iPhone 17 Pro Max vs iPhone 17 Air
The iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Air cater to different segments of the smartphone market, each offering unique features tailored to specific user needs. With its powerful A19 Bionic chip and an impressive 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR ProMotion display, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is clearly aimed at tech enthusiasts and professionals who demand top-tier performance and cutting-edge technology. Conversely, the iPhone 17 Air, with its ultra-thin design and lighter weight of 5.64 oz, appeals to users seeking a more portable device without sacrificing essential features like the 120Hz ProMotion display. Both models run iOS 19, ensuring a seamless and up-to-date user experience.
iPhone 17 Pro Max
4.9
iPhone 17 Air
4.7
iPhone 17 Pro Max
Processor: A19 Bionic (3nm)
RAM: 12GB
Storage: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
Display: 6.9" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz)
iPhone 17 Air
Processor: A19
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
Display: 6.6" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (120Hz)
Comparison: iPhone 17 Pro Max vs iPhone 17 Air
iPhone 17 Pro Max
iPhone 17 Air
| Criterion | iPhone 17 Pro Max | iPhone 17 Air |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.9 | ★4.7 |
| Processor | A19 Bionic (3nm) | A19 |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Display | 6.9" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz) | 6.6" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (120Hz) |
| Battery | Up to 34h video playback | Up to 26h video playback |
| Weight | 7.76 oz (220g) - Titanium frame | 5.64 oz (160g) - Ultra-thin Aluminum |
| OS | iOS 19 | iOS 19 |
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| Cons |
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iPhone 17 Pro Max
✓ Pros:
- • Face ID is now invisible under the display (Under-display)
- • Triple 48MP cameras allow insane detail
- • Battery life is basically 2 days
✗ Cons:
- • Extremely expensive starting price
- • Camera bump is quite large
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
Which one is better?
iPhone 17 Pro Max wins overall due to its superior camera system with triple 48MP cameras and larger storage options up to 2TB. The iPhone 17 Air offers a more lightweight design and a radical new look, making it an attractive option for users prioritizing portability and style.
Who should buy each?
Choose iPhone 17 Pro Max if: - You need extensive storage options up to 2TB. - You prioritize a top-tier camera system with triple 48MP cameras. - Battery life of up to 34h video playback is essential for you. Choose iPhone 17 Air if: - You prefer a lighter device at 5.64 oz for easy handling. - A sleek, radical new design is important to you. - You want a more budget-friendly option with sufficient performance. They're equally matched on: - Both offer the 120Hz ProMotion display for smooth visuals. - Both run the latest iOS 19 for an updated software experience.
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 Pro Max excels if you value face id is now invisible under the display (under-display). iPhone 17 Air is better if you prioritize finally brings 120hz promotion to non-pro models. 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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