iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone Air: Upgrade from iPhone 16 – Which to Choose?

Apple began offering trade-in credits for the iPhone 17, iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro models on Thursday, signaling the imminent availability of the latest smartphone lineup released in late September 2025. The new models – iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max – have all received positive reviews, prompting potential upgrades from existing iPhone users.

The question of whether to upgrade from an iPhone 16 to either the iPhone 17 Pro or the iPhone Air is a common one, particularly as consumers weigh the benefits of enhanced features against the cost of a new device. Apple’s decision to discontinue the “Plus” model in favor of the thinner “Air” variant introduces a new consideration for buyers.

The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models are positioned as offering increased power, improved camera capabilities, and a wider color range. According to information released on January 12, 2026, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is priced starting at €1,397, while the iPhone 17 Pro begins at €1,209. The iPhone Air is available starting at an unspecified price, while the standard iPhone 17 is also priced starting at an unspecified price. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is currently priced from €1,199, and the iPhone 16 Pro from €1,199.

A key difference between the iPhone 17 Pro Max and other models lies in screen size. The iPhone 17 Pro Max features a 6.9-inch display, significantly larger than the 6.3-inch screens found on the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro. This larger screen size may appeal to users who prioritize media consumption or productivity tasks on their smartphones.

Apple’s website lists a comprehensive comparison of its iPhone models, including the iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air, iPhone 17, iPhone 16e, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, and older generations dating back to the iPhone SE (3rd generation). The availability of trade-in credits is offered through authorized retailers.