How to Pick the Best iPhone 17 Model for You

With the upcoming release of the iPhone 17 series, Apple is once again set to create a new benchmark in smartphone technology. As an occasional user, a creative professional, or a tech enthusiast, picking the best iPhone 17 model can be overwhelming. Apple typically offers a variety of options—ranging from the standard model to the Pro and Pro Max versions—each tailored to different needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences, expected features, and how to decide which iPhone 17 model is the perfect fit for you.

iPhone 17 Lineup Overview (What to Expect)

Based on industry leaks and Apple’s release patterns, the iPhone 17 lineup will likely include

• iPhone 17 (Base model)
  
  
• iPhone 17 Plus
  
  
• iPhone 17 Pro
  
  
• iPhone 17 Pro Max (or possibly "Ultra")
  
  

Here's how to decide between them.

1. Think About Your Usage Requirements

Casual users: If you just use your phone for messaging, browsing, streaming, and social media, the iPhone 17 or iPhone 17 Plus will be perfect for you. They'll probably have the new A18 chip, better battery life, and top-end displays—but without the premium price.

Power users and professionals: Mobile photography, video editing, or gaming being your interest, the iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max should yield the power and features you need. Both will probably feature advanced camera systems, ProMotion 120Hz displays, and perhaps a titanium frame for added toughness.

2. Camera Capabilities

Photography is likely the biggest deciding factor for most iPhone users. This is what we anticipate:

• iPhone 17/17 Plus: Dual-camera configuration (wide and ultra-wide lenses)
  
  
• iPhone 17 Pro: Triple-camera configuration (wide, ultra-wide, telephoto) with enhanced Night Mode and ProRAW
  
  
• iPhone 17 Pro Max: Enhanced zoom capabilities (possibly periscope lens), enhanced stabilization, and top low-light performance
  
  

Best for photographers: Use the Pro Max if you want the most all-around shooting experience. If you're only an occasional photographer, the regular iPhone 17 will still take wonderful quality.

3. Display Size and Quality

Here's what the lineup could be:

• iPhone 17: 6.1-inch OLED display
  
  
• iPhone 17 Plus: 6.7-inch OLED display
  
  
• iPhone 17 Pro: 6.1-inch ProMotion display (120Hz)
  
  
• iPhone 17 Pro Max: 6.7-inch ProMotion display (120Hz)
  
  

Small screen or big screen: If you prefer a smaller phone, go for iPhone 17 or Pro. If you stream and read a lot from your phone, the Plus or Pro Max gives you a larger screen experience.

4. Battery Life Expectations

Battery life improves with each new iPhone release. Based on existing trends:

• iPhone 17: Full-day usage with moderate use
  
  
• iPhone 17 Plus/Pro Max: Most likely to feature the longest battery life in the series
  
  
• iPhone 17 Pro: Balance of top performance and power efficiency
  
  

Should long battery life be of top priority—especially for heavy usage—then the Pro Max or Plus model is the way to go.

5. Storage Tiers and Pricing

Projected storage tiers:

• iPhone 17/Plus: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
  
  
• iPhone 17 Pro/Pro Max: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
  
  

Budget-conscious users: The most affordable iPhone 17 would be the one to beat.
Creatives or professionals: Get more storage on the Pro or Pro Max for storing high-res images, 4K video, and apps.

Prices will likely stick to Apple's usual pattern, starting around €1,000 for the base model and possibly going up to well over €1,600 for the top-end Pro Max.

6. Connectivity and Future-Proofing

All iPhone 17 models would need to have:

• 5G connectivity
  
  
• Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7
  
  
• USB-C ports (following EU requirement)
  
  
• Advanced AI and AR capabilities
  
  

Pro models may also feature advanced features like LIDAR scanning, satellite text messaging, and newer AI-powered features to add more future-proof value.

7. Design & Build

Apple will be releasing a thinner design for all models. But:

• iPhone 17 and 17 Plus will most likely be made of aluminum and glass.
  
  
• The Pro and Pro Max may be made of titanium and thinner bezels.
  
  

If looks and high-quality materials are important, the Pro line will feel more upscale in your hand.

Final Recommendation: Which iPhone 17 Model is Right for You?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Choosing the right iPhone 17 model is a matter of priority—camera performance, screen size, battery life, or budget. Apple ensures that even the base model will deliver a smooth and high-performance experience. However, if you wish to have the new features, especially in the camera or performance department, splurging on the Pro or Pro Max variants may be justified. With the expected upgrades in design, performance, and connectivity, the iPhone 17 series has something for all.