While the new Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max and the Air managed to draw considerable attention for their all-new features and premium build, the vanilla iPhone was once again left behind, relegated to being the entry-level iPhone. Despite a revised ProMotion display and the inclusion of the A19 chip, the phone fails to stand out, largely because it follows the same design language as last year’s model.
But since this phone is going to cost a premium, the question remains-is it seriously worth the price? If you’re on the fence on whether you should get on or not, here are a few Android alternatives that offer a flagship experience, often with more value.
Google Pixel 10
Also the entry-level device in its lineup, the Google Pixel 10 delivers a premium Android experience that rivals most flagships. Its standout feature? The camera system. Equipped with a 48MP primary sensor, a 13MP ultra-wide lens, and a telephoto camera, it’s more than capable of handling all your photography needs. The 5x optical zoom telephoto lens is a significant advantage—something the iPhone 17 completely lacks.
Beyond that, Apple’s glaring shortcomings in AI innovation are more visible than ever. While Apple touts its Liquid Glass features and the introduction of Apple Intelligence, they still fall short compared to the full suite of Gemini AI capabilities that the Pixel 10 offers.
Samsung Galaxy S25
One of the biggest advantages the Galaxy S25 holds over the iPhone 17 is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Elite chip powering the device. It significantly outperforms both Apple’s A19 and Google’s Tensor chip, making the S25 a powerhouse for gaming, multitasking, and productivity.
Another win for the S25 is its triple camera setup, which includes a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom—again, something completely missing on the iPhone 17.
OnePlus 13R
With its 6.78-inch AMOLED display, the OnePlus 13R is noticeably larger than the iPhone 17, Pixel 10, and Galaxy S25. It offers a 120Hz refresh rate, making it a great all-rounder for both media consumption and daily use.
To handle heavy-duty tasks with ease, it’s equipped with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. The phone also features a triple-camera system, including a telephoto lens capable of 2x optical zoom. Paired with an 80W fast charger, it can comfortably last up to two days on a full charge.
Nothing Phone (3)
While it may not be for everyone, the Nothing Phone 3 could be a viable alternative for users who prefer a different aesthetic. However, its older processor and unconventional design place it more in the underdog category in this segment.
