Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max vs Apple iPhone SE 2022
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max leads Apple iPhone SE 2022 overall by 18 points (81 vs 63 out of 100).
- Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max stands out on Chip Model: Apple A19 Pro, Memory RAM capacity: 8 GB, Memory technology: LPDDR5X.
- Best value: Apple iPhone SE 2022 (from $429) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max leads overall
$1,199 at launch
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
81
Apple iPhone SE 2022
63
Best value: Apple iPhone SE 2022 ($429)
Why it stands out
- Chip Model: Apple A19 Pro
- Memory RAM capacity: 8 GB
- Memory technology: LPDDR5X
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
This is Apple's premium smartphone targeting professional and power users who require top-tier mobile capability. It features the A19 Pro chip and advanced camera systems, making it a flagship device optimized for high performance and durability. Its inclusion of specialized software like Apple Intelligence positions it as a powerful creative and productivity tool.
Best for Mobile photography and videographyBest for Professional content creationBest for Power users utilizing AI productivity tools
Pros
- Powered by the A19 Pro chipset, which utilizes vapor cooling technology to manage heat and sustain peak performance.
- Features an advanced camera system with 48MP rear sensors and includes the longest zoom capability ever implemented on the iPhone.
- The device boasts a Durable design achieved through a heat-forged aluminum unibody enclosure, enhancing longevity and structure.
- Improves user customization with a dedicated Action button for quick access to preferred functions.
- Runs on iOS 26 and features Apple Intelligence, providing new generative AI tools like image creation and Live Translation.
Cons
- The Pro Max model is noticeably heavier than its Pro counterpart at 233g compared to the Pro’s 206g.
- While highly advanced, the device's initial focus on raw capability may overwhelm average users who only need basic communication features.
- Achieving maximum performance requires sustained use of the specialized vapor cooling system.
Apple iPhone SE 2022
The iPhone SE (2022) is positioned as an affordable option within Apple’s lineup, designed to provide modern technology in a compact form factor. It utilizes the classic retro design of the iPhone 8 chassis and includes the A15 Bionic chipset. This model aims for longevity by offering powerful performance while maintaining a reachable price point.
Best for affordable smartphonesBest for users prioritizing longevityBest for small hands/compact devices
Pros
- Runs on the A15 Bionic chipset, featuring improved performance over previous models.
- Features 5G connectivity (sub-6 GHz).
- Includes an IP67 rating for resistance against water and dust.
- Offers a relatively long lifespan due to Apple's software update support.
Cons
- Uses the older design featuring top and bottom bezels and a physical Home button.
- The screen is a 4.7-inch LCD with chunky bezels, which may feel cramped for modern app designs.
- Battery life and charging speeds are comparable to previous SE models.
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
Apple iPhone SE 2022
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max1,900,000
Apple iPhone SE 2022721,288
Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.
Battery capacity
Larger cell — a hardware spec, not battery life
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max4,823 mAh
Apple iPhone SE 20222,018 mAh
Capacity is the raw battery size. Real-world battery life depends just as much on the processor, software and display.
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Apple iPhone 17 Pro MaxApple iPhone SE 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max is 55 g (38%) heavier than Apple iPhone SE 2022.
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Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side