Side by side
iPhone 17 vs iPhone 17 Pro
Quick verdict
The iPhone 17 is the best value: it now has a 120 Hz display and a great dual camera. The 17 Pro is worth it for its 4x telephoto, faster chip and pro video features.
| Criterion | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Tie | Both 6.3-inch, 120 Hz, always-on |
| Zoom | iPhone 17 Pro | 4x telephoto camera |
| Performance | iPhone 17 Pro | A19 Pro with vapour chamber |
| Weight | iPhone 17 | About 177 g vs 204 g |
| Battery | iPhone 17 Pro | Bigger battery |
| Value | iPhone 17 | Same screen for much less |
At a glance
| Feature | iPhone 17 | iPhone 17 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.3-inch OLED, 120 Hz | 6.3-inch OLED, 120 Hz |
| Chip | A19 | A19 Pro |
| Rear cameras | 48 MP main, 48 MP ultra-wide | 48 MP main, ultra-wide and 4x telephoto |
| Front camera | 18 MP Center Stage | 18 MP Center Stage |
| Storage | From 256 GB | From 256 GB, up to 1 TB |
| USB-C speed | USB 2 | USB 3 (much faster transfers) |
| Frame | Aluminium | Aluminium unibody, vapour-chamber cooling |
Swipe sideways to see both columns.
Which one should you buy?
Mister Magelo’s verdict
For most people the iPhone 17 is the smart buy. It finally has a 120 Hz display, starts with 256 GB and takes excellent photos. The iPhone 17 Pro makes sense if you zoom a lot, film serious video or play demanding games, and it has the bigger battery.
Independent recommendation · Retailers can’t pay for rankingChoose iPhone 17 if…
- you want the best value iPhone
- you mainly take photos without zoom
- you prefer a lighter phone
Choose iPhone 17 Pro if…
- you often zoom, for example at concerts or with children
- you film video in ProRes or Log
- you want the longest battery life in this size
Questions and answers
Does the iPhone 17 have a 120 Hz display?
Yes. For the first time the standard iPhone has ProMotion with up to 120 Hz and an always-on display.
Is the iPhone 17 Pro heavier than the iPhone 17?
Yes, at about 204 g versus about 177 g, mainly because of the bigger battery and extra camera.