Side by side
iPhone 17 vs iPhone 17 Pro Max
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 Max
136 positive (61%) · 46 mixed (21%) · 40 negative (18%)
Trust + time weighted: +49%
AI summary — not a quote
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is praised as a highly refined flagship that excels in video quality, battery life, and thermal management. Users frequently highlight the device's improved cooling system and its 'natural' photographic style compared to competitors. While the hardware is considered top-tier, some users find the iOS software restrictive and the physical device too slippery to use without a case.
Pros
- Excellent video quality and reliable autofocus for social media and professional apps
- Significant improvements in cooling and thermal management
- Strong battery life that often outperforms other models in the lineup
- Natural photographic look preferred by users who find competitors too saturated
Cons
- iOS software can feel restrictive or limited for users coming from Android
- The device's exterior is noted to be very slippery when used without a case
- Large digital file sizes for high-quality images can make data transmission challenging
- The iOS keyboard is frequently cited as inferior to Samsung's implementation
Top excerpts
iPhone 17 Pro Max (or Pro) is probably the bestSeamless ecosystem for quick editing/exporting (Final Cut, LumaFusion, etc.), reliable autofocus, audio recording, and app optimization for platforms like OnlyFans, Instagram, or TikTok.
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
I used 17 pro max full day and now I've grabbed my old 11 pro and ... nothing. It's fine. Less "smooth"? Maybe. It doesn't bother me tho.
I decided to swap my galaxy s24 ultra for an iPhone 17 pro max and I couldn't be more happy. Also side note why do reviewers keep saying this thing is too big? It feels smaller than the s24 ultra and I honestly quite like the size. It is to slippery to use commando tho imo.
IPhone 17 pro max has best videos tho.