The Best iPhone

Apple's iPhone lineup in 2026 runs from $599 to over $1,200. The right pick depends on how much you care about camera quality, screen size, battery life, and budget. Here's the current breakdown based on professional reviews and published Apple specifications.

All iPhones listed below run iOS 26 and are available from all major US carriers. Carrier deals change frequently — use our phone comparison tool to see current pricing and carrier availability.

Best iPhone for Most People: iPhone 17 Pro

The iPhone 17 Pro is the consensus best iPhone for buyers who want a current-generation Pro model. Released September 2025, it starts at $1,099 with 256 GB of storage and is powered by Apple's A19 Pro chip with 12 GB of RAM. The camera system is the strongest on any non-Max iPhone — three 48 MP sensors including a tetraprism telephoto lens with Apple's longest optical zoom. The 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display runs at 120 Hz ProMotion with a new anti-reflective coating, and the aluminum frame with vapor-cooling chamber runs cooler than previous titanium-frame models under sustained load. If you're looking for the best all-around iPhone without going to the Pro Max size, this is the pick.

Best iPhone for Power Users and Battery Life: iPhone 17 Pro Max

The iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at $1,199 and adds a 6.9-inch display and, based on published reviews, the best battery life of any iPhone tested to date. The camera system and chip are identical to the standard 17 Pro — the Pro Max's main advantages are screen size and battery endurance. If battery anxiety is a real concern or you simply prefer a larger screen, the Pro Max is worth the extra $100. Best for: power users who prioritize battery life and screen real estate.

Best Budget iPhone: iPhone 17e

Apple released the iPhone 17e in early 2026 at $599 as the entry-level new iPhone. It brings Apple's current chip to the most accessible price point in the lineup — a significant upgrade from older SE models. The 17e includes 5G, Apple Intelligence features, and Apple's current security and update cadence. If you want a new iPhone without spending over $600, the 17e is the current starting point. Best for: buyers who want a modern iPhone at the lowest available new price.

Still Worth Considering: iPhone 16 / iPhone 16 Plus

The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus were released in September 2024. With Apple Intelligence support, 5G, and the Action button, they remain fully current-generation devices available at discounted prices from carriers and Apple itself. If you don't need Pro camera hardware, the iPhone 16 at a reduced street price is a reasonable buy. Best for: buyers who want a capable recent iPhone at a lower price than the 17 series.

What to Know Before You Buy

• iOS 26: All iPhone models listed here run iOS 26 and will receive Apple software updates for several years.
• Apple Intelligence: Available on iPhone 16 and newer (including the 17e). Requires an iPhone 15 Pro or later for full feature access; iPhone 16 and newer get all features.
• Carrier deals: All major carriers (T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T) run trade-in promotions on iPhone models. The actual out-of-pocket cost after trade-in can be significantly lower than the retail price. Check current carrier deals before buying at full price.
• Storage: Starting storage for the 17 Pro is 256 GB — Apple no longer sells 128 GB Pro models. For the 17e, 128 GB is the entry point.

Compare iPhone pricing across carriers using our phone comparison tool, or browse plans to find the best carrier deal for your new iPhone.

Last verified: April 2026. Prices and carrier availability subject to change — verify at Apple.com and your carrier before purchasing.