The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro look similar at a glance, but there are real differences — and they matter for cases. Here's how the two compare, whether your 16 Pro case transfers, and which cases we'd pick for each.
What changed from 16 Pro to 17 Pro
Both keep a 6.3-inch ProMotion OLED display. The iPhone 17 Pro adds a faster chip and a redesigned full-width camera plateau across the back, plus a shift to an aluminum unibody frame. Dimensions and camera placement change enough that accessories are not cross-compatible.
Will your iPhone 16 Pro case fit the 17 Pro?
No. The new full-width camera bar means a 16 Pro case's cutout won't align with the 17 Pro's cameras. The screen size is the same, so many screen protectors carry over, but you'll need a 17 Pro-specific case.
Best cases for the iPhone 17 Pro
For water and dust, the iPhone 17 Pro Waterproof Case (IP68) is our top pick. For a minimalist metal look, the frameless aluminum corner case protects edges while keeping the back exposed.
Best cases for the iPhone 16 Pro
Staying on the 16 Pro? The waterproof MagSafe case pairs an IP68 seal with magnetic charging, and the aluminum metal frame case adds a premium edge.
Which should you buy?
If you want the latest cameras, the faster chip and the newest design, the iPhone 17 Pro is the upgrade. If you already own a 16 Pro, it's still fast, has a nearly identical footprint, and enjoys one of the widest case selections available — so there's no rush.
Frequently asked questions
Do both phones have the same screen? Yes — both use a 6.3-inch ProMotion OLED with up to 120Hz refresh.
Will a 16 Pro case fit the 17 Pro? No, because of the 17 Pro's full-width camera plateau and revised frame.
Do both support MagSafe? Yes. Both keep Apple's MagSafe magnets, so magnetic cases, wallets and chargers work on either phone.
Is the 17 Pro waterproof? It carries an IP68 rating for accidental exposure, but a dedicated IP68 case is what you want for swimming or watersports.
Shop cases for both models
Browse the iPhone 17 Pro Cases collection or the iPhone 16 Pro Cases collection.