Best iPhone Buying Guide 2025

Choose the perfect iPhone based on your size preferences, usage patterns, and lifestyle. This guide helps you find the best iPhone for your specific needs.

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Quick Recommendation by Use Case

Best for One-Handed Use

iPhone 13 mini

131.5mm × 64.2mm × 7.65mm

Most compact modern iPhone with full-screen design

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Best Balance of Size & Features

iPhone 16 Pro

149.6mm × 71.5mm × 8.25mm

Pro features without massive size

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Best for Media & Gaming

iPhone 17 Pro Max

163.4mm × 78.0mm × 8.75mm

Largest screen at 6.9 inches

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Best Ultra-Thin Design

iPhone 17 Air

156.2mm × 74.7mm × 5.6mm

Thinnest iPhone ever made

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Best Budget Option

iPhone SE (3rd Gen)

138.4mm × 67.3mm × 7.3mm

Compact with Touch ID

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Best Value Large Screen

iPhone 15 Plus

160.9mm × 77.8mm × 7.8mm

Big screen without Pro pricing

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Size Categories Explained

Compact iPhones (131-140mm height)

Perfect for: Small hands, one-handed use, minimalists, pocket-conscious users

  • iPhone 13 mini: 131.5mm - Best compact choice
  • iPhone 12 mini: 131.5mm - Previous generation compact
  • iPhone SE: 138.4mm - Budget-friendly, Touch ID

Trade-off: Smaller screen (4.7"-5.4"), shorter battery life

Standard iPhones (145-150mm height)

Perfect for: Most users, balance of portability and usability

  • iPhone 16 Pro: 149.6mm - Latest Pro features
  • iPhone 17: 149.6mm - Newest standard model
  • iPhone 15: 147.6mm - Great value option
  • iPhone 14: 146.7mm - Budget-friendly current model

Sweet spot: 6.1"-6.3" screens, good battery, comfortable grip

Large iPhones (155-165mm height)

Perfect for: Media consumption, gaming, productivity, those who prefer big screens

  • iPhone 17 Pro Max: 163.4mm - Largest and most powerful
  • iPhone 17 Air: 156.2mm - Thin but tall
  • iPhone 16 Plus: 160.9mm - Large screen, lower price
  • iPhone 15 Pro Max: 159.9mm - Previous flagship

Benefits: Best battery life, largest displays (6.5"-6.9")

Decision Factors

Consider a Smaller iPhone If:

  • ✓ You frequently use your phone one-handed
  • ✓ You have smaller hands
  • ✓ Pocket-ability is important to you
  • ✓ You prefer lighter devices
  • ✓ You mostly text, call, and browse

Consider a Larger iPhone If:

  • ✓ You watch lots of videos or stream content
  • ✓ You play mobile games
  • ✓ You read articles or ebooks on your phone
  • ✓ Battery life is a top priority
  • ✓ You do productivity work on mobile

Size Comparison Quick Facts

Height Range:

131.5mm (13 mini) to 163.4mm (17 Pro Max)

Difference: 31.9mm (about 1.25 inches)

Width Range:

64.2mm (mini) to 78.1mm (Pro Max)

Difference: 13.9mm (about 0.55 inches)

Thickness Range:

5.6mm (17 Air) to 8.75mm (17 Pro Max)

Difference: 3.15mm

Screen Size Range:

4.7" (SE) to 6.9" (17 Pro Max)

Difference: 2.2 diagonal inches

Final Recommendations by User Type

First-Time iPhone Buyer

Start with iPhone 15 or iPhone 14. They offer the classic 6.1" size that most people find comfortable. Not too big, not too small.

Upgrading from Older iPhone

If coming from iPhone 8 or older, be prepared for larger sizes. Consider the iPhone SE for familiar dimensions or the iPhone 13 mini for compact modern design.

Power User / Professional

Go with iPhone 16 Pro or iPhone 17 Pro Max depending on whether you prioritize portability or screen size. Pro models offer the best cameras and performance.

Budget-Conscious Buyer

The iPhone SE offers excellent value with a compact form factor. For larger screens on a budget, consider older models like iPhone 14 Plus.