iPhone Air vs iPhone 17 Pro — Which Should You Buy?
Apple’s new iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro share the A19 Pro chip and many premium features, but they target very different users. The Air focuses on ultra‑thin design and style; the 17 Pro goes for no‑compromise performance and camera flexibility.
Quick summary
- iPhone Air: 5.6mm thick, 6.5″ Super Retina XDR, 165 g, single 48MP Fusion camera, up to 27 hours video playback, starts at $999.
- iPhone 17 Pro: 8.75mm thick, 6.3″ Super Retina XDR, 206 g, triple 48MP Pro Fusion cameras (wide, ultra‑wide, telephoto with up to 8x optical zoom), up to 33 hours video playback, starts at $1,099.
Size & weight
The Air is Apple’s thinnest iPhone yet and noticeably lighter. If pocket comfort and a slim profile matter most, the Air wins.
Cameras
The biggest tradeoff: the Air has a single 48MP Fusion camera (2x optical zoom), while the 17 Pro uses a triple 48MP Pro Fusion system with 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 4x and 8x optical zoom. For long zooms, ultrawide shots or advanced video features, choose the 17 Pro.
Battery
Apple rates the Air for up to ~27 hours of video; the 17 Pro is rated up to ~33 hours and supports faster charging. The Air can use a MagSafe battery accessory (sold separately) to extend runtime.
Price & storage
Starting prices: Air $999 (256GB), 17 Pro $1,099 (256GB). Higher-capacity tiers available for both.
Specs table
| Model | Thickness | Weight | Display | Camera | Battery | Start Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone Air | 5.6 mm | 165 g | 6.5″ Super Retina XDR | 48MP Fusion (single) | Up to 27 hours | $999 |
| iPhone 17 Pro | 8.75 mm | 206 g | 6.3″ Super Retina XDR | 3x 48MP Pro Fusion (wide/ultrawide/tele) | Up to 33 hours | $1,099 |
Where to learn more or shop
Amazon search (affiliate): iPhone Air on Amazon | iPhone 17 Pro on Amazon
Note: Source article removed direct RSS link to Engadget per instructions. For official product details, check Apple’s website.
Which would you pick?
Tell us in the comments: would you choose the Air’s slim style or the 17 Pro’s camera and battery power?