Best iPhone in 2025: Which Apple Phone You Should Buy

At Apple's 2025 Fall Event, four new models were revealed: the iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. After watching the event, many are probably still wondering: which one should I choose this year?

As always, if budget isn't an issue, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is the top choice. It has everything you could want, and Apple even offers a 2TB storage option. If you're willing to spend, you'll get the ultimate experience.

Personally, I prefer to save where I can and focus on getting the right phone, not just the most expensive one. If you feel the same, let's take a closer look at the differences between these four models to help you make the best decision.

Part 1: Our Top iPhone Picks for 2025 at a Quick Glance

Part 2: Best iPhones to Buy in 2025: Which Ones Are Currently at the Top

iPhone 17 - The Ultimate Standard Edition

In today's world of ultra-smooth screens, Apple's 60Hz display just doesn't cut it anymore. Everyone knew an upgrade was coming, but the question was: when would it happen?

Well, the answer is finally here: the standard iPhone 17 now comes with a 1Hz to 120Hz ProMotion display. But that's not all-this 6.3-inch screen is also brighter than ever, hitting 3000 nits for outdoor use, has an always-on display, and is more durable with scratch and glare resistance. It's a top-tier screen through and through.

Performance-wise, the A19 chip brings a noticeable boost in both CPU and GPU power. It also packs a new neural network engine, better memory bandwidth, and faster local processing for AI tasks, all while being more energy-efficient. As a result, the iPhone 17 offers impressive battery life, with video playback lasting over 8 hours longer than the iPhone 16.

When it comes to photography, Apple has stepped up their game with a 48-megapixel main camera and a new 48-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens. This is a major improvement, especially considering ultra-wide cameras are usually reserved for more expensive models. The front camera has also been upgraded to a square sensor, offering flexibility with different photo ratios for selfies-bringing it up to the standards of high-end devices.

For most users, the iPhone 17 is practically flawless. This year, Apple has enhanced all the key features that matter for daily use. If you're upgrading from an iPhone 12, 13, or 14, the iPhone 17 is definitely the model to go for.

Pros:

• This is the cheapest model in the iPhone 17 series, but it still offers solid value for the price. Thanks to the A19 chip and iOS optimization, it's a reliable choice for those looking for good performance without breaking the bank. Despite its lower price, it's still one of the top three in terms of value for money in the series.

Cons:

• From the leaked images, it looks nearly identical to the iPhone 16. The design doesn't stand out much, and aside from the changes in specs, the overall visual appearance remains unchanged. This makes it hard to differentiate from the previous model.

Pricing:

• 256GB: From $799 or $33.29/mo. for 24 mo.
• 512GB: From $999 or $41.62/mo. for 24 mo.

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iPhone Air - Superior Thinness, a First-Time Choice

The iPhone Air is the standout Apple release of the year, and for good reason. At just 5.6mm in thickness, it's the slimmest iPhone ever made. Its 6.5-inch display, featuring 1Hz-120Hz ProMotion technology, guarantees a smooth and vibrant viewing experience.

The iPhone Air packs a punch with the A19 Pro chip, offering top-tier AI and graphics performance. It also boasts Apple's custom N1 wireless chip and C1x baseband for faster, more reliable connectivity. Made from titanium alloy and covered with double-sided ceramic shield, it's incredibly strong and durable. The phone features a 48MP rear camera that can record with both the front and back cameras at the same time. Another key point is that it only uses eSIM, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card slot.

In many ways, the iPhone Air is a bold step forward, offering a sleek, ultra-light design and a new take on smartphones. However, if you're all about the best image quality and battery life, you might want to think twice before making the switch.

Pros:

• The screen is larger than the iPhone 16, and it's impressively slim, just 5.5mm thick. The performance is on par with the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max, featuring the A19 Pro chip and 12GB of RAM as standard.

Cons:

• It has a single rear camera, which is a bit underwhelming compared to the dual or triple camera setups in the higher-end models. The battery life is a major downside with only a 2900mAh battery-smaller than the iPhone 17's. In daily use, especially in more demanding environments like in the U.S., a small battery like this may not cut it, despite the phone's excellent performance specs.

Pricing:

• 256GB: From $999 or $41.62/mo. for 24 mo.
• 512GB: From $1199 or $49.95/mo. for 24 mo.
• 1TB: From $1399 or $58.29/mo. for 24 mo.

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iPhone 17 Pro - A Perfect Blend of Power and Performance

The iPhone 17 Pro Series continues to be Apple's top-of-the-line model, offering impressive power, though its latest upgrades may not be immediately obvious at first glance.

As expected from the Pro series, it comes loaded with all the high-end features. Powered by the A19 Pro chip, it delivers improved performance and better heat management. The camera system also sees notable improvements, particularly with the telephoto lens. It now includes a new 48-megapixel telephoto lens, offering 4x and 8x optical zoom options for clearer, more detailed shots.

Video performance gets a boost too, thanks to the new GenLock feature. This is designed for multi-camera setups, ensuring that when shooting with several devices, the frame rates and timing are perfectly synchronized. This technology helps create a smooth, professional-looking "bullet time" effect, ideal for complex shooting situations. Additionally, the Pro series is equipped with impressive battery life, especially the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which offers up to 37 hours of video playback.

Despite its strong performance, the Pro series may not grab as much attention visually, especially compared to other models. As a result, it's a better choice for users with a higher budget who are looking for the best in photography and battery life. If you're just looking for an everyday phone, the iPhone 17 offers a better value for money.

iPhone 17 Pro:

Pros:

• The iPhone 17 Pro is a powerhouse, offering top-tier performance and design. It comes with an excellent display, a powerful A19 Pro chip, and a solid triple-camera setup that stands out in terms of photography.

Cons:

• Despite its impressive specs, the battery life falls short. The iPhone 17 Pro uses the same 3600mAh battery as the base model, which is a bit of a letdown given the high-end features and capabilities.

Pricing:

• 256GB: From $1099 or $45.79/mo. for 24 mo.
• 512GB: From $1299 or $54.12/mo. for 24 mo.
• 1TB: From $1499 or $62.45/mo. for 24 mo.

iPhone 17 Pro Max:

Pros:

• As the flagship model in the 17 series, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is the best of the best. It boasts the highest-quality design, cutting-edge hardware, and a massive 5000mAh battery, which will easily last all day.

Cons:

• The price is steep. Compared to the other iPhone 17 models, you're paying a premium for all the top features. If you want the best of everything, you'll have to pay for it.

Pricing:

• 256GB: From $1199 or $49.95/mo. for 24 mo.
• 512GB: From $1399 or $58.29/mo. for 24 mo.
• 1TB: From $1599 or $66.62/mo. for 24 mo.
• 2TB: From $1999 or $83.29/mo. for 24 mo.

Part 3: Conlusion - What iPhone is Better in 2025?

Our Recommendations: Which iPhone Should You Choose Based on Your Needs.

In general, if you're on a budget and want a well-rounded phone, the iPhone 17 is a great choice. If you prefer a lighter, more sleek design, and you're in an area where eSIM is widely available, you might want to consider the iPhone 17 Air. For those who enjoy a smaller screen, prioritize content creation, video recording, or long-zoom photography, the iPhone 17 Pro would be a better fit. And if you're looking for a true all-around powerhouse-big screen, huge battery, top-notch camera features, and the largest storage options-the iPhone 17 Pro Max is the one to go for.

When it comes to storage, if the standard model still starts at 128GB, we recommend going for at least 256GB-don't skimp on this! For the Pro and Pro Max models, 256GB is the baseline, but if you're constantly shooting 8K videos or using ProRes, it's worth jumping straight to 512GB or even 1TB. Also, keep in mind that the Air model might only support eSIM, so make sure to check if your local carrier supports it and if the process is easy enough for you to set up.

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Part 4: Factors to Consider When Buying a New iPhone

1. Back up Your Old Phone

When upgrading to a new iPhone, it's important to back up your old one to avoid losing any data. With MobiKin Assistant for iOS, you can make sure all your photos, messages, contacts, and other important files are safely backed up on your computer or any other external drives. This software offers a simple and effective way to transfer and manage your iPhone data.

Key Features of MobiKin Assistant for iOS:

• One-click Backup: Easily back up all your iPhone data to computer or other external drives.
• Selective File Transfer: Transfer specific files like photos, messages, and contacts.
• Restore Data to New iPhone: Restore the backup data to your new device with ease.
• Manage iPhone Data: Add, edit and delete files or apps directly from the software.
• Cross-Platform Support: Works on both Windows and Mac computers.

How to Back Up Your iPhone using Assistant for iOS:

Step 1: Download and install the software on your computer. Open the program once it's installed.

Step 2: Use a USB cable to connect your old iPhone to the computer. Ensure that your device is unlocked and trusted.

Step 3: Choose "Super Toolkit" > "iTunes Backup & Restore" > "Back Up" from the main menu and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process. Your data will be securely saved, ready for restoring to your new iPhone.

Video Guide:

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2. Erase Your Old Phone

Upgrading to a new iPhone is always exciting, but before you hand over your old phone, it's important to erase all your personal data securely. This ensures that your sensitive information stays safe, and the device is ready for its next owner. A powerful tool like MobiKin Eraser for iOS can help you wipe your old iPhone clean without leaving any traces behind.

Key Features of MobiKin Eraser for iOS:

• Permanently deletes all data from your iPhone.
• Once erased, the data cannot be recovered.
• Simple, easy-to-use design for fast operation.
• Works with iPhones, iPads, and iPods, including the latest iPhone 17 series.
• Removes apps, system settings, and all other personal data.
• Ensures your information is wiped securely, protecting your privacy.

Step 1: Download the software on your computer, and then install it following the on-screen instructions.

Step 2: Using a USB cable, connect your old iPhone to your computer. Ensure the device is recognized by the software.

Step 3: In the software, choose the "Erase" option. Choose your desired erasing level and type in "delete".

Step 4: Confirm the actions above, click "Erase" again and MobiKin will permanently erase all your personal data from the iPhone.

3. Other things to do before gettings a new iPhone:

• Try it out first: Before making a decision, hold the iPhone in your hands. The way it feels and looks might surprise you-whether it's a hit or miss.
• Don't overlook older models: Apple often keeps previous-generation iPhones available at lower prices. The iPhone 16, for instance, offers great performance, a solid camera, and long battery life, all at a more affordable price than the latest iPhone 17.
• Get a case and screen protector: Investing in these accessories can save you from costly repairs and keep your phone in good shape. Plus, they help maintain the resale or trade-in value when you decide it's time for an upgrade.
• Know your priorities: Think about what matters most to you-screen size, camera quality, or battery life. If photography is your passion, models like the iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max, with amazing camera features, could be worth the investment.
• Look for holiday deals: Major sales events like Amazon's Prime Day or Cyber Monday offer huge discounts. Be sure to check the return or exchange policies too, just in case you change your mind.

Conclusion:

Overall, the iPhone 17 is a solid choice in the lineup. It addresses previous issues and works well for most users. The iPhone Air is perfect for those who prefer a slim and lightweight design, but if you care about camera quality and battery life, it's worth waiting for more updates. The Pro series stands out as it offers a good balance in all areas, performance, camera, and design, making it one of the top choices among flagship phones. If you want a big screen, long-lasting battery, and up to 2TB of storage, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is definitely the way to go. For those prioritizing portability and top-notch imaging, the iPhone 17 Pro is the best pick.

FAQs about iPhone 17 Series

Q1: Which iPhone 17 model offers the best value for money?

The iPhone 17 standard version (starting at 5999 RMB for 256GB) offers the best value for money, with a well-balanced core configuration: a 6.3-inch 120Hz high-refresh-rate display, A19 chip, and a 48MP dual-camera system. The performance gap between the standard and Pro models has narrowed, but the price remains more affordable. While the Pro series is powerful, its premium pricing is quite noticeable (Pro Max top configuration costs 17,999 RMB). The Air model is light and thin but falls short in terms of battery life and single-camera performance. The iPhone 17 standard version is ideal for users on a budget who still want a smooth experience, making it a great choice for students and those with everyday usage needs.

Q2. Is the iPhone 17 waterproof?

Yes, the iPhone 17 models are water and dust resistant with an IP68 rating. This means they can be submerged in up to 6 meters of water for up to 30 minutes without damage. However, it's still a good idea to avoid water exposure when possible to prevent long-term wear on seals and components.

Q3. Will the iPhone 17 have USB-C?

The iPhone 17 still uses the Lightning port for charging and data transfer, not USB-C. However, Apple is expected to eventually transition to USB-C in future iPhones to comply with new regulations in the European Union, but as of now, the Lightning port remains standard in the 17 series.

Q4. Does the iPhone 17 support 5G?

All models in the iPhone 17 series support 5G connectivity, including both sub-6 GHz and mmWave bands. This allows users to enjoy faster download speeds and improved overall performance on 5G networks, ensuring that your phone is future-proof as 5G networks expand globally.

Q5. Is there a major battery upgrade in the iPhone 17 series?

Yes, the iPhone 17 series brings better battery life across the board. The iPhone 17 Pro Max offers the longest battery life in the series, thanks to its larger size and efficient components. The iPhone 17 and 17 Plus also have improved power efficiency, with the Plus model offering a particularly strong battery for its size.

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