Apple’s new iPhone 17 lineup is here, and for the first time, there are four distinct models, each targeting a different type of user. With the introduction of the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air alongside the standard, Pro, and Pro Max versions, the choice has never been more complex. If you’re wondering which new iPhone to buy, you’re not alone. This guide will provide a clear comparison of all the iPhone 17 all models compared, breaking down the key differences in design, display, camera, and performance.
With the official iPhone 17 release date confirmed, it’s time to make a decision. Are you looking for the best value, the ultimate portability, or the most powerful camera system?
Let’s dive in and compare the specs to find the perfect iPhone 17 for you.
Design and Build: Thinness vs. Durability
This year, the biggest story in design is the new iPhone 17 Air. It is, by a significant margin, the thinnest iPhone Apple has ever made. It’s designed for ultimate portability.
- iPhone 17 & 17 Pro Max: Feature a new aluminum chassis with a partial glass back for wireless charging. The Pro Max is also slightly thicker to accommodate a larger battery.
- iPhone 17 Air: The standout for its ultra-thin and lightweight design.
- iPhone 17 Pro: Continues with a familiar but refined aluminum design.
For many, the choice here will be between the incredible thinness of the Air and the more traditional, robust feel of the standard and Pro models.
Display: ProMotion is Finally for Everyone
This is the upgrade many of us have been waiting for. For the first time ever, all four iPhone 17 models feature a ProMotion display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.
As I argued in a previous opinion piece on the ProMotion display, this was a make-or-break feature. The key difference now is size:
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- iPhone 17 & 17 Pro: Expected to have a 6.1-inch display.
- iPhone 17 Air & 17 Pro Max: Expected to feature a larger 6.7-inch display.
The good news is that no matter which model you choose, you will get an incredibly smooth and fluid screen experience. The days of 60Hz on a flagship iPhone are finally over.
Camera: The Pro Models Still Reign Supreme
While the display gap has closed, the camera is where the “Pro” models truly differentiate themselves.
- iPhone 17 & 17 Air: Feature a powerful dual-camera system with an upgraded 48MP main lens and an improved ultrawide lens. The front camera on all models has been bumped to 24MP.
- iPhone 17 Pro & 17 Pro Max: These are the photographer’s choice. They include a third telephoto lens for incredible optical zoom capabilities. The Pro Max is rumored to have a slightly more advanced zoom system and sensor-shift stabilization.
If photography is your top priority, the Pro models are still the clear winners. For everyone else, the standard and Air models will provide a fantastic point-and-shoot experience.
Performance and Battery: A Clear Hierarchy
Under the hood, Apple continues to create a clear performance gap between its standard and Pro lines.
- iPhone 17 & 17 Air: Expected to run on the new A19 chip.
- iPhone 17 Pro & 17 Pro Max: Will debut the top-of-the-line, more powerful A19 Pro chip.
For everyday use, all models will be incredibly fast. The A19 Pro will offer an advantage in heavy-duty tasks like 4K video editing and high-end gaming.
Battery life follows a similar pattern, with the leaked capacities showing a clear hierarchy:
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: The battery champion (over 5,000 mAh).
- iPhone 17 Pro: A significant upgrade.
- iPhone 17: A modest improvement.
- iPhone 17 Air: The smallest battery, a trade-off for its thin design.
You can find more detailed specs for all models on the official Apple website.
The Bottom Line: Which One is for You?
- For the Average User (Best Value): The iPhone 17 is the perfect choice. You get the new ProMotion display and a great camera without the “Pro” price tag.
- For the Portability Seeker: The iPhone 17 Air is an engineering marvel. If you want the thinnest, lightest, full-size iPhone, this is it.
- For the Creative Professional: The iPhone 17 Pro offers the best balance of power and size, with the crucial telephoto camera for serious photography.
- For the Power User: The iPhone 17 Pro Max is the undisputed king. It has the biggest screen, the best camera, and the longest battery life.
Ultimately, the entire lineup represents the cutting edge of gadgets and reviews. Now that you’ve seen the iPhone 17 all models compared, the choice is yours.