iPhone 16 Plus vs iPhone 17 Air: Which One Should You Choose

The iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 17 Air cater to users looking for a large-screen iPhone without stepping into the Pro range. While the iPhone 16 Plus continues Apple's traditional Plus model with minor enhancements, the iPhone 17 Air brings a new lightweight design and modern upgrades. This comparison explores how the two differ across design, performance, battery, software, and pricing.

Here is a direct comparison between the iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 17 Air:

Disclaimer: Features may vary depending on model, configuration, and region. For the latest and most accurate details, please visit the official website or consult authorised retailers.

The iPhone 17 Air introduces a thinner and lighter chassis, borrowing design cues from the iPhone 15 Pro's titanium frame but in aluminium. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 Plus continues with a standard aluminium and glass build.

Both phones feature similar camera hardware but the iPhone 17 Air enhances photo processing and video features through its newer chipset.

The iPhone 17 Air features a more efficient A18 chip with improved thermals and GPU, along with a lighter battery that balances endurance and weight. The iPhone 16 Plus offers slightly more battery life but with older hardware.

The iPhone 17 Air benefits from iOS 19 out of the box and future-forward software updates, while the iPhone 16 Plus ships with iOS 18.

Refer the following table:

Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and may vary based on configuration, region, and special offers. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing.

Choose the iPhone 16 Plus if you prefer a larger battery, tried-and-tested hardware, and don’t mind a slightly heavier device. It's a good fit for binge-watchers and those who want a traditional Plus-sized experience.

Opt for the iPhone 17 Air if you value a slimmer, lighter phone with newer performance, camera improvements, and longer software support. It suits users who prefer portability without compromising on flagship features.

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Note: The specifications, features, and pricing provided are based on publicly available information and sources. Actual details may vary upon official release.