After Apple’s release, questions naturally arise: what are the differences between the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro, and which phone is better to choose? Both versions feature a Super Retina XDR display with smooth and pleasing visuals, new processors, and updated cameras. We compared the iPhone 17 vs. iPhone 17 Pro to make it easier for you to choose the best device for your needs.

Table of contents
Comparison of the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro Designs
Both versions of the 17 series feature an updated Ceramic Shield 2 protective coating. It is three times more scratch-resistant and reduces glare. But in the professional model, Ceramic Shield glass also covers the back panel — a first for the brand’s smartphones.

In the basic version, the display has grown compared to the previous generation, and now both smartphones in the new series have a diagonal of 6.3 inches. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is available in a size of 6.9 inches. Thanks to ProMotion technology, the screen adapts the refresh rate to your actions from 1 to 120 Hz — this innovation has been expected on the basic models for the last couple of years. The image always remains smooth, the battery charge is consumed more slowly, and it is more comfortable for the eyes.
The bezels are smoother and made of aluminum. The iPhone 17 Pro has a unibody aluminum alloy case, which minimizes the risk of overheating. It also has a completely new camera design: the module stretches across the entire width of the back panel. The color palette has also been updated. The iPhone 17 comes in five colors: white, black, Lavender, Sage, and Mist Blue. The iPhone 17 Pro is available in Silver, Deep Blue, and Cosmic Orange.
Chipset, Memory, and Other Performance Factors
The smartphone’s performance depends on the chipset, data processing algorithms, and memory — and the iPhone 17 is doing great in all these aspects. Both the base and professional models run on A19 family chips.
Specification | iPhone 17 (A19) | iPhone 17 Pro (A19 Pro) |
Process technology | 3 nm, third generation | |
CPU | 6 cores | |
GPU | 5 cores | 6 cores |
Cooling | Standard | Vapor chamber |
Purpose | Everyday tasks, gaming, photo and video | AAA games, long video editing, local artificial intelligence models |
Different memory versions are also available: iPhone 17 can be purchased with 256 or 512 GB of storage, while iPhone 17 Pro additionally offers a 1 TB option.
Among other things, the price of the iPhone 17 Pro is influenced by its new specialized cooling system. Under the aluminum body, there is now a chamber filled with deionized water. It circulates liquid through a sealed loop, removes heat from the chip, and prevents the phone from overheating.
Why is the iPhone 17 Pro Camera Better?
When reviewing the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro, it is impossible to ignore the topic of cameras. The basic version traditionally has two cameras on the back, which is standard for such smartphones: a main camera and an ultra-wide-angle Fusion camera, both with 48 megapixels. Macro and wide-angle photos are now clearer.

The front camera has also been upgraded: Center Stage now has 18 MP and a square sensor. You can hold your phone vertically and take horizontal photos. There is now a Dual Capture option that allows you to shoot with both the main and front cameras at the same time. By the way, the iPhone 17’s video recording capabilities have also been upgraded: 4K HDR up to 60 FPS, spatial audio, and Dolby Vision allow you to create cinematic-quality images right away.
The iPhone 17 Pro’s camera supports the same options, including Center Stage. But here, as usual, there are three cameras on the back panel — also 48 MP Fusion cameras. The smartphone has an updated optical zoom that brings objects closer without losing quality:
- 4x for portraits — better separates objects from the background;
- 8x for all modes — allows you to shoot scenes and architectural details at a great distance while maintaining quality.
Video shooting has also been upgraded: you can shoot content in 4K at 120 FPS. The phone supports the professional ProRes RAW format with perfect detail, a wide Log 2 color gamut, and synchronization of multiple cameras with Genlock — these are features that are only available in the Pro line. They are enough for lovers of perfect content, content creators, bloggers, and vloggers. LiDAR has shifted to the right, and thanks to it, photos become deeper.

When reviewing the camera, you may wonder whether it is worth paying extra for the Pro version. If you want professional shots in all conditions, then choosing this model is the right decision.
Battery Capabilities
The battery life of the iPhone 17 vs. iPhone 17 Pro is another common comparison criterion. The base smartphone lasts up to 30 hours in video playback mode, compared to 22 hours in the previous generation. With the Apple 40W Dynamic Power Adapter, you can charge your phone to 50% in 20 minutes.
Comparing the battery life of the iPhone 17 Pro and previous models, there is also a noticeable increase in battery life — up to 33 hours instead of 27 in the previous generation. The phone has to work with more powerful graphics, but even under high loads, it maintains consistently high performance.
Conclusion
Both smartphones in the 17 series deserve your attention. The iPhone 17 is worth considering if you need a good gadget for everyday use: it takes high-quality photos, has a long battery life, and a pleasant design. But if you need advanced camera options for professional shooting and more power, it makes more sense to order the iPhone 17 Pro.
You can test the cameras, performance, and the gadget’s response to resource-intensive processes at iSpace physical stores in Baku — all devices are on open display. When choosing between the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro, you can learn about the pros and cons of each gadget from our consultants — they will help you make your choice. You can also order a smartphone online: the online store offers a comparison option, detailed descriptions, and reviews of the iPhone 17 Pro. Delivery is available throughout Azerbaijan.
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