Apple iPhone 17 vs Apple iPhone 16: which should you buy?
Apple iPhone 17£799256GB, price recorded 30 Jul 2026
Apple iPhone 16£699128GB storage, price recorded 30 Jul 2026
The short answer
Choose the iPhone 17 when the prices are similar. Choose the iPhone 16 only if the saving is big enough to accept less smooth scrolling and half the storage.
The differences that matter
Apple iPhone 17Apple iPhone 16
Storage, as reviewed256GB128GB
ScrollingProMotion up to 120HzStandard refresh-rate screen
Who should upgradeBest if replacing an iPhone 14 or olderBest if replacing an iPhone 11, 12 or 13
When it is worth itReconsider if the 16 is more than £150 cheaperOnly with a proper saving against the 17
Which one fits you?
Choose the Apple iPhone 17
You are replacing an iPhone 14 or older and the prices are close.
Choose the Apple iPhone 16
The iPhone 16 is much cheaper and 128GB is enough.
Keep what you have
Your existing iPhone 16 still covers your needs.
Apple iPhone 17The easiest current iPhone to recommend, especially if you are replacing an iPhone 14 or older.
£799256GB, price recorded 30 Jul 2026
Check price on Amazon UKRead the full reviewApple iPhone 16An excellent everyday iPhone if the price is properly below the iPhone 17, especially for anyone upgrading from an iPhone 11, 12 or 13.
£699128GB storage, price recorded 30 Jul 2026
Check price on Amazon UKRead the full reviewPrice buttons are affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices are the ones recorded in each review; check the current price before buying.
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