Coming from Android (realme 12 pro +), I can say that I have made a giant leap. It is pointless to compare the two smartphones, so I will share my experience with this iPhone, which I have had since 24/1/2026 and today is 26/4/2026. First of all, I can't skip mentioning its magical camera, Apple's ace. Apart from the main 48MP wide lens, this year's model also has 48MP on the ultra wide lens and 18MP with center stage and a larger sensor on the front camera for clear selfies. As far as the camera is concerned, I am more than covered, and in my opinion, no Samsung can match it. Now, in terms of speed, the phone is lightning fast and doesn't lag at all, no matter how many apps you have open in the background, and for light gaming, which is what I use it for, the graphics are incredible and can easily handle very heavy games.
Something that bothers me a little is the battery (after all, iPhones are not famous for their batteries). I charge it with an 80% limit and don't let it drop below 20%, and I need to charge it more than once a day. Maybe if I charged it to 100%, it would last a day or so, but I want to keep the battery health high (100% at 99 cycles). For €1000, I expected a better battery, but maybe iOS 26 is to blame, which is heavier than 18, so I partly justify it. The promotion 6.3 120Hz that all the pros had since the 13 finally made it to the basic model, and it is very smooth and bright. Good speakers, fast charging. Especially if you already have other Apple devices, you will be very happy due to compatibility. I wouldn't say it's a value for money phone, but I would easily say it's a value for money iPhone and definitely faster, better, and with better energy management than an iPhone 16 pro. If you are hesitating between the 16 pro and the 17, definitely go for the 17 with your eyes closed, and it's much cheaper too. I am fully satisfied, and definitely my next phone purchase will be Apple; you don't go back to Android after such a device!
