iPhone 17 Air vs iPhone 16
The iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 16 cater to different segments of Apple's consumer base while both maintaining high standards of performance and design. The iPhone 17 Air, with its impossibly thin design and 6.6-inch Super Retina XDR ProMotion display, targets users who prioritize cutting-edge aesthetics and a high refresh rate experience. In contrast, the iPhone 16, powered by the A18 Bionic chip, appeals to those interested in robust performance, with features like a new Camera Control button and Apple Intelligence integration, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts and power users. While both phones share similar RAM and storage options, the iPhone 17 Air distinguishes itself with its 120Hz display and lightweight build at 5.64 oz, offering an ultra-portable option for video and gaming enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16's 6.0 oz weight and 22-hour video playback battery make it a reliable choice for users who value a balance of performance and battery life.
iPhone 17 Air
4.7
iPhone 16
4.7
iPhone 17 Air
Processor: A19
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
Display: 6.6" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (120Hz)
iPhone 16
Processor: A18 Bionic
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
Display: 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED (60Hz)
Comparison: iPhone 17 Air vs iPhone 16
iPhone 17 Air
iPhone 16
| Criterion | iPhone 17 Air | iPhone 16 |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.7 | ★4.7 |
| Processor | A19 | A18 Bionic |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| 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 22h video playback |
| Weight | 5.64 oz (160g) - Ultra-thin Aluminum | 6.0 oz (170g) |
| OS | iOS 19 | iOS 18 |
| 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 16
✓ Pros:
- • New Camera Control button for quick access
- • Support for Apple Intelligence features
- • Faster A18 chip handles gaming well
✗ Cons:
- • Display limited to 60Hz refresh rate
- • Charging speeds slower than competitors
Which one is better?
The iPhone 17 Air wins on display technology with a 120Hz refresh rate compared to the iPhone 16's 60Hz. However, the iPhone 16 compensates with features like the Camera Control button and Apple Intelligence support, catering to users who prioritize photographic and AI capabilities.
Who should buy each?
Choose iPhone 17 Air if: - You want a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals. - Light weight and ultra-thin design are priorities. - You prefer the latest iOS 19 for software updates. Choose iPhone 16 if: - You need the Camera Control button for quick photo access. - Robust Apple Intelligence features are appealing. - A slightly larger battery capacity is important. They're equally matched on: - RAM and storage options, offering the same 8GB RAM and up to 512GB storage.
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 16 is better if you prioritize new camera control button for quick access. 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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