iPhone 16e vs iPhone 17e
Shop iPhone
iPhone 16e
Starting at
£478.75£599.00 new
iPhone 17e
Starting at
£603.69What's the difference between the iPhone 16e and iPhone 17e?
iPhone 16e vs 17e comes down to the chipset and weight. Refurbished, the iPhone 16e starts at £478.75, £124.94 less than the iPhone 17e. The iPhone 17e is the newer model, released in 2026.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Weight
- Chipset: Apple A18 (3 nm) on the iPhone 16e, Apple A19 on the iPhone 17e.
- Weight: 167 g on the iPhone 16e, 170 g on the iPhone 17e.
iPhone 16e vs iPhone 17e specs
The iPhone 16e and iPhone 17e share many core features such as battery capacity, screen size, and RAM, making them both suitable for everyday use. The iPhone 17e offers a newer Apple A19 chipset and comes with storage starting at 256GB, which suits users who want the latest chipset and do not require 128GB options. Both devices have the same screen resolution and camera megapixels. The iPhone 16e is slightly lighter by 2 grams. Choose the iPhone 16e if you want a wider range of storage sizes and a slightly lighter device.
iPhone 16e vs iPhone 17e price
Colour
iPhone 16e vs iPhone 17e battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, operating system, device dimensions, and network compatibility. Both models offer similar physical sizes and battery capacity, ensuring similar endurance and network support.
Battery Capacity
Both the iPhone 16e and iPhone 17e have a 4005 mAh battery. This means battery life in daily use should be comparable, whether you are streaming, browsing, or using apps. Neither device offers a larger battery, so endurance depends more on usage and software optimisation.
Operating System
Both devices run on iOS, providing the same operating system environment. This ensures familiar navigation, app compatibility, and system features for users regardless of which model they choose.
Physical Size and Weight
The iPhone 16e and iPhone 17e share identical height and width dimensions at 146.7 mm by 71.5 mm, with a depth of 7.8 mm. The iPhone 16e weighs 167 g, which is 2 g lighter than the iPhone 17e at 169 g. The slight difference in weight is unlikely to be noticeable in daily handling.
Network Compatibility
Both phones support 5G networks and offer unlocked carrier compatibility. They also include both a physical SIM and eSIM option, giving flexibility for different mobile plans and travel needs.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 16e vs iPhone 17e performance
Performance differences focus on chipset and storage options. Both models have 8 GB of RAM, keeping apps running smoothly. The iPhone 17e features a newer chipset and a different range of storage sizes.
Chipset Upgrade
The iPhone 16e uses the Apple A18 chipset built on 3 nm technology, while the iPhone 17e has the Apple A19 chipset. The newer chipset in the iPhone 17e is likely to offer improved processing efficiency and speed, which benefits users who run demanding apps or multitask frequently.
Memory Capacity
Both devices come with 8 GB of RAM. This amount is well suited to keep everyday apps running smoothly and handle common multitasking needs without noticeable slowdowns.
Storage Options
The iPhone 16e offers storage choices of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The iPhone 17e is stocked with 256GB and 512GB options only. If you prefer a smaller storage size or want a lower price point linked to less storage, the iPhone 16e provides more flexibility.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 16e vs iPhone 17e screen
Screen quality is consistent between both devices in size, resolution, and display technology. This means the visual experience will be similar for watching videos, browsing photos, or reading text.
Screen Size and Resolution
Both the iPhone 16e and iPhone 17e have a 6.1 inch screen size with a resolution of 2532 by 1170 pixels. This pixel density supports sharp and detailed images, suitable for media consumption and daily tasks.
Display Technology
Each device uses a Super Retina XDR OLED screen, which delivers vibrant colours, deep contrast, and excellent viewing angles. This ensures a rich visual experience whether you are indoors or outside in bright light.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 16e vs iPhone 17e camera
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 16e vs iPhone 17e size and design
Other practical differences include connector type and device weight. These can influence charging and handling preferences.
Connector Type
The iPhone 16e has a USB-C connector without a specified USB generation. This detail may affect data transfer speeds or accessory compatibility for users who connect their device to other hardware regularly.
Weight Difference
The iPhone 16e weighs 167 g, whereas the iPhone 17e is slightly heavier at 169 g. This small weight difference is unlikely to impact everyday use or comfort.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 16e or iPhone 17e: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 16e if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £478.75, £124.94 less than the iPhone 17e
Buy the iPhone 17e if
- you want the newer model (2026)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the iPhone 16e report it looks like new and performs well with a battery that lasts long. Many highlight a smooth transition from iPhones with little trouble transferring data. The device's camera and screen quality receive positive mentions, and several users appreciate the premium condition of their refurbished phones. Some note that the battery health is excellent with almost no charging cycles, which contributes to a like-new experience. The range of storage options is appreciated, especially by those upgrading from smaller capacity devices.
For the iPhone 17e, customers describe the device as feeling like new with no marks or scratches and a battery at full lifespan. The phone's size is comfortable and many find setup easy and quick. Users find the condition matches their expectations for a refurbished device. Some mention the device works well with no problems and the overall quality is consistent with a newer model. Occasional comments note screen condition concerns but these do not detract from the experience for most.
Both devices suit buyers who want a refurbished iPhone in excellent condition with good battery health and reliable performance. The iPhone 16e appeals to those who want a wider choice of storage sizes and a slightly lighter phone. The iPhone 17e is a fit for users seeking the newest chipset and a clearly defined USB 2 connector.
iPhone 16e vs iPhone 17e FAQs
iPhone 16e vs 17e comes down to the chipset and weight. Chipset: Apple A18 (3 nm) on the iPhone 16e, Apple A19 on the iPhone 17e. Weight: 167 g on the iPhone 16e, 170 g on the iPhone 17e.
The iPhone 16e is cheaper refurbished, from £478.75 compared with £603.69 for the iPhone 17e.
Both have the same battery: 4005 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 48 megapixels.
The iPhone 16e is still supported and can run iOS 27. The iPhone 17e is still supported and can run iOS 27.
The iPhone 17e is newer, but the main specs we compare are the same. Refurbished, it costs £124.94 more (from £603.69 vs £478.75).
Refurbished, the iPhone 16e comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone 17e in 256GB and 512GB.
