The iPhone 17 is here, and for anyone considering an upgrade, this might be the most balanced iPhone in years. Apple has finally given the base model features once reserved for the Pro lineup, making it a serious contender for most buyers. When compared to rivals in Pakistani Market like the Galaxy S24 and Pixel 9, the iPhone 17’s blend of performance, features, and value make it stand out as a truly balanced option in today’s smartphone market.
Design and Display
At first glance, the iPhone 17 looks similar to the iPhone 16, but there are some important upgrades:
- Larger 6.3-inch display (up from 6.1 inches).
- ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate with Always-On Display, finally available on the standard model.
- Peak brightness of 3,000 nits, matching top-tier competitors.
- Ceramic Shield 2 coating, offering three times better scratch resistance.
- Colors: Purple, Mist Blue, Sage, Black, and White.
The jump to 120Hz is a game-changer. For years, Apple capped base iPhones at 60Hz despite powerful processors. That bottleneck is gone, making everyday use and gaming much smoother.
Performance: A19 Chip
Powering the iPhone 17 is the A19 chip, built on next-gen 3nm technology. It features:
- 6-core CPU
- 5-core GPU
- 16-core Neural Engine
In real-world use, whether gaming, multitasking, or running AI features, the phone feels fast and efficient. In a Geekbench 6 test, the iPhone 17 scored an impressive 9,000 for multi-core performance, outperforming many laptops on the market. The A19 ensures the base iPhone is no longer a compromise device.
Battery and Charging
Apple claims 30 hours of video playback, which is 8 hours more than the iPhone 16. Charging is also improved:
- 20 minutes = 50% charge
- 10 minutes = 8 hours of video playback
Wireless charging speeds are also faster, making it one of the most convenient iPhones for heavy users.
Cameras
The iPhone 17 packs a strong dual-camera setup:
- 48MP Wide Camera
- 48MP Ultra-Wide Camera
While it lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, it offers high-quality digital zoom. Photos and videos look sharp, vibrant, and reliable in nearly every condition.
The 18MP front camera with Center Stage is another highlight. It automatically adjusts framing when someone joins the shot, perfect for video calls or group selfies.
Pricing
- Base model (256GB): $799
- 512GB model: $999
For comparison, the iPhone 17 Pro starts at $1,199 for 256GB. Consider who you are as a user to decide whether to opt for Pro or stick with the regular iPhone 17. If you’re a content creator who often needs advanced Pro features like ProRAW video or massive 2TB storage for complex multimedia projects, stretching for the Pro might make sense. However, for the everyday upgrader who values great performance without the bells and whistles of a Pro, the regular iPhone 17 offers much better value.
In Pakistan Price of iphone 17 mobile phone is PKR 350,000 (latest price recently updated)
Final Verdict
The iPhone 17 is not just a base model; it’s Apple’s most balanced iPhone in years. With a high-refresh display, the powerful A19 chip, excellent cameras, and long battery life, it’s a phone that fits almost everyone’s needs.
If you’re upgrading from an older iPhone 11, SE, 8, or X, this is the model to look at first. The Pro still has extras for professionals, but for most people, the iPhone 17 delivers the best mix of performance, features, and value.
Rating: 9/10 highly recommended.
