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The iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are now in stores as we await the release of the foldable iPhone Duo on Oct. 23. Curiously, Apple didn’t update its standard model, leaving the iPhone 17 as the likely go-to for most folks. But one thing it did was raise prices across the board, by $100. That means an iPhone 17 now starts at $929, the iPhone Air at $1,099, the once semiaffordable iPhone 17E at $799, and the new iPhone 18 Pro at $1,199. Buying a new iPhone is expensive, no matter which model you’re looking at, so it’s more important than ever to choose the one that suits your needs best. But that’s where our testing and reviews come in to help.
Our Picks
Bottom Line
With the iPhone 17, Apple significantly narrowed the chasm separating its baseline model from its Pro counterparts. The $929 iPhone 17 (or $89…
Pros & Cons
-
Upgraded 1-120Hz display makes everything look better -
New camera features means you don’t necessarily need a Pro model to get great snaps -
Long battery life: the iPhone 17 had the second-longest battery life of 35 phones we tested -
Faster charging with support for 40-watt wired and 25-watt wireless charging
-
Minimal design updates to previous year mean it doesn’t look that different -
Apple Intelligence can still feel like a work in progress
Bottom Line
Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are photography powerhouses. Their variable aperture, manual camera controls and focus tracking are a cam…
Pros & Cons
-
Outstanding cameras that excel in taking photos in a variety of conditions, especially in low-light environments and at night -
Fast charging that added 77% to the iPhone 18 Pro Max’s battery in just 30 minutes -
Durable build that feels incredibly well-build and sturdy to use -
Focus Tracking is outstanding to make sure a fast-moving, unpredictable subject (think a kid or pet) is in focus for photos and videos -
Reference Image is a welcome addition at a time when we are bombarded with AI-generated and altered imagery
-
Expensive: the starting price got a $100 price bump, pushing base models of the Pro to $1,199 and Pro Max to $1,299 -
Heavy: the iPhone 18 Pro Max weighs 249 grams, which will cause wrist fatigue more quickly for some people -
Camera Control can’t adjust the aperture or shutter speed, which seems like a giant miss
Bottom Line
The iPhone Air is the ultimate refresh if you’re looking for something that looks and feels drastically different from most other devices on t…
Pros & Cons
-
Slick, lightweight design that is attractive and a joy to hold -
Surprisingly good battery life (sometimes) -
Impressively durable for how thin it is -
iOS 27 looks great
-
Single rear camera which means you don’t have the option to go ultrawide or grab high-quality zoomed in snaps -
Scaled-back speaker which is just OK for audio -
Only charges up to 20 watts so not as fast as other iPhone models, but not slow by any means -
High $1,099 price tag
Bottom Line
Apple’s $699 iPhone 17E packs just enough new features to justify an iOS upgrade for anyone holding onto an iPhone SE or an iPhone 11. While m…
Pros & Cons
-
Premium feel despite being the most affordable iPhone Apple sells -
Solid camera capable of taking good photos and videos -
MagSafe compatibility with chargers, battery packs and accessories -
Higher 256GB base storage to hold all of your photos, files and apps -
A19 chip which supports Apple Intelligence and should allo the phone to get updates for years to come -
Fun pink color option is welcome and makes us happy
-
No Dynamic Island so you have the old school-style display notch instead -
Thick bezels which take away from the phone’s otherwise decent looks -
No ultrawide camera or Cinematic video, so this isn’t the iPhone to get for versatile photography options -
Only 60Hz refresh rate means no always-on display
Bottom Line
We tested the iPhone 16 in 2024 and are still impressed by its photography features, the convenient Action button and the elegant build. And w…
Pros & Cons
-
Camera Control is useful for switching camera settings -
Photographic Styles makes photos pop -
Ultrawide camera is better in low light
-
Apple Intelligence isn’t out yet -
No always on display -
No changes to wired charging speeds -
No upgrades to the Action button
What’s the best iPhone right now?
The best iPhone for most people is the iPhone 17. It now costs more due to higher RAM and component prices, driven by increased demand for memory from AI data centers. It starts at $929 (or $899 if you activate through a carrier) and has features like Dual Capture, Center Stage, and a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate screen for smoother scrolling with support for the always-on display.
While it’s true that the iPhone 17 shares a striking resemblance to the iPhone 16, which at $829 also got a price hike, there are some key updates that help it stand out. Apart from the upgraded refresh rate, the iPhone 17 also boasts a peak brightness of 3,000 nits and an antireflective display that makes it easier to see the screen outdoors.
The ultrawide camera goes from 12 megapixels on the iPhone 16 to 48 megapixels on the iPhone 17, and Apple says the iPhone 17 has up to 8 hours more of video playback. Indeed, in CNET’s 3-hour streaming test, the iPhone 17’s battery dropped from 100% to 89%, while the iPhone 16 hit 86%.
A Ceramic Shield 2 display offers three times better scratch resistance, according to Apple, so if you’re susceptible to etching into your screen, it has a little more protection now. The iPhone 17 starts with a higher-capacity 256GB storage option, compared to the 128GB starting point on the iPhone 16, giving you more space for photos and apps.
The iPhone 17 also supports iOS 27.
Best iPhones of 2026
Abrar Al-Heeti/Zooey Liao/CNET
Best iPhone
Apple iPhone 17
-
Upgraded 1-120Hz display makes everything look better -
New camera features means you don’t necessarily need a Pro model to get great snaps -
Long battery life: the iPhone 17 had the second-longest battery life of 35 phones we tested -
Faster charging with support for 40-watt wired and 25-watt wireless charging
-
Minimal design updates to previous year mean it doesn’t look that different -
Apple Intelligence can still feel like a work in progress
With the iPhone 17, Apple significantly narrowed the chasm separating its baseline model from its Pro counterparts. The $929 iPhone 17 (or $899 if you activate with a carrier) shares many of the same camera features with the newer iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, like Dual Capture and Center Stage. The standard iPhone finally has a display with a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate, so you can enjoy smoother scrolling and enable the always-on display to see your notifications at a glance. And with support for iOS 27, you can access Apple’s most talked-about new software features, such as the new Siri AI assistant upgrade. All that without spending upward of $1,199 for a Pro model, albeit with slightly scaled-back cameras.
Why we like it
The iPhone 17 is a baseline phone that shares many hardware and software features with the iPhone 18 Pro models, making it feel like a worthy, money-saving contender to those pricier devices. Generous battery life, faster charging and camera upgrades help it stand apart from last year’s iPhone 16, even if it looks almost identical.
Who it’s best for
The iPhone 17 is a great choice for the average phone user who wants good cameras, solid battery life and a quality display. It’s also a good size for anyone who doesn’t like larger phones.
Who shouldn’t get it
If you’re a photography enthusiast and a particularly heavy phone user, the 18 Pros might be the way to go, because you’ll get a telephoto lens on the back, as well as longer battery life with the Pro Max model. On the other hand, if you’re a lighter phone user, you can save more money by choosing the less expensive $829 iPhone 16.
- Screen size
- 6.3 inches
- Processor
- Apple A19
- Cameras
- 48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 18-megapixel (selfie)
- Colors
- Lavender, sage, mist blue, black, white
Best premium iPhone
iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max
-
Outstanding cameras that excel in taking photos in a variety of conditions, especially in low-light environments and at night -
Fast charging that added 77% to the iPhone 18 Pro Max’s battery in just 30 minutes -
Durable build that feels incredibly well-build and sturdy to use -
Focus Tracking is outstanding to make sure a fast-moving, unpredictable subject (think a kid or pet) is in focus for photos and videos -
Reference Image is a welcome addition at a time when we are bombarded with AI-generated and altered imagery
-
Expensive: the starting price got a $100 price bump, pushing base models of the Pro to $1,199 and Pro Max to $1,299 -
Heavy: the iPhone 18 Pro Max weighs 249 grams, which will cause wrist fatigue more quickly for some people -
Camera Control can’t adjust the aperture or shutter speed, which seems like a giant miss
Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are photography powerhouses. Their variable aperture, manual camera controls and focus tracking are a camera nerd’s dream. But when you combine that niche appeal with an $1,199 starting price ($1,299 for the 18 Pro Max), reality starts to come into focus. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max’s features and price expand the gap between Apple’s flagship Pro versions and the standard model, which was not updated to round out the 18 family, and is now expected early next year. I genuinely think most people would be better served by grabbing an iPhone 17, even at its higher $929 starting price, than one of the new Pros. Heck, I’d even say look at the iPhone 16. I mean, do you really need that telephoto camera?
Why we like it
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are aimed more at creative types than at regular folks, but that doesn’t change the fact that they’re outstanding, powerful phones. The battery life in my testing so far matches that of the 17 Pro and Pro Max, and charging is fast. iOS 27’s improvements make interacting with the iPhone feel lively and less tedious. I’ve enjoyed Siri AI and think that when more folks try out the beta voice assistant, it will win over a lot of new fans.
Who it’s best for
This is a solid upgrade for those coming from an iPhone 14 Pro and older. And iPhone 15 Pro owners, check your battery’s capacity and health. I’d recommend replacing the battery instead of upgrading right now, especially in this economy.
Who shouldn’t get it
If you’re just automatically upgrading from one pro iPhone to another, slow down. Owners of the iPhone 16 Pro or 17 Pro can comfortably sit this year out. Download iOS 27 and treat yourself to a nice meal with your loved ones instead. And while the iPhone 18 Pro and the upcoming foldable iPhone Duo are both positioned as creative tools, it’s like comparing a luxury SUV against a convertible.
Read CNET’s iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max review.
- Screen size
- 6.3 and 6.7 inches
- Processor
- Apple A20 Pro
- Cameras
- 48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (4x, 8x telephoto), 18-megapixel (selfie)
- Colors
- Burgundy, black, silver, glacier
Celso Bulgatti/Zooey Liao/CNET
Best sleek phone
iPhone Air
-
Slick, lightweight design that is attractive and a joy to hold -
Surprisingly good battery life (sometimes) -
Impressively durable for how thin it is -
iOS 27 looks great
-
Single rear camera which means you don’t have the option to go ultrawide or grab high-quality zoomed in snaps -
Scaled-back speaker which is just OK for audio -
Only charges up to 20 watts so not as fast as other iPhone models, but not slow by any means -
High $1,099 price tag
The iPhone Air is the ultimate refresh if you’re looking for something that looks and feels drastically different from most other devices on the market. It’s strikingly lightweight and slim, measuring just 5.6mm thick and clocking in at 165 grams. If you’re worried about durability, design elements like the titanium frame, Ceramic Shield 2 front and Ceramic Shield backing keep it from bending out of shape in your pocket. A generous 6.5-inch display makes it comfortable to hold and enjoyable to watch videos or play games on.
That doesn’t mean there aren’t trade-offs, which feel especially weighty given the iPhone Air’s $1,099 price tag. A slimmer battery can mean shorter life on heavy-use days, and a single rear camera means you don’t get ultrawide shots or Cinematic mode in video. There’s also only a single speaker instead of the dual-speaker system on other iPhones, which can make audio less immersive. The iPhone Air only supports up to 20-watt charging, as opposed to the 40-watt charging you’ll find on its iPhone 17 counterparts. But if you’re willing to make some compromises, the super-sleek iPhone Air can be an enjoyable investment.
Read CNET’s iPhone Air review.
Why we like it
Annual phone upgrades typically feel incremental, but the iPhone Air shakes things up with a bold new design that rivals other thin phones like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge. The Air is remarkably light, which makes it enjoyable to use and won’t weigh down your purse or pocket. Despite its shorter battery life under heavy-use conditions, the iPhone Air performed well in CNET’s battery tests and should hold up just fine on moderate-use days.
Who it’s best for
If you don’t particularly use your phone heavily and want a device that puts design at the forefront, the iPhone Air could be a solid choice. Despite a scaled-back camera, the single rear 48-megapixel camera can also take solid 2x zoom photos, and an 18-megapixel selfie camera matches what you’ll find on the iPhone 17, 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max.
Who shouldn’t get it
On the other hand, if you do use your phone a lot and have an affinity for photography, the iPhone Air might not be the best choice for you. The lack of an ultrawide lens (and no telephoto) might feel a bit too restrictive, and the battery may not be able to keep up with your more extensive screen time.
- Screen size
- 6.5 inches
- Processor
- Apple A19 Pro
- Cameras
- 48-megapixel (wide), 18-megapixel (selfie)
- Colors
- Space black, cloud white, light gold, sky blue
Best cheap iPhone
Apple iPhone 17E
-
Premium feel despite being the most affordable iPhone Apple sells -
Solid camera capable of taking good photos and videos -
MagSafe compatibility with chargers, battery packs and accessories -
Higher 256GB base storage to hold all of your photos, files and apps -
A19 chip which supports Apple Intelligence and should allo the phone to get updates for years to come -
Fun pink color option is welcome and makes us happy
-
No Dynamic Island so you have the old school-style display notch instead -
Thick bezels which take away from the phone’s otherwise decent looks -
No ultrawide camera or Cinematic video, so this isn’t the iPhone to get for versatile photography options -
Only 60Hz refresh rate means no always-on display
Apple’s $699 iPhone 17E packs just enough new features to justify an iOS upgrade for anyone holding onto an iPhone SE or an iPhone 11. While many elements of this iPhone are similar to the iPhone 14, the phone’s inclusion of an A19 processor, MagSafe for wireless charging and accessories and Ceramic Shield 2 are all notable improvements.
Why we like it
The iPhone 17E doesn’t feel like a second-class option now that it natively includes MagSafe support, 256GB of storage and a soft pink color option for a little personality. While this iPhone does miss out on having a second camera with an ultrawide lens and an always-on display available on the iPhone 17, anyone coming from an iPhone from 2020 or earlier might not notice these omissions, thanks to the upgrades it does include.
Who it’s best for
This is an ideal iPhone for someone who only upgrades their iPhone when it loses software support, and indeed, if you’re coming from an iPhone XR or earlier, you’ll receive plenty of new features. It’s also a good option for anyone coming from a smaller-screen iPhone SE.
Who shouldn’t get it
If iOS isn’t important, many of the Android phones on our main list of the best phones offer more features for less money. Some current iPhone owners might consider the 17E a step back with its lack of an ultrawide camera.
Read CNET’s iPhone 17E review.
- Screen size
- 6.1 inches
- Processor
- Apple A19
- Cameras
- 48-megapixel wide, 12-megapixel selfie
- Colors
- White, black, soft pink
Best iPhone on discount
Apple iPhone 16
-
Camera Control is useful for switching camera settings -
Photographic Styles makes photos pop -
Ultrawide camera is better in low light
-
Apple Intelligence isn’t out yet -
No always on display -
No changes to wired charging speeds -
No upgrades to the Action button
We tested the iPhone 16 in 2024 and are still impressed by its photography features, the convenient Action button and the elegant build. And while we think the iPhone 17 is quite the deal, you can still snag the iPhone 16 for $100 less. We consider the iPhone 16 to be a top-notch choice for Apple fans. Parts of the iPhone 16’s key feature, Apple Intelligence, are now out, and the fact that these phones will support it means they’ll likely feel future-proofed for years to come.
The iPhone 16 isn’t perfect — it’s missing an always-on display, and it feels like it’s been ages since Apple improved its wired charging speeds. But it checks all the important boxes and then some.
Why we like it
The iPhone 16 ranked so high in our testing because it appeals to novice users and power players even today. It offers about 90% of the experience of Apple’s Pro models but costs hundreds of dollars less. Not only is the iPhone 16 a wonderful phone out of the box, but Apple has a long track record of updating its software and security patches for years.
Who it’s best for
When you think about how the Camera Control key, the Action button and the Dynamic Island come together, along with the camera and battery improvements Apple has made in the last several years, the iPhone 16 is a compelling upgrade for someone coming from an older iPhone, especially if they’re on an iPhone 13 or older. For those who don’t need the Pro’s extra photography prowess and battery life, the iPhone 16 won’t disappoint.
Who shouldn’t get it
I wouldn’t recommend buying the iPhone 16 just for the Camera Control button or the better ultrawide camera.
Read CNET’s iPhone 16 and 16 Plus review.
- Screen size
- 6.1 inches and 6.7 inches
- Processor
- Apple A18
- Camera
- 48-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide), 12-megapixel (selfie)
- Colors
- Ultramarine (blue), pink, teal, black and white
Best iPhone models compared
| Apple iPhone 17 | Apple iPhone Air | iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max | Apple iPhone 17E | Apple iPhone 16 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display size, tech, resolution, refresh rate | 6.3-inch OLED; 2,622 x 1,206 pixel resolution; 1-120Hz variable refresh rate | 6.5-inch OLED; 2,736 x 1,260 pixel resolution; 1-120Hz variable refresh rate | 6.3-inch OLED, 2,622×1,206 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate | 6.8-inch OLED, 2,868×1,320 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate | 6.1-inch OLED display; 2,532×1,170 pixels; 60Hz refresh rate | 6.1-inch OLED; 2,556 x 1,179 pixel resolution; 60Hz refresh rate |
| Pixel density | 460 ppi | 460 ppi | 460 ppi | 460 ppi | 460 ppi | 460 ppi |
| Dimensions (inches) | 5.89 x 2.81 x 0.31 in | 6.15 x 2.94 x 0.22 in | 5.9 x 2.3 x 0.3 in | 6.4 x 3.1 x 0.3 in | 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.31 in | 5.81 x 2.82 x 0.31 in |
| Dimensions (millimeters) | 149.6 x 71.5 x 7.95 mm | 156.2 x 74.7 x 5.64 mm | 150 x 71.9 x 8.75mm | 163.4 x 78 x 8.75mm | 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8mm | 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8 mm |
| Weight (grams, ounces) | 177 g (6.24 oz) | 165 g (5.82 oz) | 211 g (7.4 oz) | 249 g (8.8 oz) | 167 g (5.88 oz.) | 170 g (6 oz.) |
| Mobile software | iOS 27 | iOS 27 | iOS 27 | iOS 27 | iOS 27 | iOS 27 |
| Camera | 48-megapixel (wide) 48-megapixel (ultrawide) | 48-megapixel (wide) | 48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (telephoto) | 48-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (telephoto) | 48-megapixel (wide) | 48-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide) |
| Front-facing camera | 18-megapixel | 18-megapixel | 18-megapixel | 18-megapixel | 12-megapixel | 12-megapixel |
| Video capture | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K |
| Processor | Apple A19 | Apple A19 Pro | Apple A20 Pro | Apple A20 Pro | Apple A19 | Apple A18 |
| RAM + storage | RAM N/A + 256GB, 512GB | RAM N/A + 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | RAM N/A + 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | RAM N/A + 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | RAM N/A + 256GB, 512GB | RAM N/A + 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Expandable storage | None | None | None | None | None | None (Face ID) |
| Battery | 3,692 mAh | 3,149 mAh | 4,056 mAh | 5,391 mAh | 4,005 mAh | 3,561 mAh |
| Fingerprint sensor | None (Face ID) | None (Face ID) | None (Face ID) | None (Face ID) | None, Face ID | None (Face ID) |
| Connector | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C |
| Headphone jack | None | None | None | None | None | None |
| Special features | Apple N1 wireless networking chip (Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) with 2×2 MIMO), Bluetooth 6, Thread. Action button. Camera Control button. Dynamic Island. Apple Intelligence. Visual Intelligence. Dual eSIM. 1 to 3,000 nits brightness display range. IP68 resistance. Colors: black, white, mist blue, sage, lavender. Fast charge up to 50% in 20 minutes using 40W adapter or higher via charging cable. Fast charge up to 50% in 30 minutes using 30W adapter or higher via MagSafe Charger. | Apple N1 wireless networking chip (Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) with 2×2 MIMO), Bluetooth 6, Thread. Action button. Apple C1X cellular modem. Camera Control button. Dynamic Island. Apple Intelligence. Visual Intelligence. Dual eSIM. 1 to 3,000 nits brightness display range. IP68 resistance. Colors: space black, cloud white, light gold, sky blue. Fast charge up to 50% in 30 minutes using 20W adapter or higher via charging cable. Fast charge up to 50% in 30 minutes using 30W adapter or higher via MagSafe Charger. | Apple N1 wireless networking chip (Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) with 2×2 MIMO), Bluetooth 6, Thread. Action button. Camera Control button. Dynamic Island. Apple Intelligence. Visual Intelligence. Siri AI. Dual eSIM. 1 to 3,000 nits brightness display range. IP68 resistance. Colors: black, silver, glacier, burgundy. Fast charge up to 50% in 20 minutes using 40W adapter or higher via charging cable. Fast charge up to 50% in 30 minutes using 30W adapter or higher via MagSafe Charger. | Apple N1 wireless networking chip (Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) with 2×2 MIMO), Bluetooth 6, Thread. Action button. Camera Control button. Dynamic Island. Apple Intelligence. Visual Intelligence. Siri AI. Dual eSIM. 1 to 3,000 nits brightness display range. IP68 resistance. Colors: black, silver, glacier, burgundy. Fast charge up to 50% in 20 minutes using 40W adapter or higher via charging cable. Fast charge up to 50% in 30 minutes using 30W adapter or higher via MagSafe Charger. | MagSafe, Qi2 charging (up to 15W), Action button, Apple C1 5G modem, Apple Intelligence, Ceramic Shield, Emergency SOS, satellite connectivity, IP68 resistance | Apple Intelligence, Action button, Camera Control button, Dynamic Island, 1 to 2,000 nits display brightness range, IP68 resistance. Colors: black, white, pink, teal, ultramarine. |
| US price starts at | $929 (256GB) | $1,099 (256GB) | $1,199 (256GB) | $1,299 (256GB) | $699 (256GB) | $829 (128GB) |
Recent updates
In September, we added the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max to this list. They replace last year’s iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max.
Factors to consider when buying a new iPhone
Hold the iPhone first: You may love or hate the way it looks and feels in person.
Don’t discount last year’s model: Apple has a history of keeping recent iPhone models from previous years around at a lower price. You can get a great phone that does almost everything that a new iPhone can do for a fraction of the price. The iPhone 16 packs a great camera and a big battery, but comes at a more reasonable price.
Buy an iPhone case and screen protector: You’ll protect your iPhone from costly damage and will increase the phone’s resale or trade-in value when you’re ready to move on.
Know what you care about most: Is it screen size? Camera quality? Battery life? Phones like the iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max, for example, pack incredible cameras that rival the quality you’d get from a DSLR. If you’re a photographer, then spending money here is a good idea.
Seek out holiday discounts: Look for deep discounts and promo deals around major holidays. And find out what your grace period is in case you need a quick return or exchange.
How we test iPhone models
We test every iPhone in real-world scenarios, focusing on its features, design, performance, cameras, battery life and overall value. We document our findings in an initial review that is periodically updated when there are new iOS updates or to compare against new phones from competitors like Samsung, Google and OnePlus.
John Kim/CNETPhotography
Photography is a major focus for the iPhone, so we take pictures and videos of various subjects in a variety of settings and lighting scenarios. We try out any new camera modes, such as Center Stage on the iPhone 17 series and Air, which lets you take a horizontal selfie even if you’re holding the phone vertically.
Battery life
We conduct battery testing in various ways. We assess how long the iPhone lasts during a typical day of use and note how it performs during more focused sessions of video calls, media streaming and gaming. We also conduct a video playback test and a 45-minute drain test starting with a full battery, which isn’t always included in the initial review and is added later in an update.
Performance measuring
We use benchmarking apps to measure the performance, alongside our own anecdotal experiences using the phone for our review. Of particular note are how graphics and animations look. Are they smooth? Or do they lag or stutter? We also look at how quickly the phone switches between horizontal and vertical orientations and how fast the camera app opens and is ready to take a photo.
Emergency SOS might be one of the most important features to come out on any phone this year.
Kevin Heinz/CNET
We perform processor-heavy tasks like editing photos and videos, exporting videos and playing games. We evaluate whether a newer version of the iPhone includes enough features to make it worth upgrading from older models. Some of these tests are added later in updates after the initial review is published.
Read more: How CNET Tests Phones
Other iPhones we tested
While Apple doesn’t sell the iPhone 17 Pro, you can still find it at carriers and third-party retailers. The 17 Pro has a 6.3-inch adaptive-refresh-rate screen that adjusts between 1Hz and 120Hz depending on what’s on the screen. It has excellent cameras, a fast processor, an always-on display, supports iOS 27 and safety features like Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via Satellite. Driving all these upgrades is Apple’s A19 Pro chip, which, in use, feels peppy. The iPhone 17 Pro is still an excellent phone today. Read CNET’s iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max review.
Key terms
eSIM
An eSIM takes all of the important information about your phone account — including its number, wireless carrier and subscription — and stores it in software instead of on a physical SIM card.
Since the iPhone 14 series, Apple no longer includes a physical SIM card tray and has embraced embedded eSIM cards in the US. This means you can’t just pluck your SIM card out of your current phone and put it into a new one. But this shouldn’t affect your experience as all the major US carriers and a number of smaller operators work with eSIM.
Apple has long supported eSIM, dating to 2018’s iPhone XS, XS Max and XR. When setting up a new iPhone 14, 15 or 16, the device will guide you through transferring your current provider over to the new phone. A list of supported wireless networks can be found on Apple’s website.
iOS 27
Apple’s iOS 27 animations have seemingly comic book character abilities. Every time I unlock my phone, the apps delightfully assemble on the home screen like the five lion robots uniting together to become Voltron. The lock screen clock extends around my chosen photo like Mr. Fantastic. The control center pulls down as if I were stretching a piece of taffy.
Siri AI, which is a beta version of Apple’s digital assistant, is much more helpful, and I find myself using it far more than I ever have in the past 10 years. It’s opt-in, but I recommend trying it out.
The unified look of the Liquid Glass interface across apps, the Home Screen and lock screen give the iPhone a contemporary, slick and shiny, plastic candy feel. For all the beauty Liquid Glass adds, though, some of the warmth of previous iOS versions is gone.
There are small but significant gems buried in iOS 27’s design, including the ability to add a background image to group chats in Messages or use the new Hold Assist tool for phone calls.
iPhone FAQs
When is the best time of year to buy a new iPhone?
Typically, you will find the best deals on iPhones the month after new models launch. That means with the iPhone 18 Pro launch in September, the best discounts and trade-in deals were from early September to early October. And for the upcoming iPhone Duo launch in October, those deals will be from late October to early November.
iPhone or Android?
In the early days of smartphones, the iPhone vs. Android rivalry was at its peak. But in 2026, the difference between Android and iOS has shrunk quite a bit. Nearly everything you can do on an iPhone, you can do on an Android phone and vice versa. If you’re trying to decide between buying an iPhone or an Android phone, first start by seeing what phones your family and closest friends use. For example, if your family is on iPhone and uses services like iMessage and FaceTime, then it makes sense to shop for an iPhone.
Should I wait for the new iPhone model (iPhone 18)?
The iPhone 18 might not launch until February 2027. So please don’t wait, especially if you really need to replace your existing phone.
How reliable is an iPhone?
Apple has been selling iPhones since 2007. The iPhone 17 lineup was released in September 2025, with the 18 Pro and Pro Max dropping in September 2026. All have a dust and water resistance rating of IP68, which means they can survive being submerged under 6 meters of water (about 20 feet) for 30 minutes. The screens are covered with Apple’s Ceramic Shield 2, a glass-ceramic material developed by Corning in collaboration with Apple, consisting of nano-ceramic crystals embedded in a glass matrix. It’s highly transparent, and according to Corning, the tough structure formed by the crystals means it’s less likely to break.
How long does an iPhone last?
One way to measure how long an iPhone will last is to look at the software and security support Apple offers for older models. iOS 27 can run on Apple phones as old as 2019’s iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max. That’s roughly seven years of software support. Compare that to Samsung, which offers seven years of Android version upgrades and security updates. But software is only half the equation. The other part is hardware and durability. Every iPhone Apple sells has an IP rating for dust and water resistance. Newer models also have Ceramic Shield, a glass-ceramic hybrid that covers the display and is very durable.
What to look forward to in 2026
Apple announced the iPhone Duo at its September event, but the phone won’t be released until Oct. 23. Rumors point to Apple debuting the base-model iPhone 18 and Air 2 in February 2027 — a shift from how Apple has typically announced its new iPhone models.
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