iPhone 17e Reviews: A Better Budget iPhone With MagSafe and 256GB Storage [Video]

Apple's new iPhone 17e reviews have gone live following the lifting of the review embargo. Early impressions suggest the device delivers meaningful improvements to Apple's budget iPhone formula, with faster performance, double the starting storage, and the addition of MagSafe.

Apple unveiled the device early last week with an A19 chip, Apple Intelligence support, and 256GB of starting storage for $599. You can learn more about the announcement here. If you're curious how it compares to last year's model, check out our breakdown of the iPhone 17e vs. iPhone 16e. Apple also released new wallpapers for the device which you can download here.



Below are some early impressions from reviewers across the web.


TechRadar says the iPhone 17e improves Apple's affordable iPhone formula rather than reinventing it:

"The iPhone 17e doesn't reinvent Apple's budget iPhone, but it meaningfully refines the formula introduced with the iPhone 16e." 

The publication believes the device remains a strong choice for buyers who want a modern iPhone at a lower price:


"But for anyone who simply wants a modern iPhone that doesn't break the bank, the iPhone 17e delivers exactly that." 





CNET says the device now shares more similarities with Apple's main iPhone lineup:

"The fact that I have to double-check whether I'm reaching for the iPhone 17E or the 17 is surely a good sign that the gap between the two is narrowing — and in the right direction." 


The Verge says Apple addressed a major shortcoming of the previous model by adding MagSafe and increasing base storage:

"The 17E comes with MagSafe, as well as a base storage bump up to 256GB, and it still starts at $600." 

However, the publication says buyers who can afford it may want to consider the standard model instead:

"The regular iPhone 17 is still the one to buy." 





Engadget says Apple's strategy shows renewed focus on midrange smartphones:

"Apple is making a clear statement: It cares about the midrange now."


PCMag highlights the upgrades Apple delivered while keeping the same starting price:

"For the same price, you get a faster A19 processor, quicker MagSafe charging, improved camera processing, more efficient 5G radio performance, and double the base storage (256GB)."

The site says the phone will appeal to users upgrading from older devices:

"It's a great option for first-time phone users, those who want a basic smartphone, and those upgrading from older models, like the iPhone 11 or iPhone 12."


WIRED says the phone still delivers solid capability despite its lower price:

"The iPhone 17e can do all of this fairly well for $599."


Overall, reviewers appear to agree that the iPhone 17e is a meaningful upgrade over its predecessor thanks to faster performance, improved value, and the addition of features that bring it closer to the rest of Apple's iPhone lineup.