iPhone 17 Air vs iPhone 14 Pro Max
Choosing between iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 14 Pro Max can be tricky. Both are excellent, but they serve different priorities. This guide highlights what matters for US shoppers.
iPhone 17 Air
4.7
iPhone 14 Pro Max
4.7
iPhone 17 Air
Processor: A19
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
Display: 6.6" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (120Hz)
iPhone 14 Pro Max
Processor: A16 Bionic
RAM: 6GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 1TB
Display: 6.7" Super Retina XDR OLED (120Hz)
Comparison: iPhone 17 Air vs iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 17 Air
iPhone 14 Pro Max
| Criterion | iPhone 17 Air | iPhone 14 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.7 | ★4.7 |
| Processor | A19 | A16 Bionic |
| RAM | 8GB | 6GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | 128GB / 256GB / 1TB |
| Display | 6.6" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (120Hz) | 6.7" Super Retina XDR OLED (120Hz) |
| Battery | Up to 26h video playback | Up to 29h video playback |
| Weight | 5.64 oz (160g) - Ultra-thin Aluminum | 8.47 oz (240g) |
| OS | iOS 19 | iOS 16 (Upgradable) |
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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iPhone 17 Air
✓ Pros:
- • Finally brings 120Hz ProMotion to non-Pro models
- • Incredibly light and comfortable to hold
- • New radical design change
✗ Cons:
- • Only has one main camera (to save space)
- • Battery is smaller than the Pro Max
iPhone 14 Pro Max
✓ Pros:
- • Dynamic Island UI is innovative
- • Always-On Display introduced
- • Significant camera resolution jump to 48MP
✗ Cons:
- • Very heavy stainless steel frame
- • Lightning port limits data transfer speeds
Which one is better?
The iPhone 14 Pro Max wins overall due to its advanced camera system with a 48MP sensor and longer battery life of up to 29 hours, compared to the iPhone 17 Air's 26 hours. However, the iPhone 17 Air offers a lighter, more portable design and the same 120Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for users prioritizing portability and display quality.
Who should buy each?
- Choose iPhone 17 Air if... - You want the lightest, most portable iPhone at 5.64 oz. - You seek a 120Hz ProMotion display in a non-Pro model. - You appreciate cutting-edge design changes. - Choose iPhone 14 Pro Max if... - You need a substantial camera upgrade to 48MP. - You want maximum storage flexibility with up to 1TB. - You require longer battery life for video playback. - They're equally matched on... - Display technology with both offering 120Hz refresh rates.
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
FAQs
+ Which has better value?
iPhone 17 Air excels if you value finally brings 120hz promotion to non-pro models. iPhone 14 Pro Max is better if you prioritize dynamic island ui is innovative. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+ Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+ Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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