Compare iPhone Air vs iPhone 17 Pro Max
Which one is best for you?
The iPhone Air and the iPhone 17 Pro Max offer the latest in smartphone technology, from the September 2025 release. Both phones have a lot of similarities including Always-On, Super Retina XDR displays, ProMotion technology with refresh rates up to 120Hz, Apple Intelligence and Emergency SOS features. They both operate on the A19 Pro chip, offering a smoother and faster performance. They’re also protected by a Ceramic Shield 2 front, and a Ceramic Shield back, for better scratch resistance than previous generations.
Comparing the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone Air, the Pro Max boasts a larger display, better battery life and storage size options. These qualities are particularly beneficial if you consume a lot of media on your phone. Its display is 6.9 inches compared to the Air’s 6.5-inch display, and it has an impressive battery life offering 37 hours of video playback – that’s 10 hours longer than the iPhone Air. If you’re after a more compact device, however, the iPhone Air is a better option – it’s the thinnest iPhone ever. It also weighs just 165 grams, compared to the 17 Pro Max which is 231 grams.
Looking at the cameras, iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro Max have equally advanced 18MP front cameras with Centre Stage, Dual Capture and ultra-stabilisation for videos. The rear camera of the 17 Pro Max, however, has more advanced qualities than the iPhone Air. Alongside the 48MP Pro Fusion camera system, the iPhone 17 Pro Max has Ultra Wide, Telephoto and Macro photography capabilities for taking better snaps up close and far away. The iPhone Air just has the 48MP Fusion camera system with optical zoom up to 2x, the iPhone 17 Pro Max offers zoom up to 8x. So, if you like taking high quality photos and videos with your phone, opt for the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Overall, iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro Max both offer advanced smartphone features. The iPhone Air is slim and compact, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max offers a larger display, more battery life and very advanced camera capabilities.