The iPhone 17 series introduces Apple’s latest innovations of 2025, with the Pro and Air models catering to slightly different priorities. The iPhone 17 Pro combines a premium build, versatile triple camera system, vibrant display and strong performance, offering a well rounded flagship experience. The iPhone Air, on the other hand, focuses on elegance and portability, featuring a slimmer, lighter design and a larger display, powered by the A19 Pro chip. Choosing between them depends on whether you prioritise a compact flagship or a device with a larger screen and lighter form factor.
iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone Air – Build and Design
The iPhone 17 Pro and Air are both high quality devices, crafted with Apple’s signature attention to detail. The Pro uses a polished titanium frame that feels substantial and durable in the hand, while the Air takes this further with an ultra thin, lightweight design that emphasises portability and ease of use. The Air feels particularly effortless to carry over long periods, whereas the Pro offers a slightly more solid presence.
The iPhone 17 Pro delivers a solid, premium feel with professional appeal, while the iPhone Air impresses with its slim, lightweight elegance.
iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone Air – Display
The iPhone 17 Pro has a 6.3 inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, producing sharp visuals, rich colour and smooth motion. The iPhone Air features a slightly larger 6.5 inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, providing a more spacious viewing area while maintaining excellent brightness and colour accuracy.
The Air offers a more immersive screen, but the Pro remains precise and practical for everyday use.
iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone Air – Camera and Video
The iPhone 17 Pro has a triple camera system with 48MP main, 48MP ultrawide and 48MP telephoto lenses, plus an 18MP front camera. This setup is highly versatile, capable of professional quality photography and video.
The iPhone Air uses a single 48MP rear camera, which captures excellent images but lacks the flexibility of the Pro’s additional lenses. Both devices have capable front cameras suitable for selfies and video calls.
The Pro is clearly stronger for photography and creative work, while the Air delivers solid performance for everyday photos and videos.
iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone Air – Processor
The iPhone 17 Pro is powered by the A19 Pro chip, delivering excellent speed, smooth multitasking and impressive performance for demanding apps. The iPhone Air also uses the A19 Pro chip, so both are exceptionally fast, though the Air’s slightly more efficient design helps it maintain performance in a thinner, lighter frame.
Both phones are extremely capable, but the Air balances power with efficiency in a compact form.
iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone Air – Battery Performance
The iPhone 17 Pro offers strong all day battery life, comfortably supporting normal usage. The Air, despite its slimmer design, provides similar endurance thanks to efficient components and software optimisation, though it is slightly lower under heavy media use.
The Pro may edge out slightly in endurance, but the Air still delivers solid all day performance.
iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone Air – Storage
The iPhone 17 Pro is available in options up to 1TB, while the Air reaches the same top tier, offering ample space for media, apps and professional workflows. Lower capacity options are also available on both devices, covering most everyday needs.
Both phones provide generous storage options, with the Air catering well to users who value efficiency and portability without compromise.
iPhone 17 Pro vs iPhone Air – Verdict
Both the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air are part of the latest Apple iPhone 17 series, combining premium design, strong performance and high quality displays.
Choose the iPhone 17 Pro for professional level photography and a sturdy, premium feel. Opt for the iPhone Air for a lighter, larger display and elegant, high performance design.