Our verdict
The iPhone 17 Pro puts Apple's Pro camera system into the smaller of its two Pro sizes, with a 6.3-inch screen. Apple lists the same rear cameras as on the Pro Max: a main camera, an ultrawide that fits more into the frame, and a dedicated 4x telephoto, a zoom lens that brings distant subjects closer without cropping. Apple also lists an 8x optical-quality option, which uses part of the image rather than a separate 8x lens. Choose between the Pro and Pro Max by how you carry and use a phone. A bigger screen is not an improvement if reaching the keyboard with one thumb or fitting the phone in your pocket becomes a daily irritation. Our price check found it at £1,099 for 256GB of storage on 1 August 2026.
Buy it if
- You want flexible cameras in the smaller Pro size
- You use your phone for photography beyond occasional snapshots
- You have a clear reason to replace your current iPhone
Skip it if
- A large viewing area matters more than carrying comfort
- You only want familiar iPhone basics
- Your current camera already handles the photos you take
How it would fit your home
Frame a picture without moving closer
The dedicated 4x telephoto changes how you can frame a subject. Apple also lists an 8x optical-quality option; that is not a separate 8x lens. Check sample photos at the distances you use.
Carry it through an ordinary day
Try typing with one hand and taking the 6.3-inch phone out of the pocket or bag you use most, with a case fitted where possible.
Keep filming practical
Before paying for advanced video tools, think about where the footage goes. Family clips shared in a message need less than recordings you plan to edit on a computer.
The details, in plain English
Cameras
There are three rear cameras. The main camera handles most photos. The ultrawide takes in a wider view, handy for groups, rooms and buildings you cannot step back from. The 4x telephoto is a separate zoom lens, so a subject four times further away keeps its detail. Apple also lists an 8x optical-quality option, which is not a separate lens. Check sample photos at the distances you use.
Size and handling
The 6.3-inch screen is the smaller of the two Pro sizes. It gives less space than the Pro Max for reading, editing and video, but many people find it easier to type on with one hand and to fit into a pocket. Try both sizes with a case fitted before deciding, rather than judging only the bare display model.
Storage and an upgrade with a purpose
The checked version has 256GB of storage. Advanced video recording creates large files, so think about how much you will film before choosing. Write down one photo or task your current phone struggles with and use it when comparing; that is more useful than assuming the Pro label will improve everything you do.
Strengths and drawbacks
What it does well
- 6.3-inch size: easier to hold and pocket than the Pro Max
- Main, ultrawide and 4x telephoto cameras for different framing choices
- The same listed rear camera system as the Pro Max
- 256GB of storage in the checked version, room for photos and video
What to watch out for
- The Pro price is hard to justify for basic calls and messages
- Less screen space than the Pro Max for reading and editing
- The 8x option is not a separate 8x lens
- Advanced video recording can fill storage quickly and take more editing
Compare the exact version and the current delivered price. Consider keeping your present phone if it still meets your needs and receives security updates.
Make the Apple iPhone 17 Pro easier to live with
Add-ons that answer a drawback we named above. Check compatibility with your exact model before buying.
Solves: advanced video recording can fill storage quickly and take more editing
Samsung Portable SSD T7 1TB MU-PC1T0T/WW Not yet reviewed by us
Offers external storage for exported photos and video when internal storage cannot be expanded. It does not add internal app space.
Check first: Adds external file storage, not RAM or internal upgradeability.
Alternatives we have reviewed
| Product | Our verdict | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
 Apple iPhone 17 Pro (this one) | 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 Pro Max | 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 | 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?
We email three options and one clear recommendation, around your budget and home, within three working days.
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Where our findings come from
Research-based assessment using the manufacturer sources below, checked 9 September 2026. Practical recommendations are our interpretation of those features; we have not carried out hands-on camera, battery or performance tests. Displayed retailer prices retain their original recorded dates.