Apple’s “e” series is all about balance between affordability and flagship-level features, offering premium iPhone features without the high price tag of Pro models. The iPhone 16e, launched in early 2025, has already become a favored pick among budget-conscious Apple fans. But with Apple’s upcoming budget-friendly smartphone iPhone 17e, rumored to launch in early 2026, many are asking: Should I buy the iPhone 16e now, or wait for the 17e?
Here’s a complete breakdown of what we know (and expect) about the best budget iPhone 2025 to help you decide.
iPhone 16e vs iPhone 17e Features Comparison
Here are the key differences between iPhone 16e and iPhone 17e features(Speculated Upgrades / Trade-offs): design, performance, cameras, charging capabilities, and prices to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Display
The iPhone 16e features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a notch design—bright and sharp, yet still clinging to Apple’s older aesthetic. In contrast, the upcoming iPhone 17e is expected to retain the same display size and OLED technology but introduce the Dynamic Island, a sleeker and more modern design element seen in Apple’s premium models. While this marks a subtle evolution in visual appeal, it’s not a revolutionary leap. The shift reflects Apple’s tendency toward incremental refinement rather than dramatic redesigns.
Chip & Performance
The iPhone 16e is powered by Apple’s A18 chip alongside the C1 modem, delivering fast and efficient performance suitable for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and multitasking. It’s a solid performer built for longevity. In contrast, the upcoming iPhone 17e is expected to debut with the A19 chip, which promises enhanced efficiency, improved AI capabilities, and potentially better battery life. While the A18 already offers impressive performance, power users or those seeking future-proofing may find the A19 worth the wait.
Camera
The iPhone 16e comes equipped with a 48MP rear camera featuring 2× telephoto zoom, complemented by a 12MP front-facing camera. It excels in capturing detailed photos and supports 4K Dolby Vision video, making it a strong choice for content creators and casual users alike. The upcoming iPhone 17e is expected to retain the same 48MP configuration but introduce enhanced image processing and potential improvements in low-light photography. While the hardware may remain largely unchanged, software refinements could yield better results in challenging conditions. Overall, users can anticipate modest upgrades rather than a dramatic overhaul.
Charging and Battery Life
The iPhone 16e supports USB-C and wireless charging via the 7.5W Qi standard, but notably lacks MagSafe compatibility. This limits its wireless charging speed and excludes it from Apple’s ecosystem of magnetic accessories. In contrast, the iPhone 17e is expected to introduce MagSafe support, unlocking faster wireless charging and seamless integration with Apple’s magnetic mounts, wallets, and chargers. For users who rely on wireless charging or enjoy the convenience of MagSafe accessories, the 17e could represent a significant upgrade in everyday usability.
iPhone 16e Price Vs iPhone 17e Price
The iPhone 16e debuted at a competitive price of $599 in the US (₹59,900 in India), offering solid value for its performance and features. The upcoming iPhone 17e is expected to launch in a similar price bracket, although a slight increase is possible due to new additions like MagSafe and the A19 chip. Both models aim to deliver flagship-like capabilities at a more accessible price point, but the 16e already stands out as a compelling deal for budget-conscious buyers.
| Optics | iPhone 16e | iPhone 17e (Speculated) | What’s Better / Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chip & Performance | A18 + C1 modem | Expected A19 (faster / more efficient) | Possibly still 60Hz, but may get Dynamic Island |
| Display / UI features | OLED, notch, ~60Hz, no Dynamic Island | Unless big jump, improvements may be incremental (better low light, video, etc.). | Dynamic Island adds newer UI interactions; may improve usability. |
| Charging / Accessories | USB-C, wireless Qi 7.5W, no MagSafe | Rumoured MagSafe support | Better accessory support, better wireless charging with MagSafe magnets. |
| Camera | 48MP + 2× telephoto, strong imaging | Likely similar core spec; maybe small improvements in processing or sensors | Not a huge leap, but minor aesthetic/design upgrades are possible. |
| Design / Build | Sturdy, durable, IP68, aluminium + glass | Likely similar build, maybe new colours or small design tweaks | Dynamic Island adds newer UI interactions; it may improve usability. |
| Battery Life | Very good for its class | Expected to improve further due to A19 efficiency | Longer usable time, better standby, etc. |
| Price | $599 base model | ~$599–$649 (TBC) Possibly similar or slightly higher, depending on upgrades | Price/performance balance will be key for the buyer’s decision. |
Verdict – Should You Buy or Wait for iPhone 17e?
If you’re currently using the iPhone 16e, holding out for the best budget iPhone 2025 could be worthwhile—especially if features like Dynamic Island, MagSafe compatibility, and modest improvements in camera and chipset matter to you. However, for those upgrading from an older iPhone or buying a new device altogether, the 16e already delivers excellent value with its modern design, reliable battery life, and strong performance.
Overall, the rumored iPhone 17e appears to be a thoughtful refinement rather than a groundbreaking leap, making your upgrade decision more about personal priorities than essential changes.
FAQs
Q1. Is iPhone 17e, the best budget iPhone 2025, worth the wait?
Yes, if you want features like Dynamic Island, MagSafe, and the newer A19 chip. If you need a phone now, the iPhone 16e is still a strong option.
Q2. Does iPhone 17e have MagSafe?
Rumours strongly suggest that MagSafe will be introduced with the iPhone 17e, unlike the iPhone 16e.
Q3. What’s the price of the iPhone 16e in India?
The iPhone 16e starts at ₹59,900 for the 128GB variant.
Q4. When will the best budget iPhone 2025 launch?
The iPhone 17e is expected to launch in the first half of 2026.
Q5. Which is better for long-term use: iPhone 16e or iPhone 17e?
The iPhone 17e will likely have a longer software support cycle, making it a better choice for those planning to keep their phone for 4–5 years.
Q6. Will the iPhone 17e be more expensive than the 16e?
It’s expected to launch around the same price as the 16e ($599/₹59,900), though slight increases are possible due to new features.
Q7. Is the A19 chip a major upgrade over the A18?
The A19 is rumored to offer better efficiency, improved AI processing, and possibly longer battery life. For heavy users, it could be a meaningful upgrade.
Q8. Is the camera on the 17e significantly better than the 16e?
Both are expected to have a 48MP rear camera. The 17e may offer better low-light performance and image processing, but the upgrade is likely incremental.
