TL;DR: Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup brings brighter displays, sharper cameras, and faster chips. But which one should you buy?
- iPhone 17: Best for most people, now with ProMotion and dual 48MP cameras.
- iPhone Air: Slim, light, and stylish, but just one rear camera.
- iPhone 17 Pro: Pro performance with triple cameras and a new cooling system.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: Biggest screen, best battery, and up to 2TB storage.
New iPhones Are Here, But Which Should You Get?
| Feature | iPhone 17 | iPhone Air | iPhone 17 Pro | iPhone 17 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.3-inch OLED, 120Hz ProMotion, 3,000 nits brightness | 6.5-inch OLED, 120Hz ProMotion, 3,000 nits brightness | 6.3-inch OLED, 120Hz ProMotion, 3,000 nits brightness | 6.9-inch OLED, 120Hz ProMotion, 3,000 nits brightness |
| Dimensions | 149.6 x 71.5 x 7.95 mm | 156.2 x 74.7 x 5.64 mm | 150.0 x 71.9 x 8.75 mm | 163.4 x 78.0 x 8.75 mm |
| Weight | 177 g | 165 g | 206 g | 233 g |
| Processor | A19 chip | A19 Pro chip | A19 Pro chip | A19 Pro chip |
| Cameras (Rear) | 48MP wide + 48MP ultrawide | 48MP wide (single camera) | 48MP wide + 48MP ultrawide + 48MP telephoto (8x optical zoom) | 48MP wide + 48MP ultrawide + 48MP telephoto (8x optical zoom, 40x digital) |
| Front Camera | 18MP with Center Stage | 18MP with Center Stage | 18MP with Center Stage | 18MP with Center Stage |
| Storage Options | 256GB, 512GB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 hrs video playback | Up to 27 hrs video playback | Up to 33 hrs video playback | Up to 39 hrs video playback |
| Special Features | Dual cameras, ProMotion, Dynamic Island, Camera Control button, Apple Intelligence | Slim 5.6mm design, A19 Pro chip, upgraded Apple modem | Triple cameras, ProRes Raw video, vapor chamber cooling, Genlock | Largest display, best zoom, 2TB storage, longest battery |
| Starting Price (US) | $799 (256GB) | $999 (256GB) | $1,099 (256GB) | $1,199 (256GB) |
Apple just dropped the iPhone 17 lineup. Four models, new designs, and some standout upgrades.
But with choices ranging from the slim Air to the powerhouse Pro Max, which one makes sense for you?
Let’s compare the iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max to help you decide.
iPhone 17: The Best All-Rounder
The standard iPhone 17 is the entry point into the new lineup, but Apple has given it meaningful upgrades that make it far from “basic.”
ProMotion Comes To The Cheapest iPhone Model
You now get a 6.3-inch OLED display with ProMotion, which means the screen refresh rate can scale up to 120Hz for smooth scrolling, animations, and gaming, then drop down to 1Hz to save battery.
It also hits an impressive 3,000 nits of peak brightness, up from 2,000 nits in last year’s iPhone 16.
In practice, this makes the display easier to read in direct sunlight and noticeably more fluid when you’re swiping between apps, scrolling through social media, or playing games.
iPhone 17 Camera Gets Major Update
The camera system has also leveled up.
Apple added a 48MP main sensor and a 48MP ultrawide, replacing the older 12MP ultrawide.
That means sharper, more detailed shots in both wide landscapes and close group photos.
The main sensor supports Apple’s new Dual Fusion mode, letting you crop to 2x zoom without losing detail.
On the front, the 18MP selfie camera comes with Center Stage, a feature that automatically keeps you in frame during video calls, even if you move around. It’s perfect for FaceTime, Zoom, or content creation.
A19 Chip Brings 20% Performance Boost
Performance is handled by the A19 chip, which is 20% faster than the A18 in the iPhone 16.
That’s paired with 256GB of storage as the new base option, meaning you’ll have plenty of room for apps, photos, and videos without upgrading right away.
At $799, it’s the most affordable of the iPhone 17 series, but it delivers features that used to be reserved for Pro models.
You’re getting a better screen, upgraded cameras, and more storage at the same entry price as last year.
Best for: Everyday users who want a powerful, modern iPhone that balances performance, camera quality, and value without spending over $1,000.
iPhone Air: Slim And Stylish
Replacing the old Plus, the iPhone Air is Apple’s thinnest iPhone ever at just 5.6mm thick.
It’s also incredibly light at 165 grams, which makes a noticeable difference if you carry your phone in your pocket or use it one-handed for long periods.
This is the model to pick if portability and design matter most to you.
iPhone 17 Air’s Rocking ProMotion Too
Despite its slim profile, the iPhone Air still packs a 6.5-inch OLED display with all the same perks as the iPhone 17: ProMotion up to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and gaming, plus 3,000 nits peak brightness for great visibility outdoors.
In terms of screen quality, you’re not missing out compared to the bigger models.
But The Camera Sucks
The trade-off comes with the camera system.
Unlike the iPhone 17, which has a dual setup, the Air only has a single 48MP rear camera.
It takes solid shots, but you lose the flexibility of an ultrawide lens. If you take lots of group photos, wide landscapes, or creative shots, this might feel limiting.
Battery life is also slightly shorter, with up to 27 hours of video playback compared to 30 hours on the standard iPhone 17.
That’s still plenty for a day’s use, but power users might want to look higher in the lineup.
iPhone 17 Air Runs Same Chip As iPhone 17 Pro Max
One thing worth noting is that the Air uses the A19 Pro chip, the same as the Pro models, making it faster than the regular iPhone 17 for gaming and multitasking.
It also includes Apple’s updated C1 modem for improved 5G performance.
At $999, the iPhone Air sits between the standard iPhone 17 and the Pro.
You’re paying for its design and thinness rather than extra cameras or bigger batteries.
Best for: People who want a slim, lightweight iPhone with premium performance, and don’t mind giving up the second rear camera and a bit of battery life.
iPhone 17 Pro: Power And Performance
The iPhone 17 Pro is the model for users who want more than just the basics.
It’s powered by the A19 Pro chip, Apple’s most advanced processor, paired with a redesigned aluminum frame and vapor chamber cooling system.
This new thermal setup improves heat management and delivers up to 40% better sustained performance compared to the iPhone 16 Pro.
For gaming, multitasking, or intensive creative apps, that means fewer slowdowns and smoother performance over long sessions.
The Best Option For Creators & Influencers
The camera system is a major selling point.
You get three 48MP rear cameras: a main wide, an ultrawide, and a telephoto lens capable of up to 8x optical zoom.
Thanks to Apple’s “Dual Fusion” processing, zoom shots stay sharp and detailed without relying solely on digital cropping.
Video creators also get access to ProRes Raw recording and Genlock support, making the Pro an attractive option for professional content production right from your phone.
3,000 Nits Brightness Comes To iPhone 17 Pro Max
The 17 Pro has the same 6.3-inch OLED display with ProMotion and 3,000 nits peak brightness as the standard iPhone 17, but pairs it with pro-grade software features that unlock more advanced video tools.
Storage starts at 256GB and goes up to 1TB, which is essential if you’re recording in high-resolution ProRes formats.
At $1,099, it’s not cheap, but it bridges the gap between the standard iPhone 17 and the massive Pro Max.
You get Pro-level power and features without committing to a giant 6.9-inch phone.
Best for: Power users, gamers, and creators who want pro performance, triple-camera versatility, and advanced video tools without the size of the Pro Max.
iPhone 17 Pro Max: The Ultimate iPhone
At the top of the lineup sits the iPhone 17 Pro Max, Apple’s no-compromise flagship.
It packs a massive 6.9-inch OLED display with ProMotion and a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, making it ideal for watching movies, gaming, or working on the go.
If you like big phones, this one delivers the most screen real estate Apple has ever offered.
Battery life is another standout.
With up to 39 hours of video playback, the Pro Max easily lasts longer than any other iPhone in the series.
It’s the clear winner for people who rely heavily on their phone throughout the day and don’t want to worry about recharging.
Like the iPhone 17 Pro, it comes with a triple 48MP camera system (main, ultrawide, and telephoto).
But the Pro Max takes things further with a telephoto zoom that reaches up to 40x digital zoom.
That makes it the best iPhone for travel, wildlife, or any situation where you want to get closer to your subject without carrying separate gear.
On the performance side, it runs the A19 Pro chip with the same vapor chamber cooling system as the Pro, so you get top-tier speed and sustained performance.
Storage options go up to a massive 2TB, which is perfect if you’re shooting lots of ProRes video or keeping your media library offline.
At $1,199, it’s a serious investment, but this is the model built for users who want the absolute best Apple has to offer in every category — display, battery, cameras, and storage.
Best for: Anyone who wants the biggest screen, longest battery life, and maxed-out storage. Perfect for professionals, content creators, and heavy users who don’t want to compromise.
Key Takeaways
- The iPhone 17 is the best pick for most people. Affordable, powerful, and packed with upgrades.
- The iPhone Air is thin and light but sacrifices a second camera and some battery.
- The iPhone 17 Pro is the sweet spot for creators and gamers.
- The iPhone 17 Pro Max is the king of battery, size, and storage.
If you’re upgrading from an older iPhone or Android, you’ll notice the brighter displays, sharper cameras, and faster chips across the board.
iPhone 17 Buying Advice & Tips
Which iPhone 17 has the best camera?
The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max have the best cameras in the lineup. Both models feature a triple 48MP camera system with a wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lens.
The telephoto camera offers up to 8x optical zoom and 40x digital zoom, making them ideal for photography enthusiasts and creators.
Which iPhone 17 is the cheapest?
The standard iPhone 17 is the most affordable model, starting at $799 for 256GB of storage.
Despite the lower price, it still includes major upgrades like a 6.3-inch OLED display with ProMotion, a dual 48MP camera setup, and the A19 chip, making it a solid choice for most buyers.
Which iPhone 17 has the best battery?
The iPhone 17 Pro Max has the longest-lasting battery in the series. It offers up to 39 hours of video playback and the largest battery capacity of the lineup.
This makes it the best option if you prioritize battery life for streaming, gaming, or heavy daily use.
Is the iPhone Air worth it?
The iPhone Air is worth it if you want a thin and lightweight iPhone that still delivers strong performance with the A19 Pro chip.
However, it only has a single 48MP rear camera and slightly shorter battery life at 27 hours video playback compared to the other models.
It’s a great choice for style-focused buyers who don’t need the full camera system.
