Which iPhone 17 Model Should You Buy?

AI-generated, human-reviewed.

If you're considering a new iPhone in 2025, Apple's latest lineup offers more options than ever. On iOS Today, hosts Mikah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard helped clarify the differences between iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air so you can confidently pick the right model for your needs and budget.

The 2025 iPhone Lineup at a Glance

Apple’s 2025 refresh brings four main models:

• iPhone 17 (starting at $799) – 6.3" screen, aluminum frame, dual cameras
• iPhone Air (starting at $999) – 6.5" screen, ultra-thin, titanium build, single camera
• iPhone 17 Pro ($1,099) – 6.3" screen, aluminum unibody, triple camera system
• iPhone 17 Pro Max – 6.9" screen, larger Pro model with all the high-end features

Each model targets a different user, with specific features, camera capabilities, and price points. This year, Apple removed the "Plus" model and replaced it with the new, ultra-thin iPhone Air, which offers a unique mix of features.

Key Differences Between iPhone 17, Pro, Pro Max & Air

Display Size

• iPhone 17: 6.3" – great for pocketability
• iPhone Air: 6.5" – bigger but ultra-thin and light
• iPhone 17 Pro: 6.3"
• iPhone 17 Pro Max: 6.9" – largest and best for media consumption

Camera Systems

• iPhone 17: Dual cameras (main + ultra-wide)
• iPhone Air: Single 48MP camera with advanced digital zoom—no ultra-wide or true telephoto
• Pro & Pro Max: Triple 48MP cameras (main, ultra-wide, telephoto, with up to 8x optical zoom)

Build Materials

• iPhone 17: Aluminum frame
• iPhone Air: Titanium frame, ultra-thin
• Pro/Pro Max: Aluminum unibody for improved heat dissipation and durability

Internal Chips

• iPhone 17: Standard A19 chip
• Air, Pro, Pro Max: A19 Pro chip for enhanced performance and graphics

Battery Life & Weight

• Air is the lightest (165g), but may trade some battery life for thinness.
• Pro Max is the heaviest (~233g) with the most battery capacity.

Unique Features

• iPhone Air: Compatible with a custom MagSafe battery pack due to its thin profile.
• Pro Models: Advanced zoom, improved thermal management, and a vapor chamber cooling system.

Best iPhone Choice for…

Everyday Users & Value Seekers

iPhone 17 stands out if you want up-to-date performance, all-day battery, and solid dual cameras without paying for extras you won’t use.

Those Who Want a Larger Screen Without Weight

iPhone Air is perfect if you crave a bigger display, need something light/thin (great for those managing fatigue, mobility, or who dislike heavy phones), and don’t mind having only one camera. Seniors and users with grip or dexterity concerns might appreciate this trade-off.

Pro Users & Mobile Photographers

iPhone 17 Pro/Pro Max shine for those who want the best cameras, more zoom options (telephoto, ultra-wide, up to 8x optical), and long battery for heavy app or media use. If you use your iPhone for content creation or want a true all-in-one device, Pro or Pro Max is worth the investment.

Existing iPhone Owners Considering an Upgrade

If you bought an iPhone last year, weigh whether you truly need the camera or chip improvements. Upgrading may not be essential unless specific features will make a real difference in your daily use.

What to Consider

Choosing your 2025 iPhone means balancing screen size, weight, camera system, performance, and price. Consider what matters most:

• Want a compact but powerful phone? Go iPhone 17
• Prefer thin, light, big screen? Try iPhone Air
• Need best-in-class camera and battery? Choose 17 Pro/Pro Max
• On a budget? 17 offers modern features at the lowest price point

Check your current device storage usage under Settings > General > Storage to avoid overspending on storage tiers. Don’t forget the costs for AppleCare and a new case! Apple’s new 2025 iPhone lineup tailors to nearly every kind of user, so be sure to select based on the features you’ll use most. For comprehensive camera options and performance, the Pro models are best. For everyday practicality, iPhone 17 or Air should be your first stop.

Ready to make your choice or learn more? Listen to the full discussion: https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today/episodes/770