29
iPhone 17 Pro & Pro Max Review – Engadget
By Sam Rutherford & Cherlynn Low, September 19, 2025
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max deliver a surprisingly substantial upgrade over prior models, focusing on performance, thermal management, cameras, and battery life. Both models are functionally identical aside from size, battery, and price.
Key Highlights:
- Design & Build: Aluminum unibody feels sturdy, scratch-resistant, and reminiscent of older iPhones like the iPhone 8. Ceramic Shield 2 protects the display, while the rear camera plateau remains slightly vulnerable but durable. The new cosmic orange color is bold and attractive.
- Performance & Thermal Management: The A19 Pro chip and vapor chamber keep the phone cooler during intensive tasks. AI-based apps like Image Playground and Genmoji run significantly faster than on the iPhone 16 Pro. Gaming heat is well-managed.
- Cameras:
- Triple 48MP rear cameras offer versatile zoom (0.5x–8x) and vibrant, detailed images.
- Portrait mode is improved, particularly at 2x zoom, with better hair/fur separation.
- Dual-camera video is available but situational.
- Center Stage selfie camera (24MP sensor, 18MP output) intelligently keeps subjects centered during group shots and FaceTime.
- Battery Life: The Pro Max can comfortably last two days with moderate use; the Pro typically runs from morning to late evening. Efficiency is improved, though not dramatically.
- iOS 26: Introduces new aesthetic refinements, bigger buttons, updated lock screens, and minor tweaks to Photos, Camera, and Phone apps. The OS refresh enhances the feel of the hardware but is also available on older iPhones.
- Comparison to iPhone Air & iPhone 17:
- Air: Svelte, status-symbol design, strong battery, and same A19 Pro chip but lacks advanced multi-camera flexibility. USB-C is slower (USB 2) and no DisplayPort.
- iPhone 17: More affordable, dual 48MP cameras, and Center Stage support; USB-C supports DisplayPort but still USB 2.
Pros:
- Innovative Center Stage selfie camera
- Versatile rear camera system
- Improved thermal performance
- Sturdy aluminum design
Cons:
- Expensive ($1,099+)
- Slightly heavier/less sleek than Air
Verdict:
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are more than cosmetic updates—they offer meaningful improvements in durability, thermal management, AI performance, and camera versatility. While the Air is glossier and sleeker, the Pro models remain the best choice for users who prioritize multi-camera photography, performance, and reliability.
Expert Score: 93/100
