Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup is around the corner, and leaks suggest the base iPhone 17 will finally deliver long-requested upgrades. For years, Apple held back features like a 120Hz display, slimmer bezels, and a sharper selfie camera. Now, the iPhone 17 is expected to include them, making it one of the most appealing standard iPhones in years.
The iPhone 17 Pro, on the other hand, doubles down on professional features. With a redesigned body, triple-48 MP rear cameras, and vapor chamber cooling, it is aimed at creators and power users. Let’s break down the expected iPhone 17 vs iPhone 17 Pro differences.
Display and Design
The biggest leap for the iPhone 17 is the introduction of a 120Hz ProMotion display. This upgrade alone puts it on par with many Android rivals and finally delivers the smooth experience Apple users wanted since the iPhone 13 era. Bezels are said to be slimmer, and the “splicing” frame design will improve grip.
The iPhone 17 Pro retains an edge with LTPO technology, allowing refresh rates down to 1Hz for Always-On Display and better efficiency. Apple is also introducing a half-aluminum, half-glass build, which should improve durability. The Pro gets a new horizontal rectangular camera bar, making it stand out visually.
Performance and Software
Both devices will run on the new A19 chip. The iPhone 17 will come with 8 GB RAM, while the iPhone 17 Pro will pack 12 GB RAM and vapor chamber cooling for sustained performance. The Pro’s extra memory will be useful when Apple rolls out AI features in iOS 26 and beyond.
Both phones will ship with iOS 26, featuring the new “Liquid Glass” design, smarter Messages, Call Screening, and Live Translate for calls.
Camera Upgrades
The iPhone 17 is expected to keep its dual rear cameras, but it gains a new 24 MP selfie camera for sharper photos and video calls.
The iPhone 17 Pro, meanwhile, gets a major boost with three 48 MP cameras, including a new telephoto lens. A larger main sensor and possible 8K video recording are also rumored. This will make the Pro a more powerful tool for creators.
Battery and Charging
Both models are said to use stacked batteries with slightly larger capacity. Wired charging could finally jump to 35W, with wireless charging remaining at 25W. The Pro may also test reverse wireless charging, but that’s not confirmed.
Quick Specs Overview (Expected)
- iPhone 17: 120Hz ProMotion, A19 chip, 8 GB RAM, dual rear cameras, 24 MP selfie, stacked battery, 35W charging.
- iPhone 17 Pro: LTPO 120Hz, A19 chip, 12 GB RAM, vapor cooling, triple 48 MP cameras, stronger build, 35W charging.
Final Take
The iPhone 17 vs iPhone 17 Pro comparison shows Apple finally closing the gap between the base and Pro models in some areas. The standard iPhone 17 delivers long-overdue upgrades, making it a real value at its expected $799 price. The Pro remains the choice for users who need advanced camera features, better performance, and premium materials.
If you just want smoother visuals, a sharper selfie camera, and a reliable iPhone experience, the iPhone 17 looks more attractive than ever. But if you rely on professional-grade photography, video, or gaming, the iPhone 17 Pro is still the one to beat.
