iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16: Which Should You Buy in

iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16: Which Should You Buy in 2026?

8 min read · Updated July 2026

The iPhone 17 brings a larger 6.3 inch display, the A19 chip, and a new N1 networking chip with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.0, while the iPhone 16 offers a proven design with the A18 chip and a more affordable price. If you want the latest performance and a bigger screen, choose the iPhone 17. If you prefer saving money and don't need the newest features, the iPhone 16 is still a great phone.

SpeciPhone 17iPhone 16

Display6.3 inches LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED 120 Hz6.1 inches Super Retina XDR OLED 60 Hz

Resolution2622 x 1206 pixels2556 x 1179 pixels

ChipApple A19Apple A18

RAM8 GB8 GB

Camera48 MP wide (f/1.6) + 48 MP ultrawide (f/2.2)48 MP wide (f/1.6) + 12 MP ultrawide (f/2.2)

Front Camera18 MP wide (f/1.9)12 MP wide (f/1.9)

Battery3692 mAh3561 mAh

Storage256 GB / 512 GB128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB

Weight177 g170 g

OSiOS 26iOS 18 (upgradable to iOS 26)

5GYesYes

Price$749$699

Verdict

The iPhone 17 is the better choice if you want the latest technology and a larger screen. However, the iPhone 16 remains a strong value for those who don't need the newest chip or Wi-Fi 7. Most users will be happy with either, but the iPhone 17 offers more future proofing.

View iPhone 17 All comparisons

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