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iPhone 17 Review: No Asterisks!

Marques Brownlee@mkbhd6.1M viewsOct 1, 202511:20
Source
YT
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6.1M
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21M
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Promos

This is the best iPhone in years. Which can have an interesting effect on the rest of the lineup... MKBHD Merch: shop.mkbhd.com Playlist of MKBHD Intro music: goo.gl Phone provided by Apple for review. ~ twitter.com @MKBHD @MKBHD

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The video presents a comprehensive assessment of the iPhone 17, highlighting it as a strong value proposition in Apple’s lineup. The host argues that the base model now feels like a true flagship option thanks to meaningful upgrades across a few key areas. First, the display receives a top tier upgrade with higher brightness up to 3000 nits and a variable refresh rate that can go up to 120 Hz, along with PWM dimming and a brighter, more efficient panel. The reviewer also calls out the new 24 megapixel center stage selfie camera as a standout feature, noting automatic switching between vertical and horizontal crops for group selfies and improved stabilization for selfie videos. Battery life is described as noticeably better due to a larger capacity and more efficient display, while the chip (A19) remains extremely capable with ample headroom for future tasks. Storage is doubled from 128 GB to 256 GB across the base model, which the reviewer frames as a substantial value improvement that helps justify the price. Overall, the 17 is portrayed as a strong value, combining a modern display, camera, and performance in a way that makes the Pro models harder to justify for most users. The host stresses that the base model finally aligns with what many users want in a daily driver, presenting it as a practical choice rather than a compromise. In closing, the video suggests that the iPhone 17 is a well-rounded device that sets a new standard for the base lineup, ending with a call to consider it a smart, no-nonsense purchase for most buyers.

Topics · technology · consumer_electronics · platform_reviews · smartphones

Questions answered

What is the standout feature of the iPhone 17's display?
The iPhone 17 features a brighter display up to 3000 nits with a 120 Hz variable refresh rate and PWM dimming, offering better outdoor visibility and efficiency.
How does the base iPhone 17 compare to the Pro models in this review?
The reviewer argues the base iPhone 17 now covers most needs with strong performance, a high-quality display, improved battery life, and doubled storage, making the Pro less essential for many users.
What are the main drawbacks mentioned for the iPhone 17?
Minor drawbacks include missing higher-end camera features in the base model, limited ProRes on the base device, and some ongoing tradeoffs like USB transfer speeds.