
The iPhone 17 Pro is the most powerful and expensive, aimed at advanced users.
The iPhone 17 Air is thinner, lighter, and offers solid performance for casual users.
The standard iPhone 17 strikes a balance between price and features for everyday use.
This year is thrilling for Apple enthusiasts. Beyond the iPhone 17 series, Apple unveiled three innovative models that overshadow last year's concerns. Let's dive into the iPhone 17 comparison, pitting the iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17, and iPhone 17 Air against each other. We'll break down their unique features, pricing, and key differences to help you decide which one is right for you. Here's a quick rundown of each model to make your choice easier.
Globally, Apple is expected to release the iPhone 17 series in mid-September 2025, most likely between the 12th and 14th, marking the anticipated iPhone 17 launch date. If it stays close to previous years, users can expect the pre-order date to be around two days after Apple's launch event. After pre-orders begin, typical shipping occurs about a week later.
Pricing has always been a key factor in determining the decisions of iPhone buyers. This year, Apple offers more options to fit every budget:
iPhone 17: iPhone 17 price starts at ₹79,990 / $799
iPhone 17 Air: ₹89,990 / $899
iPhone 17 Pro: ₹1,29,990 / $1,199
Prices vary slightly by region and carrier offers. However, these are the official starting prices for the base storage variants (128 GB).
Also Read: iPhone 17: Expected Price, Redesign Leaks and Full Specs
Each model brings something unique to the table.
iPhone 17: The iPhone 17 is constructed with a traditional flat-edged aluminium frame and features a 6.1-inch OLED display.
iPhone 17 Air: Thinnest iPhone ever at just 6.1 mm thickness. Additionally, it is the lightest, weighing under 140 grams.
iPhone 17 Pro: Features a titanium shell with curvy edges and a 6.7-inch ProMotion display.
Colour options include Black, Starlight, Blue, and a new “Electric Green.”
Apple has equipped the new lineup with different chips.
iPhone 17: A17 Bionic chip with improved battery efficiency.
iPhone 17 Air: Same A17 Bionic but slightly underclocked for thermal performance.
iPhone 17 Pro: First phone to use the A18 Pro chip, 30% faster GPU, and better AI capabilities.
The Pro model supports new ray tracing features for high-end gaming.
iPhone 17: Dual camera — 48 MP main + 12 MP ultra-wide.
iPhone 17 Air: The same setup but lacks Night Mode for the ultra-wide camera.
iPhone 17 Pro: Triple camera setup — 48 MP main + 12 MP ultra-wide + 5x telephoto lens.
iPhone 17 pro features “Cinematic Focus Lock,” a feature aimed at content creators.
iPhone 17: 20 hours of video playback
iPhone 17 Air: 18 hours
iPhone 17 Pro: 26 hours, fastest charging with 45W USB-C support
Wireless MagSafe charging is available on all models. Reverse charging is exclusive to the Pro.
All three models support 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, and iOS 19.
The Pro also has Ultra-Wideband 2 and satellite messaging.
Face ID is standard, but only the Pro model features under-display Face ID with a reduced notch size.
Opt for the iPhone 17 for all-round good performance, thanks to its balanced specs and reasonable price.
Choose the iPhone 17 Air if you prefer thin, lightweight phones and don’t require Pro features.
Go for the iPhone 17 Pro if you're into photography, gaming, or need serious power.
Also Read: iPhone 17 Air Launch: Big Changes We are Expecting
A survey conducted by TechInsights found that nearly 47% of iPhone users wait each year to see what the Pro model looks like, primarily due to its camera and performance.
Apple has done its best to create a series that suits not only professionals but also daily users and those who enjoy travelling. This iPhone 17 comparison shows that the series has something to offer everyone.