iPhone 16 vs 17: Which is Better?

The iPhone 16 is undoubtedly one of the best smartphones on the market right now.

With an Apple event rumored to take place on Tuesday September 9, the iPhone 17 will launch in just a matter of days. The full lineup includes a standard iPhone 17, plus a Pro and a larger Pro Max. An ultra-thin 17 Air model will replace the Plus.

In this article, we’ll compare the two latest iPhone models to help you decide before upgrading.

iPhone 16 and 17 Tech Specs

While we don’t yet have any official specifications, here’s an overview of how the upcoming iPhone 17 could compare to last year’s model:

What Are the Key Differences Between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17?

Based on recent rumors and insider leaks, keep reading as we explore the main design, display, camera, battery, and performance differences.  

Design

The iPhone 17 is expected to keep a similar design, maintaining the iPhone 16’s durability. All models should feature an aluminum frame, except the slimmer 17 Air, which could include a lighter titanium material.

But one key change is reported to come from the top of the display. The iconic Dynamic Island and Face ID sensor may become smaller thanks to a new “Metalens” technology.

Display

The iPhone 16’s display doesn’t offer many improvements from its predecessor. It features the same 6.1-inch size and a relatively slow 60 Hz refresh rate, but with a solid 2000-nit peak brightness.

One of the biggest changes for the iPhone 17 could come from the 120 Hz display. The higher variable refresh rate will no longer be exclusive to the Pro models and may support an always-on display. This allows users to quickly check their notifications without fully waking the screen.

Rumors about a scratch-resistant, antireflective display have been rife over the past few months. However, it’s now thought this will appear on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, but not the non-Pro iPhone.

Camera 

Whether you’re a budding photographer or simply enjoy taking snaps of friends, the iPhone 16 has a great dual-lens camera system. This includes the 48 MP Fusion lens that captures both standard and 2x zoom photos, and an upgraded 12 MP Ultra-Wide camera.

Another new feature for the iPhone 16 is the Camera Control button. Positioned on the right side of the device, this button responds to pressure to help you take photos and zoom in, acting just like a regular camera shutter.

The iPhone 17 camera should keep all these features, but with minor improvements. While the layout will likely remain, the 48 MP Ultra-wide lens found on the iPhone 16 Pro models could roll out to the base 17. Rumors also point to an upgrade for the Selfie camera, becoming 24 MP rather than the current 12.

Performance 

While analysts predict that the iPhone 17 Air and Pro Models will receive 12 GB of RAM, the base model will likely keep the 16’s 8 GB. However, don’t be disappointed — performance improvements could come from the A19, Apple’s newest A series chipset.

The A18 was 30% faster than its predecessor. But featuring a 3-nanometer processor, the A19 packs even more power into a smaller chip to facilitate ongoing Apple Intelligence improvements. 

These new AI features, including Adaptive Power, are also supported by iOS 26 software. As the name suggests, this feature adapts to your phone habits and makes small performance adjustments that conserve battery. 

A stand-out feature is the stunning Liquid Glass interface, which uses real-time rendering to filter light and color through the display. It behaves like real glass, adding more depth to your lock and home screens, control center, app icons, and more.

iOS 26 will also be available on the iPhone 16, so you can enjoy these benefits no matter which model you choose!

Battery Life

The iPhone 16’s 3561 mAh battery performed well for everything from web browsing to gaming. However, the iOS 26’s Adaptive Power feature could bring some big improvements to the iPhone 17’s battery life, supported by a larger battery capacity.

The iPhone 17 could also feature a new stacked battery design for improved thermal performance and a more consistent battery life. It should keep the faster 25W MagSafe wireless charging speeds introduced on the iPhone 16.

Colors

Over the past few years, Apple has followed a similar strategy when it comes to iPhone colors. The Pro models go for neutrals that match the titanium finish, while the base device includes more vibrant choices. 

The iPhone 16’s colors followed this pattern with vibrant Pink, Teal, and Ultramarine, plus classic Black and White shades.

A Partial list of potential colors has been leaked for the new model, thanks to two images displaying iPhone 17 camera covers. This leak suggests that the options could be:

• Black

• Blue

• Purple

• Green

• Silver

Price

The iPhone 16 started from $799 for the lowest storage option, keeping the same prices as its predecessor. Though some rumors suggest the iPhone 17 could follow suit, it’s looking more and more likely that Apple could apply its first price hike in 5 years. 

This is mainly due to government-imposed tariffs on smartphones manufactured outside the US. The addition of the new iPhone 17 Air and Apple Intelligence upgrades may also justify a higher price tag.

Should You Upgrade to the iPhone 16 or Wait for the iPhone 17?

If your iPhone is two or three generations old, we’d always recommend upgrading. You’ll benefit from continuous software updates and more power efficiency, leading to a better battery life. But the question remains: should you invest in the iPhone 16 or wait until the new model launches?

The iPhone 16 price will reduce when the 17 launches. And with so many similarities, this may offer more value if you’re not bothered about having a slightly older iPhone. However, Apple superfans or general tech enthusiasts will enjoy the upgraded refresh rate, sharper selfie camera, and improved A19 performance.

New iPhones launch every September, so it’s best to wait until the iPhone 17 is on the market to finalize your decision. You can then make the most of launch deals, including trade-ins and bundles.

With Apple reportedly prepping for a major design shakeup, you may want to look even further ahead to next year’s 20th anniversary iPhone!