Compare iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16
Which one is best for you?
The iPhone 17 is part of Apple’s 2025 release. If we compare the iPhone 17 against the 16, the 17 is more advanced than the 16, but there are similarities, and both offer the latest in Apple Intelligence. Â
Featuring a larger 6.3-inch display, the iPhone 17 has new ProMotion technology with a 120Hz refresh rate, and an Always On display in comparison to iPhone 16’s smaller 6.1-inches and is missing these features. It is worth noting that both devices have a Super Retina XDR display so you can rest assured you’ll have a clear and crisp display. Both devices also have an aluminium body, plus the latest Action and Camera Control buttons. Â
Both devices have great performance power, with the iPhone 17 having a more advanced A19 chip in comparison to the iPhone 16’s A18 chip. This better chip makes for a slightly larger battery life, offering 30 hours of playback over iPhone 16’s 22 hours.Â
The biggest changes can be seen with the iPhone 17’s camera, which has an upgraded 48MP Ultra Wide rear camera lens and an 18MP Centre Stage front camera – a new advanced sensor that automatically changes the aspect ratio depending on who’s in the photo. The iPhone 16 has a more basic 12MP front camera and a 12MP Ultra Wide rear camera.
In conclusion, both devices have great specs – with the iPhone 17 taking the lead in better battery life, a more advanced camera and display. However, the iPhone 16 is at a more affordable price point if you’re on a budget.
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Frequently asked questions
If photography is your priority, you'll prefer the iPhone 17. It features a more advanced 48MP + 48MP + 18MP triple-camera system, giving you greater versatility compared to the 48MP + 12MP dual-camera setup on the iPhone 16.
You get a slightly larger screen with the iPhone 17, which features a 6.3-inch display. The iPhone 16 is just a bit more compact with its 6.1-inch display, though both offer Super Retina XDR OLED quality.
Yes, both the iPhone 17 and the iPhone 16 support fast battery charging to get you topped up quickly. They also both feature convenient wireless charging capabilities.
The iPhone 17 takes the lead in performance with its newer A19 chip. While the iPhone 16 is still incredibly fast with its A18 chip, the iPhone 17 is better suited for intensive tasks and heavy gaming.
Both models have an IP68 rating, offering the same level of water, dust, and splash resistance.
The iPhone 16 gives you options starting at 128GB, going up to 256GB and 512GB. The iPhone 17 starts at a higher base capacity of 256GB, with a 512GB option also available for your larger files and apps.
Yes, you'll enjoy the interactive Dynamic Island on both the iPhone 17 and the iPhone 16. It's a great way to keep track of your alerts, music, and live activities on either device.
The iPhone 17 is slightly heavier at 177g. The iPhone 16 is a bit lighter in your hand, weighing in at 170g.
Yes, you'll get the latest connectivity speeds with either choice, as both the iPhone 17 and the iPhone 16 support WiFi 7.
The iPhone 16 offers fantastic value if you want a powerful, reliable iPhone for everyday use. However, if you're a creator or power user, the iPhone 17 justifies its premium with a superior camera system and faster processor.