Apple is expected to unveil the new iPhone 17 series in September. As every year, the question remains: Is the larger Pro Max worth it, or is the standard iPhone 17 Pro sufficient? This time, the differences between the two models could be greater than usual – especially in terms of battery life and casing.
When you're considering the iPhone 17 Pro vs. iPhone 17 Pro Max, it's often just about size and a bit more battery. This year, however, it looks like the Pro Max could have a noticeable advantage. While Apple isn't planning any revolutionary differences, there are a few interesting details that shouldn't be ignored. Especially if battery life is important to you, it's worth taking a closer look.
Display sizes: Both remain the same
The iPhone 17 Pro has a 6.3-inch display, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max has a 6.9-inch display. The difference isn't new, but anyone who watches a lot of video, plays games, or works on their phone will appreciate the larger screen of the Pro Max.
Battery: The Pro Max takes it up a notch
This is where things get exciting. According to rumors, including from the well-known Weibo account Ice Universe, the iPhone 17 Pro Max will be around 5 percent thicker than its predecessor. This is likely due to a larger battery. The capacity could increase to as much as 5,000 mAh—a significant jump compared to the 4,676 mAh of the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The standard iPhone 17 Pro, on the other hand, is expected to remain just as thin as the iPhone 16 Pro. This also eliminates the space for a larger battery. This means that anyone looking for the longest possible battery life will hardly be able to beat the Pro Max.
Cameras: Both models are on par
In recent years, the Pro Max has occasionally received exclusive camera features, but by 2025, Apple appears to be equipping both models identically. The rear camera is said to feature three 48-megapixel cameras. The front camera will also be upgraded, to 24 megapixels, according to reports. No differences in the lenses or sensors are known so far. This means: No matter which model you choose, you'll get the same camera quality.
Dynamic Island: Maybe smaller, but the same everywhere
There was speculation that the Dynamic Island—the pill-shaped notch at the top of the display—might be smaller on the iPhone 17 Pro Max. However, it was later stated that such a change would likely not be implemented until the iPhone 18. If so, the smaller Dynamic Island would appear on all iPhone 17 models, not just the Pro Max. As of now, there's no difference in this area.
What really remains different in the end?
The bottom line is that there are two main differences between the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone 17 Pro Max: the larger display and the larger battery. Both models are expected to have the same camera technology, and the design will be the same, other than the size. If you want a more portable device that still has all the top features, the iPhone 17 Pro is the logical choice. If you want the best battery life and don't mind the size, then the Pro Max is worth going for.
iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max – which suits you better?
The iPhone 17 Pro offers all the new features Apple plans for 2025 – compact and powerful. The iPhone 17 Pro Max takes things up a notch, especially in terms of display size and battery life. The camera, performance, and software remain the same. So it all depends on what's more important to you: compactness or endurance. Time for fresh accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront and discover a wide selection of products from leading manufacturers, including HomeKit-compatible ones! (Image: Apple)
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