iPhone 16e Vs iPhone 17: Buy Now Or Wait For Upcoming Launch?

The newest Apple smartphone, the iPhone 16e's sales will start on Feb. 28. It features a 48-megapixel camera, iOS 18, and the A18 chip — similar to the iPhone 16, but at a reduced price. Many wonder if it’s worth buying the iPhone 16e now or if they should wait for the iPhone 17 launch in September. Reasoning being that iPhone 16e is just a lower priced iPhone 16 - an ersatz iPhone 16. The 16e does not feature MagSafe charging or a second rear camera, but comes at a lower price. It also has the iPhone 16's A18 chip, but iPhone 17 will pack the latest Apple chip.

The newest Apple smartphone, the iPhone 16e's sales will start on Feb. 28. It features a 48-megapixel camera, iOS 18, and the A18 chip — similar to the iPhone 16, but at a reduced price. Many wonder if it’s worth buying the iPhone 16e now or if they should wait for the iPhone 17 launch in September. Reasoning being that iPhone 16e is just a lower priced iPhone 16 - an ersatz iPhone 16. The 16e does not feature MagSafe charging or a second rear camera, but comes at a lower price. It also has the iPhone 16's A18 chip, but iPhone 17 will pack the latest Apple chip.

Apple’s newest budget iPhone, the 16e, is the company's most basic and cheapest model, but it’s more expensive than the previous budget iPhone, the iPhone SE 3 (2022). With the same processor (it has been referred to as a "binned" chip) as the iPhone 16, it reuses older iPhone designs, including the iPhone 14's body and screen.

It’s a great deal for those looking for an affordable iPhone with a great camera, FaceTime, iMessage, and long-term software updates. Let us say that if you have an iPhone that is at least 4-5 years old and are a die-hard Apple fan, who just wants the basic smartphone, can go for it.

Although Apple has not confirmed the iPhone 17 yet, rumours indicate it will have a thinner design and a 6.6-inch display. Details are unclear but it will likely contain the usual updates such as a faster processor and newer software.

If Apple does launch the iPhone 17 in September, it's going to launch at under $800. However, things may well change and therefore, you may actually see a change in price due to a ramp-up in specs and features.

Needless to say, iPhone 17 is a totally different choice compared to the 16e whether it is price, or performance.

The iPhone 16e is a good choice if you have an outdated iPhone. It’s affordable, performance is good and has recent features. In short, it offers good value.

However, if your older iPhone still works fine, waiting to see what iPhone 17 brings in September could well be worth it.