If you are budget-conscious, then you may opt for the iPhone 16 for a value-packed choice. But if you want a future-ready handset with features like enhanced speed, improved battery and better cameras, then the iPhone 17 is worth the extra investment.
With the launch of the latest Apple iPhone 17, which is available at a starting price of Rs 82,900, buyers are now wondering whether they should opt for the latest model or stick with the older version. Discussing the base model of the latest iPhone, which comes with upgrades like ProMotion display, A19 chip, and a bigger battery, the predecessor (iPhone 16) offers a significant discount, making the device cost around Rs 69,900. Now this could be considered a tough choice, but here we are to help you make your final decision.
We bring you an elongated explanation to make you understand the key differentiators in performance, features and value to help you decide which is the better buy.
1. Price Point: Old vs New
- iPhone 16: After the iPhone 17 launch, its price has dropped, and now the device is available at a starting price of around Rs 69,900 for the base model.
- iPhone 17: It is available at a starting price of Rs 82,900 with 256GB storage. Its Pro and Pro Max versions are priced significantly higher.
So, in case you are budget-conscious and willing to save some Rs 13,000 to Rs 15,000, then choosing the iPhone 16 will not be a bad choice as it is a strong value play if you don’t need the absolute latest.
2. Display and visual experience
- iPhone 16 has a standard OLED display without ProMotion.
- The latest iPhone 17 comes with a 6.3-inch ProMotion (120Hz) OLED display, which is brighter (with up to 3,000 nits) and supports Always-On display.
Hence, if you are opting for smoother animations, better outdoor visibility and dynamic refresh rates, iPhone 17 is the clear winner.
3. Performance upgrades
- iPhone 16 comes equipped with the A18 chip and standard performance.
- iPhone 17 comes with the latest and claimed to be the fastest A19 chip, which boosts CPU/GPU, and the N1 networking chip (Wi-Fi 7/Bluetooth 6).
Overall, iPhone 17 offers about 20 per cent improved performance, making it more future-proof for apps and AI features.
4. Battery and charging
- iPhone 17 claims to deliver up to 8 hours more video playback, and charges up to 50 per cent in just 20 minutes.
- iPhone 16 is still respectable but falls behind slightly when it comes to endurance.
So, when battery performance is the priority, the iPhone 17 fits the bill with improved battery performance.
5. Camera upgrades
- iPhone 17 has introduced a new 48MP Dual Fusion system (wide + ultra-wide) and an upgraded 18MP front camera with Centre Stage and Dual Capture.
- iPhone 16 is equipped with capable cameras but lacks the sensor upgrades and flexibility of the new model; it delivers great photos, too.
Verdict: iPhone 17 provides better photography features, as per the launch event, particularly for low-light and versatile shooting.
Final take for Indian buyers
If you are someone who is planning to get an iPhone with the latest kind of capabilities and is ready to compromise on a couple of features, then iPhone 16 (priced at Rs 69,900) is a smart, value-packed choice. But if you look for the latest advanced feature with future-ready features like ProMotion display, enhanced speed, improved battery and better cameras, then you should definitely get your hands on the latest iPhone 17 at Rs 82,900, which is worth the extra investment.
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