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Intro
Apple may have wrapped up its SE line, but with the iPhone 16e it introduced a new kind of entry-level iPhone — one with flagship-grade performance and modern design at a lower price.
Now, the upcoming iPhone 17 is expected to build on that foundation with a bolder design, a significant display upgrade, and possibly a price increase. But how do the two stack up if you're shopping for a new iPhone later this year?
In this preliminary comparison, we will talk about the expected upgrades with the iPhone 17 and how it will compare to the iPhone 16e. We’ll look at the changes in design, performance, and camera hardware.
The iPhone 17 is set to bring a sleeker, slightly larger design, thinner bezels, and a better selfie camera. On the other hand, the iPhone 16e still packs excellent value with its performance-first focus, although the single camera and subpar display refresh rate definitely brings it down.
Update: Now that iOS 26 is officially revealed, we have a clearer picture of the software experience coming to both phones — head to the ‘Performance and Software’ section for the full breakdown.
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Also read:iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16: a real upgrade or more of the same?
Design and Size
iPhone 17 redesign to bring a smoother frame
Metal molds that show what the iPhone 17 line will presumably look like. | Image credit – Sonny Dickson via AppleInsider
The iPhone 17 is expected to feature a redesigned frame with a smoother transition between the back and the sides, possibly using a new splicing technique that enhances ergonomics. It will also retain the vertical camera alignment introduced with the iPhone 16, which supports spatial video recording.
Color options may carry over from the current iPhones — black, white, pink, teal, and ultramarine.
In contrast, the iPhone 16e reuses the flat-edge design of the iPhone 14 and features the Action Button but no Camera Control. It has a notch instead of the newer Dynamic Island and lacks IP rating details, though build quality is comparable.
Both phones have USB-C ports, but Apple may reduce the button count on the iPhone 17 by combining volume and Action Button functions.
Display Differences
One of the biggest leaps with the iPhone 17 is expected in the display department. The iPhone 17 is rumored to feature a 6.27-inch M14 OLED panel with ProMotion support — meaning a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and better energy efficiency (finally!).
The new display is also expected to be brighter and more power-efficient thanks to LTPO technology.
Display Specs
iPhone 17*
iPhone 16e
Size
6.1
6.1 inches
Brightness
2000 nits
1200 nits
*rumored/expected
Meanwhile, the iPhone 16e makes do with a standard 60Hz OLED screen at 6.1 inches. While it’s a big improvement over the LCD on the iPhone SE it replaces, it is definitely a downgrade from 120Hz screens.
Performance and Software
iPhone 17 may debut A19 chip and 256GB base storage; 16e leads mid-range with A18 and AI support
The iPhone 17 is expected to use Apple’s next-gen A19 chip, potentially still built on 3nm tech if the shift to 2nm doesn’t come to fruition. Apple may also include custom Wi-Fi 7 and 5G modem chips, which could improve the phones' efficiency.
As for storage, we might finally see the base iPhone start at 256GB with 8 GB of RAM with the iPhone 17.
The iPhone 16e lacks of UWB support, although that is a minor omission.
Update: iOS 26 brings the glow-up
Both phones will launch with iOS 26, and this year’s update doesn’t just polish, it completely changes how iOS looks and feels.
Apple is introducing a new Liquid Glass design, which brings layered transparency and soft reflections across the system. It can look very subtle, or you can go all-in with the new Clear Look mode, which gives your phone a more transparent, almost sci-fi interface.
The lock screen gets a new animated wallpaper that shifts and morphs depending on time and notifications, and the Music app now displays full-screen animated album art that feels alive.
The Camera app has been decluttered too — now, only the Photo and Video modes are visible, with everything else is hidden behind swipes gestures. Apple also fixed the Photos app layout, making your albums easier to find, kind of like what the old version used to be.
Call Screening and Spam Filtering are coming to both the Phone and Messages apps, and Live Translate now works in real-time during calls — a long overdue answer to Android’s version. You’ll also find typing indicators, custom chat backgrounds, and even polls for group conversations in Messages.
Both the iPhone 17 and iPhone 16e will support iOS 26, but keep in mind that Apple Intelligence features are still on a staggered rollout. Neither phone is expected to get the full AI experience right away, especially not the smarter Siri, which is still in development and coming later.
Camera
iPhone 17 adds sharper selfie cam, 16e keeps basic setup
The iPhone 17 will stick to a dual rear camera setup: 48 MP main and 12 MP ultra-wide. The standout upgrade is expected on the front — a new 24 MP selfie camera with better optics. This should make a noticeable difference in sharpness and post-processing flexibility.
The iPhone 16e has a single 48MP rear camera with no ultra-wide or zoom options, so you are limited when it comes to how your photos and videos look. Speaking of video, quality is excellent, although you don't have the Cinematic and Action modes.
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As for the 16e’s selfie camera, it is decent but clearly dated.
The Camera Control button remains exclusive to more premium models (not that it's a big loss), but the AI-based Visual Intelligence features will be available between both.
Battery Life and Charging
iPhone 17 could gain better charging, 16e packs bigger battery
Battery size for the iPhone 17 is rumored to be around 3,600 mAh — slightly bigger than its predecessor. Apple is also expected to continue using stacked battery tech and may include a new adhesive for easier battery replacements.
Phone
Battery Capacity
iPhone 17
3,600 mAh*
iPhone 16e
4,005 mAh
*rumored/expected
The iPhone 16e, on the other hand, delivers excellent battery life from a surprisingly large 4,005 mAh cell. It ranked high in our web browsing battery tests but was slightly underwhelming when it came to video streaming and gaming.
Charging is another area of contrast. The iPhone 17 will likely support MagSafe and faster charging speeds, while the 16e is limited to 20W wired and 7.5W non-magnetic wireless charging.
Charging: USB-C 20W wired 7.5W wireless, no MagSafe
*rumored/expected
Summary
The iPhone 16e opened a new chapter for Apple by offering flagship-level performance in a more accessible form. But while it offers great value, it makes key sacrifices in areas like display quality, camera versatility, and wireless charging.
The iPhone 17 is expected to come with a 120Hz display, enhanced cameras, and a more polished design — albeit at a higher price point than the 16e, of course. It may become the new go-to iPhone for those who want premium features without overspending for a Pro model.
If you're looking for the most affordable way into the Apple ecosystem and don’t need fancy displays or extra cameras, the iPhone 16e will still be a solid pick. But if you can wait and don’t mind spending more, the iPhone 17 is shaping up to be a compelling upgrade across the board.
Aleksandar is a tech enthusiast with a broad range of interests, from smartphones to space exploration. His curiosity extends to hands-on DIY experiments with his gadgets, and he enjoys switching between different brands to experience the latest innovations. Prior to joining PhoneArena, Aleksandar worked on the Google Art Project, digitizing valuable artworks and gaining diverse perspectives on technology. When he's not immersed in tech, Aleksandar is an outdoorsman who enjoys mountain hikes, wildlife photography, and nature conservation. His interests also extend to martial arts, running, and snowboarding, reflecting his dynamic approach to life and technology.
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