The last thing you expect from an Apple launch is the new iPhone 17 undercutting its historically cheapest Android rival. But that strange, unexpected move from Apple has turned the heads of some Pixel fans.
Here are the basics. Apple’s base iPhone 17 comes with more storage compared to the Pixel 10 (128GB vs. 256GB) for the same amount of money ($799), a higher resolution display with more pixel density (422 vs. 460ppi), slimmer bezels, and a better spec selfie camera (18MP vs. 10.5MP).
However, the Pixel phone has a significantly larger battery (3692 mAh vs. 4970 mAh), more advanced AI tools, and a triple camera setup compared to the iPhone 17’s two rear-facing sensors.
Despite that, the iPhone’s credentials have predictably turned heads of Pixel fans in the Pixel subreddit. “I have owned exclusively Nexus and Pixel phones for 10-15 years now (whenever they were released) and even I’m tempted with the iPhone 17 offering,” one Redditor said. “I am team Pixel. But today, after seeing the Apple presentation and the launch of the iPhone 17 Pro, I think I’ll leave Google this time.” Another admitted.
Apple has pulled the rug out from under Google. There has been a long unwritten rule—and agreement—between smartphone manufacturers: the base model is cheap, accessible and forgettable. A device for people who want the latest model with long battery life. That is precisely why the base Pixel 10 has a lower resolution display with a big battery.
But that agreement has been broken, and Apple has released a near Pro-level device at a low, competitive price. Marquess Brownlee described the iPhone 17 as the best value smartphone available right now. I concur. As someone who spends their time telling people what is and what isn’t worth their money, Apple indeed have one of the best entry-level deals I have ever seen from the major smartphone manufacturers.
The Apple iPhone 17 Has A Special Pull
Despite the advancements in quality from Samsung and Google, both of which have gone through flagship redesigns to look and feel more like premium (which has paid off if we go by resale value). An affordable and accessible iPhone with high-end hardware will turn every head, even the most die-hard Android user. Apple tech just has that pull.
Now, the Pixel 10 won’t remain at $799 for very long. In fact, I’m surprised it still is. Google isn’t shy about deep, consistent discounts. The kind that Apple simply never bothers with. Even currently, Google is giving away $100 prepaid cards to Pixel 10 buyers and teasing a sale for later this week. At best, you will see Amazon U.K. knock $100 off the iPhone 17 at some point next year. Or, of course, you can take up a contract and get the handset cheaper, but as regular readers will know, unlocked is almost always the best value.
Until that Google sale lands, Apple has achieved something we don’t see too often: undercut an Android phone in price and hardware. A rare value for money win for the iPhone 17.
