Engadget says iPhone 15 rarely a better buy than iPhone 17e in 2026

The iPhone 15's main advantage is its dual-camera system, compared to the single rear camera on the 17e, but the review notes this may not matter for casual social-media shots. The phone also has a brighter display at 2,000 nits versus 1,200 nits, a slightly higher resolution, and includes the Dynamic Island, which the 17e lacks. However, the base iPhone 15 was excluded from Apple Intelligence because its A16 chip is not powerful enough, while the 17e's A18 chip supports it. The 17e also has 8GB of RAM compared to 6GB, a 4,005mAh battery versus 3,349mAh, and uses the newer, more durable Ceramic Shield 2, despite charging at the same 20W wired and 15W wireless speeds.

Engadget points out that a pre-owned, unlocked iPhone 15 in excellent condition is around $540 from Best Buy, while a brand-new iPhone 17e costs $600. The 17e starts at 256GB of storage; the iPhone 15 originally started at 128GB, with a $100 upcharge for 256GB. The outlet also compares the iPhone 16, but says it is more expensive than both models, making the 17e a better value. Engadget's review describes the iPhone 17e as an “economical choice” that “checks boxes for the basics.” The 17e is more than two years newer, and its hardware beats the iPhone 15 in most aspects. For example, it has a larger battery, more RAM, and a newer Ceramic Shield coating. The iPhone 15, meanwhile, has a slightly brighter and higher-resolution screen, and a second camera lens, but if those are not priorities, the 17e is the stronger pick.

Engadget concludes that unless a consumer finds a particularly good deal on an iPhone 15 and is looking for an entry-level iPhone, it is better to spend a little more on the iPhone 17e for improved specs, longer battery life, lighter weight and Apple Intelligence support.