Which Is the Best iPhone? Is iPhone 17 Series, iPhone Air, or iPhone 16?

Which is the best iPhone for you? With the recent release of iPhone 17 series and the availability of older models like iPhone 16, choosing the right iPhone can be a challenging decision. This iPhone review will help you navigate the current iPhone lineup, understand pricing differences, and learn how to back up your data on your old iPhone without effort.

Part 1: What iPhones Can You Buy on Apple Store?

Before selecting an iPhone, you need to know what iPhone models are on sale on the official Apple Store. Apple's current lineup includes both the newly released iPhone 17 series and previous models. The iPhone 17 series consists of four distinct models: the standard iPhone 17, the ultra-thin iPhone Air, the premium iPhone 17 Pro, and the top-tier iPhone 17 Pro Max.

In addition to iPhone 17 series, iPhone 16 (128GB), iPhone 16 Plus (256GB), and iPhone 16e (128GB, 256GB, and 512GB) are available on the Apple Store.

So, why is iPhone 15 not available to buy on the Apple Store? In general, when Apple launches a new iPhone series, it will streamline its online store to feature a simplified selection of models. This year, with the release of the iPhone 17 series, Apple has removed the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 Pro from its direct sales channels.

It prevents the product lineup from becoming too cluttered, focusing customers on the newest and most profitable models. By no longer selling the two-year-old model, Apple encourages customers to purchase a more recent phone, either the new iPhone 17 or the now-discounted iPhone 16.

However, this does not mean the iPhone 15 is gone forever. You can still purchase it from other sources. Many authorized resellers, mobile carriers, and third-party stores will continue to sell the iPhone 15 until their stock runs out, often at a significant discount.

Part 2: What iPhone Should You Get?

"What iPhone should I get? Which iPhone is better?" Many people ask these questions on different platforms. Now, we'll show you how to select the best iPhone for yourself.

First of all, choosing the right iPhone depends on what you value most: performance, camera quality, battery life, price, or other aspects. Thus, you need to list some factors that you value, rank them, and then choose a phone based on the criteria.

For the Power User: If you want the absolute best performance, the most advanced camera system, and all the newest features, the iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone 17 Pro Max are the clear choices. They are designed for professionals and enthusiasts who demand the fastest processors and the highest quality photos and videos.

For the Everyday User: The standard iPhone 17 is excellent for most people. They offer the core features of the latest generation—a fast chip, great camera, and long battery life—without the premium "Pro" price tag.

For the Style-Focused User: If you are willing to pay extra for an exceptionally thin and elegant industrial design, the iPhone Air is made for you. It packs the core performance of the iPhone 17 into the thinnest, lightest body yet, providing an unparalleled feel in your hand. It's for users who prioritize a phone's unique look and portability over the most advanced professional camera features.

For the Budget-Conscious Buyer: If you are upgrading from a much older model or simply want a reliable and affordable phone, consider the iPhone 16 or the iPhone SE (4th gen). The iPhone 16 is still a very capable device with a great camera, while the iPhone SE is perfect for those who want a modern Apple experience in a classic, compact design.

Tips: Want to compare iPhones in details? Go to this comprehensive tutorial.

Part 3: How Much is iPhone 17 Series, iPhone Air, or iPhone 16?

The Apple Store offers a wide selection of iPhones, ranging from the latest flagship models to more affordable options. Here's an overview of prices for the current iPhone lineup:

iPhone 17 Series: Prices for the standard iPhone 17 start around $799, with the Pro version starting at about $1099. The larger iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at $1199, and the slim version, iPhone Air, begins at $999. These prices are for the base storage models.

iPhone 16 Series: With the release of the 17 series, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are now available at a reduced price. You can typically find the base iPhone 16 model starting around $699, iPhone 16 Plus is $799, and iPhone 16e begins at $599.

Part 4: Q&A About Best iPhone

Q1: Will iPhone Air be cheaper?

Based on the latest information, the answer is no, the iPhone Air is not cheaper than the standard iPhone 17. The iPhone Air is a new model positioned between the base model and the Pro model. Its main features are a new, thinner design and a lighter weight, which make it a more premium option. iPhone 17 starts at $799, and iPhone Air starts at $999.

Q2: Which iPhone has the best camera?

The iPhone with the best camera system is the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. Apple reserves its most advanced camera technology for its top-tier "Pro Max" models, and this year is no different. The iPhone 17 Pro Max and the iPhone 17 Pro both feature the most comprehensive and powerful camera systems Apple has ever put in a smartphone. They feature a versatile triple-lens setup, including a 48MP Main camera, a 48MP Ultra Wide camera, and a new 48MP Telephoto lens.

Besides, the new Telephoto lens offers an impressive 8x optical zoom, the longest ever on an iPhone, which is a significant improvement for capturing distant subjects with clarity. Exclusive to the Pro models are features like the LiDAR scanner for faster autofocus in low light and enhanced AR experiences. They also support professional video formats such as ProRes RAW and Apple Log 2 for high-quality video production.

Q3: Should I get an iPhone 16 or iPhone 15 when iPhone 17 series has been rolled out?

Your decision should come down to a balance of your budget and how much you value having the latest technology. The iPhone 16 is now the "sweet spot" for many users, offering a great mix of modern features and a discounted price. By the way, Apple Store has stopped selling iPhone 15 series. If you want to buy iPhone 15, you need to buy it from a third-party authorized platforms.

Simply put, if your budget is your top priority, iPhone 15 will be an excellent phone that will serve you well for years, and you'll save a considerable amount of money. If you want a great balance of value and features, iPhone 16 will be more suitable because it has many of the modern upgrades without premium price of the brand-new iPhone 17. If you want to buy an cost-effective device among iPhone 17 series, the standard version will be the best.

Part 5: Back Up Important Data on Your Old iPhone

Before upgrading to a new iPhone, it's essential to back up your data to ensure you don't lose important photos, messages, contacts, videos, e-books, etc. To make the backup easily, iReaShare iPhone Manager enables you to back up your iOS data to your computer at once. If you don't have enough cloud storage, this tool will be the best alternative.

Main features of this iPhone backup software:

* Transfer iPhone data to a computer directly.

* Allow you to preview and select your iPhone data on the interface.

* Support backing up iPhone photos, contacts, videos, messages, music, bookmarks, etc.

* Restore the backup data to your new iPhone 17 with ease.

* Manage and access your iPhone data on your Windows PC and Mac.

* Support iOS 5.0 or later, including iOS 26.

* Compatible with most iOS devices, such as iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 16/16e/15/14/13/12/11/X/8/7/6, iPad Pro, iPad, iPad Air, iPad mini, and more.

Download iReaShare iPhone Manager.

Download for Win Download for Mac

Tips: If you want to back up various data types at once, please click "Super Toolkit" > "iTunes Backup & Restore", select your iPhone, and click "Back up" on the popup. Then the software will start to back up your iPhone data.

Here's the video guide to help you back up your iPhone data:

Conclusion

Choosing the right iPhone involves considering your budget, needs, and preferences. The new iPhone 17 series offers something for everyone, from the ultra-thin Air to the powerful Pro Max, while the iPhone 16 remains a compelling option at discounted prices. Wherever you purchase your new iPhone, remember to properly back up your old device using tools like iReaShare iPhone Manager to ensure a smooth transition to your new device.

Download for Win Download for Mac

Related Articles

Solved: How to Transfer Photos from iPad to PC Without iTunes

How to Transfer Contacts from iPhone to iPhone Without iCloud (Latest Guide)

How to Transfer Data from iPhone to iPhone 17/16 Without Trouble

How to Prepare iPhone for Trade-In Securely (Step by Step)

Elowen Wilson Senior Editor

Elowen has been specializing in iOS devices and data transfer for over three years. She is very familiar with all generations of iPhones and iPads, so she is able to provide readers with all kinds of useful guides and tips about iOS backup, data recovery, unlocking, system repair, etc.