Apple updated its budget iPhone surprisingly quickly. While simplified models used to last two to three years without major changes, the iPhone 17e replaced the iPhone 16e after just one year. And this isn’t a cosmetic update — the difference between generations is noticeable not only on paper but also in real-world use. However, I can’t help but grumble a bit about the lack of Dynamic Island in the new model. In my opinion, this is a serious drawback that should have been avoided.
You won’t be able to tell the smartphones apart by appearance. Image: 9to5mac.com
Differences Between iPhone 17e and iPhone 16e
Last year, the iPhone 16e replaced the iPhone SE and raised the starting price to $599. Now the iPhone 17e keeps the same price tag while improving the base specifications. Below are the key differences that truly matter:
- A19 chip instead of A18. The new processor delivers higher performance and handles Apple Intelligence tasks better. The GPU technically remains quad-core, but the graphics cores are now equipped with neural accelerators. Plus, the modem has been updated — C1X instead of C1, with a claimed twofold increase in data transfer speeds;
- Updated portrait photography. The iPhone 17e supports next-generation portraits with Focus and Depth Control. The smartphone automatically recognizes people, dogs, and cats, preserves depth information, and allows you to change the focus point after shooting. The iPhone 16e didn’t have this kind of flexibility;
- Ceramic Shield 2. The new generation of protective glass provides up to three times better scratch resistance and improved anti-reflective coating. This increases the device’s practicality in everyday use;
- MagSafe and Qi2. The iPhone 16e didn’t have a magnetic system. The 17e now includes it, opening access to MagSafe accessories and doubling wireless charging speed — from 7.5W to 15W. This isn’t just a convenience but a real functional improvement;
- Doubled base storage. The main advantage — a starting 256GB instead of 128GB at the same price of $599. The 512GB configuration now costs $799, making the new model a better value compared to the previous generation.
The new chip will add speed to the smartphone. Image: macworld.com
MagSafe has now appeared even in the budget iPhone. Image: 9to5mac.com
That said, the display remains 6.1 inches with the classic notch, without Dynamic Island. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 haven’t changed. Battery life is claimed to be the same — up to 26 hours of video playback. In the end, the iPhone 17e isn’t a revolution, but a noticeable strengthening of its position in its segment. Comparing directly, the new model offers more storage, MagSafe, and more modern internals without a price increase. Against this backdrop, the iPhone 16e already looks like a less attractive option.
What to Choose: iPhone 16e or iPhone 17e
If the iPhone 16e is sold at a discount of at least 5,000–7,000 rubles, it could be a reasonable option for those who don’t need MagSafe and increased storage. It’s still a relevant smartphone with good performance and iOS support for several years ahead.
Plus, the iPhone 17e now comes in a cool pink color. Image: edition.cnn.com
But at the same price, the choice is obvious — the iPhone 17e looks like the more rational purchase. Doubled base storage, a more modern chip, an improved camera, and the return of MagSafe make it noticeably better value. Essentially, Apple strengthened its entry-level model without changing the price tag. And in this generation, there’s no real reason to overpay for the previous version.
