iPhone 18 vs iPhone 17 series: Comparing performance, price and how to choose the right model

iPhone 18 series vs iPhone 17 series: comparison overview

Let's look at the differences between the iPhone 18 and 17 series, checking the features and improvements of each. While the iPhone 18 series is expected to feature a more powerful processor and improved camera performance, the iPhone 17 series' performance is already excellent, so there's no need to insist on getting the latest model.

iPhone 18 series and iPhone 17 series: full specifications

Below is a summary of the specifications for each model in the iPhone 18 and iPhone 17 series. As explained iniPhone 18 model release date and specifications, the higher-end models (iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max) and the iPhone Ultra are expected to launch first, with the standard model and more affordable Air model predicted to be released in 2027.

*Please note that the iPhone 18 series specifications featured on this page are based on leaked information. We will update this content as soon as an official announcement is made by Apple.

What improvements does the iPhone 18 series offer over the iPhone 17 series?

The following are the key improvements to look out for in the iPhone 18 series, offering attractive specs for users wanting a high-end device.

• Improved (smaller) Dynamic Island

• Improved processing performance with the A20 and A20 Pro chips

• Addition of an aperture function to the camera on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models

• Increased battery capacity

That said, there are no groundbreaking new features, so it's not a major upgrade compared to the iPhone 17 series. As explained below, the iPhone 17 series also offers more than adequate performance, with the standard model praised for its value for money and the Pro and Pro Max models for their high camera performance.

The iPhone 18 series also brings anticipation for a foldable model (iPhone Ultra)

In addition, a new foldable model is also expected to launch around the same time as the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max (or from 2027 onwards). While foldable devices have long been available on Android phones such as the Galaxy series and Google Pixel series, this will be the first time users can access a high-performance foldable iPhone.

The name is predicted to be the iPhone Ultra (or iPhone Fold), and with features such as a large screen and a minimum storage capacity of 512GB, it's suited to heavy users. However, the release price is expected to be higher than the iPhone 18 Pro Max.

While the iPhone 18 series and the new iPhone Ultra offer high performance, rising costs for components such as memory mean a price increase is unavoidable. In June 2026, the prices of new iPad and MacBook models were also revised upward, and more users are likely feeling that buying brand-new Apple products isn't great value for money.

iPhone 18 vs iPhone 17 series: display performance comparison

One of the display improvements in the iPhone 18 series is the smaller Dynamic Island. However, the iPhone 17 also supports a maximum 120Hz refresh rate for the first time on the standard model, giving the impression that its specs are already more than adequate.

Improved Dynamic Island in the iPhone 18 series

Since the iPhone 15 series, Dynamic Island has been included on all models, including the standard model, making it more convenient to check app notifications and control media playback. However, there are some spec differences, as the more affordable iPhone 16e model and the iPhone 17e model don't include Dynamic Island.

In the iPhone 18 series, the Dynamic Island will be smaller than before, increasing the visible screen area. While it remains to be seen how noticeable this difference will feel in everyday use, those who find notification pop-ups distracting while using messaging apps or watching videos may find the iPhone 18 series more satisfying.

The iPhone 17 is also high-performance: supporting up to a 120Hz refresh rate

Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 series also offers high display performance, and the standard iPhone 17 model in particular stands out for supporting up to a 120Hz refresh rate and a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits, matching the higher-end models and the Air model.

Users who prioritise smooth scrolling and gameplay will be satisfied with the iPhone 17, even without upgrading to the iPhone 18 series.

iPhone 18 vs iPhone 17 series: processor performance comparison

Processor performance has steadily evolved throughout the iPhone series' history, and the iPhone 18 series will be equipped with the A20 and A20 Pro chips. In addition, the iOS version releasing in 2026 is also expected to offer a wide range of uses through Siri AI.

The iPhone 18 features the A20 chip: memory (RAM) also increases to 12GB

As with the iPhone 17 series, only the standard iPhone 18 model has lower processor performance, but it's still more than capable for browsing, social media and gaming apps. The A20 chip in the iPhone 18 also improves power efficiency, contributing to better battery life alongside its processing power.

Additionally, while only the standard model in the iPhone 17 series had 8GB of memory, the iPhone 18 is likely to increase this to 12GB. This should make it comfortable to use for specialised tasks and multitasking, including AI features powered by Apple Intelligence.

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max feature the A20 Pro chip

The higher-end iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, along with the successor to the iPhone Air model (expected to launch from 2027 onwards), will feature the A20 Pro chip. This offers the highest processing performance of any iPhone series to date, along with the benefit of reduced heat generation.

The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max already offer stable performance and are less prone to overheating during long video playback thanks to improved cooling, but the higher-end models in the iPhone 18 series are expected to improve on this further.

Which models will support the full Siri AI functionality on iOS 27?

As explained in the new features of iOS 27, the latest iOS, releasing in 2026, will introduce a highly capable assistant powered by Siri AI. Compared to the traditional Siri, Siri AI allows for ongoing conversations and follow-up questions, similar to AI tools like ChatGPT. It also supports what's known as personal context understanding, improving the accuracy of retrieving and analysing the information you need.

Regarding Siri AI, some features, such as more expressive voice output and high-precision voice input, are only available on devices with the A19 Pro chip (iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max and iPhone Air) and the iPhone 18 series. The iPhone 17 and iPhone 17e models, which use the A19 chip and 8GB of memory, don't support the full range of Siri AI features.

iPhone 18 vs iPhone 17 series: camera performance comparison

For the iPhone 18 series camera, the improvements include the front camera's megapixel count and a variable aperture feature on the higher-end models.

Front camera megapixels improved across the entire iPhone 18 series

The iPhone 18 series sees the front camera's resolution increase from 18MP to 24MP, improving quality for selfies and video calls, although you may not notice a clear difference compared to the iPhone 17.

The iPhone 17 also offers high front camera performance, having improved from the previous 12MP, along with added convenience features such as Center Stage support and Dual Capture. For more details, see the iPhone 17 series camera review.

Variable aperture added to the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max keep the same 48MP resolution as the previous model, but a new variable aperture lens has been added to the wide-angle (main) camera. According to leaked information, while the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max have a fixed aperture of ƒ/1.78, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will offer an adjustable range from ƒ/1.6 to ƒ/22.

Being able to adjust the aperture allows for better control over light intake and improves the quality of blurred-background portrait shots. While this may be appealing to dedicated photography creators, few everyday users are likely to make such fine adjustments to their camera settings.

iPhone 18 vs iPhone 17 series: battery performance comparison

Battery performance also varies between iPhone generations, and the iPhone 17 series has seen a significant improvement in battery life.

Battery capacity increases in the iPhone 18 series

In terms of battery capacity, the standard iPhone 18 and the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to see a slight increase. The battery performance compared to the iPhone 17 series is shown in the table below, and we will update this once Apple officially confirms the exact specifications.

The iPhone 17 already offers a long battery life, with an estimated maximum of 30 hours of video playback, but the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, with their larger battery capacity, offer even better battery life. Whether this improves further with the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max is one point worth watching.

The iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro also praised for fast charging performance

In terms of battery performance, the iPhone 17 series also offers faster charging, reaching up to 50% charge in just 20 minutes. Wireless charging via MagSafe now also supports up to 25W, allowing for up to 50% charge in 30 minutes. T

Compared to the previous iPhone 16 series, as well as the more affordable iPhone 17e and the slim, lightweight iPhone Air, the fast charging performance of the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max has also improved. For users who often need to charge quickly, such as before work or school or during a lunch break, the iPhone 17's specs should feel convenient to use.

iPhone 18 vs iPhone 17 series: price and storage capacity comparison

Storage capacity doesn't differ much between the iPhone 18 and iPhone 17 series, but a price increase is expected for the next generation. It will likely still be difficult to get the latest series at a low price.

Storage capacity is almost the same: starting from a minimum of 256GB

The iPhone 16 series offered a 128GB option, but the iPhone 17 and 18 series start at a minimum of 256GB. The foldable iPhone Ultra may also offer 512GB, 1TB and 2TB options.

With modern smartphone usage, more apps and games are taking up larger amounts of storage. Unless you're a light user, having 256GB of storage is advisable.

Predicted iPhone 18 series release prices, compared to the iPhone 17 series

Apple CEO Tim Cook has warned that price increases are "unavoidable" due to surging memory and storage chip costs. Rumours and analyst predictions (IDC) suggest the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max could rise by around US$200, which works out to roughly A$360 at current exchange rates, while entry-level models may see a smaller increase of around A$90. Based on this, the estimated release prices would be as follows:

It's worth noting Apple sets its own local Australian pricing rather than simply applying the exchange rate, so actual prices could end up higher than these estimates. We'll update this table once Apple officially confirms pricing.

For reference, the official release prices of the iPhone 17 series are also summarised below:

Budget-conscious users should also compare the lowest prices for refurbished devices

It's difficult to find a brand-new iPhone for under A$1,000, and options are limited, so if you're considering an upgrade, we recommend also looking into refurbished (professionally inspected) devices. For reference, here's a summary of current prices using the iPhone 16 series as an example.

Many older, previous-generation iPhones can be purchased for under A$700, making them popular choices for younger users. Back Market's refurbished iPhones are also SIM-free, making them ideal for those who want to buy just the device itself at a lower price.

Should you wait for the iPhone 18 series? Who it's for and how to choose

Having reviewed the specs and features of the iPhone 18 series, here's a summary of the types of users who should wait for its release.

Those who want the latest features and a high-spec processor

The iPhone 18 series offers attractive high-end specs, including the latest A20 Pro chip, high-precision Siri AI features, and a variable aperture camera on the higher-end models.

For general use, such as social media, browsing and gaming apps, older iPhone models are still more than capable, but if you want to experience the latest performance, it's worth waiting for the iPhone 18 series release.

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, for those who prioritise camera performance

The higher-end iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are praised not only for their variable aperture feature, but also for their high optical zoom performance thanks to the built-in telephoto camera. Like the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, they offer up to 8x optical-quality zoom.

For users who regularly shoot long 4K videos for business or social media content, the higher-end models are easier to use. Improved cooling ensures stable performance, and the A20 Pro chip further reduces heat generation.

👉++Click here for an iPhone ranking by camera performance!++

The iPhone Ultra, for those who want a foldable phone

For users who have been curious about foldable phones like the Galaxy on Android but held off buying one because it wasn't an iPhone, the iPhone Ultra is the model they've been waiting for.

The release price is expected to be quite high, with Australian retailers estimating a recommended retail price starting from around A$2,000 and up, but it's expected to feature not only a large 7.8-inch display but also a design that remains relatively easy to use even when folded.

iPhone 17 vs iPhone 18 series: who should choose the iPhone 17, and how to decide

However, most users don't actually need the specs of the iPhone 18 series, and the iPhone 17, which will become the previous-generation model, is more than capable for everyday use.

Those who want to buy an iPhone for less rather than chase the latest features

The release price of the iPhone 18 series is expected to be around A$1,500 even for the standard model, and those hoping for prices closer to past budget options like the iPhone SE series will likely put off upgrading.

That said, it's unlikely Apple will lower the price of its latest iPhones in future. With global memory and chip costs continuing to rise, prices are expected to keep increasing regardless of currency fluctuations. That's why, rather than buying a brand-new iPhone from the Apple Store, choosing a refurbished iPhone 17 offers real cost benefits.

The iPhone 17, for those who prioritise a balance of price and performance

Within the iPhone 17 series, the standard model offers the best value for money, with features like a maximum 120Hz refresh rate, a 48MP ultra-wide camera, and a simple design without a camera bar also proving popular.

In the past, the standard iPhone model was often seen as the entry-level option, but with the iPhone 17 series, the performance gap in display and camera quality compared to the higher-end models has narrowed, making it a good choice even for those wanting a high-end device. Getting more storage for a similar price compared to the iPhone 16 is another point in its favour.

The iPhone 17 Pro, for those who prioritise battery life and optical zoom performance

If you're after a device with better battery life and camera performance capable of capturing distant subjects clearly, the iPhone 17 Pro is the one to choose. It supports up to 8x optical-quality zoom, and the telephoto camera's resolution has improved from 12MP to 48MP.

Battery life is also better than the standard iPhone 17, with up to 33 hours of video playback. The iPhone 17 Pro Max offers similar performance, but if you prioritise a lower price, a lighter device, and comfortable one-handed use, the iPhone 17 Pro is the better choice.

The iPhone 17e, if a single-camera setup is fine for you

On the other hand, if you don't need top-tier camera performance and a single-camera setup without an ultra-wide lens is fine, the iPhone 17e is also a good option. Compared to the iPhone 16e, it's praised for adding MagSafe support and doubling the storage at the same price (128GB to 256GB), making it a great choice for users who want the latest model at a low price with minimal specs.

For more details, see the performance comparison between the iPhone 17e, 16e and standard iPhone 17, but the new soft pink colour on the iPhone 17e has proven popular, and it uses the same high-performance A19 chip as the iPhone 17. Even as a more affordable, lower-spec model, it's capable of handling a wide range of everyday tasks. If you don't need MagSafe charging, it's also worth comparing the iPhone 16e, which can be found cheaper as a refurbished device.

Refurbished devices let you save on models beyond the iPhone 18 and 17 series too!

We've now covered the differences between the iPhone 18 and 17 series in full, but if you're looking to lower your budget when upgrading your iPhone, it's worth also considering previous-generation models as refurbished devices.

Previous-generation models like the iPhone 15 and 16 are popular as refurbished devices

iPhones from a few generations ago see a much bigger discount off their original retail price, while their performance hasn't dropped off significantly, meaning there are plenty of great-value options to choose from. If a 60Hz refresh rate isn't an issue for you, the iPhone 15 and 16 are good candidates.

The iPhone 15 was the first generation to support USB-C, and its range of pastel colour options has also proven popular. Meanwhile, the Phone 16 features a Camera Control button and macro photography, offering camera performance that isn't far behind the higher-end models.

From the iPhone 17 series onwards, devices are eSIM-only and no longer support a physical SIM card. If you want to keep using a physical SIM when upgrading, you'll need to choose a previous-generation model instead. If you're curious about the most popular refurbished models, it's worth comparing our recommended iPhone options.

Refurbished devices offer higher quality and peace of mind compared to second-hand devices

Refurbished devices are pre-owned devices that have been professionally restored, but they offer higher quality and greater peace of mind compared to second-hand iPhones. With second-hand iPhones, particularly those sold through private marketplaces or peer-to-peer platforms, there's often no guarantee on battery capacity, and devices may be sold with significant wear, which can be a concern.

Back Market's refurbished devices come with a 12-month warranty and 30 days to change your mind, along with a guaranteed minimum battery capacity of 80%. If you'd prefer an even better battery, Premium grade devices and the New Battery option are also popular, offering at least 90% and up to 100% battery capacity respectively, ideal for anyone who wants their refurbished iPhone to feel as close to new as possible.

Back Market also offers an iPhone trade-in service

Back Market also offers a trade-in service for devices such as iPhones. If you're upgrading and no longer need your old device, selling it can help offset the cost of your new one. With Back Market's trade-in service, you can get an instant valuation online, so it's worth checking if you're curious about what your device is worth.

If you're planning to sell or trade in your iPhone, it's also worth checking out our guides on ++how to remove Activation Lock and how to transfer data from iPhone to iPhone.