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iPhone 16 Pro Max vs iPhone 17 Pro

  • 1-year warranty
  • Free standard shipping
  • Free 30-day returns
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$1,260.00

Versus A$2,149.00 new

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iPhone 17 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$1,591.20

Versus A$1,899.00 new

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Differences at a glance

The iPhone 16 Pro Max (2024) and iPhone 17 Pro (2025) represent Apple's high-end smartphone lineup, offering powerful mobile technology in different physical form factors. While both devices run on the iOS operating system and deliver top-tier processing capabilities, they differ primarily in physical dimensions, screen size, and internal thermal management systems. Choosing between these two models involves balancing display workspace against handling convenience, as well as considering how each device fits into daily routines.

Available Models

Colour

Storage (GB)

Scores

Durability

Durability and software support timelines shape how long each device remains functional and secure for everyday use.

  • Software Support: Both models receive long-term iOS updates from Apple, though the newer iPhone 17 Pro extends support by an additional year due to its subsequent release date.
  • Build and Repairability: Each device features titanium frames, ceramic front shields, and standard water resistance ratings, alongside similar repairability options available through quality-assured refurbished channels as a sustainable choice.
  • Lifespan Expectations: Both smartphones are built to maintain reliable performance and battery health over several years of regular usage under normal conditions.

Release year

2024

2025

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Foldable

No

No

Performance

System responsiveness and everyday multitasking depend on advanced internal processors paired with sufficient memory capacity.

  • Multitasking and App Handling: Both models handle demanding applications, graphics-heavy gaming, and split-screen multitasking smoothly without noticeable stutter or lag.
  • Battery Behavior: The larger physical footprint of the iPhone 16 Pro Max houses a more capacious battery that extends usage times during intensive tasks, while the iPhone 17 Pro balances compact efficiency with daily power needs.
  • Storage Configurations: Both devices offer ample storage tiers starting from baseline capacities suitable for large media libraries and offline file management.

Screen quality

Display technology dictates how content appears outdoors, during media playback, and across general navigation tasks.

  • Display Technology: Both models utilize vibrant OLED panels with deep blacks, high contrast ratios, and adaptive refresh rates that scale smoothly from low to high frequencies.
  • Viewing Area: The iPhone 16 Pro Max provides a larger screen workspace suited for media consumption and document editing, whereas the iPhone 17 Pro offers a more compact panel designed for effortless one-handed use.
  • Outdoor Visibility: Peak brightness levels on both screens ensure clear readability under direct sunlight and bright ambient lighting conditions.

Resolution

1320 x 2868

2622x1206

Screen type

LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR

Audiovisual

Imaging hardware and software processing determine how each device captures photos and records moving video.

  • Lens Systems: Both smartphones feature multi-lens configurations incorporating main, ultra-wide, and telephoto capabilities to support varied focal lengths and macro photography.
  • Video Recording: High-resolution video capture options, cinematic stabilization modes, and professional audio capture features perform similarly across both devices.
  • Low-Light Performance: Advanced sensor sensitivity and computational processing allow both models to capture detailed, low-noise photographs in dim environments.

Main camera

48 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

18 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Physical dimensions and connectivity standards influence daily comfort, accessory compatibility, and network speeds.

  • Connectivity Standards: Both models support 5G cellular networks, modern Wi-Fi protocols, and Bluetooth standards for reliable peripheral connections.
  • Physical Handling: The iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a heavier and broader profile, whereas the iPhone 17 Pro delivers a lighter, more pocket-friendly physical footprint.
  • Security and Ports: Face recognition sensors handle authentication securely, while reversible USB-C ports manage charging and data transfer duties on both units.

Weight

227 oz

206 oz

Screen size (in)

6.9

6.3

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

eSIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C (USB 3)

USB-C

What the community thinks

User feedback from online communities highlights distinct preferences regarding physical proportions and battery endurance. Many owners of the iPhone 16 Pro Max praise its expansive viewing area and extended battery longevity, though some note its substantial weight and large pocket footprint. Conversely, users of the iPhone 17 Pro frequently appreciate its comfortable one-handed handling and manageable weight, while observing that its more compact battery requires slightly more frequent replenishment during heavy travel days.

Users prioritizing maximum screen real estate and prolonged battery life between charges may prefer the iPhone 16 Pro Max, while users prioritizing pocketability and lightweight handling will lean toward the iPhone 17 Pro. Selecting either model depends entirely on personal ergonomics, display size preferences, and daily usage patterns rather than raw capability gaps. Exploring quality-assured refurbished models provides an eco-friendly path to acquiring either device while supporting sustainable technology habits.

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