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2025 comparison
Updated Dec 14, 2025Content refreshed automatically when specs change.

iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone 15 Pro Max

The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are two premium offerings from Apple, each targeting distinct consumer needs. The iPhone 17 Pro, with its 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR ProMotion display, provides a perfect balance of power and ergonomics, appealing to users who prioritize one-handed use without sacrificing performance. In contrast, the iPhone 15 Pro Max sports a larger 6.7-inch display and is designed for those who desire a bigger screen and can appreciate its titanium design, despite its slightly heavier weight of 7.81 oz compared to 6.70 oz for the iPhone 17 Pro. Under the hood, the iPhone 17 Pro boasts the latest A19 Bionic processor paired with 12GB of RAM, offering cutting-edge performance especially suited for intensive tasks and future-proofing. Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 Pro Max, with its A17 Pro processor and 8GB of RAM, still provides robust performance, though not as advanced as its counterpart. Both phones offer similar storage options, but the iPhone 17 Pro's higher RAM might appeal to power users. Battery life is another consideration, with the iPhone 17 Pro offering up to 30 hours of video playback, slightly edging out the iPhone 15 Pro Max's 29 hours. However, the larger screen on the Pro Max might attract media enthusiasts who prioritize immersive viewing experiences. Both phones maintain a high-quality 5x telephoto lens, ensuring excellent photographic capabilities, but the iPhone 15 Pro Max includes an Action Button for added customization, appealing to users who enjoy personalizing their device experience.

Processor: A19 Bionic vs A17 ProRAM: 12GB vs 8GBDisplay size: 6.3" vs 6.7"

iPhone 17 Pro

4.8

iPhone 15 Pro Max

4.8

Comparison: iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone 15 Pro Max

iPhone 17 Pro

iPhone 17 Pro

4.8
iPhone 15 Pro Max

iPhone 15 Pro Max

4.8
iPhone 17 Pro

iPhone 17 Pro

Rating:
4.8
Processor:A19 Bionic (3nm)
RAM:12GB
Storage:256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Display:6.3" Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz)
Battery:Up to 30h video playback
Weight:6.70 oz (190g) - Titanium frame
OS:iOS 19

✓ Pros:

  • Excellent one-handed use with a large screen
  • Same A19 Bionic power as the Max model
  • 5x telephoto camera is great for portraits

✗ Cons:

  • Battery life is slightly shorter than the Max
  • Standard model starts at 256GB, raising entry cost
iPhone 15 Pro Max

iPhone 15 Pro Max

Rating:
4.8
Processor:A17 Pro
RAM:8GB
Storage:256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Display:6.7" Super Retina XDR OLED (120Hz)
Battery:Up to 29h video playback
Weight:7.81 oz (221g)
OS:iOS 17 (Upgradable)

✓ Pros:

  • Lightweight and durable Titanium frame
  • 5x Telephoto lens is excellent
  • Action Button customization

✗ Cons:

  • Natural Titanium finish can show scratches
  • Slow charging compared to Android rivals

Which one is better?

iPhone 17 Pro emerges as the superior option with its advanced A19 Bionic processor and greater RAM capacity of 12GB. While the iPhone 15 Pro Max compensates with a larger display, the iPhone 17 Pro offers slightly better battery life and cutting-edge performance.

Who should buy each?

- **Choose iPhone 17 Pro if...** - You prefer the latest A19 Bionic processor for top performance. - You want a more ergonomic design for one-handed use. - Higher RAM capacity is essential for your usage. - **Choose iPhone 15 Pro Max if...** - You value a larger 6.7-inch display for media consumption. - Customization through the Action Button is important to you. - Titanium design appeals to your aesthetic preferences despite potential scratches. - **They're equally matched on...** - Storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB. - 5x telephoto camera capabilities for excellent portraits.

Conclusion

iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.

FAQs

+ Which has better value?

iPhone 17 Pro excels if you value excellent one-handed use with a large screen. iPhone 15 Pro Max is better if you prioritize lightweight and durable titanium frame. 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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