Not tempted by the iPhone 17? The iPhone 16 just got a price drop.
iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 17: Is the Price Drop Worth It?
Apple recently unveiled the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, generating significant buzz in the tech world. The new models boast impressive upgrades, including enhanced specs, 120Hz displays across the board, and a striking new orange color option. Surprisingly, these improvements didn't come with substantial price increases, a welcome change in the current economic climate.
However, while attention focused on the iPhone 17's debut, a pleasant surprise emerged for those considering last year's models: the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus received price reductions at the Apple store.
Initial online reactions to the iPhone 17 have been mixed, with some expressing disappointment. This makes the now more affordable iPhone 16 a significantly more attractive option for those looking to upgrade their smartphone without breaking the bank.
Apple's Price Cuts on the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus
Here's a breakdown of the updated iPhone 16 lineup pricing:
- iPhone 16: $699 (previously $799)
- iPhone 16 Plus: $799 (previously $899)
- iPhone 16 Pro: $999
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: $1,199 (starting with 256GB of storage)
- iPhone 16e: $599
It's important to note that these price drops only apply to the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. All prices listed are for the base 128GB models, except for the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which starts at 256GB.
Now let's compare the base pricing for the iPhone 17 series:
- iPhone 17: $799
- iPhone 17 Pro: $1,099
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: $1,199
- iPhone 17 Air: $999
An interesting observation: both the iPhone 17 and the original iPhone 16 launched at $799. However, the iPhone 17 now offers double the storage (256GB) for the same price, making it a more compelling value proposition in terms of storage alone.
This year's lineup notably omits the iPhone 17 Plus, and the new iPhone 17 Air, despite its ultra-thin design, costs $100 more than the 2024 iPhone 16 Plus.
While the iPhone 17 Pro Max seemingly received a $100 price increase, this isn't entirely accurate. Apple removed the 128GB option this year; the price increase is essentially tied to the increased storage capacity. The 256GB iPhone 16 Pro Max now has the same price as the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
The iPhone 17 Air's pricing is particularly intriguing. It shares the powerful A19 Pro chip with the iPhone 17 Pro models, offering impressive specifications (excluding Pro-level cameras) at a surprisingly competitive $999 price point.
What are you missing out on by choosing the iPhone 16?
The iPhone 17 does offer several notable upgrades, especially in the base model. All new iPhones now feature 120Hz displays, a feature previously limited to high-end Android phones and Apple's Pro models. The iPhone 17 incorporates the new A19 chip, while the Pro models utilize the A19 Pro, promising superior performance (Apple claims it's the fastest mobile processor ever created).
Other improvements in the iPhone 17 include a return to an aluminum design, a 3,000-nit screen with Apple's Ceramic Shield 2, and significant camera enhancements. Photography enthusiasts will miss out on the new 18-megapixel Center Stage front camera on the iPhone 17. The flagship Pro models boast even better cameras, with triple 48-megapixel rear cameras.
Ultimately, the decision between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 hinges on your budget and priorities. The price reduction on the iPhone 16 makes it a very compelling option, especially considering the strong feature set it still offers. The iPhone 17's upgrades are certainly welcome, but whether they justify the price difference is a personal choice.
Product Summary
from Mashable
-via DynaSage
