Does Fone4u offer a warranty on second-hand smartphones?

Yes, we offer a 12-month warranty on all second-hand mobiles, such as hardware and functionality issues not resulting from accidental damage.

Can I trade-in my old mobile phone with Fone4u?

Yes! Sell your mobile stress-free with Fone4u. Get a quote instantly on our Sell Your Phone page, and hand in or post your device for rapid payment.

Does Fone4u repair phones and tablets?

Yes, we have expert repairs for iPhones, Samsung, iPads, and more, including screen repair, battery issues, and diagnostic work.

We are located at Tolan Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo, F26 XT02, Ireland. You can also visit us at the Sligo Co. Sligo store or the Bray Co. Wicklow store for purchases, repairs, and trading in your devices.

How long is delivery when I shop online?

We provide next-day delivery throughout Ireland on orders received up to 1 PM. Delivery is usually 1-2 working days from your location.

Which payment options does Fone4u provide?

We provide all major credit and debit cards, PayPal, American Express, and in-store payments.

Are the second-hand phones unlocked?

Yes, all our second-hand phones are completely unlocked and ready for use with any Irish or foreign network.

What if I change my mind after I've bought?

We operate a 14-day money-back guarantee on online purchases. If you do change your mind, simply return the phone in its original condition for a refund or exchange.

Aaliya Yousaf
02 Jan, 2026

iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone 17 Pro Max: Which One Should You Buy in 2026?

Now, moving ahead towards 2026, the newly launched flagship series from Apple, known as the iPhone 17 series, is still making headlines amongst tech users, including students, professionals, and regular consumers. The devices gaining popularity are the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Both of them are the best models with state-of-the-art technology in them. However, it will not be that straightforward as comparing whose screen size is bigger. At Fone4u.ie, we assist all our customers in making informed and cost-effective purchasing decisions. This decision cuts across whether it is a new or refurbished one.

In this guide, we will highlight the differences, usage, and cost implications associated with each new iPhone 17 to enable you to choose the best iPhone 17 that fits your life in 2026.

iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone 17 Pro Max

Quick Overview

Feature	iPhone 17 Pro	iPhone 17 Pro Max
Display Size	~6.3-inch ProMotion OLED	~6.9-inch ProMotion OLED
Battery Life	Excellent (all-day use)	Best-in-class (up to 2 days)
Camera System	Pro triple-lens	Pro triple-lens (enhanced zoom)
Performance	A19 Pro chip	A19 Pro chip
Build	Titanium frame	Titanium frame
Weight & Size	More compact	Larger & heavier
Price (New)	€1,299.99 (256 GB)	€1,399.99 (256 GB)
Best For	Everyday users & professionals	Power users & media lovers

Design & Display

Size Matters—But Only If You Need It

The most obvious difference between the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max is size.

iPhone 17 Pro	iPhone 17 Pro Max
Comes with an improved compact design that can easily be handled with one hand and is comfortable for commutes.	Has Apple’s biggest display yet—ideal for multitasking, gaming, video editing, and media consumption.

Both Models Boast

ProMotion OLED displays	Always-On Display
Ultra-thin bezels	Premium titanium construction

Verdict: If portability and comfort are a concern, the iPhone 17 Pro is the better choice. For immersive viewing, the clear winner is the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Performance

A19 Pro Chip Delivers Flagship Power

Both models are fueled by the Apple A19 Pro chip, meaning real-world performance differences are virtually negligible.

Performance Area	iPhone 17 Pro & Pro Max
Gaming	Smooth high-frame-rate gaming with console-level graphics
Video Editing	Fast rendering, ProRes support, seamless 4K workflows
AI Applications	On-device AI processing for photography, apps, and system features
iOS Longevity	Long-term iOS updates and performance stability for years

Longevity Verdict: From a future-proofing perspective, both models perform at an equal level. This makes the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max equally excellent choices—especially for refurbished buyers looking for long-term value.

Camera Comparison

Professional Photography on Both

Apple has further enhanced camera capabilities across the iPhone 17 series, delivering professional-grade results on both models.

Common Camera Features

Triple-lens Pro camera system	Night Vision Enhancer
ProRAW & ProRes video recording	Improved low-light photography
AI-assisted image processing	Professional-grade photo & video output

Where the Pro Max Stands Out	Real-World Benefit
Advanced optical zoom & telephoto lens	Exceptional performance for wildlife, sports, travel, and long-distance photography
Larger sensor housing & enhanced stabilization	Slightly smoother video capture, especially during handheld motion and professional shoots

Camera Verdict: For most users, the iPhone 17 Pro camera is more than sufficient. Choose the iPhone 17 Pro Max only if advanced zoom capabilities or professional-level video work are essential.

Battery Life

One of the Biggest Differences

The clearest distinction between the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max appears in battery performance.

Model	Battery Performance	Real-World Usage
iPhone 17 Pro	Easily lasts a full day with heavy usage	Ideal for daily work, streaming, social media, and photography
iPhone 17 Pro Max	Built for all-day use—often extending into a second day	Perfect for extended travel, content creation, and heavy multitasking

Why the Pro Max Battery Matters

Frequent travelers	Power users & heavy multitaskers
Pupils attending long-day lectures	Professionals constantly on the move

Price & Value

New vs Refurbished in 2026

In 2026, the price gap between new and refurbished iPhone 17 models makes value-focused decisions more important than ever.

Buying New in 2026	What It Means for Buyers
iPhone 17 Pro Max carries the highest price tag	Premium cost for size, battery, and camera advantages
iPhone 17 Pro remains slightly more affordable	Still expensive when purchased brand-new at retail prices

Why Smart Buyers Choose Refurbished from Fone4U

Fully tested & quality-checked devices	Warranty included for peace of mind
Excellent battery health standards	Significant savings vs retail pricing
Better long-term resale value	Environmentally responsible choice

Value Verdict: The refurbished iPhone 17 Pro consistently delivers the best price-to-performance ratio, combining portability, premium power, and smart long-term value.

Which iPhone 17 Should You Buy?

Choose iPhone 17 Pro if you:	Choose iPhone 17 Pro Max if you:
Want a high-end phone without the bulk	Want the largest available screen size
Prefer comfortable one-handed usability	Need maximum battery life
Value portability and daily comfort	Watch a lot of media or work extensively on your phone
Want strong resale value at a lower price point	Don’t mind the increased size and higher price

Final Recommendation: Both iPhone 17 models deliver flagship performance. Your best choice comes down to whether you prioritize portability and value (Pro) or screen size and endurance (Pro Max).

Final Verdict: The Smarter Choice in 2026

The iPhone 17 Pro will therefore be the best available option for most people in 2026. The device will have superior performance, a professional camera, and good battery life without being bulky or pricey like the Pro Max.

But if the battery life and screen size are not negotiable, the iPhone 17 Pro Max can be considered Apple’s most powerful all-rounder yet.

At Fone4u.ie, we assist you in making selections that suit your lifestyle—not just what's hottest. Whether you’re upgrading or exploring second-hand or refurbished phones that suit your budget and require very little cash out of pocket.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main differences are screen size and battery life. The iPhone 17 Pro Max comes with a larger display and longer battery life, while the iPhone 17 Pro is more portable and convenient for one-handed use. The speed and camera capabilities of the smartphones are almost equivalent.

In most cases, the best phone for most students will be the iPhone 17 Pro. It provides superior performance and a longer-lasting battery with great resale value at a lower price than its Pro Max model. It is even refurbished and available from fone4u.ie.

No. Both devices feature support for the A19 Pro processor, ensuring that you enjoy the same level of gaming, multitasking, and iOS updates.

Both phones have the same professional-grade camera package. Still, the Pro Max variant comes with a slightly better zoom function, suitable for distance photography.

The battery life of the iPhone 17 Pro Max will last the longest in the lineup and may last for two days with moderate use. The battery life of the iPhone 17 Pro will still last the whole day.

Refurbished iPhone 17s have been thoroughly checked for performance and are backed by a warranty. This can be done without buying at retail prices.

Absolutely. Every refurbished iPhone sold by fone4u.ie includes warranty coverage, quality checks, and condition grading for complete peace of mind.

Both models retain value well, but in relation to its purchase price, the iPhone 17 Pro will generally provide better resale value because of higher demand for lower upfront cost.

That is up to personal preference. As much as the Pro Max serves one well in terms of media and productivity, some people might find it a little too bulky for everyday commute or even one-handed use. The iPhone 17 Pro is more practical to handle every day.

Yes, both the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max fully support Irish 5G networks, carrier bands, and eSIM functionality; thus, they are available to use on all major networks within Ireland.

Yes, fone4u.ie offers Humm so that you can repay the cost of your iPhone in interest-free installments.

Fone4u provides trusted refurbished iPhones, great value, a guarantee, special deals for students, flexible payment methods such as Humm, and quick delivery options all across Ireland to help you shop smart in 2026.