Upgrade or Skip? The Compelling Case for the iPhone 17E
An in-depth look at the iPhone 17E - is it worth the upgrade from the 16E? Our expert analysis covers key features, pricing, and who should (and shouldn't) buy this new Apple flagship.
Upgrade or Skip? The Compelling Case for the iPhone 17E
The iPhone 17E is a better value than the 16E was when it arrived, but that should matter to basically nobody. The main thing to know about the 17E is that the iPhone 17 exists, it costs $200 more - or maybe more significantly, an extra $9 per month on a two-year payment plan not including whatever discount your carrier offers - and it comes with a long list of upgrades. And if it's within your means to put down that extra money, you should.
The 17E replaces the 16E in Apple's lineup. The 16E was the first in a new series: not an older chassis with some refreshed internals for a steep discount, like the iPhone SE was. Instead, the 16E was...
The key difference between the iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17E comes down to the camera system, display, and a few other under-the-hood upgrades. The 17 features a triple-lens rear camera with advanced computational photography, while the 17E sticks with a dual-lens system. The 17 also has a 120Hz ProMotion display, compared to the 17E's standard 60Hz panel.
So who should consider the iPhone 17E? If you're upgrading from an older iPhone like the 12 or 13 series, the 17E is a solid choice that will deliver a noticeable performance and camera upgrade without breaking the bank. However, if you're coming from a 16-series iPhone, the incremental improvements may not be worth the cost. And for those who can afford it, the additional $200 for the 17 is well worth it for the enhanced photography capabilities and smoother display.
Ultimately, the iPhone 17E is a capable and well-rounded device that will satisfy the needs of many users. But with the 17 offering such a compelling set of upgrades, it's hard to recommend the 17E to anyone but those on a tighter budget. As always, Apple's latest flagship remains the safest bet for those who want the best possible iPhone experience.
Source: The Verge
