Side by side
iPhone 17 vs iPhone 17 Pro
iPhone 17
324 positive (74%) · 48 mixed (11%) · 65 negative (15%)
Trust + time weighted: +63%
AI summary — not a quote
The iPhone 17 is viewed as a significant step forward for the base model, with users highlighting the long-awaited addition of a 120Hz refresh rate and improved front-facing camera. While some find the hardware iterations incremental or the design unappealing, it is widely recommended for its longevity and narrowed feature gap between the standard and Pro versions.
Pros
- Introduction of 120Hz refresh rates on the base model for smoother scrolling
- Center Stage front camera improves selfie and video call quality
- Excellent long-term value with expected software support for 5+ years
- Compact and lightweight form factor compared to Pro or Plus models
Cons
- Base model lacks a dedicated telephoto lens
- Polarizing physical design described by some as unappealing
- UX annoyances reported by users switching from Android
- Perceived lack of compelling hardware benefits for users of recent older models
Top excerpts
Is it just me or these new iphone iterations are ugly af
those who won't pay Pro prices should still look at the iPhone 17 for two strong reasons: you finally got smoother 120Hz refresh rates for better scrolling in the regular iPhone, the Center Stage front camera (also in the 17 Pro) is great for easily snapping selfies in landscape.
I’m using the iPhone 17 and the Lightroom app. I used to be a professional photographer so I have a few tricks up my sleeve!
Honestly in your case I'd probably get the base 17. That'll last you atleast 5 years if not more.
I also definitely don't need the pro but I found the base 17 just to small and I can't live without the telephoto
iPhone 17 Pro
122 positive (68%) · 23 mixed (13%) · 34 negative (19%)
Trust + time weighted: +53%
AI summary — not a quote
The iPhone 17 Pro is highly regarded for its hardware refinements, specifically a redesign that significantly improves cooling and thermal management. While users praise its camera system for videography and telephoto performance, there is a recurring sentiment that the year-over-year innovation feels incremental, with some users finding the iOS software experience stagnant or restrictive compared to Android competitors.
Pros
- Improved thermal management and cooling system, beneficial for gaming
- Excellent video quality and telephoto lens performance
- Reliable battery life, with users reporting 7-8 hours of screen-on time
- Instant and reliable FaceID performance
Cons
- Perceived lack of major innovation compared to previous models
- iOS software limitations, including complaints about the keyboard and notification system
- Occasional reports of a slight pink tint in photos compared to Samsung competitors
- Buggy or laggy performance reported in some recent iOS iterations
Top excerpts
I'm quite happy with it so far. It's undeniably great hardware, and I haven't found any major problem yet. ... FaceID works great. It's basically instant and I use it all the time ... Great battery. I can use my phone a lot and still have 60% at the end of the day.
Right now, the best iPhone at the moment is the 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max, because of the mix of camera array for excellent zoomed-in photos and videos, battery life, and the redesign that seriously improved cooling
17Pro does objectively have really strong performance though, while 17P objectively performs poorly.
I don't even notice when I'm using an iPhone (17 Pro) vs my Samsung (S24 Ultra).
Honestly, there’s not much reason to go for the iPhone 17 Pro over the iPhone 17. Especially once you slap a case on it.