iPhone 17e vs iPhone 17: is it worth paying an extra £170?
Apple recently unveiled the iPhone 17e for $599. The smartphone is positioned as a more affordable alternative to the base iPhone 17.
The price difference between the models is £150, so experts compared their specifications to determine exactly what the differences are.
Both smartphones run on an A19 processor and have 256 GB of internal storage in the base configuration. They also support Apple Intelligence artificial intelligence features and are IP68-rated for water and dust resistance.
In terms of performance, the devices are virtually identical. They are suitable for everyday tasks, mobile gaming and working with artificial intelligence features.
The main difference between the models is related to the display and cameras.
The iPhone 17 has a display with ProMotion technology and an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120 Hz. This makes scrolling and animations look smoother. In addition, the display supports the Always-On feature and has a higher peak brightness.
The iPhone 17e has a simpler display — it does not support 120 Hz and has a lower maximum brightness level.
There are also differences in the cameras.
The iPhone 17e is equipped with a single 48-megapixel main camera. It supports 2x zoom with optical quality and is suitable for everyday shooting and social media posts.
The iPhone 17 additionally features a 48-megapixel ultra-wide-angle module. This allows for wider shots, especially for landscapes or group photos.
Experts note that the choice between models depends on the user's needs.
The iPhone 17e may be suitable for those who are looking for a more affordable smartphone and do not need a 120Hz display or an additional camera.
The iPhone 17 is more geared towards users who value advanced shooting capabilities and a more advanced screen.
Currently, the iPhone 17e is the most affordable current iPhone with 256 GB of memory. Its starting price in Europe is approximately €699, while the iPhone 17 with the same amount of memory costs around €849.
At the same time, according to insiders, Apple may postpone the release of the base iPhone 18 until 2027. The company is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and foldable iPhone this autumn.
