If you've been eyeing an Apple iPhone for your next big upgrade, how do you decide which one is best for you? With so many configurations and models available today, including the new iPhone 17 series, the journey of choosing the right model has never been longer.The iPhone 17 series officially launched, and iOS 26 is deploying to generations of iPhones. Notably, the latest software version will likely not be compatible with some older iPhones including the iPhone XR and XS. I'd advise against buying those two models, even if they can be had for less money. Instead, I'd consider your best options below.Get more in-depth ZDNET tech coverage: Add us as a preferred Google source on Chrome and Chromium browsers.
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Best mobile deals of the week $749 (save $250) $475 (save $175) $499 (save $300) $900 (save $400) Deals are selected by the CNET Group commerce team, and may be unrelated to this article. What is the best iPhone right now? ZDNET's mobile experts carefully test every iPhone model at release. We put them through their paces to provide you with the best buying advice and key features to look out for. Our pick for the best iPhone overall is the iPhone 17 Pro Max, thanks to its vivid and anti-reflective display, improved camera tools, and better heat management. Should you prefer a smaller, more affordable option, consider the iPhone 17.If you're feeling adventurous, Apple's thinnest and lightest new iPhone, the iPhone Air It's been built with ultra portability in mind, but it lacks dedicated telephoto and ultrawide lenses. In addition, the battery life is below-average.Also: The best phones: Expert testedThe best iPhones of 2026 Jason Hiner/ZDNET The iPhone 17 Pro Max is the best iPhone overall due to its highly capable specifications and supersized attributes. It's the iPhone model that sets a new standard for Apple every year and continues to be a worthy competitor to Samsung's S Ultra series and Google's Pixel Pro XL. Why we like it: Besides being the largest iPhone Apple currently offers, with a 6.9-inch AMOLED display, the iPhone 17 Pro Max also has the best-rated battery life with 39 hours of video playback. From our tests, we found the phone lasted much longer than the standard 17 Pro and last year's 16 Pro Max. The iPhone 17 Pro Max looks and feels fairly similar to its predecessor, but it's now made with aluminum instead of titanium. This material choice keeps the phone cooler and more durable. It also allows Apple to introduce a more exciting lineup of colors including the polarizing Cosmic Orange.The most notable hardware change with the latest iPhone is the vapor cooling chamber. This works in tandem with the updated A19 Pro chip to optimize and maintain performance loads. We found the feature ideal for photographers and videographers who often experience recording issues due to the iPhone overheating.Review: iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max Who it's for: The iPhone 17 Pro Max is a flagship phone that commands a flagship price. It's ideal for users who are willing to pay for the best iPhone available, whether that's directly through retailers or through carrier deals. You should buy the Pro Max version if you want the larger screen, enduring battery life, and triple-camera setup. Who should look elsewhere: If you're shopping on a budget and don't mind a smaller screen, consider the $1,099 iPhone 17 Pro. It's $100 cheaper and with a 6.3-inch display. If you can live without the dedicated telephoto lens, you can even go with the $799 iPhone 17. It features a ProMotion display and the same 40W wired charging rate.iPhone 17 Pro Max specs: Processor: Apple A19 Pro Bionic | Display size: 6.9 inches with 120 Hz refresh rate | Storage options: 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB | Rear cameras: 48 MP wide, 48 MP ultra-wide, and 48 MP 4× telephoto | Front camera: 18 MP | Colors: Cosmic Orange, Deep Blue, Silver | Weight: 233 g | Starting price: $1,199
