iPhone 17 Air vs iPhone 17 Pro: Which Model Should You Buy?

Apple is set to unveil its iPhone 17 lineup on September 9, marking the start of what promises to be a major month in the global smartphone market. The series will include four distinct models: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air. Each model targets different user preferences, from premium performance to lightweight design.

Leaks suggest the base iPhone 17 could be priced around Rs. 85,000, while the iPhone 17 Air may cost between Rs. 90,000 and Rs. 1 lakh. The Pro models, featuring 256GB storage as standard, are expected to start at Rs. 1,25,000 for the iPhone 17 Pro and Rs. 1,64,000 for the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

The standard iPhone 17 is likely to retain the classic vertical camera setup, glass back, and aluminium frame seen in previous generations. It may launch in six colors: Black, White, Steel Grey, Green, Purple, and Light Blue.

The iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to be Apple’s thinnest device, measuring just 5.5mm in thickness and weighing approximately 145 grams. It is expected to feature a titanium frame and a single-lens rear camera, available in Black, White, Light Blue, and Light Gold.

Pro models, iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, are rumored to receive significant design updates, including an expanded camera bar and a return to aluminium framing. These models are expected to be slightly bulkier due to larger batteries and an advanced vapor cooling system, and will likely be offered in Black, White, Grey, Dark Blue, and Orange.

The iPhone 17 will reportedly come with a 6.27-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness than its predecessor.

The ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air may feature a 6.6-inch OLED display with 120Hz refresh and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits.

iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models are expected to sport 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED displays with 120Hz ProMotion technology for smoother visuals.

The standard iPhone 17 may include a dual-camera system with a 48MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 24MP front camera.

The iPhone 17 Air is likely to carry a 48MP single rear camera and a 24MP front-facing camera.

The Pro variants may feature a triple-camera setup consisting of 48MP main, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP periscope telephoto lenses with 5x optical zoom.

All models are expected to run on Apple’s A19 or A19 Pro chips. The iPhone 17 will likely include 8GB RAM, while the Air and Pro models could feature 12GB RAM. The Air model may also include Apple’s C1 modem for enhanced connectivity.

Battery capacity is set to increase across most models, though the iPhone 17 Air may come with a smaller 2,900mAh unit. All devices are expected to support up to 35W fast charging and Qi 2 MagSafe charging.

With four distinct models catering to varied preferences, Apple’s iPhone 17 series aims to cover the spectrum from high-end flagship performance to ultra-lightweight portability. Buyers will need to weigh features, design, and pricing when choosing the right device.