As of January 2026, Apple’s lineup has undergone a major shift with the introduction of the iPhone 17 series and the ultra-thin iPhone Air. With Apple Intelligence now standard across all new models and the transition to aluminum unibody designs for Pro models to improve cooling, choosing an iPhone is now a balance between raw performance, experimental design, and long-term value.
Here are the 7 best Apple phones to buy in early 2026, ranging from the most powerful flagships to the smartest budget picks.
1. iPhone 17 Pro Max
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is Apple’s definitive workstation for 2026. It introduces a brushed aluminum unibody with an internal vapor chamber, allowing the A19 Pro chip to maintain high performance without overheating. It features a new triple 48MP camera system with a 200mm (8x) optical zoom and the longest battery life ever in an iPhone—reaching up to 39 hours of video playback.
iPhone 17 Pro Max official specifications
2. iPhone 17
The iPhone 17 is widely considered the best choice for the average buyer in 2026. For the first time, the base model includes the 6.3-inch ProMotion (120Hz) display and an upgraded 256GB base storage. Powered by the A19 chip, it handles all Apple Intelligence features effortlessly and features the same 18MP Center Stage front camera as the Pro models.
3. iPhone Air
The iPhone Air is the most experimental phone in Apple’s 2026 catalog. At just 5.4mm thick, it is the thinnest iPhone ever made. While it features a single 48MP rear camera and a smaller battery (up to 27 hours), its 6.5-inch 120Hz display and ultra-lightweight chassis make it a “showpiece” phone for those who prioritize design above all else.
iPhone Air full Specifications
4. iPhone 16e
Released in early 2025, the iPhone 16e (effectively the SE 4) serves as the new entry-level king. It finally ditched the home button for a 6.1-inch OLED design with Face ID. Using the A18 chip and 8GB of RAM, it is the most affordable entry point for the full suite of Apple Intelligence, making it a highly future-proof budget pick.
5. iPhone 17 Pro
The iPhone 17 Pro offers the exact same internal power as the Max, including the 12GB of RAM and the 48MP Telephoto lens, but in a more manageable 6.3-inch size. It is the ideal tool for creators who need the USB 3 (10Gbps) data speeds for transferring large ProRes video files but prefer a phone that is easy to use with one hand.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro full specifications
6. iPhone 16 Pro Max
With the launch of the 17 series, the iPhone 16 Pro Max has become an excellent value. It still features the massive 6.9-inch display and the Titanium frame that Apple has moved away from in the 17 series. Its A18 Pro chip remains a top-tier performer, and it supports the Camera Control button, keeping it relevant for years to come.
iPhone 16 Pro Max full specifications
7. iPhone 15 Pro
If you’re shopping on a budget, the iPhone 15 Pro is the best value in the refurbished market. It was the first iPhone to feature the A17 Pro, which is the minimum requirement for Apple Intelligence. With its USB-C port and Action Button, it offers a modern experience for roughly half the price of the latest flagship models.
