Our verdict
The iPhone 17 Pro Max has a 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen, the largest Apple makes in this range. It refreshes up to 120 times a second (Apple calls this ProMotion), so scrolling and video look smooth, and Apple rates it at up to 3,000 nits of peak outdoor brightness, so it stays readable in sunshine. Inside is Apple's A19 Pro chip. On the back are three 48MP cameras: a main, an ultra wide and a 4x telephoto for distant subjects. Apple lists the same rear camera system for the smaller Pro, so the extra size is what you pay for. It suits someone who reads or watches on their phone for long stretches and is happy to carry a big handset. Try it in your hand first.
Buy it if
- Your phone is your main screen for reading and watching
- You like checking and editing photos on the phone itself
- You have tried the larger size with your preferred text settings
Skip it if
- You often struggle to reach across a large handset
- You prefer a light load in a small pocket
- You only want the Pro camera system in a smaller body
How it would fit your home
Read at the size you prefer
Enlarge the text before comparing sizes. The useful question is how much of an article stays visible at a comfortable size, not how much tiny text the 6.9-inch screen can fit.
Check photos before leaving the scene
A larger preview makes it easier to spot a blinking face or a distracting object. Zoom into the picture too; a bigger display does not mean the photo holds more detail.
Compare it with the smaller Pro
Apple lists the same rear camera system for both. Base the size decision on viewing and handling, then compare other differences rather than paying more for an assumed extra lens.
The details, in plain English
Screen
The 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display is OLED, so each pixel lights itself and blacks look deep. Apple lists a 2868 x 1320 resolution, which keeps text sharp, and ProMotion refreshes up to 120 times a second, so scrolling feels smooth. Peak outdoor brightness is up to 3,000 nits by Apple's measure, which helps in direct sun. The extra size shows most in long articles, video and split views of two apps.
Cameras
Apple lists three 48MP rear cameras: a main (24mm), an ultra wide (13mm) and a telephoto at 100mm, which is 4x zoom. The telephoto brings distant subjects closer without the softness of digital zoom. The front camera is 18MP with Center Stage, which keeps you in frame on video calls. These are the same rear cameras as on the smaller Pro, per Apple, so the Pro Max is not a camera upgrade.
Power and battery
The A19 Pro chip has a 6-core CPU and 6-core GPU, which is more than everyday apps need but gives room for years of software updates and demanding games. Apple rates battery life at up to 37 hours of video playback. That is Apple's figure from its own test, not ours, and real-world use with the screen bright and 5G on will be shorter.
Size, ports and case
At 231 grams the Pro Max is a heavy phone, and a case adds more. It has a USB-C port, which supports DisplayPort and USB 3 speeds, and IP68 resistance, meaning it survives up to 6 metres of water for 30 minutes, per Apple. Try the phone in its case while sitting down and putting it away; a phone that feels fine in a shop with two hands may not suit your daily routine.
Strengths and drawbacks
What it does well
- 6.9-inch OLED screen with 120Hz ProMotion: more room for text and video, and smooth scrolling
- Up to 3,000 nits peak outdoor brightness, Apple's figure, for reading in sunshine
- Three 48MP rear cameras, including a 4x telephoto for distant subjects
- Apple rates video playback at up to 37 hours
- USB-C port and IP68 dust and water resistance
What to watch out for
- At 231g it is heavy, and the larger body can be awkward to pocket or use one-handed
- A bigger screen is not automatically more comfortable for everyone
- The £1,199 price for 256GB needs a reason beyond having the top model
- It has the same rear cameras as the smaller Pro, so size is the main difference
Compare the exact 256GB version and its current delivered price. The smaller iPhone 17 Pro has the same rear cameras, so choose on screen size and handling. Consider keeping your present phone if it still meets your needs and receives security updates.
Make the Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max easier to live with
Add-ons that answer a drawback we named above. Check compatibility with your exact model before buying.
Solves: at 231g it is heavy, and the larger body can be awkward to pocket or use one-handed
Belkin Compact Magnetic Ring Stand MMA018 Not yet reviewed by us
A magnetic ring can give another holding point for the large handset; it does not make the phone lighter or smaller.
Check first: Requires magnetic-compatible phone or correctly matched case. Helps holding, not reach or weight.
Alternatives we have reviewed
| Product | Our verdict | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
 Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max (this one) | Choose the Pro Max for the 6.9-inch screen you will use every day, not because you expect a different rear camera system from the smaller Pro. | £1,199RRP · 256GB storage, RRP recorded 12 Oct 2026 | Check price |
 Apple iPhone 17 Pro | The more manageable Pro iPhone if you want main, ultrawide and telephoto cameras and would find the Pro Max too big. | £1,099RRP · 256GB storage, RRP recorded 12 Oct 2026 | Check price |
 Apple iPhone Air | Worth it for people who value a very slim, light iPhone and can accept one rear camera, one speaker and modest battery life, but not the best value for everyone. | £1,099RRP · 256GB storage, RRP recorded 12 Oct 2026 | Check price |
 Apple iPhone 17 | The easiest current iPhone to recommend if you want a smooth 120Hz screen, dependable cameras and 256GB of storage without paying for a Pro model. | £899RRP · 256GB, RRP recorded 12 Oct 2026 | Check price |
Not sure it is the right one for you?
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Where our findings come from
Research-based assessment using Apple's UK specifications page, checked 9 September 2026. All specifications and battery and brightness figures are Apple's own; we have not carried out hands-on camera, battery or performance tests. Practical recommendations are our interpretation. Displayed retailer prices retain their original recorded dates.