iPhone 17 Air vs iPhone 15
The iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 15 cater to different segments of the smartphone market. The iPhone 17 Air introduces a new design standard, focusing on ultra-thin aesthetics and advanced features like a 120Hz ProMotion display, appealing to users who prioritize cutting-edge design and smooth performance. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 maintains a practical approach with the introduction of Dynamic Island and USB-C, enhancing utility for everyday users who value connectivity and display brightness. With the iPhone 17 Air's A19 processor and 8GB RAM, it targets those desiring the latest tech advancements, while the iPhone 15 offers a more balanced performance-to-cost ratio with its A16 Bionic processor and 6GB RAM, suitable for users seeking reliable performance without the need for extreme features.
iPhone 17 Air
4.7
iPhone 15
4.6
iPhone 17 Air
Processor: A19
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
Display: 6.6" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (120Hz)
iPhone 15
Processor: A16 Bionic
RAM: 6GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
Display: 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED (60Hz)
Comparison: iPhone 17 Air vs iPhone 15
iPhone 17 Air
iPhone 15
| Criterion | iPhone 17 Air | iPhone 15 |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.7 | ★4.6 |
| Processor | A19 | A16 Bionic |
| RAM | 8GB | 6GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Display | 6.6" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (120Hz) | 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED (60Hz) |
| Battery | Up to 26h video playback | Up to 20h video playback |
| Weight | 5.64 oz (160g) - Ultra-thin Aluminum | 6.02 oz (171g) |
| OS | iOS 19 | iOS 17 (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 15
✓ Pros:
- • Brighter display fits modern standards
- • Transition to USB-C convenience
- • Dynamic Island adds utility
✗ Cons:
- • Still stuck on 60Hz refresh rate
- • USB-C port limited to USB 2.0 speeds
Which one is better?
iPhone 17 Air wins on refresh rate (120Hz vs 60Hz) and weight (160g vs 171g), while iPhone 15 compensates with USB-C convenience and more affordable pricing.
Who should buy each?
Choose iPhone 17 Air if... - You prioritize a 120Hz ProMotion display for smoother visuals. - You want a lightweight device with an ultra-thin design. - You seek the latest processor technology with the A19 chip. Choose iPhone 15 if... - You need the convenience of USB-C for charging and connectivity. - You prefer a more affordable option with reliable performance. - You value the utility of Dynamic Island for notifications. They're equally matched on... - Storage options, both offering 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB capacities.
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
FAQs
+ Which has better value?
iPhone 17 Air excels if you value finally brings 120hz promotion to non-pro models. iPhone 15 is better if you prioritize brighter display fits modern standards. 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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