Prices have risen slightly, but it continues to deliver a modern, reliable experience at a more approachable cost than the new Pros.
The iPhone 16 is the budget-friendly option that still covers the basics extremely well.
It has a bright display, a dual-camera setup that is more than adequate for everyday photos and video, and solid performance for normal use.
The iPhone Duo is not for everyone.
It starts at $1,999 and goes up to $3,199, and it lacks a dedicated telephoto camera.
It is also Apple's first-generation foldable, so only Apple's official claims about long-term hinge durability and reliability are available so far.
It targets a fairly niche group that wants something between a regular iPhone and an iPad.
If you already own both an iPhone and an iPad, you probably do not need a Duo.
But for enthusiasts who have waited years for Apple's take on a foldable and are willing to pay for the experience, it is the most distinctive iPhone of 2026.
Two models are worth skipping: the iPhone 17e and iPhone Air.
Both saw recent price increases, with the 17e moving from $599 to $699 and the Air from $999 to $1,099 in the US.
Both are technically inferior to the regular iPhone 17 in key ways.
The 17e lacks ProMotion, meaning no 120Hz display, while the Air trails in battery life and charging speed.
If you specifically want a very slim phone, it is better to wait for the expected second-generation iPhone Air, currently rumored for early 2027.
For most buyers right now, the standard iPhone 17 is the stronger value.
