You might have heard that "the iPhone" is one of the most popular phones in the US. But that's not quite accurate. Apple currently sells six different iPhone models. Survey the shelves at the major US carriers, and you'll see all the choices. These models include the older iPhone 16, the budget-minded iPhone 17e, and the latest iPhone 17 and 17 Pro Max. Each has a specific appeal, whether it's price, size, features, battery life, or a combination of these. We've tested every Apple phone since the first-generation iPhone back in 2007. Here's what we've learned about choosing the best iPhone right now.
Overview
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![Apple iPhone 17]()
Best iPhone for Most PeopleApple iPhone 17
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![Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max]()
Best Battery LifeApple iPhone 17 Pro Max
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![Apple iPhone 17e]()
Best Entry-Level iPhoneApple iPhone 17e
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![Apple iPhone Air]()
Most Stylish iPhoneApple iPhone Air
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![Apple iPhone 17 Pro]()
Best Smaller iPhone for CreatorsApple iPhone 17 Pro
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![Apple iPhone 16]()
Best Older iPhoneApple iPhone 16
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![Apple iPhone 17]()
Best iPhone for Most PeopleApple iPhone 17
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The iPhone 17 is the most affordable entry in the new line and offers lots to like. Most importantly, it gains the 6.3-inch ProMotion display of the pricier 17 Pro and doubles the base storage to 256GB—without raising the price. It features the Action Button and Camera Control key, has the latest radios, including Apple's new N1 chip for Bluetooth, Thread, and Wi-Fi, and has a much-improved battery. Additionally, the phone gets an upgraded A19 processor with Apple Intelligence, sports a more powerful ultra-wide camera, and comes in the same toughened waterproof build as previous years.
Who It's For
The iPhone 17 is the best iPhone for most buyers. It's affordable, runs fast enough for gaming, has capable cameras for adding content to social networks, and includes many of the same features as the pricier models for hundreds less. If you need a solid phone but don't care to spend the extra cash, the iPhone 17 is the obvious choice.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 24 hours, 31 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 48MP, 48MP; 18MP CPU Apple A19 Dimensions 5.89 by 2.81 by 0.31 inches Operating System iOS 26 Screen Resolution 2,622 by 1,206 pixels Screen Size 6.3 Learn More Apple iPhone 17 Review -
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![Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max]()
Best Battery LifeApple iPhone 17 Pro Max
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The 17 Pro Max is the top model in the iPhone 17 family. It packs the best cameras (including a 4x optical telephoto shooter), a lightning-fast A19 Pro processor, a new aluminum unibody chassis, a large and bright display, and the longest battery life of any iPhone—up to 32 hours! It ships with iOS 26 and supports all the latest Apple Intelligence features, including Live Translation.
Who It's For
The 17 Pro Max is ideal if you want it all and have the money to spend. If you're a video-first creator, it lets you use ProRes and Log recording. With all the best features and the performance to match, it carries a steep price, even when broken down over two or three years via carrier plans. However, if you will use all the phone's creative powers, it's worth the cost.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 32 hours, 11 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 48MP, 48MP, 48MP; 18MP CPU Apple A19 Pro Dimensions 6.43 by 3.07 by 0.34 inches Operating System iOS 26 Screen Resolution 2,868 by 1,320 pixels Screen Size 6.9 Learn More Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max Review -
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![Apple iPhone 17e]()
Best Entry-Level iPhoneApple iPhone 17e
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Apple products aren't always known for affordability, but the iPhone 17e mostly bucks the trend by offering many of the features that make the iPhone 17 so good at a respectably lower price. It modernizes the most affordable iPhone by upgrading the processor, charging tech, and camera.
Who It's For
The iPhone 17e is perfect if you don't need a more advanced model and don't want to spend more than $600.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 22 hours, 2 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 48MP; 12MP CPU Apple A19 Dimensions 5.78 by 2.82 by 0.32 inches Operating System iOS 26 Screen Resolution 2,532 by 1,170 pixels Screen Size 6.1 Learn More Apple iPhone 17e Review -
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![Apple iPhone Air]()
Most Stylish iPhoneApple iPhone Air
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The iPhone Air is a brand new model with a strikingly svelte design. It measures just 0.22 inches thick and weighs 5.24 ounces, making it the thinnest and lightest iPhone ever. To achieve this design, Apple cut back on battery life and kept the phone to a single rear camera. That said, it's a novel device that stands apart from the pack and still has a great screen, fast performance, and the latest software with Apple Intelligence.
Who It's For
If you want a showpiece phone that stuns with its incredibly thin and light design, and want something that practically disappears into your pocket, the iPhone Air is the one to get.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 19 hours, 15 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 48MP; 18MP CPU Apple A19 Pro Dimensions 6.15 by 2.94 by 0.22 inches Operating System iOS 26 Screen Resolution 2,736 by 1,260 pixels Screen Size 6.5 Learn More Apple iPhone Air Review -
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![Apple iPhone 17 Pro]()
Best Smaller iPhone for CreatorsApple iPhone 17 Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The 17 Pro is the iPhone to buy if you want all the latest features, top performance, and a fantastic screen in a compact package. It includes all the functionality of the Pro Max in a smaller body that's more comfortable to hold and use.
Who It's For
If you're looking for a top-tier phone with tons of creative power that fits your hand and your budget, the iPhone 17 Pro offers flagship performance for $100 less than the Pro Max.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 27 hours, 42 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 48MP, 48MP, 48MP; 18MP CPU Apple A19 Pro Dimensions 5.91 by 2.83 by 0.34 inches Operating System iOS 26 Screen Resolution 2,622 by 1,206 pixels Screen Size 6.3 Learn More Apple iPhone 17 Pro Review -
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Credit: Eric Zeman
![Apple iPhone 16]()
Best Older iPhoneApple iPhone 16
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The iPhone 16 might be last year's model, but it's still a good option for those who want to save some money. It ships with the solid A18 processor, a fine dual-camera system, good wireless performance, and Apple's Emergency SOS feature. Moreover, it will still receive several years of software support from Apple.
Who It's For
The iPhone 16 is a good pick if you don't need the latest device and would rather keep an extra $100 in your pocket. It still handles all the smartphone basics with aplomb—including Apple Intelligence, and is a step up in power from the 16e.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life (As Tested) 17 hours, 47 minutes Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) 48MP, 12MP; 12MP CPU Apple A18 Dimensions 5.8 by 2.8 by 0.3 inches Operating System iOS 18 Screen Resolution 2,556 by 1,179 pixels Screen Size 6.1 Learn More Apple iPhone 16 Review -
Compare Specs
Our Pick | |||||||||
Rating |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
Best For | Best iPhone for Most People | Best Battery Life | Best Entry-Level iPhone | Most Stylish iPhone | Best Smaller iPhone for Creators | Best Older iPhone | Best iPhone for Most People | Best Battery Life | Best Entry-Level iPhone |
Operating System | iOS 26 | iOS 26 | iOS 26 | iOS 26 | iOS 26 | iOS 18 | iOS 26 | iOS 26 | iOS 26 |
CPU | Apple A19 | Apple A19 Pro | Apple A19 | Apple A19 Pro | Apple A19 Pro | Apple A18 | Apple A19 | Apple A19 Pro | Apple A19 |
Dimensions | 5.89 by 2.81 by 0.31 inches | 6.43 by 3.07 by 0.34 inches | 5.78 by 2.82 by 0.32 inches | 6.15 by 2.94 by 0.22 inches | 5.91 by 2.83 by 0.34 inches | 5.8 by 2.8 by 0.3 inches | 5.89 by 2.81 by 0.31 inches | 6.43 by 3.07 by 0.34 inches | 5.78 by 2.82 by 0.32 inches |
Screen Size | 6.3 | 6.9 | 6.1 | 6.5 | 6.3 | 6.1 | 6.3 | 6.9 | 6.1 |
Screen Resolution | 2,622 by 1,206 pixels | 2,868 by 1,320 pixels | 2,532 by 1,170 pixels | 2,736 by 1,260 pixels | 2,622 by 1,206 pixels | 2,556 by 1,179 pixels | 2,622 by 1,206 pixels | 2,868 by 1,320 pixels | 2,532 by 1,170 pixels |
Camera Resolution (Rear; Front-Facing) | 48MP, 48MP; 18MP | 48MP, 48MP, 48MP; 18MP | 48MP; 12MP | 48MP; 18MP | 48MP, 48MP, 48MP; 18MP | 48MP, 12MP; 12MP | 48MP, 48MP; 18MP | 48MP, 48MP, 48MP; 18MP | 48MP; 12MP |
Battery Life (As Tested) | 24 hours, 31 minutes | 32 hours, 11 minutes | 22 hours, 2 minutes | 19 hours, 15 minutes | 27 hours, 42 minutes | 17 hours, 47 minutes | 24 hours, 31 minutes | 32 hours, 11 minutes | 22 hours, 2 minutes |
Buying Guide: What's the Best iPhone to Buy in 2026?
When Is the New iPhone Coming Out?
The iPhone 17 line launched in September 2025, which means the iPhone 18 is likely to arrive in September or October 2026. The iPhone 17e just arrived in March 2026. Now is a great time to buy an iPhone.
Which Is the Most Powerful iPhone?
Apple introduces faster and more powerful iPhones every year. A faster processor is better if you play a lot of games, surf image-heavy web pages, or shoot high-resolution video. Apple's most powerful iPhones are the Pro models.
Generally speaking, each new generation of Apple's A-series chips brings a 15% to 20% jump in overall performance, including web browsing and GPU power. That means there's not that big a difference between the A18 (in the iPhone 16) and the A19 (in the iPhone 17), but there's a noticeable difference between either of those and the older A16 Bionic (in the iPhone 15).
The iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max have A19 Pro chips inside with plenty of RAM, and they currently lead the pack in benchmark testing.
Do You Need a 5G iPhone?
At this point, it's hard to avoid one. The iPhone 16 and 17 series are all 5G devices that support C-band and mmWave networks. That's a strong argument for not choosing anything older than the iPhone 16. Fast 5G coverage has become far more universal in the last few years. T-Mobile has already expanded its speedy mid-band 5G network to much of the country, and Verizon has mostly completed its rollout of C-band. Both systems make a considerable difference in connection speed and performance. AT&T has pushed hard to get its 3.45GHz spectrum up and running and is catching up quickly.
Every iPhone from the iPhone 15 and onward has all the 5G you need, so it's best to stick with the more recent models if you're buying used.
Which iPhone Has the Best Camera?
How serious are you about taking photos with your smartphone? That can help determine your choice of iPhone.
All iPhones have a main camera that shoots solid images during the day. Most are also good now at capturing decent shots after the sun goes down, though your mileage will vary a little bit there. The iPhone 16e and iPhone Air both have a single camera on the rear. The Air's single camera matches the resolution and features of the other main cameras. The standard iPhone 16 and 17 models each have wide-angle cameras, too, which help you fit more scenery into a shot. These cameras are great for taking photos of groups or crowds of people.
Pro iPhones, meanwhile, have telephoto cameras that get crisp close-ups thanks to optical zoom. The Pro models also have advanced video capture features, including the highest rates (4K120), the most info-dense format (ProRes), and the best profiles for post-processing (Log).
To get the best camera and video camera, one of the Pro models is the way to go.
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Which iPhone Size Is the Best?
Some people like big phones, and some like small phones. The iPhone lineup no longer offers very small phones but does include midsize and extra-large options.
If you're upgrading from a very old iPhone, all of the new phones will seem large. The iPhone 17e is the same size as the iPhone 14, for example. Apple axed the iPhone 13 mini years ago, which was the smallest option. This means the 16e is now the most compact device in the lineup.
The iPhone 16, iPhone 17e, and iPhone 17 are the smallest modern iPhones. They have 6.1-inch to 6.3-inch screens, which is considered small at this point. Apple keeps the width under 3 inches on these, which really helps with hand comfort.
If you have poor eyesight or shaky hands, you might like the larger touch targets and bigger screens on the Air or Max models. These are also great if you watch a lot of videos on your phone, but the Pro Max can be heavy.
Larger iPhones generally have longer battery life than smaller iPhones (because they have larger batteries). Still, the new iPhone 17 models all have better battery life than the same-sized iPhone 16 models, so going with a newer model will get you some extra juice (about two hours more per day).
Which iPhones Have Touch ID and Headphone Jacks?
Two features have mostly vanished from the iPhone line: Touch ID and the headphone jack.
The iPhone SE was the last phone with Touch ID. Apple discontinued it when it introduced the iPhone 16e in February.
The last iPhone with a headphone jack was the 2015-era iPhone 6s, meaning that ship has long since sailed. You should have already given in and picked up wireless earbuds or an adapter for your Lightning or USB-C port.
Which iPhone Is Too Old to Buy Now?
iPhones do eventually run out of software support. The latest iPhone operating system, iOS 26, runs only on the 2020-era iPhone 12 or later models. Expect that each year, a generation of iPhones will be sloughed off as the latest software requires more powerful processors than the very old models have.
We no longer recommend phones older than the iPhone 14 line; they will likely get at least two more years of OS support. If you want a phone with long-term resale value, go for the iPhone 16 generation or higher.