iPhone 17 First Impressions: What Early Users Are Saying in 2025

Apple’s iPhone 17 has officially launched, and as always, it’s grabbing headlines across the world. From the new A19 Bionic chip to the rumored all-glass body, Apple has pushed the limits of smartphone innovation once again. But the big question remains: is the iPhone 17 worth its massive price tag in India?
Early adopters have already started sharing their first impressions giving us real-world insights beyond Apple’s marketing hype. In this article, we’ll break down what early users are saying about the iPhone 17, how it compares to previous models, and whether you should buy the latest flagship or choose a more affordable refurbished iPhone instead.
What’s New in the iPhone 17 (2025 Update)
Apple’s iPhone 17 comes packed with new features that are creating buzz among tech enthusiasts:
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A19 Bionic Chip – Faster processing and power efficiency.
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Improved Camera System – Upgraded low-light performance and cinematic video.
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All-Glass Design – Sleek but potentially fragile.
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Battery Life Boost – Claimed 20% longer battery compared to iPhone 16.
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AI-Powered Features – Smarter Siri, advanced photo editing, and predictive text.
These upgrades make the iPhone 17 feel futuristic, but also raise questions about durability and pricing.
Early User Impressions: The Good and the Not-So-Good

Camera Quality
Early reviews highlight the iPhone 17’s photography excellence. Users love the cinematic video mode and sharper low-light captures. However, some feel the difference from the iPhone 16 is not as drastic as expected.
Performance & Battery
The new A19 chip delivers blazing-fast performance, handling gaming, editing, and multitasking with ease. Battery life also shows noticeable improvement. Still, a few users reported heating issues during intensive tasks.
Design & Display
The all-glass design is praised for its premium look but criticized for being slippery. The display continues to impress with vibrant colors and smoother refresh rates.
Pricing Concerns
The biggest drawback? Price. In India, the iPhone 17 starts at a whopping ₹1,50,000+, making it inaccessible for many buyers.
iPhone 17 vs Refurbished iPhones: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
If you’re considering upgrading, you may be torn between buying the latest iPhone 17 or saving money with a refurbished iPhone 13, 14, or 15.
Comparison Snapshot:
Feature |
iPhone 17 (New) |
Refurbished iPhone 13/14/15 |
Price (Approx) |
₹1,50,000+ |
₹35,000 – ₹80,000 |
Warranty |
1 year (Apple) |
6–12 months (Grest) |
Performance |
A19 Chip |
A15–A17 Chips (still fast) |
Camera |
Slight upgrade |
Excellent for everyday use |
Value for Money |
Premium only |
Affordable + sustainable |
Should You Buy the iPhone 17 in 2025?
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Buy iPhone 17 if you’re an Apple enthusiast who wants the newest features, money is not a concern, and you love being the first to own Apple’s latest.
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Buy Refurbished iPhone if you want premium Apple performance without overspending, value warranty + EMI options, and prefer a smart, budget-friendly choice.
Grest’s Take: Smarter Alternative for Indian Buyers
At Grest, we understand that not everyone wants to spend over ₹1.5L on a new iPhone. That’s why we offer certified refurbished iPhones 11–15 series with warranty, EMI options, and quality checks. You get Apple’s ecosystem at nearly half the cost without compromising on trust.
Conclusion
The iPhone 17 has impressed early users with speed, design, and battery performance. But its price tag makes it an elite purchase, not a practical one for most Indians. For those who want the Apple experience without breaking the bank, a refurbished iPhone 13, 14, or 15 remains the smarter pick in 2025.
Shop certified refurbished iPhones with warranty at Grest today.
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