Upgrading to iPhone 17: How It Compares to the iPhone 16
The idea of getting a new iPhone is exciting; upgraded features, a whole new device to customise, and improvements in storage, battery and more. It can be difficult to narrow down which iPhone to purchase when it’s time to upgrade, especially with more choice than ever.
If you’re trading in an old iPhone 15, 14 or lower, we’re going to provide some guidance on which model to opt for between the two most recent launches: the iPhone 16 and 17. Not only this, but we’ll help you decide whether the base version is enough, or whether it’s worth splurging on a Pro or Pro Max variant.
What is the difference between iPhone 16 and iPhone 17?
As of today, the two most recent iPhone models are the iPhone 16 from 2024 and the iPhone 17 from 2025. So, what sets them apart?
Since the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are no longer available to buy on Apple’s official website, we’ll just be using the base and Plus models for our comparison.
Price
The iPhone 16 is cheaper than the 17, primarily because it’s older. Currently, official Apple prices are:
- iPhone 16 – From £699
- iPhone 16 Plus – From £799
- iPhone 17 – From £799
- iPhone 17 Pro – From £1,099
- iPhone 17 Pro Max – From £1,199
The price comparison will depend on how much you care about the difference between these phones. For instance, the 17 Pro Max costs £500 more than the base iPhone 16, but you’re getting the most up-to-date, most advanced iPhone to date.
Don’t forget, the price may vary depending on your network (if you’re on a phone contract), and Apple offers payment plans, too.
Battery Life
Tired of your battery dying after a day out? Battery performance is one of the biggest reasons people upgrade, and this lineup has major differences.
- iPhone 16 – A solid all-day battery for average users (22 hours video playback).
- iPhone 16 Plus – A larger battery, often lasting up to 2 days depending on use (27 hours video playback).
- iPhone 17 – Improved efficiency and around 3 hours more than the 16 Plus (30 hours video playback).
- iPhone 17 Pro – Strong all-day performance even with Pro-level hardware (31 hours video playback).
- iPhone 17 Pro Max – The longest battery life of any iPhone ever. Easily a two-day phone for moderate use (37 hours video playback).
With the Pro and Pro Max models, you can go away for a weekend without constantly thinking about chargers. If your current phone forces you into low-power mode by mid-afternoon, these upgrades will feel life-changing.
Image Credit: Apple
Cameras
Frustrated that your current phone can’t capture clear photos in low light or zoom without turning everything into a blur? Camera upgrades may be the reason to switch.
- iPhone 16 / 16 Plus – Dual-camera system with a great 48MP main lens; excellent for everyday photography.
- iPhone 17 – Still dual-camera, but improved sensors and a better front camera for selfies and video calls.
- iPhone 17 Pro & Pro Max – Triple-camera setup with Pro-level lenses, large sensors, and up to 8x optical-quality zoom.
Better cameras mean clearer photos at night, sharper zoom when you’re far from the action, and more natural-looking selfies. If you often take photos at concerts, on holidays or of your kids running around, the Pro and Pro Max will give you shots your older phone simply can’t.
Trading in? Use our ‘sell my iPhone’ service to get paid quickly.
Image Credit: Apple
Additional Features
Feeling like your phone is starting to lag, look dated, or miss out on new software tricks? Every model gets the basics (MagSafe, great performance, excellent build quality), but higher-tier phones offer more.
- iPhone 16 / 16 Plus – Standard 60Hz display. Solid performance, lightweight design.
- iPhone 17 – Jumps to 120Hz ProMotion for smoother scrolling and animations, which is a big everyday upgrade.
- iPhone 17 Pro – A19 Pro chip and vapour-chamber cooling for sustained high performance during gaming or video editing.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max – Largest screen and the best thermal performance; ideal for multitasking and creative work.
Features like smoother displays, faster chips and better cooling affect your daily experience more than you might think. Scrolling feels more fluid, apps open instantly and your phone stays cooler during long video calls or gaming sessions.
Should I get an iPhone 17 or 16?
Here’s a quick breakdown, based on what you’re looking for in a phone:
| Use Case | Recommended iPhone |
| Media, battery life, big screen | iPhone 16 Plus: For watching videos, reading, or long battery life with a large display. |
| Balanced, modern feel, good performance | iPhone 17: A newer chip, good battery, more storage, but still compact and easy to handle. |
| Creator / power user | iPhone 17 Pro: For serious camera use, video, or running heavy apps. Great zoom, professional camera, and power. |
| Max performance & endurance | iPhone 17 Pro Max: For longest battery, best camera system, and power to spare. Excellent for travel, work, and creative projects. |
Whether you’re going for the iPhone 16 or iPhone 17, you’ll want to sell your current device with a trusted, reputable recycler like Mazuma. Selling your iPhone with us means fast payment turnarounds, guaranteed quotes, and secure shipping. Find your phone on our website now.