iPhone 17 Review: Why It’s Better Value Than the Pro and the Best VFM iPhone in 2025
The iPhone 17 has changed the game. For the first time, the standard iPhone delivers features that were previously exclusive to the Pro models including 120Hz ProMotion, Always-On Display, and the new Action Button with camera controls. With the A19 chip, improved 48MP camera system, USB-C, and a more efficient battery setup.
For years, the “Pro” iPhones were considered the obvious upgrade. Better cameras, better display, better prestige.
But in 2025, something changed.
The Apple iPhone 17 now sits in a sweet spot — delivering 90% of the Pro experience at a significantly lower price. Users have finally realized that paying ₹40,000–₹60,000 extra for the Pro branding doesn’t always translate to real world benefits.
Key Highlights (iPhone 17)
| Feature | iPhone 17 | iPhone 17 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 120Hz ProMotion + Always on display (finally on standard model) | 120Hz Pro motion + Always on display |
| Processor | A19 chip | A19 Pro chip (slightly better for graphics) |
| Camera | 48MP main + improved night mode | 48MP triple camera + telephoto |
| Build | Aluminum | Aluminium (Unibody design & Ceramic Shield |
| Battery | All day battery | Slightly better |
| Price | Much lower | Premium pricing |
The big news is obvious:
The standard iPhone 17 finally gets 120Hz.
This closes the gap between the regular and the Pro lineup more than ever.
The Price Difference Doesn’t Justify the Upgrade
The iPhone 17 Pro costs significantly more primarily for:
- Telephoto camera
- Unibody frame
- Slightly better GPU
For most users (social media, photos, Netflix, gaming), this doesn’t bring noticeable improvement.
If your use case doesn’t include 4K filmmaking or ProRAW photos:
You’re paying extra for features you won’t use.
Same Experience, Just Less Hype
The standard iPhone 17 delivers:
- Same smooth UI thanks to 120Hz
- Same A19 performance in daily usage
- Same iOS features (Dynamic Island, StandBy Mode, Satellite SOS)
- Same battery experience for a full day
- Advanced privacy
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Users realized:
The difference between “fast” and “Pro fast” is not worth an extra ₹50,000.
3. Display Upgrade Changes Everything
Until iPhone 16, the standard models felt deliberately held back with 60Hz screens.
The jump to 120Hz ProMotion and Always on display means:
- Scrolling feels fluid
- Animations look premium
- Gaming is smoother with consistent FPS
This update alone makes the iPhone 17 feel like a Pro device.
Cameras: Real World Performance Matters More Than Specs
Most users take:
- Instagram shots
- Portrait photos
- Low light selfies
- Videos for social media
The 48MP main sensor on the iPhone 17 performs almost the same as the Pro in these scenarios.
What you don’t get:
- 5X telephoto lens
What most people don’t need:
- 5X telephoto lens
Simple.
Action Button
Another Pro exclusive feature that finally arrives on the standard iPhone lineup is the Action Button.
Previously available only on iPhone Pro models, the Action Button replaces the mute switch and allows customizable quick actions like:
- Launch Camera
- Toggle Silent Mode
- Voice Memos
- Flashlight
- Shortcut automation (e.g., turn on hotspot, run Focus mode)
But the standout use case for most users is camera control.
Dedicated Camera Control Instant Capture
With the Camera control Button:
- Press to open the camera instantly
- Long press to jump directly into Video mode
- Swipe gesture enables changing camera modes (just like a real camera shutter button)
This eliminates the delay of unlocking → opening the camera → switching modes.
For everyday users, especially those who capture moments quickly:
The Camera control Button transforms the iPhone 17 into a point and shoot camera.
And unlike the Pro, where people use it mostly for shortcuts, on the iPhone 17 it becomes a practical everyday tool.
Battery and Efficiency Are Better on the Standard Model
The standard iPhone 17 is optimized for efficiency rather than peak performance.
Result:
- Less heat
- Longer battery life in daily use
- More stable gaming performance
The Pro’s A19 Pro chip draws more power, especially in gaming and 4K video recording.
Verdict: iPhone 17 is the Best Value iPhone in 2025
If you want:
- Smooth performance
- Premium build
- Great cameras
- 120Hz display
- Long battery life
You don’t need to pay Pro prices.
The iPhone 17 gives you everything you need — without overpaying for what you won’t use.
iPhone 17 = Smart upgrade
iPhone 17 Pro = Status upgrade
iPhone 17 Price and sale expectations
The iPhone 17 currently starts at ₹82,900 for the base 256 GB variant in India.
However, based on previous Apple pricing trends and partner platform discounts:
- Expected Black Friday sale (November 24–30) and New year offers (December 25-31): Price may drop to around ₹79,000 + additional card offers on Amazon, Flipkart, and Apple Authorised Resellers.
FAQs
1. Is the iPhone 17 worth upgrading from iPhone 14/15?
Yes, because of the 120Hz display and major camera improvements.
2. Should I buy the iPhone 17 Pro instead?
Only if you specifically need telephoto or ProRes video.
3. Does iPhone 17 heat up during gaming?
No. A19 chip is more efficient than the A19 Pro.
4. Does the iPhone 17 have Always On Display?
Yes. Apple finally brings Always On Display to the standard iPhone lineup.
5. Does iPhone 17 have the Action Button?
Yes, the Action Button replaces the mute switch and is fully customizable.
6. Can I use the Action Button for camera controls?
Yes. You can map the Action Button to launch the camera, focus, and capture photos instantly.
7. Is the display of the iPhone 17 the same as the Pro model?
Both have 120Hz ProMotion. The Pro model has a slightly brighter panel, but for daily use, there is no major difference.
8. How is the battery life on the iPhone 17?
Excellent. The A19 chip prioritizes efficiency, resulting in stable all day battery performance.
9. Does the iPhone 17 support USB C?
Yes. iPhone 17 continues using USB C for charging and data transfer.
10. Is the camera good for low light photos?
Yes. The new 48MP main sensor and improved night mode deliver clean and sharp low light images.
