Apple didn’t change anything on the outside when comparing the iPhone 17e to the iPhone 16e, but the internals have been upgraded significantly, and that too, while charging the same $599 price. These are some of the advantages highlighted in the latest review roundup, but that doesn’t mean that some outlets aren’t calling the latest release overpriced. In fact, some are recommending buyers to get the iPhone 17 instead, and if you check out our detailed buying guide, we’ve also mentioned that spending $200 extra is the right move to make.
CNET’s Abrar Al-Heeti says that the iPhone 17e is a solid option for buyers if they own a device or a previous-generation iPhone that’s several years old. However, if you want to upgrade from the iPhone 16e, the ‘incremental upgrades’ aren’t worth it.
“If you're switching from an older iPhone like the iPhone 11 or 12, these are trade-offs you'll hardly notice, especially in light of all the relative upgrades. Similarly, if you're coming from another budget phone that's a few years old, like the iPhone SE (2020) or an older Android counterpart, the improvements are sure to outweigh any missing premium features.
If you’re using last year’s iPhone 16E, the incremental changes don’t justify the upgrade, even with the long-awaited addition of MagSafe. Apple doesn’t appear to be targeting this demographic anyway, since its promotional materials largely compare the iPhone 17E to older models like the iPhone 11. That’s where the differences really stand out.”
Eric Zeman from PCMag says that the iPhone 17e is oozing with value and has a ton going for it. The upgrades, such as the A19 and MagSafe charging, are certainly worth the $599 price tag, but he notes that the base iPhone 17 continues to be better in every way, and for $200 extra, you’re getting a lot more for your hard-earned cash.
“For $599, the iPhone 17e is an excellent value. It may share many of its basic elements with the 16e, but the upgrades inside make it a very solid upgrade. I'm particularly happy with the performance of the A19 processor, the convenience of MagSafe charging, the doubled base storage, and the extra computational horsepower for photography. If you're shopping for your first phone or want something simple, the iPhone 17e is a compelling, affordable option. Even so, our Editors' Choice, the iPhone 17 is worth the extra $200 for most people thanks to its larger, more feature-rich display, additional camera, and longer battery life.”
WIRED’s Julian Chokkattu calls the iPhone 17e overpriced and criticizes Apple’s decision to limit the device’s refresh rate to 60Hz. Still, it’s a great choice for consumers who want something ordinary and don’t want to sift through multiple marketplaces looking for a second-hand smartphone.
“Don't get me wrong, you can snap some nice photos with the iPhone 17e. You'll just run into its limits far more often than you would on an iPhone 17, which has a larger sensor for its primary camera.
The iPhone 17e is still a little overpriced compared to the competition, but I think it's a perfectly fine choice for anyone who wants to buy a basic iPhone without going through the used market.”
Brian Tong
Tech Spurt
iPhonedo
Jaime Rivera
iJustine
Apple is currently taking pre-orders for the iPhone 17e, with the technology giant’s low-cost offering expected to go on sale tomorrow, starting from $599 for the 256GB version. The iPhone 17e will be available in the colors Black, Soft Pink, and White.
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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