Smartphone review
iPhone 17e review: Apple’s affordable option still comes with trade-offs
Strong performance and pricing offset by a smaller screen and single camera.
Looking for an iPhone but put off by the price? That is precisely the gap Apple is targeting with the iPhone 17e, launched last month as a lower-cost alternative to last year’s iPhone 16e.
The new model introduces only modest upgrades, but aims to offer a slightly more compelling package. We tested the device, courtesy of the iDigital retail network, to assess what has changed, and what has not.
Top Line
It is arguably easier to list what the iPhone 17e lacks than what it includes. Several features have been removed or scaled back, likely to differentiate it as a more affordable device and because it is based on an older design.
Even so, it does not feel cheap. Build quality and materials are consistent with other iPhones, and overall performance is smooth. However, the display now feels small by current standards and could benefit from an upgrade.
On the positive side, increased storage capacity is a meaningful improvement, and many core features remain comparable to those of higher-end models.
The overall impression is of a solid mid-range device capable of competing with Android alternatives, though most competitors at this price point offer at least two cameras.
Pricing strengthens its appeal. The device is available for around NIS 2,650 (approximately $848), about NIS 300 ($96) less than its predecessor and nearly NIS 1,000 ($320) cheaper than the base iPhone 17. While cheaper Android devices exist, they often compromise on quality or include unnecessary software, while similarly priced mid-range models approach the 17e’s price.
Its most direct competitor may be Apple’s own previous-generation flagship, the iPhone 16, which costs slightly more but offers less storage. Overall, the 17e delivers reliable performance and represents a reasonable option for those seeking a more affordable iPhone.
Design and Build: Familiar Territory
Externally, little has changed. The device retains the same dimensions as its predecessor, with only a negligible weight increase of two grams.
The front glass has been upgraded to Ceramic Shield 2, the same protection used in the higher-end iPhone 17 Pro Max, while the overall design remains largely unchanged.
The selfie camera layout is similar to older models, occupying a relatively large area compared to newer designs. A single rear camera lens remains, reinforcing the sense that this model is based on the iPhone 14 platform.
At 169 grams and with a 6.1-inch display, the device is compact and lightweight. However, the screen feels small compared to competitors, especially as the standard iPhone 17 has moved to a 6.3-inch display. Thicker bezels further highlight the missed opportunity to expand screen size.
Hardware: Storage Upgrade Stands Out
The device runs on Apple’s A19 processor, similar to the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup, though in a slightly modified version.
The most significant upgrade is storage: the base model now starts at 256GB (up from 128GB), with an option for 512GB. This aligns better with current market expectations.
Performance is strong. The device handles everyday tasks and gaming smoothly, with no noticeable overheating.
The display offers good color quality and sufficient brightness for outdoor use, though it lacks features such as Always-On Display.
Battery capacity remains at 4,005 mAh, delivering a full day, or even a day and a half, of typical use. Charging via USB-C is not especially fast but remains adequate: around 15 minutes takes the battery from 15% to 50%, and 40 minutes reaches roughly 80%.
A welcome addition is support for MagSafe, Apple’s magnetic accessory system, which was absent from the previous model. The device also supports both eSIM and a physical SIM card.
Software: AI Without Hebrew
The 17e runs iOS 26 and includes most features available across the iPhone lineup.
However, Apple Intelligence is limited: it does not support Hebrew and requires both system language and Siri to be set to English.
The “Dynamic Island” feature is also absent, another indication of the device’s older design origins. While not essential, its absence is notable given its presence in other models in the series.
Camera: One Lens, Solid Results
The iPhone 17e retains a single 48-megapixel rear camera and a 12-megapixel front-facing camera.
Image quality is good, particularly in low-light conditions, where the camera captures impressive detail without flash. However, the lack of additional lenses, such as ultra-wide, limits flexibility and shooting options.
