iPhone 17 vs iPhone 17 Air vs iPhone 17 Pro: Which Model Should You Buy in September 2025?

Apple is gearing up to unveil the iPhone 17 series in September 2025, and this year’s lineup looks more exciting than ever. Rumors suggest that Apple will launch four models — iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. With the new Air variant set to replace the Plus model, buyers now have more choices across design, performance, and pricing.

So, which iPhone 17 should you buy? Let’s break it down.

iPhone 17: The all-rounder

The standard iPhone 17 is expected to bridge the gap between the base and Pro models. Key highlights include:

• 6.3-inch display with a long-awaited 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling.
• Powered by the new A19 chip, promising better performance and efficiency.
• Dual-lens rear camera: 48MP wide + 12MP ultrawide.
• Upgraded 24MP front camera for selfies and video calls.
• Expected starting price: around $850.

This makes the iPhone 17 a solid pick for most users who want premium features without spending Pro-level money.

iPhone 17 Air: Slim, stylish, and new

The iPhone 17 Air is tipped to be Apple’s slimmest iPhone yet, possibly as thin as 5.5mm. It is designed for those who value style and portability. Key features include:

• 6.6-inch 120Hz display, larger than the standard model.
• A single 48MP rear camera, unlike the dual setup on the iPhone 17.
• A slightly toned-down A19 binned chip.
• Slim and lightweight form factor, targeted at fashion-conscious buyers.
• Expected price: around $900, sitting between the standard and Pro models.
• If you love sleek designs and don’t mind giving up a few features, the iPhone 17 Air might be your choice.
• iPhone 17 Pro & Pro Max: The ultimate flagships

For professionals and power users, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max remain the top-of-the-line offerings. Expected upgrades include:

• Powered by the A19 Pro chip (TSMC’s 3nm process) with 12GB RAM, optimized for Apple Intelligence AI features.
• New aluminium-glass hybrid chassis, more durable than titanium.
• Triple 48MP camera system (wide, ultrawide, telephoto) with a new 48MP telephoto lens.
• Pro-exclusive features: mechanical aperture control and 8K video recording (Pro Max only).
• Rumored 8x optical zoom on the Pro Max.
• Expected prices: iPhone 17 Pro ~$1,050, iPhone 17 Pro Max ~$1,250.

For content creators, photographers, and professionals, the Pro series delivers the best iPhone experience money can buy.

Which iPhone 17 should you buy?

• iPhone 17 → Best value for most users. Balanced features at a reasonable price.
• iPhone 17 Air → For those who want a thin, stylish iPhone with a big screen, even if it sacrifices some features.
• iPhone 17 Pro / Pro Max → For professionals, creators, and photography lovers who need the very best Apple has to offer.