2026 最佳 iPhone 选购指南：iPhone 18 Pro Max、iPhone Duo 等全系实测

Tech > Smartphones > iPhone

We've tested every iPhone model in recent years, including the iPhone 18 series, and curated a list of the best options for enthusiasts, budget shoppers, and more.

Edited by Alison DeNisco Rayome

Article updated on September 14, 2026, 2:42 pm EDT

/ inside ZD labs

Three things are certain every September: my neighbor’s forest of a backyard turns orange and yellow, highway traffic suddenly picks up again with school starting, and Apple makes its mark with new iPhones. This year, we got three new models in the fall: the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and Duo — the latter of which is Apple’s foray into the foldable phone category.

Improved battery life with faster wired charging; New variable aperture camera system for better light handling; A20 Pro processor and vapor chamber cooling greatly improves performance

$100 price bump puts it further out of reach; May feel unwieldy for some users; Aluminum layering is easily scratched off

Jump To See More Details

Disclaimer

Our experts have tested this product and selected it for this story. Its inclusion and description here solely reflect findings from our independent review. The company has paid for highlighted placements on this page.

Faster 40W wired charging; Same ProMotion display, 18MP selfie camera, and Apple Intelligence features as Pro models; Bright and colorful finishes; 256GB of base storage is a win for everyone

No dedicated telephoto lens; No vapor chamber cooling like the Pro models; No more Plus option

The most innovative iPhone yet; Near creaseless display with nanotexture layering; Highly performant with an A20 Pro chipset; Creative camera capabilties thanks to folding design

Very expensive, starting at $2,000; Durability and longevity remains to be tested; Lack of dedicated telephotos due to limited build

The most accessible iPhone in 2026; Solid battery life for the size; Excellent software support, with Apple Intelligence features; A capable 48MP camera with optical zoom

Outdated notch design; The 60Hz refresh rate display is inferior to competitors with 120Hz panels; Lack of telephoto and ultrawide lenses limits shooting capabiltiies

Ultra-thin and light form factor makes this very comfortable to hold; Has the same A19 Pro chip as the iPhone 17 Pro Max; 6.5-inch display is just the right size for content consumption

Subpar battery life; Lack of dedicated telephoto and ultrawide lenses makes the camera limited; Fairly expensive for what you get

Goldilocks size for iPhones; Pro-level camera system; Improved repairability; Identical software support as the more-expensive Pro models

Still 60Hz display; Doesn't have a telephoto lens; US customers are locked to eSIM

I used all three devices while I was out in Cupertino for Apple’s “Surprise and Shine” event, and they’re very clearly the best versions of their respective models. They also herald price changes to older iPhones, which changes some of our previous buying advice. So here’s the latest guide for iPhone shoppers in 2026.

What is the best iPhone right now?

ZDNET’s mobile experts carefully test every iPhone model at release. We put them through their paces to provide you with the best buying advice and key features to look out for. Our pick for the best iPhone overall is the iPhone 18 Pro Max, thanks to its new, improved camera with a variable aperture, a high-performance A20 Pro chipset, the longest battery life on an iPhone, and more. Should you prefer a smaller, more affordable option, consider the iPhone 17.

If you’re feeling adventurous, both the iPhone Air and iPhone Duo (when it releases in October) challenge the industry norm with unique designs that prioritize portability and productivity.

Also: The best phones: Expert tested

Improved battery life with faster wired charging; New variable aperture camera system for better light handling; A20 Pro processor and vapor chamber cooling greatly improves performance

$100 price bump puts it further out of reach; May feel unwieldy for some users; Aluminum layering is easily scratched off

Get it now

Expert Take

While the iPhone Duo received most of the spotlight during Apple’s September keynote, the iPhone 18 Pro Max remains the brand’s champion model, with a more advanced camera system, the longest battery rating yet, and an upgraded A20 Pro chipset.

Why we like it: One of the big upgrades with this year’s model is battery life, with Apple touting up to 45 hours of video playback. That’s up from 39 hours on the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Battery size is one reason for the improvement, but Apple is also crediting the A20 Pro chipset for its power efficiency, as well as the new vapor cooling chamber that dissipates heat during intense workloads. Apple’s battery rating has always aligned with our lab findings, so the likelihood that the iPhone 18 Pro Max (and the iPhone 18 Pro, too) is the company’s most enduring phone yet is very high.

The design of the iPhone 18 Pro Max is quite similar to last year’s model, with the biggest differences being colors — it now comes in Silver, Black, Glacier (Blue), and Burgundy (Red) — and the redesigned Dynamic Island. The latter now takes up less space on the front screen and supports up to three Live Activities (up from two).

But the biggest upgrade comes in the form of a variable-aperture camera system, with a mechanical six-blade design that lets the iPhone control how much light it lets in for improved depth of field and low-light detail. Apple will let you manually adjust the different f-stops, should you want to, but the aperture will automatically adapt to the exposure of your shots for improved image quality.

Hands-on: iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max

Who it’s for: The iPhone 18 Pro Max is still the best iPhone for power users, content creators, and professionals who seek a highly capable handset. This is an iPhone for those who want the best camera system on the market, and it can last throughout the day, too.

Who should look elsewhere: That said, the iPhone 18 Pro Max did see a $100 price increase over its predecessor, bringing the starting price of the 256GB configuration to $1,299. It’s not drastically more expensive, but still at a price point that requires some consideration of alternatives. If you’re shopping on a lighter budget or prefer a smaller phone, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 17 are formidable options.

Faster 40W wired charging; Same ProMotion display, 18MP selfie camera, and Apple Intelligence features as Pro models; Bright and colorful finishes; 256GB of base storage is a win for everyone

No dedicated telephoto lens; No vapor chamber cooling like the Pro models; No more Plus option

Get it now

Expert Take

The iPhone 17 was one of Apple’s most important models last year, as it looked, felt, and performed like a premium flagship, but sold for hundreds of dollars less. With Apple postponing the launch of the iPhone 18 to next year, the iPhone 17 plays just as big a role for the rest of 2026 — even if it costs $100 more now.

Why we like it: The iPhone 17 brings several premium features from the Pro models, including the 120Hz Pro Motion display, 40W wired charging, and support for Apple Intelligence, making it feel closer to a Pro than ever before.

From our hands-on testing with the model, its slimmer, lighter design with curved edges offers a noticeably more comfortable grip than older iPhones, without sacrificing durability or style. Add in solid battery life, the reliable A19 chip, and a fun color lineup, and you’ve got a well-rounded device that delivers excellent value.

The iPhone 17 has an 18MP Center Stage front camera that can adaptively expand its framing to fit more people into shots. Having a square sensor also allows users to capture landscape selfies without rotating the phone. It’s a thoughtful feature that makes it much easier to fit people into group chats.

Review: iPhone 17

Who it’s for: The iPhone 17 is a great choice for anyone who wants a modern iPhone with high-end features but doesn’t need the full Pro experience, or price tag. If you care about one-handed usability, reliable performance, and more base storage like 256GB instead of 128GB, the iPhone 17 hits the sweet spot.

Who should look elsewhere: If you’re a power user who needs features like a telephoto lens, vapor-chamber cooling, or more advanced camera tools, you should spring for the iPhone 18 Pro series. There isn’t a Plus version this time around, so you’ll have to settle for the iPhone 17’s 6.3-inch form factor.

Budget-conscious shoppers might also prefer to stick with the iPhone 17e or previous-gen models that still offer strong performance at a lower price.

The most innovative iPhone yet; Near creaseless display with nanotexture layering; Highly performant with an A20 Pro chipset; Creative camera capabilties thanks to folding design

Very expensive, starting at $2,000; Durability and longevity remains to be tested; Lack of dedicated telephotos due to limited build

Get it now

Expert Take

In other words, the new iPhone Duo is the best big-screen iPhone right now. It’s expensive (at a starting price of $2,000), it’s still unproven, and it’s oh, so fun to use.

Why we like it: It’s long been rumored that Apple was going to launch a foldable phone of its own, and that day finally came in September. The iPhone Duo features a 5.4-inch outer screen and a 7.6-inch inner screen. When folded, it has a short and stubby appearance, much like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8. That’s a good thing, as it makes the inner screen’s aspect ratio better suited to consuming content, whether that’s watching videos in landscape orientation or scrolling through webpages or e-books in portrait orientation.

Apple took a different route from Samsung and Google on the larger screen, too, opting for a nanotexture material that not only reduces glare and fingerprint smudges but also makes the center crease less noticeable. When I held the Duo after the keynote, I could just barely make out the dip in the middle, even when looking at the iPhone from an off-axis angle. The nanotexture display also lends itself to a unique benefit for the iPhone: Apple Pencil support. Apple says the pairing will work at a later time, but it’s certainly an advantage that potential shoppers can consider.

Powering the iPhone Duo is Apple’s two-nanometer A20 Pro chipset, the same one that handles the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, so you can expect high marks across general performance, gaming, and battery life.

Who it’s for: The iPhone Duo is clearly targeted at power users who crave a larger display, but don’t want to lug around a separate tablet. This is the closest thing we’ll ever get to an iPhone-iPad hybrid, and Apple knows it. The flexible hinge also enables creative ways to shoot photos and videos, making the Duo a solid choice for content creators.

Who should look elsewhere: A foldable phone, let alone one that costs $2,000, is not for everyone. If you don’t see yourself using the inner display as much, or carrying a phone that weighs more than the Pro Max (especially if you put on a protective case), then you may be better off buying a conventional slab handset. The cost of entry is also very high, even if you decide to finance it over the course of months and years.

The most accessible iPhone in 2026; Solid battery life for the size; Excellent software support, with Apple Intelligence features; A capable 48MP camera with optical zoom

Outdated notch design; The 60Hz refresh rate display is inferior to competitors with 120Hz panels; Lack of telephoto and ultrawide lenses limits shooting capabiltiies

Get it now

Expert Take

The latest iPhone 17e is the cheapest iPhone on the market. While the $699 starting price comes with its caveats, of course, there are still several benefits that make this model a viable option for some folks.

Why we like it: From our tests, the iPhone 17e excels in ways that are essential to most users, from the 6.1-inch OLED display that’s both comfortable to hold and easy to view content, to the exceptional battery life thanks to the efficiency of the A19 processor, to the single 48MP Fusion camera that’s capable of capturing vivid and detailed imagery.

Sure, you’ll have to make some trade-offs, such as using a notched 60Hz display and not having a dedicated telephoto or ultrawide lens, which are typically on the back of more premium phones. But you still get the core iOS experience, including access to the latest iOS 27 features and frequent security updates.

Who it’s for: While $699 is less of a “budget” option than phones from years ago, it is the most accessible option Apple currently sells, and it is $200 less than the base iPhone 17 model. If you want an iPhone that just gets the job done for phone calls, texting, web browsing, and even some light gaming, this will serve you just fine.

Who should look elsewhere: Enthusiasts and power users with more demanding needs should consider Apple’s higher-tier models, like the iPhone 17 and iPhone 18 Pro series. There are also more versatile phones in this price range, like the Samsung Galaxy S26 FE, which has a smoother 120Hz refresh rate display and three rear cameras, and the Google Pixel 10a, which is even cheaper at $499.

Ultra-thin and light form factor makes this very comfortable to hold; Has the same A19 Pro chip as the iPhone 17 Pro Max; 6.5-inch display is just the right size for content consumption

Subpar battery life; Lack of dedicated telephoto and ultrawide lenses makes the camera limited; Fairly expensive for what you get

Get it now

Expert Take

Before the iPhone Duo came to be, the iPhone Air was easily Apple’s most innovative phone in years.

Why we like it: The iPhone Air is remarkably thin and light, with a thickness of just 5.6mm and a weight of only 165 grams. For reference, the iPhone 18 Pro weighs 211 grams. Such dimensions make the iPhone Air a burdenless and comfortable phone to manage.

The device’s ultra portability will impress anyone who picks one up, but for me, seeing the fluid Liquid Glass animations flow across the 6.5-inch OLED screen was when reality really set in. This is what iOS 27 was meant for.

While the iPhone Air lacks the vapor chamber cooling system of the Pro models, it does have a competitive A19 Pro chipset for enhanced performance and efficiency. I have tested the handset for months now, and it has proven reliable at loading long pages of text and videos, as well as with editing content.

Review: Apple iPhone Air

Who it’s for: I’ve been asking store associates and colleagues this exact question. The consensus is that the iPhone Air is for users who want a refreshing iPhone design that doesn’t cause wrist strain during prolonged use. The iPhone Air doesn’t necessarily replace the iPhone Mini from previous years, but it opens the door to more big-screen iPhones that don’t feel like bricks. I’m sure it feels especially slim next to the iPhone Duo.

Who should look elsewhere: The iPhone Air’s biggest drawbacks are its battery life and lack of supplementary camera sensors. If you want a device that will last all day and help you capture a wide variety of shots, I’d recommend the Pro or even base-model iPhones this year. Thin-phone enthusiasts can also consider the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, which lasted longer in our testing and has a similarly lightweight design.

Goldilocks size for iPhones; Pro-level camera system; Improved repairability; Identical software support as the more-expensive Pro models

Still 60Hz display; Doesn't have a telephoto lens; US customers are locked to eSIM

Get it now

Expert Take

While Apple continues to segment its iPhone line with “Pro” and now Air models, the regular offering, such as the now three-year-old iPhone 16, remains a viable option for consumers, especially at $799 on the Apple Store today.

Why we like it: The iPhone 16 hits a sweet spot in Apple’s lineup, offering many of the features previously reserved for Pro models — like the Dynamic Island, Camera Control, and a sleek, contoured design — at a more accessible price. It’s powered by the A18 chip, making it fast and capable for everyday use, from gaming to multitasking.

Both the standard and Plus models are also receptive to Apple’s iOS 27 update, so you gain access to the refined Liquid Glass appearance, enhanced CarPlay experience, and more. Combine that with one of the brighter Super Retina XDR displays we’ve measured and an improved 48MP main camera, and you get a phone that feels like a serious upgrade without the Pro price tag.

Review: Apple iPhone 16

Who it’s for: This is the iPhone for people who want modern features, strong performance, and great cameras without splurging on a Pro model. It’s ideal for everyday users who care about photography, video, and overall speed but don’t necessarily need a ProMotion display or a telephoto lens.

Starting at $799 or less if you shop around, it’s a smart buy for most people who want a current-generation iPhone that’s built to last.

Who should look elsewhere: Power users who want the absolute best camera setup, a 120Hz display, or advanced editing tools may still prefer the iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone 18 Pro. If budget is your biggest concern, the iPhone 17e might be a better fit, especially if you don’t mind sacrificing some modern design touches.

Top iPhone models compared

After weighing out the specs and reviewer-tested experiences, the best iPhone is currently the iPhone 18 Pro Max. It’s got a bright and durable AMOLED display, a future-proofed chipset, and a reliable camera system that covers all the bases and angles.

While the Pro Max model is no longer the most expensive option in Apple’s lineup, other devices like the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17e are just as worthwhile to consider.

Which iPhone model is right for you?

It used to be fairly easy to choose an iPhone model, as you typically opted for either the “big” iPhone or the “small” one. With two models in the iPhone 18 series (for now), a new foldable, and Apple keeping some older generations, you now have to dig a bit deeper to choose the best one for you.

Size is generally the first factor to consider, followed by price. Price limits will also drive the amount of internal storage you select for your iPhone.

One fantastic aspect of the iPhone is that all models receive software support for years and years, so it’s perfectly viable to buy an older model and trust that it will work well for you for quite some time.

Factors to consider when choosing an iPhone

We chose these smartphones by testing them for weeks and months, evaluating them based on real-world applications like phone calls, messaging, web browsing, and taking way too many pictures and videos.

ZDNET’s mobile experts also liaise with industry colleagues and analysts who have hands-on experience with the handsets, sifting through the iPhone pile for the best of the best. Here’s the breakdown of what factors we look for.

Display: Possibly the most overlooked feature on a smartphone, the display is what you stare at, scroll at, and interact with day in and day out. Therefore, when picking the best iPhones — no matter the budget — ZDNET puts an emphasis on devices with above-average panels. Ideally, a good display covers a wide color gamut, is durable, and has a high refresh rate for the smoothest visuals; Performance: One of iPhones’ biggest strengths is their in-house silicon, namely the A-series of Apple chipsets. Thanks to this mingling of proprietary hardware and software, we’ve found the latest iPhones very capable of running the daily and weekly onslaught of apps and services; Camera quality: From group selfies to slow-motion videos, the best iPhones feature camera systems that are reliable and flexible to capture any shot you want. Naturally, an ample amount of storage size is also considered during the selection process; Battery life: For how reliant we’ve become on smartphones, the top picks on this list are not only able to last you from morning to night but also support fast charging when it’s time to top up; Price: What you won’t find on this list is a device that’s not worth the money or is overcharging you for the hardware-software package you’re getting

How we test iPhones

ZDNET’s review team spends upwards of a year testing the ins and outs of every major iPhone release, evaluating the day-to-day performance, camera quality, battery life and endurance, and more. Here’s a breakdown of every factor we consider before we make recommendations:

Design and ergonomics: How good a phone looks and feels plays a big role in many users’ buying journeys, so we consider these aspects heavily when testing; Performance: Several factors affect a phone’s performance, including LTE/5G signal, battery life, and background tasks. Therefore, we typically begin our evaluations with a fully charged handset, with all background tasks closed, and with as stable of a mobile connection as possible; Camera quality: ZDNET tests phone cameras by capturing hundreds of photos and videos of various subjects and in various lighting conditions. We also compare the output to that of older models; Battery life and charging: It’s also important for us to evaluate how long phones last under light, moderate, and heavy usage, how long they take to recharge, and how they do it (wired, wireless, or both); Special features: These features distinguish tested devices from a bustling smartphone market and hopefully bring added value to users, not the opposite; Pricing and availability: Beyond budget considerations, we also note if a phone is available in the US or only internationally

For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive phone testing methodology page.

Are iPhones the best smartphone?

The answer depends on your needs and preferences. For example, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is ZDNET’s current pick for best phone of 2026, it may not be the best option for you if you often rely on services like iMessage and FaceTime, which are exclusive to Apple’s operating systems.

Previously, the gap between iPhones and Android phones was much larger because Apple opted for a Lightning port instead of USB-C, but with the iPhone 15 models switching to the more universal USB-C port for charging and data transfer, it’s become less intimidating to switch from Android to iPhone, and vice versa.

Latest news on iPhone

This month, Apple launched the iPhone 18 Pro series, alongside the iPhone Duo, the company’s first foldable phone. The iPhone 18 Pro series is headlined by a new mechanical aperture camera system that adaptively controls the amount of light the main sensor processes, resulting in more natural-looking background blur and greater detail. Both the Pro and Pro Max also feature a smaller Dynamic Island, so the front camera section takes up less space on the screen.

The iPhone Duo got the most attention, with a 5.4-inch outer display that unfolds into a larger 7.6-inch inner display. Apple approached the foldable with some thoughtful designs that solve conventional problems, such as a nanotexture panel on the inside that greatly reduces the appearance of the center crease. The Duo also has a horizontal-stack camera system, including a 48MP main sensor and a 48MP ultrawide.

All the new phones run on Apple’s first two-nanometer processor, the A20 Pro. The company says the latest chipset yields up to 25% faster computing speeds than last-generation models, 50% higher memory bandwidth, and a 40% jump in gaming performance.

Lastly, Apple has reportedly postponed the launch of the base iPhone 18 until next Spring, so you can expect to hear more about the non-Pro model later on.

How do I take care of my new iPhone?

There are several ways you can keep your iPhone clean and pristine.

One way is by equipping a protective case and/or screen protector. The best iPhone cases offer reliable drop and scratch protection, won’t bulk up the phone, and may feature some extra utility like a kickstand or MagSafe ring. As for screen protectors, tempered glass options are your best bet to keep the display underneath free of scratches and cracks. They’re relatively affordable, too, often coming in multipacks for less than $10; Battery management is another key aspect of iPhone maintenance. To keep your device running for as long as possible, consider charging it between 20% to 80% battery. Overcharging the device would otherwise wear down the battery and reduce the health value (found in Settings). When your iPhone battery health is low (anything less than 75% typically is), it would be helpful to get it replaced at an Apple store or by an Apple-authorized technician; As stressful as it may be to clear up space to download that software update, you absolutely should. Besides fixing any bugs on your iPhone, software updates also bring with them security patches to reduce the chances of your phone getting hacked

Will my iPhone support iOS 27?

The latest version of iPhone software is iOS 27, and it will be supported by the most recent models, including the iPhone 18 series, iPhone 17 series, iPhone 16 series, and iPhone 15 series. Notably, the iPhone XS and XR are now cut off from the eligibility list.

What is the new iPhone?

The newest iPhone is the iPhone 18 Pro series, which includes the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. There’s also the iPhone Duo, which launches in October.

Should I buy the iPhone 18 or the iPhone 17?

You should buy the iPhone 18 if…

You want the best camera system on an iPhone; You want the improved heat management system for better performance and battery life; The smaller Dynamic Island and colors appeal to you

You should buy the iPhone 17 if…

There’s a great deal on the older handset at your carrier or local retailer; You want the lighter and thinner handsets; You can’t wait for the base iPhone 18 to launch next year

Lightning port vs. USB-C

One of the biggest upgrades when Apple launched the iPhone 15 series was the USB-C port, a faster, more powerful, and more universal charging standard than the Lightning port on previous models. There’s really no argument for the Lightning port unless you still own legacy Apple accessories, like the AirPods, and would much rather stick with the one charging standard.

Also: Best USB-C chargers and accessories: Expert tested

Otherwise, even if you own an iPad or MacBook, or almost any other non-Apple gadget, USB-C is more widely used and truly the one-size-fits-all option for charging and transferring data.

Which iPhone models support Apple’s new AI features?

Apple’s existing and upcoming AI features, branded as “Apple Intelligence,” are available on iPhones with at least an A17 Pro processor. That means the iPhone 18, 17, 16, and 15 Pro series will support the AI tools.

What storage size should I buy for my iPhone?

Most iPhones sold by Apple today start at 256GB, which is plenty. While not as flashy an upgrade as larger camera sensors and 120Hz displays, this new storage standard means that consumers have more space than ever to download apps, photos, videos, and more.

Maurice Klaehne, senior market research analyst at Counterpoint Research, suggests that higher storage options are generally better, as they help the device’s longevity, and his firm has seen an uptick in postpaid customers opting for higher storage sizes when they can afford them. “Currently, the 256GB option is sufficient for most people,” Klaehne adds.

Should I trade in my old iPhone?

Trading in an old iPhone is one of the easiest and safest ways to replace an otherwise unwanted device with a new, more capable one. Most retailers, including Apple, accept trade-ins of older iPhone models, with store credit ranging from as low as $50 to $800. It all depends on which generation your iPhone is, the condition, and whether it’s operable.

Do I really need an iPhone case?

While an iPhone case is not a necessity, having one greatly reduces the chances of wear and tear. For example, the best cases are military-grade certified, meaning they’ll keep your iPhone protected from waist-high drops. Not only do cases reduce the chances of your phone getting cracked or scratched, but the plastic/rubberized material often provides more grip than holding your iPhone naked.

Which iPhone models support 5G?

All models within the iPhone 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, and 13 line, as well as select iPhone 12 models, support 5G wireless technology. Even the new iPhone 17e supports Sub-6, low-band 5G networks.

The fifth-generation mobile network continues to roll out across the US, and while it is debatable whether there are benefits to the network’s speeds, in my experience, the broad coverage of low-band 5G has solved my connectivity issues in spotty coverage areas with past iPhone models.

Even more importantly, the 5G iPhone models have Qualcomm chipsets that are delivering better RF reception than we saw in past iPhones with Intel chipsets.

Which iPhone models support wireless charging or MagSafe?

All iPhone models on this list support Qi wireless charging, which is becoming an expected feature on modern smartphones from all manufacturers.

Meanwhile, Apple’s proprietary MagSafe technology is only supported by iPhone 12 to iPhone 18 models.

Also: Best MagSafe accessories for your iPhone

MagSafe provides a secure magnetic connection system, allowing you to connect to wireless chargers with precise positioning and alignment. MagSafe can also be used with other accessories, such as wallets and kickstands.

While the extra security when your iPhone is docked to a wireless charger can be a nice bonus, it’s not vital and probably shouldn’t be a major determinant in your choice. Apple’s first-party wallets and MagSafe battery packs have also received somewhat mixed reviews, making them a hard sell for all but the most die-hard Apple enthusiasts.

How many years do iPhones typically last?

While this number varies greatly depending on how you handle a smartphone — perhaps you’re a construction worker whose phone will be put through the harshest climates or you have kids who may drop the phone ever so often — the iPhone will typically run efficiently for three to four years.

Then, you’ll likely experience more frequent app crashes, lag, storage problems, and more. Those are common issues that any piece of technology will inhibit, not just the iPhone, after years of constant usage.

If you’d like to prolong that time, I’d recommend visiting your local Apple store to have the phone’s battery replaced every three to four years and also consider backing up files to an external hard drive for safekeeping. As a last resort, a factory reset, followed by data restoration, should give your phone a brand-new feel.

Latest updates

In our September 2026 update, we replaced the iPhone 17 series with the iPhone 18 lineup, including the iPhone 18 Pro Max as the best overall pick, and adjusted our recommendations based on Apple’s latest price increases; In our September update, we replaced the iPhone 16 series with the iPhone 17 lineup for our best picks including the addition of the iPhone 17 Pro Max for best iPhone overall and the iPhone Air for best ultraportable iPhone. The FAQs have been adjusted accordingly; In our July update, we added information regarding the public beta release of iOS 26 and recent news reports surrounding the upcoming iPhone 17 series. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 has also been added as an alternative pick; In our June update, we updated the software advice sections to include iOS 26, which is being released to select iPhone models; In our latest April update, we tested the iPhone 16e and added it as our recommendation for best cheap iPhone, replacing the iPhone SE (2022); In our January update, we added the latest information on the iPhone 16 lineup and Apple Intelligence based on four months of extensive testing

Other phone models we tested

Desert Titanium is the new color this year for the iPhone 16 Pro models. / Kerry Wan/ZDNET

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max

For an older iPhone with 90% of the 18 Pro Max’s features, consider the 17 Pro Max from 2025. You can still snag one at most retailers – and for less than the newest model.

By opting for the iPhone 17 Pro Max instead of the 18 series, you have more to gain than to lose. For example, the device has a similar-sized OLED display that gets plenty bright when outdoors. There’s also a triple-camera system that, in our long-term testing, competes well with the 18 Pro Max.

Perhaps most importantly, the iPhone 17 Pro series, whether you opt for the Max variant or not, supports the latest iOS 27 update and Siri AI features.

Kerry Wan/ZDNET

Google Pixel 10a

If you’re budget-shopping, the Google Pixel 10a is within the $500 price range and one of the best midrange phones on the market. Having tested it and the iPhone 17e, I’d even go as far as to say that it’s the better-value handset. I recommend it with confidence to both iOS and Android users.

What makes the Pixel 10a stand out? It’s fairly comfortable to use with a 6.1-inch screen. In addition, the 5,100mAh battery size is actually the largest of any Google Pixel model, and the software experience is among the smoothest and most user-friendly in the Android space.

The device won’t feel like a million dollars, but its well-roundedness makes it such a great buy, especially in today’s economic landscape.

For more on getting the most out of your iPhone, check out how to clear your iPhone cache, how to download the iOS 27, and how to block cookie pop-ups online.

Please accept cookies to view the comments powered by Disqus.

The Latest from Kerry

I wore Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses in public, and my biggest concern never came up; I’m an Android Auto ride or die – but Apple CarPlay beats it on these 3 features; Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3 or Audio? How I’m deciding amid the growing ‘creep’ factor

Further ZDNET Tech Coverage

Best Android phone; Best Samsung phone; Best rugged Phones; Best foldable phone; Best 5G phone; Best stylus phone

Best smartphone; Best iPhone; Best Google phone; Best flip phone; Best cheap phone; Best Motorola phone

Best smartwatch; Best Garmin Watch; Best Android smartwatch; Best waterproof smartwatch; Best cheap smartwatch

Best blood pressure watch; Best Apple watch; Best Apple Watch Ultra strap; Best kids smartwatch; Best sports watch

Best smart notebook; Best drawing tablet; Best large tablet; Best tablet; Best Kindle; Best tablet for students

Best iPad; Best small tablet; Best tablet for reading; Best note-taking tablet; Best Android tablet; Best cheap tablet

Best laptop overall; Best laptop for graphic design; Best Lenovo laptop; Best 15-inch laptop; Best Windows laptop

Best Linux laptop; Best lightweight laptops; Best budget gaming laptop; Best laptop under $1000; Best laptop for video editing

Is Temu legit? Everything to know before placing an order; How to screen record in Windows 10 or 11; How to use Microsoft Designer’s Image Creator; How to find out if an AirTag is tracking you; How to turn on private DNS mode on Android; How to record a call on iPhone

How to download YouTube videos for free; How to create a drop down list in excel; How to upgrade your incompatible Windows 10 PC to Windows 11; How to screen mirror Android to TV; What is ChatGPT?; How to record a call on your Android phone

/ ZDNET recommends

The best headphones and earbuds of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

The best iPhone 18 cases in 2026: Expert tested

The best data removal services of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

The best Bluetooth speakers of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

2026 最佳 iPhone 选购指南：iPhone 18 Pro Max、iPhone Duo 等全系实测

标签

正文