iPhone 17 Pro Max Review: Orange You Glad the Battery is Bigger

When Apple introduced the slim and light iPhone Air, some users questioned the need for a thinner phone. In response, Apple took a different route, unveiling the iPhone 17 Pro lineup, which is slightly thicker and bulkier but offers a larger battery for better performance. Though the Pro models received more iterative updates compared to previous generations, there are still notable improvements that will benefit users.

Build and Design

The iPhone 17 Pro introduces a new unibody aluminium design, paired with a redesigned camera bump that provides space for MagSafe accessories underneath. The new design makes the phone sturdier but also slightly heavier. The iPhone 17 Pro Max weighs in at 233 grams, compared to 227 grams for the iPhone 16 Pro Max. While it’s still manageable, the increased weight is noticeable, especially when switching between the ultra-light iPhone Air and the Pro Max.

The phone features Ceramic Shield 2 on the front and Ceramic Shield on the back, offering better protection than the previous iPhone 15 Pro Max, which had a textured glass back. After experiencing a shattered back on my old device, the extra protection on the new iPhone is much appreciated.

Colour-wise, I have the silver variant, which feels a bit plain compared to the striking blue and standout orange options. Although I usually go without a case, I’m planning to try the new TechWoven blue case, which is made from 100% recycled polyester yarn, to switch up the look of my phone.

Battery and Performance

One of the most significant upgrades in the iPhone 17 Pro Max is the battery. Apple has made room for a 4,823 mAh battery, up from the 4,685 mAh in the previous model. For regions offering eSIM-only versions, the battery is even larger at 5,088 mAh, which provides even longer-lasting power.

I consistently got over five hours of screen time with varied usage. Additionally, the phone benefits from a vapour chamber, which helps keep it cooler during resource-intensive tasks like gaming. I tested War Thunder at 60 FPS, and the Pro Max ran significantly cooler than the iPhone Air.

Charging and Display

The iPhone 17 Pro Max supports faster charging via USB-PD 3.2. Charging at 40W (with the appropriate adapter) is a notable upgrade from the 30W charging in previous models, allowing for quicker power-ups. It also supports Qi2-based wireless charging at 25W.

While the display size remains the same, Apple has bumped up the peak brightness to an impressive 3,000 nits. This makes the screen much easier to read under bright sunlight, and the new anti-reflective coating reduces glare. However, some devices like the Samsung Galaxy S25 have a better reflective coating on their screens.

Camera Upgrades

The iPhone 17 Pro Max features three rear cameras, each with a 48-megapixel sensor. The telephoto lens has been improved this year, now offering 2x, 4x, and 8x zoom, which allows for better zooming capabilities for those like me with pets (candid shots are much easier!). While 8x zoom may lose some detail, the results are still sharp and usable.

In addition to the rear cameras, the selfie camera has also been upgraded with a new 18-megapixel square sensor. The front camera now supports Centre Stage, which automatically adjusts zoom and orientation based on the number of people in the frame — perfect for group shots during the festive season.

The Missing AI

Although the iPhone 17 Pro Max is loaded with hardware upgrades, Apple Intelligence features were notably absent. Unlike previous years and releases from competitors like Google Pixel, Apple didn’t emphasise new AI features. The device will receive iOS 26 features, including enhanced ChatGPT and Google Assistant integrations, but Apple-native AI innovations like an updated Siri might have to wait until next year’s WWDC.

Who Should Buy the iPhone 17 Pro Max?

The iPhone 17 Pro Max is a clear win for those who use their phones for creative purposes. With its better battery, improved thermal performance, and new features like ProRes RAW, creators can shoot and edit longer videos. The added genlock feature also allows users to sync multiple iPhones for time-locked shots.

For the average consumer, however, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is more of an iterative update. If your phone is more than two years old, you’ll notice significant improvements in battery life, performance, display, and camera. But if you upgraded after the iPhone 15 Pro, there’s less incentive to make the switch.