# Best iPhone to Buy in 2026: Which Apple iPhone Is Right for You? Make the best choice between iPhone 17 series and upcoming models. - **Source:** [Macworld](https://brifing.si/source/5c5245ce-d063-40e0-bd54-48b60cbc761f) - **Published:** 2026-07-24 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/78db76a0-e27c-4926-bfc4-9f8d239c50d0 ## Key Criteria for Choosing an iPhone When buying an iPhone in 2026, consider battery life, camera quality, screen size, and budget. Should you go for Pro models, the standard iPhone 17, or more affordable options? The answer depends on your specific needs. ## Best Time to Buy an iPhone in 2026 While summer is typically a bad time to buy iPhones, 2026 might be an exception. With expected price hikes for iPhone 18 Pro models in September, the iPhone 17 Pro could be a smart choice right now. ## iPhone 17: The Best Balance Starting at $799 with 256GB storage, the iPhone 17 offers a great balance of performance, battery life, and price. With its successor not expected until spring 2027, it remains a compelling choice for those wanting near-Pro features at a lower cost. ## iPhone 17 Pro: For Professionals The iPhone 17 Pro is ideal for those looking to avoid the anticipated $200 price increase on the 18 Pro. With the A19 Pro chip, advanced camera system, and long battery life, it's designed for professional users and photography enthusiasts. ## iPhone 17 Pro Max: Ultimate Performance Featuring a 6.9-inch display, up to 39 hours of battery life, and an advanced camera system, the iPhone 17 Pro Max targets power users. Starting at $1,199, it sits firmly in the premium segment. ## Should You Wait for the Foldable iPhone Ultra? The foldable iPhone Ultra is expected to be a first-gen product with potential flaws and a high price tag. Unless you're an early adopter, it might be wise to wait for more refined versions. ## Should You Wait for iPhone 18 Series? iPhone 18 Pro and Max models are expected in September 2026 with higher prices. However, the rumored upgrades may not justify the anticipated price increases, making current models more attractive. ## Budget-Friendly Option: iPhone 17e For those seeking a more affordable iPhone, the 17e is a solid choice. With its successor not due until 2027, it will remain relevant for the foreseeable future. ## iPhone Air: For Lightweight Users The iPhone Air stands out for its lightweight design. While the Air 2 is expected in spring 2027, current models offer good value, especially with discounts. ## Camera Comparison The iPhone 17 Pro Max boasts a 48MP main camera, ultra-wide lens, and 4x telephoto lens, making it ideal for professional photography and videography. The standard iPhone 17 offers sufficient camera performance for everyday use. ## Storage Options iPhone models offer storage options ranging from 256GB to 2TB. Those who take lots of photos and videos may benefit from higher storage capacities. ## Final Decision: Based on Your Needs When deciding which iPhone to buy, consider your needs and budget. Are you looking for professional features or just the basics? In 2026, there's an iPhone for every type of user. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.macworld.com/article/670458/iphone-buying-guide.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._