rs 565,000
Price in the USAFrom $1,199
ChipA20 Pro (2nm)
Main camera48MP, ƒ/1.48 to ƒ/4.0
How this review was prepared: this article is based on Apple’s published specifications, the official Pakistani launch pricing from Mercantile and reports from Pakistani tech publications. It is not a hands-on lab test, so battery life and camera results can differ from what you experience.In this review
- Price in Pakistan and the USA
- Specifications
- Design and display
- Performance
- Camera
- Battery and charging
- Software and AI
- iPhone 18 Pro vs Pro Max
- iPhone 18 Pro vs iPhone 17 Pro
- Pros and cons
- Who should buy it
- FAQ
iPhone 18 Pro price in Pakistan and the USA
Apple announced the iPhone 18 Pro on September 9, 2026. Apple raised the starting price by about $100 compared with the iPhone 17 Pro, so the base model now starts at $1,199.
Price in Pakistan
Mercantile, an Apple authorized distributor, launched the PTA-approved iPhone 18 Pro in Pakistan at a starting price of Rs 565,000 for the 256GB model. Mercantile states that its units come with PTA approval, a protection plan and a two-year warranty. Individual retailers may price slightly above or below this, so confirm the final price before paying.
If you buy an official PTA-approved unit, you do not pay PTA registration separately. If you buy an imported non-PTA phone, you must pay the registration tax, which is reported to be well over Rs 200,000 for this model. Add that to the price before comparing it with a PTA-approved unit.
Price in the USA
| Storage | US starting price |
|---|---|
| 256GB | $1,199 |
| 512GB | $1,399 |
| 1TB | $1,799 |
| 2TB | $2,399 |
Why the Pakistani price is so much higher
At around Rs 277 per US dollar, $1,199 is roughly Rs 332,000. The Pakistani price of Rs 565,000 is far higher because of import duties, taxes, distributor costs and the cost of warranty and PTA approval. A direct currency conversion will not match what you pay locally.
Price note: launch-period prices change quickly as stock improves. The figures above were reported in September and October 2026. Check with an authorized seller before you buy.
Which storage should you choose?
- 256GB: enough for most people who use cloud backup and stream music and video.
- 512GB: a good choice if you shoot lots of photos and videos or install large games.
- 1TB and 2TB: mainly for creators who record a lot of high-quality video and keep it on the phone.
Higher storage adds a large amount to the price, so check how much space you use today before paying for more.
iPhone 18 Pro specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Announced | September 9, 2026 |
| Display | 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2622 × 1206 pixels (460 ppi), ProMotion up to 120Hz |
| Chip | Apple A20 Pro (2nm), 6-core CPU, 7-core GPU, dual 16-core Neural Engine |
| Rear cameras | 48MP main (variable aperture, ƒ/1.48 to ƒ/4.0), 48MP ultra-wide (ƒ/2.2), 48MP telephoto (4x, ƒ/2.8) |
| Front camera | 18MP Center Stage camera, ƒ/1.9 |
| Battery | Up to 36 hours of video playback on eSIM-only models (Apple estimate) |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB |
| Software | iOS 27 with Apple Intelligence and Siri AI |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, USB-C |
| Colors | Black, Silver, Glacier, Burgundy |
| Weight | About 210 g (7.4 oz) |
| Price | From $1,199 (USA) and Rs 565,000 (Pakistan) |
Specifications come from Apple’s published information and may vary by region and configuration.
Design and display
The iPhone 18 Pro keeps the aluminum unibody design Apple introduced with the previous generation. It has a flat glass screen, aluminum side rails and a matte back glass that is color-matched to the frame. The Dynamic Island is now smaller, so more of the screen is usable. It comes in Black, Silver, Glacier and Burgundy.
At about 210 grams, it is a good fit for people who want a Pro iPhone that is easier to hold and carry than the 6.9-inch Pro Max. Like earlier Pro models, it carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance in lab conditions. That does not make it waterproof in every situation, and liquid damage is generally not covered by warranty.
Display quality
The 6.3-inch OLED display has a resolution of 2622 × 1206 and a sharpness of 460 pixels per inch, so text and images look crisp. OLED gives deep blacks and strong contrast, which helps with movies, photos and video editing.
ProMotion lets the refresh rate go up to 120Hz, which makes scrolling and animations smoother. The rate adjusts to what is on screen, which helps save battery. Apple also supports HDR formats such as Dolby Vision for compatible content.
Performance: A20 Pro chip
The iPhone 18 Pro uses the A20 Pro, Apple’s first iPhone chip built on a 2nm process. It has a six-core CPU, a seven-core GPU and a dual 16-core Neural Engine. Apple says memory bandwidth is up by 50 percent compared with the A19 Pro, and it claims up to 40 percent better sustained performance.
The phone also gets an improved vapor chamber with a larger surface area. This helps keep temperatures down during long gaming sessions, video editing and 4K recording, where phones often slow down when they get hot.
For everyday tasks such as browsing, messaging and social media, almost any recent iPhone feels fast. The A20 Pro matters most for heavy gaming, video editing, camera processing and on-device AI features. Real-world gains over the iPhone 17 Pro will depend on the apps you use.
Camera review
The camera is the main reason to consider this phone. It has three 48MP rear cameras and an 18MP front camera.
48MP main camera with variable aperture
This is the headline feature. The main camera has a mechanical variable aperture that moves between ƒ/1.48, ƒ/1.8, ƒ/2.8 and ƒ/4.0. It is the first time an iPhone main camera has had a moving aperture.
- Wide open (ƒ/1.48): lets in more light, which helps in dim scenes and gives a shallower depth of field.
- Stopped down (ƒ/2.8 to ƒ/4.0): keeps more of the scene sharp, which suits landscapes, groups and architecture.
The camera can choose the aperture automatically or you can set it yourself using the new Pro controls, along with options such as shutter speed, white balance and a live histogram. This gives you more control than before, although most people will leave it on automatic.
Ultra-wide and telephoto
The 48MP ultra-wide camera is useful for buildings, landscapes, interiors and group photos. The 48MP telephoto camera gives 4x optical zoom, with an 8x optical-quality option for distant subjects. Zoom quality drops at higher digital zoom levels, so avoid relying on extreme zoom for important shots.
Front camera and video
The 18MP Center Stage front camera keeps you in frame during video calls and is good for selfies and group shots. The phone also supports high-quality 4K Dolby Vision video recording and tools aimed at creators. Check Apple’s specification page for the exact frame rates and professional formats that each mode supports.
If photography is your main reason for buying, do not judge only by megapixels. Look at real sample photos, skin tones, low-light results and moving subjects before you decide.
Battery life and charging
Apple lists up to 36 hours of video playback for the iPhone 18 Pro. This figure applies to eSIM-only models. Apple’s new “typical use” estimate is up to 24 hours, which is a more realistic guide to daily use. These are Apple’s estimates under test conditions, so your result will depend on screen brightness, signal strength, gaming and camera use.
Apple says wired charging can reach about 50 percent in around 15 minutes with a compatible adapter and cable. The adapter is not included in the box, so budget for one if you do not already have a suitable charger.
If battery life is your top priority, the larger iPhone 18 Pro Max lasts longer, with up to 45 hours of video playback in Apple’s estimate.
Software and Apple Intelligence
The iPhone 18 Pro ships with iOS 27, the next generation of Apple Intelligence and a new Siri AI experience. These features can help with writing, summaries, search and everyday tasks in supported apps.
Availability depends on your language, region and software version, so confirm that the AI features you want are supported in Pakistan before you buy for that reason alone. The phone also works closely with other Apple products such as Mac, iPad, Apple Watch and AirPods, which is a big benefit if you already use them.
iPhone 18 Pro vs iPhone 18 Pro Max
| Feature | iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.3 inches | 6.9 inches |
| Video playback (Apple) | Up to 36 hours | Up to 45 hours |
| Chip | A20 Pro | A20 Pro |
| US starting price | $1,199 | $1,299 |
| Pakistan starting price | Rs 565,000 | Rs 605,000 |
Both phones share the same chip and main camera features. Choose the Pro if you want a more compact phone, and the Pro Max if you want the biggest screen and the longest battery life.
iPhone 18 Pro vs iPhone 17 Pro
| Feature | iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 17 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | A20 Pro (2nm) | A19 Pro |
| Main camera | 48MP, variable aperture | 48MP, fixed aperture |
| Dynamic Island | Smaller | Previous size |
| Cooling | Improved vapor chamber | Vapor chamber (earlier design) |
| US starting price | $1,199 | About $100 less |
| Pakistan starting price | Rs 565,000 | Around Rs 491,000 |
Pakistani prices are from reports in late September 2026 and can change.
If you own an iPhone 17 Pro, the upgrade is hard to justify unless you really want the variable-aperture camera or the longer battery life. The price gap in Pakistan is around Rs 74,000. If you own an iPhone 15 Pro or older, the jump is much bigger and the upgrade makes more sense. If you are buying new and the iPhone 17 Pro is cheaper, it is still a strong phone.
Pros and cons
Pros
- First iPhone with a variable-aperture main camera
- Three 48MP rear cameras with 4x telephoto
- Fast 2nm A20 Pro chip and better cooling
- Sharp 6.3-inch OLED with 120Hz ProMotion
- Longer battery life than the previous generation
- Fast wired charging
- Official PTA-approved units with a warranty are available in Pakistan
Cons
- Very high price, especially in Pakistan
- Higher storage options cost a lot more
- Charging adapter is not included
- Some AI features may not be available in every region
- Small upgrade for iPhone 17 Pro owners
- Camera controls may be more than casual users need
Who should buy the iPhone 18 Pro?
It is a good choice for
- People upgrading from an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 14 or older
- Photographers and video creators who want more camera control
- Gamers and heavy users who value cooling and sustained performance
- Anyone who wants a Pro iPhone that is smaller than the Pro Max
You can skip it if
- You already have an iPhone 17 Pro and are happy with it
- You mainly browse, chat and watch videos, where a cheaper iPhone is enough
- The price is a stretch for your budget
Frequently asked questions
What is the iPhone 18 Pro price in Pakistan?
The official PTA-approved iPhone 18 Pro starts at Rs 565,000 for the 256GB model through Mercantile. Prices vary by seller and storage, so check before you buy.What is the iPhone 18 Pro price in the USA?
It starts at $1,199 for 256GB, with 512GB, 1TB and 2TB models priced at $1,399, $1,799 and $2,399.Is the iPhone 18 Pro PTA approved in Pakistan?
Official units sold through authorized distributors such as Mercantile are PTA approved. Imported phones from other sources may not be, and they require registration tax before they work on local networks.Does the iPhone 18 Pro have a variable aperture camera?
Yes. The 48MP main camera has an adjustable aperture with four settings: ƒ/1.48, ƒ/1.8, ƒ/2.8 and ƒ/4.0.How long does the iPhone 18 Pro battery last?
Apple lists up to 36 hours of video playback on eSIM-only models and up to 24 hours of typical use. Your actual battery life will depend on how you use the phone.Should I upgrade from the iPhone 17 Pro?
Only if you want the variable-aperture camera or better battery life and the extra cost is acceptable. Most iPhone 17 Pro owners will not see a big enough difference to justify it.What is the difference between the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max?
The Pro has a 6.3-inch screen and the Pro Max has a 6.9-inch screen with longer battery life. They share the same chip and main camera features.
Final verdict
The iPhone 18 Pro is one of the most capable phones you can buy, and the variable-aperture camera is the most interesting upgrade Apple has made to the iPhone camera in years. For buyers coming from an older iPhone, it is a strong upgrade. For owners of the iPhone 17 Pro, it is an optional one. The price is the only real obstacle, and in Pakistan it is a big one, so compare the PTA-approved price, warranty and your needs carefully before you spend this much.
Sources: Apple’s published iPhone 18 Pro information; Mercantile’s official Pakistan launch announcement (PTA-approved pricing); TechJuice; Pakistan Connect. Prices and availability can change, so confirm them with an authorized seller.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the iPhone 18 Pro price in Pakistan?
The iPhone 18 Pro starts at Rs 565,000 for the 256GB PTA-approved model.
2. What is the iPhone 18 Pro Max price in Pakistan?
The iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at Rs 605,000 for the officially priced PTA-approved model.
3. Is the iPhone 18 Pro Max available on Apple’s official website?
Check Apple’s official website for the latest iPhone 18 Pro Max availability, specifications, and pricing.
4. Are iPhone 18 Pro orders being cut?
Order cuts refer to reports of reduced production or orders. Check recent, reliable Apple supply-chain news for confirmation.
5. What is the iPhone 18 Pro Duo?
“iPhone 18 Pro Duo” is not a confirmed official Apple model name. Check Apple’s official lineup for announced models.
6. Can I buy the iPhone 18 Pro on OLX Pakistan?
You may find listings on OLX, but verify the PTA approval, device condition, IMEI, and seller reliability before paying.