To recommend the best iPhone to get, it depends on preferences for features, budget, and usage needs. Here are the top options as of now:
- The iPhone 17 series is the latest. The standard iPhone 17 with a 6.3-inch display and 256GB base storage is the best all-around for most users with upgraded 120Hz refresh rate and solid performance.
- For photography and power users, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max offer the most advanced cameras, better zoom, and enhanced gaming and thermal management features. The Pro Max has the largest screen and best battery.
- The iPhone 17 Air is a lighter, more affordable choice for those who want a smaller device and don't need advanced camera features.
- If budget is a key factor, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus remain excellent choices with powerful performance, good battery life, and new camera features at a lower price than the 17 series.
- For the most affordable new iPhone with good performance, the iPhone SE (3rd generation or the newer 2025 release) is a good option with decent cameras and newer chipset but smaller battery.
Summary comparison:
Model| Best For| Size & Display| Key Features| Price (Approx.)
---|---|---|---|---
iPhone 17| Most users, value| 6.3" 120Hz, 256GB base| Latest chipset, AI
tools, 120Hz| Around $799+
iPhone 17 Pro| Power users, photographers| Slightly larger than 17| Best
cameras, telephoto, AI features| About $999+
iPhone 17 Pro Max| Biggest screen, longest battery| Largest screen| Top
cameras, best battery, Pro chip| About $1199+
iPhone 17 Air| Lightweight, budget, basics| Smaller display| Affordable, less
camera power| Less than $799
iPhone 16/16 Plus| Affordable flagship| 6.1" and 6.7"| Strong performance,
good battery| Around $799/$899
iPhone SE (3rd gen or newer)| Budget, small size| Smaller display| Good
performance, Touch ID| Around $479
If priority is highest-end features and future-proofing, the iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max is best. For a balanced choice, iPhone 17 or 16 Plus is great. If budget is limited, go for SE or iPhone 16. This recommendation reflects the current models' features, prices, and user needs in 2025.