Which iPhone 17 model should you pick? Base, Pro, Pro Max compared

💡 Need to know

• Every model is fast. But only the Pro and Pro Max get the fancy A19 Pro chip.
• The Pro is the sweet spot. Best mix of camera, performance, and price.
• Pro Max = go big. You’re paying more for that zoom lens, screen size, and massive battery.

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Choosing the right iPhone® 17 model can be tricky—especially when all three look similar at first glance. Whether you’re trying to decide between the base iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, or the feature-packed iPhone 17 Pro Max, we’re here to break it down.

Asurion Experts help our customers choose and set up new devices every day. Here’s a side-by-side guide to help you figure out which iPhone 17 is the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.

iPhone 17 vs. Pro vs. Pro Max: Quick comparison

Which iPhone 17 should you buy?

Get the base iPhone 17 if...

• You want an upgrade from older models like iPhone 12 or 13.
• You mostly shoot casual photos and use your phone for everyday tasks.
• You don’t need pro-level camera features or extra screen size.
• You want the best battery life upgrade for the price.

This model still delivers great performance thanks to the A19 chip and solid camera updates, especially in low-light shots. It’s also the lightest and most affordable.

Go for the iPhone 17 Pro if...

• You want pro camera features like macro, cinematic mode, and ProRAW.
• You need a faster processor for editing, gaming, or productivity.
• You want a premium finish without the extra bulk of the Pro Max.

It’s the best balance of performance, size, and price for most users—especially creators and multitaskers.

Pick the iPhone 17 Pro Max if...

• You love a big screen for streaming, reading, or editing on the go.
• You want the new 6x telephoto lens for next-level zoom shots.
• You need the longest battery life possible (seriously—it’s excellent).
• You don’t mind paying more for size and power.

The Pro Max is Apple’s top-of-the-line option. It’s bulky, but powerful—and perfect for users who demand the best camera, screen, and endurance.

FAQ

Which iPhone 17 model is best for most people? The iPhone 17 Pro hits the sweet spot—it offers pro-level performance and camera features without the bulk or price of the Pro Max.

Is the iPhone 17 Pro Max worth the extra money? If you want a bigger screen, longer battery life, and the 6x zoom lens, yes. It’s ideal for photographers, power users, and content creators.

What’s the main difference between iPhone 17 and 17 Pro? The Pro has a better chip (A19 Pro), extra camera lens with LiDAR, and more premium materials. It also supports more AI tools and advanced photo features.

Does the regular iPhone 17 still have good battery life? Yes—it’s a big step up from older models like the iPhone 12. But if battery life is your top priority, the Pro Max lasts the longest.