iPhone 17 Pro Max First Impressions

AI-written, human-edited.

Thinking about upgrading to the iPhone 17 Pro Max? After spending some time with the device, Mikah Sargent from Hands-On Tech shares his thoughts to help you make the right decision—especially if you're coming from a recent Pro model.

What's New in the iPhone 17 Pro Max

On Hands-On Tech, Mikah Sargent compared the iPhone 17 Pro Max directly with last year's 16 Pro Max and answered listener questions about real-life use.

Key updates and features include:

• Aluminum Unibody Design: Moves from last year's titanium to a heat-forged aluminum frame, with a unibody construction and smoother, more rounded edges.
• Improved Cooling: A new vapor-cooled interior significantly lowers device heat during demanding tasks like gaming, making setup and heavy use more comfortable.
• Camera Enhancements: The triple-lens setup includes a 48MP main camera, an improved ultra-wide, and new telephoto options with up to 8x optical zoom for better background blur and close-up shots.
• Screen Refinements: Slightly thinner bezels, a more advanced ceramic shield for better scratch resistance, and superior anti-reflective coating for improved outdoor visibility.
• Accessory Ecosystem: The addition of Apple's new tech woven case with a crossbody strap brings durability and convenient carrying options, featuring clever built-in magnets for easy adjustment.

Pros & Cons

Pros 

• Noticeable thermal improvements thanks to vapor chamber cooling
• Premium feel with a lighter, rounded aluminum frame
• Enhanced camera system with more optical zoom levels and sharper sensors
• Better screen scratch resistance and less glare outdoors
• Super-fast charging (up to 60W with the new dynamic charger; 50% in 20 minutes)
• Crossbody strap and improved case options for added convenience

Cons 

• Minimal difference in day-to-day use if upgrading from the iPhone 16 Pro Max
• Camera bump still prominent; lens sizes and height mostly unchanged
• Some accessory installations can be tricky
• No game-changing new software exclusive to the 17 Pro Max—iOS 26 runs similarly on older devices

Key Differences: iPhone 17 Pro Max vs. 16 Pro Max

• Build Materials: Switches from titanium (16 Pro Max) to aluminum (17 Pro Max)—surprisingly, the aluminum feels just as premium to Mikah and offers softer edges.
• Heat Management: The vapor cooling system in the 17 Pro Max actually delivers cooler operation compared to the 16 Pro Max in heavy use and during setup.
• Camera System: While both have triple lenses and 48MP sensors, the 17 Pro Max adds new zoom options and shifts some sensors/flash placement for better performance.
• Screen and Durability: The new ceramic shield reduces scratch risk—a point Mikah notes was an issue with previous models. Visibility in bright light is also improved thanks to the higher max brightness (up to 3,000 nits outdoors).
• Strap/Case Accessories: New tech woven material is more durable, less likely to collect dirt than last year's fine woven, and provides strong magnet-embedded straps.

Who Should Consider Upgrading?

• iPhone 13 Pro or earlier owners: An upgrade to the 17 Pro Max will feel substantial—better cameras, brighter screens, more efficient charging, and smoother performance throughout.
• Heavy phone users/gamers: Improved cooling, battery life (up to 39 hours video playback), and ultra-fast charging will make a noticeable impact.
• Those who want new form factors/attachments: If you value premium accessories like the crossbody strap or a case that resists gunk and damage, the 17 Pro Max's ecosystem is appealing.
• Frequent photographers: Advanced zoom capabilities and softer background blur in portrait photos make the upgrade worthwhile.

What This Means for You

If you're coming from a recent Pro Max, like the 16, only incremental improvements may be noticeable—mainly in thermal management and minor camera refinements. For early upgraders or anyone with a device 2+ years old, the leap feels significant in polish, speed, camera power, and usability.

Apple's focus on sustainability, user comfort, and continued innovation in accessories (like the crossbody strap with embedded magnets) may also weigh in your decision.

The Bottom Line

The iPhone 17 Pro Max builds on Apple's strengths with thoughtful refinements, especially around cooling, durability, and camera versatility. While not revolutionary for 16 Pro Max users, it's the clear choice for those on older models or anyone who values practical everyday upgrades. Mikah Sargent's hands-on verdict: worthwhile for serious users or as part of a longer upgrade cycle.

Ready to learn more and get hands-on tips? Catch the full episode at: https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech/episodes/234