iPhone 17e vs iPhone 16: Is the newer chip worth the older design?

Source: 9to5Mac

Apple’s newest iPhone is also the most affordable iPhone, but whether it’s the best value depends on which features you value. Apple still sells the iPhone 16 alongside the new iPhone 17e. Here’s how the two lowest‑priced iPhones compare.

iPhone 17e has 2× storage, faster performance, longer battery life

At $599, Apple’s new iPhone 17e has twice as much storage, faster performance, and longer battery life than the iPhone 16 that Apple sells for $699.

• Storage: 256 GB standard, with a 512 GB option for an additional $200. The iPhone 16 only offers 128 GB and costs $100 more.
• Chip: A19 (latest) vs. A18 in the iPhone 16.
• Modem: C1X modem with a new carrier‑privacy feature that isn’t available on the iPhone 16’s modem.
• Battery: Up to 26 hours of video playback (iPhone 17e) vs. up to 22 hours (iPhone 16).
• Glass: Ceramic Shield 2, offering three‑times better scratch resistance and improved anti‑reflection compared to the iPhone 16.

iPhone 16 has a newer design and an Ultra Wide camera

Spending the extra $100 on the iPhone 16 provides a more modern design and a more versatile camera system.

• Design: Dynamic Island replaces the notch bezel found on the iPhone 17e. This newer design integrates better with Live Activities.
• Display:
  • iPhone 17e: 800 nits typical, 1 200 nits peak (HDR).
  • iPhone 16: 1 000 nits typical, 1 600 nits peak (HDR) plus 2 000 nits peak outdoors and a 1 nit minimum brightness.
• Camera: Two rear cameras, including an Ultra Wide lens with 0.5× zoom, macro photography, spatial photo capture, and Cinematic mode video. The iPhone 16 also features Camera Control for quick launch, which the iPhone 17e lacks.
• Connectivity: Wi‑Fi 7, Thread radio, and second‑gen UWB chip for better integration with the new AirTag 2. The iPhone 17e uses Wi‑Fi 6.

Which is the better value pick?

The iPhone 16 benefits from being a late‑2024 flagship model at a reduced starting price, while the iPhone 17e offers iPhone 17‑level performance, durability, and storage at an even lower price.

Apple’s iPhone 17e will be available for pre‑order starting Wednesday, March 4, with stores receiving it a week later on March 11.