Upgrade to the Future: Why Now is the Perfect Time to Invest in the iPhone 17

When it comes to buying a smartphone, the decision is never easy. While we provide a list of the top 10 phones in our comprehensive buying guide, the right phone for you will depend on various factors such as your budget, hardware preferences, and software requirements. At Tech Advisor, we are committed to offering detailed reviews and expert advice to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions. We understand that a one-size-fits-all approach is not suitable for everyone.

However, if you are considering an iPhone, our recommendation is straightforward. If your budget allows, the iPhone 17 is a top choice both now and in the future. It is one of the few flagship phones that we confidently recommend to almost anyone.

The sweet spot in Apple’s iPhone lineup…

With the release of the iPhone 17, Apple made the buying decision easier for millions of consumers worldwide. It quickly became the second most popular smartphone in Q4 of 2025, trailing only behind the iPhone 17 Pro Max. For most users, there is no need to splurge on the Pro models, which offer little additional benefits. The iPhone Air, priced higher than the iPhone 17, lacks in key areas such as camera quality, battery life, and speakers. On the other hand, the iPhone 17e sacrifices essential features to maintain affordability.

For the majority of users, the standard iPhone 17 strikes the perfect balance between price and features. It may even entice some Android users to switch to Apple’s ecosystem.

…as verified by our expert reviewer

As an Android user who occasionally reviews iPhones, I understand if you have doubts about my opinion on Apple devices. That’s why I turned to my colleague Emma Rowley, an iPhone expert with 16 years of experience using Apple handsets. In her 4.5-star review last October, she praised the iPhone 17 as “the model to get.”

After six months of continuous usage, Emma’s opinion of the iPhone 17 has only improved:

“The iPhone 17 is a phone I’d recommend to literally anyone who can afford £799/$799 for their daily driver. Most of its benefits can be summarized under the following: it is incredibly convenient.

It boasts a comfortable size and weight, along with key hardware and software upgrades from recent years such as the USB-C charging port, Action button, Dynamic Island, Always-On display, and Centre Stage selfie camera feature. The OLED display is vibrant and sharp, with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits for an exceptional viewing experience in any environment, and a 120Hz refresh rate.

Additionally, it features a faster chip than the iPhone 16, double the starting storage, and promises software updates until around 2032. It is also AI-ready, should Apple focus on that area in the future.”

Despite the lack of AI capabilities, a common issue across all iPhones, the iPhone 17 excels in most aspects except for low-light and zoom photography. If you primarily use the main and selfie lenses during daylight, you’ll be more than satisfied.

If you own an iPhone that’s at least two years old, you’ll appreciate the significant upgrades introduced in the iPhone 17. While I don’t encourage frequent upgrades, using your phone for a longer duration is a sustainable choice.

There’s no need to wait for the next generation…

Don’t wait for the iPhone 18

Those anticipating the iPhone 18 may be disappointed by recent news. Reports suggest that the base model will have a delayed launch, potentially arriving in Spring 2027 alongside the mid-range iPhone 18e, to make room for a foldable iPhone release this year. This means the iPhone 17 will remain the latest flagship for almost another year, making it a compelling option.

Even when the iPhone 18 eventually debuts, it may not live up to expectations. Leaks indicate potential downgrades in manufacturing processes, chip specifications, or memory due to a global RAM shortage. Companies are facing increased production costs, leading to compromises in hardware quality.

With the uncertainty surrounding the iPhone 18 and possible downgrades, the iPhone 17 emerges as a more attractive choice.

Get the iPhone 17 while you still can

As mentioned earlier, the iPhone 17 is priced at £799/$799 for outright purchase. While this may seem steep, you can opt for monthly payments over 24 months. The iPhone 17 offers excellent value for a future-proofed phone with no immediate successor and Apple’s reliable software support.

The global RAM shortage may lead to price increases for existing iPhone models. At present, the iPhone 17 is available at its launch price through various retailers in the UK and the US, but availability may not last long.

If you are considering a new iPhone, acting swiftly on the iPhone 17 is advisable. It remains a top choice for a flagship phone.

Looking for an Android alternative? Our guides to the best budget phones, best mid-range phones, and best phones overall offer some excellent options.