iPhone 16 VS iPhone 17
iPhone 16
6.1-inch OLED 60Hz · A18 · 3561mAh · 48MP · IP68
MSRP
iPhone 17
6.3-inch OLED 120Hz · A19 · 3692mAh · 48MP · IP68
MSRP
Our verdict
The iPhone 17 takes the performance lead, 6% ahead overall, driven by its A19 and an AnTuTu score of 1,950,000.
On value the iPhone 17 stands out at $799, pairing a 48MP main camera with a 3692mAh battery.
For most buyers the iPhone 17 is the smarter choice.
Performance winner
iPhone 17
6% faster overall
Best value for money
iPhone 17
3% better value per dollar
iPhone 16 best for
Value for money
3% better value per dollar
Overview
The iPhone 17 comes out ahead overall, scoring 89 to the iPhone 16's 84. Priced at $799 against $799, the choice between them is as much about budget as specs, and each phone leans toward a slightly different buyer.
Performance
For raw speed the iPhone 17 takes the lead, with an AnTuTu score of 1,950,000 against 1,500,000, driven by its A19. Both feel quick in everyday use, but the gap shows up in demanding games and heavy multitasking where the faster chip pulls ahead.
Cameras
The iPhone 16 pairs a 48MP main camera with optical zoom and a 12MP front sensor. The iPhone 17 answers with 48MP, zoom and a 18MP selfie camera.
Battery and charging
Battery favours the iPhone 17, with a 3692mAh cell against 3561mAh. For refills the iPhone 17 is quickest at 40W, spending less time tied to a charger.
Display
Both use high refresh rate OLED screens. The iPhone 16 measures 6.1" and peaks at 2000 nits, while the iPhone 17 is 6.3" and reaches 3000 nits. Screen size and outright brightness are where they separate most.
Which should you buy
Overall the iPhone 17 is the one we would steer most buyers toward. Consider the iPhone 16 instead if a lower price matters more to you.
battery
camera
display
Performance
Physical
Synthetic & compute benchmarks
Frequently asked questions
Is the iPhone 16 better than the iPhone 17?
Overall the iPhone 17 scores 89 out of 100 against the iPhone 16's 84, so it edges ahead on our combined rating. Even so, the two are close enough that price, size and your preferred ecosystem should also guide the decision.
Which has the better camera, the iPhone 16 or the iPhone 17?
The iPhone 16 has the stronger camera on paper, leading with a 48MP main sensor and optical zoom. Both take excellent photos, but the iPhone 16 offers more reach and flexibility.
Which has better battery life, the iPhone 16 or the iPhone 17?
The iPhone 17 carries the larger 3692mAh battery against 3561mAh, and the iPhone 17 charges fastest at 40W. For heavy all-day use the iPhone 17 is the safer bet.
Which is faster, the iPhone 16 or the iPhone 17?
In benchmarks the iPhone 17 is quicker, posting an AnTuTu score of 1,950,000 against 1,500,000 thanks to its A19. Both handle everyday tasks smoothly, but the iPhone 17 pulls ahead in demanding games.
Should I buy the iPhone 16 or the iPhone 17?
For most buyers the iPhone 17 is the smarter pick, balancing performance, features and price. Choose the iPhone 16 if a lower price is your priority.
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