Best iPhone to buy
In 2025, choosing the right iPhone involves navigating a landscape of advanced technology and diverse user needs. This guide is designed for US consumers looking to invest in an iPhone that offers the best balance of performance, features, and value for their specific use case. The iPhone lineup this year introduces significant advancements in processing power, display technology, and camera capabilities, making it crucial to understand the differences each model offers. Whether you're a professional needing top-tier performance or a casual user seeking a reliable daily driver, there's an iPhone tailored to your needs. The iPhone 17 series, including the Pro Max, Pro, and Air models, represents the pinnacle of Apple's mobile technology, featuring the powerful A19 Bionic chip and ProMotion displays. These models are built for users who demand cutting-edge performance and high-end features such as under-display Face ID and advanced camera systems. On the other hand, the iPhone 16 and 15 models offer more affordable options while still delivering reliable performance with the A18 and A16 chips, respectively. The choice between these models largely depends on your budget, the importance of features like display quality, and your specific storage needs. When choosing an iPhone, consider factors such as display size and quality, battery life, and camera capabilities. For instance, the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a massive 6.9-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ideal for media consumption and gaming. Conversely, the iPhone 17 Air provides a more compact and lightweight design, perfect for users who prioritize portability. Storage options also vary, with some models offering up to 2TB, which is essential for users who need extensive space for apps, photos, and videos. Understanding these technical distinctions will help you make an informed decision. The iPhone lineup caters to a wide range of preferences, from those who need the latest in AI-driven features to those seeking a solid smartphone experience without breaking the bank. Take into account your daily usage patterns, whether you prioritize gaming, photography, or general productivity, to select the iPhone that best matches your lifestyle and expectations.
Top picks
Ultimate Performance and Features
★ 4.9The iPhone 17 Pro Max stands at the top of the lineup with its unparalleled combination of performance, camera capabilities, and battery life. Featuring the A19 Bionic chip, it offers exceptional processing power, perfect for demanding applications and future-proofing your device. The massive 6.9-inch ProMotion display and advanced camera system make it ideal for content creators and tech enthusiasts.
Powerful Yet Ergonomic
★ 4.8The iPhone 17 Pro offers a perfect balance of power and usability, featuring the same A19 Bionic chip as the Pro Max but in a more manageable size. Its 6.3-inch display is excellent for one-handed use, and the 5x telephoto camera delivers professional-quality photos. This model is ideal for users who want top-tier features without the bulk of a larger device.
Best-in-Class Battery Life
★ 4.9With its impressive battery life of up to 33 hours, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is perfect for users who need their device to last throughout the day and beyond. The A18 Pro chip ensures smooth performance, while the 6.9-inch display offers an immersive viewing experience. It's an excellent choice for media enthusiasts and heavy users.
Lightweight and Stylish
★ 4.7The iPhone 17 Air introduces a new design standard with its ultra-thin and lightweight aluminum frame. It offers a 120Hz ProMotion display, bringing smooth visuals to a non-Pro model, and is perfect for users who prioritize portability without sacrificing performance. It's a great option for those who want a sleek device that's easy to carry.
Solid Performance and Value
★ 4.7The iPhone 16 provides a reliable smartphone experience with the A18 Bionic chip, making it a great choice for users who need good performance at a more affordable price. The inclusion of Apple Intelligence features and a new Camera Control button adds utility, making it suitable for everyday tasks and casual photography.
Affordable and Capable
★ 4.6As the most budget-friendly option, the iPhone 15 offers essential features such as a brighter display and USB-C convenience. While it lacks some of the advanced features of newer models, it remains a solid choice for users who need a dependable device for basic tasks. The Dynamic Island adds a touch of modern utility.
How to decide
Budget and price for US buyers
The iPhone lineup in 2025 offers a range of pricing to suit different budgets. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 models are generally more affordable, making them suitable for consumers who need a reliable smartphone without the premium price tag. In contrast, the iPhone 17 series, particularly the Pro Max and Pro models, come with a higher starting price due to their advanced features and cutting-edge technology. When considering your budget, it's important to weigh the cost against the benefits of features like enhanced camera systems, larger storage capacities, and superior display technology. Additionally, the choice of storage can significantly impact the price, with higher capacities costing more.
Camera and video for everyday use
Camera capabilities are a significant consideration when selecting an iPhone. The iPhone 17 Pro Max and Pro models feature triple 48MP cameras, offering exceptional detail and advanced photography options, including 5x telephoto zoom for stunning portraits. These models also support 4K video recording at 120fps with Dolby Vision, making them ideal for content creators. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 models, while less advanced, still provide solid camera performance with features like the new Camera Control button on the iPhone 16, allowing for quick access to shooting modes. For everyday use, consider how often you capture photos and videos and whether you require professional-level quality.
Battery life and 5G endurance
Battery life is a crucial factor for smartphone users who are often on the go. The iPhone 17 Pro Max boasts a battery life of up to 34 hours of video playback, making it a top choice for users who need long-lasting performance. The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Air also offer impressive battery endurance, with 30 and 26 hours of playback, respectively. In comparison, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 models provide up to 22 and 20 hours, which is sufficient for most daily tasks but may require more frequent charging for heavy users. All models support 5G connectivity, ensuring fast and reliable internet access for streaming and online activities.
Storage: how much you really need
When it comes to storage, the iPhone lineup offers a range of options to accommodate different needs. The iPhone 17 Pro Max provides up to 2TB of storage, perfect for users who require extensive space for apps, media, and files. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 models offer more modest storage capacities, starting at 128GB and going up to 512GB, which are suitable for average users who do not need to store large amounts of data on their device. Consider your usage habits, such as whether you frequently download large apps or store high-resolution videos, to determine the right storage capacity for your needs.
Compatibility with AI features
AI features are increasingly integrated into smartphones, enhancing user experience through smarter interactions and personalized recommendations. The iPhone 17 series, powered by the A19 Bionic chip, offers advanced AI capabilities, including enhanced Face ID and machine learning that optimizes performance based on usage patterns. The iPhone 16, with its A18 Bionic chip, supports Apple Intelligence features, providing a seamless experience for tasks like gaming and multitasking. As AI technology continues to evolve, choosing a model with robust AI support can future-proof your device, ensuring it remains responsive and efficient over time.
Conclusion
In summary, the 2025 iPhone lineup offers a wide range of options to suit different user needs and budgets. The iPhone 17 Pro Max and Pro models are ideal for those who demand top-tier performance and features, while the iPhone 16 and 15 provide more affordable alternatives without sacrificing essential functionality. For users focused on design and portability, the iPhone 17 Air is an excellent choice. Each model comes with Apple's standard warranty and is readily available across the US, ensuring peace of mind and accessibility for consumers. When selecting your iPhone, consider your specific needs, such as camera quality, battery life, and storage, to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.