Apple has released numerous iPhone versions since 2007, each with different physical dimensions and screen sizes. From the compact 3.5-inch original iPhone to the massive 6.9-inch iPhone 17 Pro Max, Apple’s iPhone lineup has evolved dramatically to serve different user preferences and needs.

The latest iPhone models (2026) range from 4.7 inches (iPhone SE 3rd generation) to 6.9 inches (iPhone 17 Pro Max), with standard models typically featuring 6.1-6.3 inch displays. This comprehensive Apple iPhone size chart enables easy comparison of all available models, including screen size, physical dimensions, weight, resolution, and technical specifications.

An extended Apple Ipad Size Chart you can find here

Apple iPhone Screen Sizes Table of Content

How do you measure iPhone screen size?

The Apple iPhone Size Chart 2026

iPhone Size Categories: Compact, Standard, Large & Max

Which iPhone Size is Best for You? (Decision Guide)

Battery Life by iPhone Size

Evolution of iPhone Sizes (2007-2026)

The Apple iPhone Size Chart

Apple iPhone Size Chart Frequently Asked Questions

iPhone Screen Resolution and Sizes

Related: Samsung Galaxy Size Chart : Samsung phone dimensions, Pixel 7 Pro Size and Specs and dimensions

How to Measure Your Apple iPhone Screen Size.

The screen size does not affect the quality of an iPhone, but it is important to note a few parameters like the iPhone display size, which is the measure of the diagonals of the phone screen in inches.

1. iPhone Display Size (inches)

The diagonal measurement of the screen. This is the primary spec used for marketing (e.g., 6.9-inch display). Note that rounded corners are measured as a standard rectangle, so the actual viewable area is slightly less than the advertised number.

2. iPhone Screen Size (Points – Logical Pixels)

The coordinate system iOS uses for app layouts. For example, the iPhone 17 Pro uses 393 x 852 points. This is the “canvas size” that developers use when designing the interface or writing CSS.

3. iPhone Rendered Pixels

The total number of pixels produced after the “Scale Factor” is applied to the logical points. This determines the level of detail and sharpness you see in text and icons within your apps.

4. iPhone Physical Pixels (Resolution)

The actual hardware pixels built into the glass (e.g., 2556 x 1179 pixels). This represents the “True Resolution” and the physical limits of what the screen can actually show.

5. PPI (Pixels Per Inch)

Pixel density—how many pixels are packed into one inch of the screen. Higher PPI means a sharper image. Most modern iPhones sit at 460 PPI, providing a “Retina” experience where individual pixels are invisible to the naked eye at normal viewing distances.

The Apple iPhone Screen Sizes Chart

The most comprehensive Apple iPhone sizes chart, updated for February 2026. This table includes every iPhone model from iPhone 3G through the latest iPhone 17 series, with complete dimensions, weights, screen sizes, and resolutions.

The most complete Apple Iphone Sizes chart by size-charts.com

Apple has significantly expanded its iPhone size offerings over the years. From 2007 to 2016, Apple offered limited size options (3.5″ to 5.5″). Today, iPhones range from the compact 4.7-inch iPhone SE 3rd generation to the expansive 6.9-inch iPhone 17 Pro Max – nearly a 50% increase in diagonal screen size.

However, the desired sizes are better suited to different people and to different use cases. So to get the right size iPhone, we list down each Iphone screen, and what type of user they’re best working for.

iPhone Size Categories: Compact, Standard, Large & Max

iPhones can be grouped into four distinct size categories based on display size and physical dimensions. Understanding these categories helps you quickly narrow down which iPhone is right for your needs.

1. Compact iPhones (4.7″ – 5.4″)

Best for: One-handed use, small hands, pockets, and minimalists.

Current Models:

• iPhone SE (3rd gen) – 4.7″ display, 144g
  • ✅ Home button, Touch ID
  • ✅ Most affordable iPhone ($429–$599)
  • ✅ Perfectly sized for one hand
  • ❌ Smaller screen limits media viewing

Discontinued (but popular used options):

• iPhone 13 mini / 12 mini – 5.4″ display, 135–140g
  • ✅ Full-screen design in ultra-compact body
  • ✅ Lightest modern iPhones
  • ❌ Discontinued due to low sales
  • ❌ Battery life shorter than larger models

Who should buy: Users with small hands, those who prefer one-handed operation, or budget-conscious buyers (SE model).

2. Standard iPhones (6.1″ – 6.3″)

Best for: Balanced everyday use, good screen size without bulk, and most users.

Current Models:

• iPhone 16 / 16e – 6.1″ display, 170g ($599–$799)
  • ✅ Affordable flagship features
  • ✅ Manageable size for most hands
  • ✅ Good battery life (22 hours video)
• iPhone 17 – 6.3″ display, 177g ($799)
  • ✅ Pro-sized screen in standard model
  • ✅ 48MP dual cameras
  • ✅ 256GB base storage
• iPhone 16 Pro / 17 Pro – 6.3″ display, 199g ($999–$1,099)
  • ✅ Pro camera system with telephoto
  • ✅ ProMotion 120Hz display
  • ✅ Titanium design
  • ✅ Best performance

Who should buy: The vast majority of users. This is the “Goldilocks” size—large enough for comfortable media viewing, yet small enough to use comfortably and fit in most pockets.

3. Large iPhones (6.5″ – 6.7″)

Best for: Media consumption and larger screens without Pro pricing.

Current Models:

• iPhone 17 Air – 6.55″ display, 175g ($899 estimated)
  • ✅ Thinnest iPhone ever (5.64mm)
  • ✅ Large screen in lightweight design
  • ✅ Premium aesthetics
  • ❌ Single rear camera
• iPhone 16 Plus – 6.7″ display, 199g ($899)
  • ✅ Pro Max-sized screen at lower price
  • ✅ Excellent battery life (27 hours video)
  • ❌ No ProMotion (60Hz only)
• iPhone 15 Plus – 6.7″ display, 201g ($799)
  • ✅ Budget option for large screen
  • ❌ Previous generation features

Who should buy: Users who prioritize screen size for videos and reading but don’t need Pro camera features.

4. Max iPhones (6.9″)

Best for: Content creators, power users, and maximum screen real estate.

Current Models:

• iPhone 17 Pro Max – 6.9″ display, 228g ($1,199)
  • ✅ Biggest iPhone display ever
  • ✅ Best battery life (37 hours video)
  • ✅ Pro camera system with 5x telephoto
  • ❌ Heaviest iPhone (228g)
  • ❌ Requires two hands for most tasks
• iPhone 16 Pro Max – 6.9″ display, 227g ($1,099)
  • ✅ Same screen size as 17 Pro Max
  • ✅ More affordable current-gen option

Who should buy: Professional photographers, business power users, or anyone who wants the largest possible display and doesn’t mind the extra weight.

Quick Size Reference Chart

Which iPhone Size is Best for You? Complete Decision Guide

Choosing the right iPhone size depends on your specific needs, hand size, usage patterns, and preferences. Use this comprehensive guide to find your perfect match.

✋ Choose by Hand Size

Small Hands (Palm width < 7.5 cm / 3 inches)

• Best: iPhone SE (4.7″) or iPhone 13 mini (5.4″)
• Also consider: iPhone 16/17 (6.1-6.3″) with case grip accessories
• Avoid: Pro Max models – too wide for comfortable one-handed use

Medium Hands (Palm width 7.5-8.5 cm / 3-3.3 inches)

• Best: iPhone 16/17 or iPhone 16 Pro/17 Pro (6.1-6.3″)
• Also consider: iPhone 16 Plus/17 Air if you’re willing to use two hands
• Can manage: Any iPhone size with appropriate technique

Large Hands (Palm width > 8.5 cm / 3.3 inches)

• Best: iPhone 17 Pro Max or iPhone 16 Plus (6.7-6.9″)
• Also great: Any Pro model
• May feel small: iPhone SE or mini models

🎯 Choose by Primary Use Case

For Reading Books/Articles

Recommended: iPhone 16 Plus (6.7″) or iPhone 17 Pro Max (6.9″)

• Larger screens reduce eye strain
• More words visible per page
• Better for long reading sessions

For Gaming

Recommended: iPhone 17 Pro Max (6.9″) or iPhone 16 Pro (6.3″)

• Pro Max: Biggest screen + longest battery + best performance
• Pro: Better balance of size and weight for hand fatigue
• Need ProMotion 120Hz for competitive gaming

For Photography/Videography

Recommended: iPhone 17 Pro Max or iPhone 16 Pro Max (6.9″)

• Best camera system (Pro features)
• Largest viewfinder for composition
• ProRAW and ProRes support
• Best battery for all-day shoots

For Business/Productivity

Recommended: iPhone 17 Pro (6.3″) or iPhone 17 Pro Max (6.9″)

• Pro: Good screen size + professional features
• Pro Max: Maximum screen for documents/spreadsheets
• ProMotion makes scrolling smoother
• Best performance for multitasking

For Fitness/Running

Recommended: iPhone SE (4.7″) or iPhone 13 mini (5.4″)

• Lightweight (135-144g)
• Fits in running armbands
• Less bulky in pockets

👖 Choose by Portability Needs

Always in Pocket

• Men’s jeans pocket: Up to 6.3″ (iPhone 17 Pro) fits comfortably
• Women’s jeans pocket: 4.7″-6.1″ (iPhone SE to iPhone 16) recommended
• Shirt pocket: Only iPhone SE (4.7″) or mini models fit reliably

Usually in Bag/Purse

• Any size works – prioritize screen size and features over portability
• Consider iPhone 17 Pro Max for maximum capability

💰 Choose by Budget

Budget-Friendly (Under $700)

• iPhone SE (3rd gen): $429-599 – Best value, 4.7″
• iPhone 16e: $599 – Modern features, 6.1″
• iPhone 15: $699 (while available) – Previous flagship, 6.1″

Mid-Range ($700-900)

• iPhone 16: $799 – Current standard flagship, 6.1″
• iPhone 17: $799 – Newest standard model, 6.3″
• iPhone 16 Plus: $899 – Large screen budget option, 6.7″

Premium ($900-1200+)

• iPhone 16 Pro: $999 – Pro features, 6.3″
• iPhone 17 Pro: $1,099 – Latest Pro, 6.3″
• iPhone 17 Pro Max: $1,199 – Ultimate iPhone, 6.9″

Quick Recommendation Chart

💡 Pro Tips for Choosing

• Test in store: Hold each size for 5+ minutes to feel the weight and reach
• Consider your upgrade cycle: If you keep phones 3+ years, choose larger for future-proofing
• Check your current phone: If satisfied with size, stay similar; if complaints, adjust accordingly
• Think about cases: Cases add 2-3mm bulk and 10-30g weight
• Battery vs. size tradeoff: Bigger always means longer battery life
• Reachability feature: Even large iPhones become more manageable with iOS Reachability

iPhone Screen Resolution and Sizes (Complete Technical Specifications)

Apple iPhone Screen Resolution is expressed in both Physical dimensions (Width × Height pixels) and Logical dimensions (Points). Understanding the difference between these measurements is crucial for developers and anyone interested in the technical specifications of iPhone displays.

Understanding iPhone Display Terminology

• Physical Pixels: The actual number of pixels in the device’s hardware screen (e.g., 2532 × 1170). This determines the maximum sharpness and detail the screen can physically display.
• Logical Pixels (Points): The coordinate system used for app layouts. It is the physical pixel count divided by the Scale Factor. This is the “canvas size” developers use when designing apps (e.g., 390 × 844).
• CSS Scale Factor: The multiplier used to map logical pixels to physical hardware pixels. Most modern iPhones use a 3x factor (Retina Display), while older models used 2x or 1x.
• PPI (Pixels Per Inch): Pixel density—how many pixels are packed into one square inch. Higher PPI means sharper images. iPhone mini models have the highest density at 476 PPI, while most Pro models feature 458–460 PPI.

Battery Life by iPhone Size

Battery capacity and life are directly related to iPhone size – larger phones accommodate bigger batteries and deliver significantly longer usage times. Here’s a comprehensive comparison of battery specifications across all current iPhone models.

Battery Life Comparison Table

Key Battery Life Insights

📊 Battery by Size Category:

• Compact (4.7″): 15 hours video – Shortest battery life
• Standard (6.1-6.3″): 22-24 hours video – Adequate for full day use
• Large (6.5-6.7″): 25-27 hours video – Excellent battery life
• Max (6.9″): 33-37 hours video – Best battery life, multi-day potential

⚡ Charging Capabilities (All Models):

• Fast Charging: Up to 50% in 30 minutes with 20W+ adapter
• MagSafe Wireless: Up to 25W (iPhone 16/17 series) or 15W (older)
• Qi Wireless: Up to 7.5W
• USB-C (iPhone 15+): Faster data transfer and universal charging

🎯 Battery Life Recommendations:

• Heavy Users: iPhone 17 Pro Max (37 hours) – Will last 2 days with moderate use
• All-Day Reliability: Any Plus, Pro, or Pro Max model (27+ hours)
• Average Users: Standard iPhone 16/17 (22-24 hours) sufficient
• Light Users: iPhone SE adequate, but consider standard model for future-proofing

Pro Tip: Battery health degrades over time. Choose a model with more battery than you think you need – a phone with 25 hours video playback today will have ~20 hours after 2 years of use.

Evolution of iPhone Sizes: 2007-2026

Since Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone in 2007, Apple’s approach to phone sizing has evolved dramatically. What started as a revolutionary 3.5-inch device has grown into a diverse lineup ranging from 4.7 to 6.9 inches.

The history of iPhone dimensions can be categorized into four distinct eras of design:

• The Compact Era (2007–2013): For the first five years, Apple championed the “one-handed” philosophy. Starting with a 3.5-inch screen on the original iPhone, the device eventually grew slightly to 4 inches with the iPhone 5, maintaining a slim profile that was easy to navigate with a thumb.
• The “Plus” Era (2014–2016): Responding to the demand for larger screens, Apple introduced the 5.5-inch Plus models alongside the standard 4.7-inch design. This era marked the first time users had to choose between portability and screen real estate.
• The All-Screen Era (2017–2023): With the iPhone X, Apple removed the Home button, allowing for larger screens in smaller bodies. This period saw the birth of the 5.8-inch, 6.1-inch, and 6.7-inch standards. It also featured a brief return to small form factors with the 5.4-inch Mini, though the market eventually shifted toward larger displays.
• The Titanium & Max Era (2024–2026): Modern iPhones have pushed boundaries further than ever. Using aerospace-grade titanium to keep weight down, Apple increased the Pro Max to a massive 6.9-inch display. We also see the introduction of the iPhone 17 Air, which focuses on extreme thinness (5.64mm) rather than just raw screen size, proving that “size” is now about more than just height and width.

Apple iPhone Size Chart FAQ’s

How do you calculate screen size?

Screen size is the measure of the length from one corner of the screen to the opposite diagonal. A ruler is used for measurement in inches.

Why are Apple iPhones smaller in size?

Apple phones have remained smaller compared to the other competitor phone companies. Apple prefers the small and thin outlook for single-handed use; however, there is a preference for large phones, but Apple maintains the smaller size in their phones as a trademark.

What is the best resolution for an iPhone?

The best Resolution is very user and case specific. As an example, iPhone 11 and 11 Pro are good for shooting videos and taking photos. The two iPhones give images that are truer to life compared to other phones. The iPhone can record at 720p, 1080p and 4K resolutions. For the absolute best video image quality, 4K resolution is the best choice. If you are concerned about phone storage, the recommended is 1080p or even 720p.

What is the best iPhone size?

iPhones initially did not have a significant variation in sizes, but lately, they vary from below 4 inches to about 7 inches. The iPhone XR to the most recent iPhone 12 (size 6-6.7 inches) are unsuitable for one-hand operation but are suitable for providing a large view. 5-6inches is smaller in size and thus provides easy single-handed operation. 3-5 inches are mostly the old iPhones, and they use LCD, which makes them inferior to the latest iPhones.

Why is Apple moving to a 4-inch phone again?

The iPhone SE is intended for people who prefer the smaller-sized iPhone. The development enables the clients to have an up-to-date phone that suits their small-sized phone preference. Apple still produces the larger phones like the iPhone 12 pro max, but their price is too high compared to the iPhone SE, which costs about $500. Thus, it enables an easy transition for people using cheap android phones to apple.

How is the AMOLED screen different from the one already on the iPhone?

AMOLED stands for Active-Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode. The LCD screens have a backlight, but the AMOLED does not. AMOLED screens are thinner and provide vivid images than the actual hues in LCD. Also, it saves power since there is no backlight, but it is less visible in light compared to LCD due to the backlight. The technology of the screen doesn’t affect the Iphone Size though.

What is the screen size for iPhone 12 pro?

iPhone 12 pro has a display screen of 6.1 inches, resolution of 1170× 2532 pixels, andview port density of 390×844 pixels

What is the biggest iPhone ever made?

The iPhone 17 Pro Max is the biggest iPhone ever made, featuring a massive 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. It measures 163.4mm in height, 78.0mm in width, and 8.75mm in thickness, making it the largest iPhone in both screen size and physical dimensions. Released in September 2025, it offers the most screen real estate of any iPhone to date, making it ideal for media consumption, gaming, and productivity tasks.

Key specifications:

• Display: 6.9 inches (diagonal)
• Dimensions: 163.4 x 78.0 x 8.75mm
• Weight: 228g
• Resolution: 2796 x 1290 pixels at 460 ppi

What is the smallest iPhone currently available?

For currently available models, the iPhone SE (3rd generation) is the smallest, featuring a compact 4.7-inch Retina HD display with dimensions of 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3mm. However, if you’re looking at discontinued models, the iPhone 13 mini was the smallest modern full-screen iPhone at 5.4 inches (131.5 x 64.2 x 7.65mm). Apple discontinued the mini series after the iPhone 13 mini due to lower-than-expected sales.

Currently available compact options:

• iPhone SE (3rd gen): 4.7″ display
• iPhone 16: 6.1″ display (smallest current flagship)
• iPhone 17: 6.3″ display

How do you measure iPhone screen size?

iPhone screen size is measured diagonally from one corner of the display to the opposite corner, expressed in inches. Here’s how to measure it accurately:

Step 1: Use a ruler or measuring tape Step 2: Place it at the top-left corner of the visible screen (not the phone body) Step 3: Measure diagonally to the bottom-right corner Step 4: Convert to inches if measuring in centimeters (divide by 2.54)

Important note: Screen size measurements don’t include bezels or the phone’s physical body – only the actual display area. Apple typically rounds to the nearest tenth of an inch (e.g., 6.1″, 6.7″, 6.9″).

Which iPhone size is best for one-handed use?

The best iPhones for one-handed use are those with screen sizes between 4.7″ and 6.1″ and widths under 72mm:

Excellent for one-handed use:

• iPhone SE (3rd gen): 4.7″ display, 67.3mm wide – Best for small hands
• iPhone 13 mini: 5.4″ display, 64.2mm wide – Ideal compact size (discontinued)

Good for one-handed use:

• iPhone 16: 6.1″ display, 71.6mm wide
• iPhone 17: 6.3″ display, 71.9mm wide

Challenging for one-handed use:

• iPhone Plus/Pro Max models: 77-78mm wide – Require two hands for most tasks

The critical measurement is width – phones narrower than 72mm are generally manageable for average-sized hands, while anything over 75mm typically requires two-handed operation.

Do bigger iPhones have better battery life?

Yes, generally bigger iPhones have significantly better battery life because their larger physical size allows for bigger battery capacities. Here’s the battery life ranking by size:

Best battery life (Pro Max/Plus models):

• iPhone 17 Pro Max: Up to 37 hours video playback (4,685 mAh)
• iPhone 16 Pro Max: Up to 33 hours video playback (4,685 mAh)
• iPhone 16 Plus: Up to 27 hours video playback (4,383 mAh)

Mid-range battery (Standard/Pro models):

• iPhone 17 Pro: Up to 31 hours video playback
• iPhone 16 Pro: Up to 27 hours video playback
• iPhone 16: Up to 22 hours video playback

Shorter battery life (Compact models):

• iPhone SE (3rd gen): Up to 15 hours video playback (2,018 mAh)
• iPhone 13 mini: Up to 17 hours video playback (2,406 mAh)

The Pro Max models consistently deliver 30-50% longer battery life than standard models.

What’s the difference between iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro size?

The iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro are nearly identical in size, representing Apple’s shift to give Pro-level dimensions to the base model:

iPhone 17:

• Display: 6.3 inches
• Dimensions: 150.0 x 71.9 x 8.75mm
• Weight: 177g
• Display type: Super Retina XDR (60Hz)

iPhone 17 Pro:

• Display: 6.3 inches
• Dimensions: 149.6 x 71.5 x 7.95mm
• Weight: 199g
• Display type: Super Retina XDR with ProMotion (120Hz)

Key differences: The Pro is actually 0.4mm narrower and 0.8mm thinner, but 22g heavier due to titanium construction and additional camera hardware. Both share the same 6.3″ display size, making them equally comfortable for handling.

Are newer iPhones bigger than older ones?

Yes, iPhones have generally gotten bigger over time, though there have been fluctuations. Here’s the evolution:

Era 1: Compact Origins (2007-2013)

• iPhone (1st gen) to iPhone 5S: 3.5″ to 4.0″ displays
• Designed for one-handed use

Era 2: The Growth Begins (2014-2016)

• iPhone 6/6 Plus introduced: 4.7″ and 5.5″ options
• First major size increase

Era 3: Edge-to-Edge Expansion (2017-2020)

• iPhone X introduced: 5.8″ in similar body to iPhone 6/7/8
• Screen size grew while body dimensions remained similar

Era 4: Max Everything (2020-2025)

• iPhone 12 Pro Max: 6.7″ screens became standard for large models
• Mini options (5.4″) briefly available but discontinued

Era 5: Record Sizes (2024-Present)

• iPhone 16 Pro Max & 17 Pro Max: 6.9″ – biggest ever
• Average size now 6.1″-6.3″ (vs 4.7″ in 2016)

Overall growth: The average iPhone display has increased from 4.0″ (2013) to 6.3″ (2026) – a 57.5% increase in screen size over 13 years.

Which iPhone is best for gaming?

The best iPhone for gaming depends on your priorities, but here are the top recommendations:

Best overall: iPhone 17 Pro Max or iPhone 16 Pro Max

• 6.9″ display provides maximum screen real estate
• A19 Pro / A18 Pro chip with desktop-class GPU
• ProMotion 120Hz for smooth gameplay
• Up to 37 hours battery life for extended sessions
• Best thermal management for sustained performance

Best balance: iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone 16 Pro

• 6.3″ display – large enough for immersion, light enough for long sessions
• Same processor and graphics as Pro Max
• Easier to hold during extended play
• 199g vs 227g (Pro Max)

Budget gaming: iPhone 16

• 6.1″ display adequate for most games
• A18 chip still very capable
• Significantly cheaper than Pro models
• 60Hz display is the main compromise

Why size matters for gaming: Larger screens improve visibility in competitive games, make touch controls easier to reach, and enhance immersion in story-driven games. However, phones over 220g can cause hand fatigue during multi-hour sessions.

What size is the iPhone 17 Air?

The iPhone 17 Air features a 6.55-inch Super Retina XDR display, positioning it between the standard and Plus sizes. More notably, it’s the thinnest iPhone ever made at just 5.64mm in depth:

Dimensions:

• Display: 6.55 inches diagonal
• Height: 160.5mm
• Width: 77.5mm
• Depth: 5.64mm (thinnest ever!)
• Weight: 175g (lightest for its screen size)

Comparison to other models:

• Thinner than: Every previous iPhone (iPhone 6 was 6.9mm)
• Screen size: Between iPhone 17 (6.3″) and iPhone 17 Pro Max (6.9″)
• Width: Similar to Plus models but significantly thinner

The Air prioritizes thinness and lightweight design over maximum performance, making it ideal for users who want a large screen without the bulk of Pro Max models.

How has iPhone screen size changed over the years?

iPhone screens have grown dramatically since the original 3.5″ display in 2007. Here’s the complete evolution:

Phase 1: 3.5″ Era (2007-2012)

• iPhone, 3G, 3GS, 4, 4S: All 3.5″ displays
• Focus: Pocketability and one-handed use

Phase 2: The 4″ Jump (2012-2016)

• iPhone 5, 5S, 5C, SE (1st gen): 4.0″ displays
• First significant size increase (14% larger)

Phase 3: Dual Sizes (2014-2017)

• Standard: 4.7″ (iPhone 6, 6S, 7, 8)
• Plus: 5.5″ (iPhone 6 Plus, 7 Plus, 8 Plus)
• Apple introduced size choice

Phase 4: Edge-to-Edge Revolution (2017-2021)

• iPhone X/XS/11 Pro: 5.8″ in compact body
• iPhone XR/11/12/13: 6.1″ in mid-size body
• iPhone 12/13 Pro Max: 6.7″ in large body
• iPhone 12/13 mini: 5.4″ compact option

Phase 5: Modern Era (2022-Present)

• Standard: 6.1″ (iPhone 14, 15, 16)
• Plus: 6.7″ (iPhone 14/15/16 Plus)
• Pro: 6.1″ → 6.3″ (iPhone 16 Pro → 17 Pro)
• Pro Max: 6.7″ → 6.9″ (iPhone 16 Pro Max → 17 Pro Max)

Total growth: 3.5″ (2007) to 6.9″ (2026) = 97% increase in diagonal measurement, representing nearly 300% increase in screen area.

What is the difference between physical pixels and logical pixels on iPhone?

Understanding the difference between physical and logical pixels is crucial for developers and anyone interested in iPhone display technology:

Physical Pixels:

• The actual number of pixels in the iPhone’s physical display
• Example: iPhone 17 Pro has 2556 x 1179 = 3,013,524 physical pixels
• This is the “native resolution” of the screen
• Measured in the resolution specs (e.g., “2532 x 1170”)

Logical Pixels (Points):

• The number of pixels your software sees and uses for layout
• Calculated by dividing physical pixels by the CSS Scale Factor
• Example: iPhone 17 Pro has 852 x 393 logical pixels (Scale Factor of 3)
• Used for app development and web design

Why the difference?

• Retina displays pack more physical pixels than the eye can distinguish
• CSS Scale Factor (usually 2 or 3) maintains consistent UI sizing across devices
• An app button that’s “44 logical pixels” tall will be the same physical size on all iPhones

Example:

• iPhone SE (2nd gen): 750 x 1334 physical ÷ 2 = 375 x 667 logical
• iPhone 14 Pro Max: 1290 x 2796 physical ÷ 3 = 430 x 932 logical

For users: Physical pixels determine sharpness; logical pixels determine how much content fits on screen.

Which iPhone has the highest pixel density (PPI)?

The iPhone 13 mini and iPhone 12 mini hold the record for highest pixel density at 476 PPI (pixels per inch):

Highest PPI iPhones:

1. iPhone 13 mini / 12 mini: 476 PPI
   • 2340 x 1080 resolution on 5.4″ display
2. Most Pro models: 458-460 PPI
   • iPhone 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
   • iPhone 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
   • iPhone 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max
   • All feature Super Retina XDR displays
3. Standard models: 326 PPI
   • iPhone 11, XR, SE series
   • Still exceeds the “Retina” threshold (300+ PPI)

Why mini iPhones have higher PPI: Smaller screens with high resolutions pack more pixels into less space. However, beyond 400 PPI, the human eye cannot distinguish additional detail at normal viewing distances, so the difference between 460 and 476 PPI is imperceptible to users.

Practical impact: All modern iPhones exceed the 300 PPI “Retina” threshold where individual pixels become invisible to the human eye at typical viewing distances (10-12 inches).

What’s the best iPhone size for photography and videography?

For photography and videography, the Pro Max models (iPhone 17 Pro Max, 16 Pro Max) are the best choice, regardless of screen size preferences:

Why Pro Max is best:

1. Largest viewfinder (6.9″) – Easier to frame shots and see details
2. Longest battery life – Essential for all-day shoots (up to 37 hours video)
3. Best camera stabilization – Larger body allows better sensor-shift OIS
4. Superior low-light – Larger sensors (especially telephoto on Pro Max)
5. More storage options – Pro Max available up to 1TB
6. ProRAW and ProRes – Professional format support

Screen size benefits for photography:

• 6.9″ display: Ideal for precise composition, easier to review shots
• 6.3″ (Pro models): Good balance between usability and preview size
• 6.1″ and below: Can be limiting for detailed composition review

However: If portability matters more than ultimate quality, the iPhone 17 Pro (6.3″) offers 95% of the camera capability in a more pocketable package. The 0.6″ smaller screen is a reasonable tradeoff for easier all-day carrying.

For video creators: The Pro Max’s larger screen makes it easier to monitor focus, exposure, and framing while recording. The extra battery life is crucial for event coverage or long recording sessions.

Will my old iPhone case fit a newer model?

Generally, no – iPhone cases are model-specific and rarely work across generations due to size differences. However, there are some exceptions:

Cases that ARE interchangeable:

Same size/design across years:

• iPhone 12 Pro ↔ iPhone 13 Pro (minor camera bump difference)
• iPhone 13 ↔ iPhone 14 (nearly identical dimensions)
• iPhone 6 ↔ iPhone 6S (same external dimensions)
• iPhone 7 ↔ iPhone 8 (same size, button differences)

Cases that are NOT interchangeable:

Size differences:

• iPhone 15 Pro (6.1″) ≠ iPhone 16 Pro (6.3″) – Screen size increased
• iPhone 14 Pro Max (6.7″) ≠ iPhone 16 Pro Max (6.9″) – Larger display
• iPhone 13 mini (5.4″) ≠ iPhone SE (4.7″) – Different size categories

Design changes:

• Button positions often shift between generations
• Camera module sizes and positions change yearly
• Port locations may vary (Lightning vs USB-C)
• Action button vs mute switch (iPhone 15 Pro series)

Best practice: Always purchase cases specifically designed for your exact iPhone model. Check manufacturer specifications to confirm compatibility, especially when upgrading.

What are the weight differences between iPhone sizes?

iPhone weight varies significantly by size and model, ranging from 135g to 240g:

Lightest iPhones:

• iPhone 12 mini / 13 mini: 135g / 140g (most pocketable)
• iPhone SE (3rd gen): 144g
• iPhone 17 Air: 175g (lightest 6.5″+ display)

Standard Weight (170-200g):

• iPhone 16: 170g
• iPhone 17: 177g
• iPhone SE (2nd gen): 148g
• iPhone 11: 194g

Heavy Models (200g+):

• iPhone 16 Pro / 17 Pro: 199g
• iPhone 14 Plus / 15 Plus / 16 Plus: 201-203g
• iPhone 13 Pro Max: 240g (heaviest ever made)
• iPhone 16 Pro Max / 17 Pro Max: 227-228g

Why weight matters:

• Under 150g: Barely noticeable in pocket, ideal for running/exercise
• 150-180g: Comfortable all-day carry
• 180-210g: Noticeable weight, may cause hand fatigue during extended use
• 210g+: Can be uncomfortable in tight pockets, hand strain during one-handed use

Pro tip: If you plan to use your iPhone for extended periods (reading, gaming, video calls), test the weight in-store. A 40g difference (e.g., iPhone 17 at 177g vs 17 Pro Max at 228g) might not sound significant, but it’s very noticeable during 30+ minute holding periods.

Weight trend: Despite larger screens, newer iPhones are getting lighter through titanium frames (Pro models) and engineering optimizations. The iPhone 17 Pro Max at 227g is actually 13g lighter than the iPhone 13 Pro Max (240g) despite having a larger 6.9″ vs 6.7″ screen.

Picture in this post by cottonbro via Pexels.