Did you also think that the cheapest iPhone is coming, and it’s finally the time that you will be able to gift yourself an iPhone this time? Well, we suggest you hold on. No doubt, the hype of the iPhone 17e is surreal, and it’s always better to save your money; hence, the iPhone 17e is better than the iPhone 17. But the bigger picture says something different. And hence, to put that picture in front of you, we bring this iPhone 17e vs iPhone 17 debate, in which we compare the specs, affordability, camera, performance, and all other aspects of both these phones. So, who wins this iPhone 17 vs iPhone 17e battle? Let’s find the answer here. Let us begin this blog right here.
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iPhone 17e Is Here: The Cheapest iPhone Which Surprises With Specs
If you are planning to buy a new iPhone, it’s finally time for you to cheer up and get ready to welcome the iPhone 17e. Launching at a price of $599, which means around Rs. 55000 in India, this phone is bringing an affordable price tag, with almost all the same features as the iPhone 17.
But does this cheapest iPhone of 2026, stand tall against the main flagship phone, the iPhone 17? Well, to find the answer to this, let us discuss some upgrades and comparative specs of both these phones.
iPhone 17e vs iPhone 17 Comparison: What Upgrades Is The iPhone 17e Bringing?
The iPhone 17 vs iPhone 17e debate is officially here, and 2026 is looking like the year of “Value vs. Luxury.”
Compared to the standard Apple iPhone 17, the 17e trades some premium features for affordability. Walking about what upgrade does the iPhone 17e bring, it brings a smaller 6.1-inch 60Hz screen versus the 17’s larger 6.3-inch 120Hz ProMotion display, and a single rear camera setup instead of dual.
If you talk of performance, both share the A19 chip and similar core performance, making the 17e a compelling value option for users prioritising essentials like speed, battery efficiency, and modern features without the higher price tag.
However, iPhone 17 Stands Out
No matter that all of us want to buy the iPhone 17e, as with almost all similar specs, it gives us a price cut worth 20K!
But the iPhone 17 still stands out with its core flagship features.
The iPhone 17 remains the definitive choice for enthusiasts who prioritise a premium visual experience. Its 120Hz ProMotion display offers a fluid responsiveness that the 17e’s 60Hz panel lacks. For those accustomed to seamless scrolling and high-frame-rate animations, this remains a non-negotiable flagship standard.
Additionally, the dual-camera system and customizable Action Button provide a level of utility the 17e omits. Combined with faster 40W charging, the iPhone 17 ensures a sophisticated, uncompromising experience for users who demand Apple’s full flagship suite.
So, now it’s time for us to show real comparisons in this iPhone 17 vs iPhone 17e battle. Let us begin.
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iPhone 17e vs iPhone 17: Features Comparison
| Feature | iPhone 17 | iPhone 17e [Expected] |
| Display | 6.3-inch LTPO OLED (120Hz) | 6.1-inch OLED (60Hz) |
| Processor | Apple A19 | Apple A19 (Binned) |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| RAM | 8GB | 10GB |
| Battery | 3,692 mAh | 4,005 mAh |
| Rear Camera | Dual 48MP (Main + Ultra) | Single 48MP |
| Charging | 40W Wired / 25W MagSafe | 20W Wired / 15W MagSafe |
iPhone 17e vs iPhone 17: Which Phone Has A Better Camera?
iPhone 17 stands out in terms of camera performance. 17 has two 48MP cameras, while the 17e has only one 48MP camera. With two cameras, better AI camera specs, and better portrait performance and pro-level photography features, the iPhone 17 has flagship specs in the camera department.
iPhone 17e vs iPhone 17: Performance Comparison
Both the iPhone 17e and the iPhone 17 use the same processor. But rumours have it that the iPhone 17e might come with a 10GB variant as the successor variant. But now here is the game: the iPhone 17e scores lower than the iPhone 17 flagship on Geekbench scores. So, as of now, we assume that with more raw power and a better gaming experience, the iPhone 17 has a better performance than the iPhone 17e.
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iPhone 17e vs iPhone 17: Which Phone Should You Buy?
Now, coming to the final verdict, which phone should you buy? Should you buy the iPhone 17e and save your money? Or, you should give some extra bucks and go for the iPhone 17? So, here are the clear verdicts on the iPhone 17e vs iPhone 17 comparison:
- iPhone 17 is better than iPhone 17e overall, as it has better performance, better camera, and better overall experience.
- iPhone 17e is cheaper, hence, more affordable.
- iPhone 17e is a better choice for students, budget-buyers, and gives a better experience for value for money.
- For core users, the iPhone 17 is better, as for every core feature, it stands out, be it photography, gaming, flagship-level experience, design, or something else.
End Note
That’s it from this iPhone 17e vs iPhone 17 debate. For all good reasons, the iPhone 17e is a great newcomer and deserves all the appreciation for its identity as the budget-efficient iPhone and the cheapest iPhone of 2026. At around Rs. 50000, it is the best iPhone to buy for Apple lovers. But, overall, the iPhone 17 flagship phone remains the flagship phone. It stands out as a better choice. Rest assured, both these phones are a top-notch choice, and whichever phone you buyin this iPhone 17 vs iPhone 17e battle, it won’t disappoint you.
FAQs
iPhone 17e vs iPhone 17: Which phone is better?
iPhone 17 is better in overall comparison with an extra camera, better Geekbench scores, better core-level features and flagship experience.
Is iPhone 17e better than the iPhone 17?
iPhone 17e is surely better than the iPhone 17 for those who want a budget iPhone at around 50000. But if you want features and a better long-term flagship guarantee, then the latter is better.
When Will iPhone 17e Launch?
The iPhone 17e might launch globally on 19 February 2026.
What is the price of iPhone 17e?
The price of the iPhone 17e is $599.
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