Cover image via Sukhbir Cheema / SAYS
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In the ever-expanding universe of the iPhone, Apple has finally found its "Goldilocks" zone for those looking for the most dependable smartphone in their pocket at an affordable price
At RM2,999 for the 256GB model, it feels like a rare moment of Apple acknowledging that "good enough" is actually exactly what most people need.
For those looking for more storage, there's the 512GB model that's priced at RM3,999.
But for many, the 256GB would easily fit their lifestyle and budget.
Design-wise, the iPhone 17e is sleek and comes in three colourways: Black, White, and the new Soft Pink
I had the opportunity to try out the Black variant.
The iPhone 17e is light, ergonomic, and fits comfortably in one hand — a relief for anyone tired of the Pro Max's hand fatigue.
That said, I did notice that the device is prone to smudges and scratches, so investing in a smartphone case is a wise choice.
Under the hood, the A19 chip is the real star, giving the iPhone 17e snappy performance alongside reliable battery life
Whether you're juggling three different WhatsApp groups, navigating Waze through Kuala Lumpur traffic, or editing a quick video for your Instagram Story, it never stutters.
Battery life is equally impressive. Apple claims 26 hours of video playback, and in real-world testing, it easily survives a full day of heavy use.
If you're a light user — the kind who mostly checks emails and scrolls TikTok — you might even squeeze two days out of a single charge.
The addition of 15W MagSafe charging is a welcome upgrade, making it easy to snap onto car mounts or bedside stands. This is the best improvement Apple made, making the iPhone 17e easily recommendable.
However, the 17e isn't without its compromises. The most glaring are the display and camera, which may feel outdated to some.
In 2026, a 60Hz refresh rate feels a bit sluggish, especially when much cheaper Android rivals offer buttery-smooth 120Hz screens.
The single-camera setup, while capable of surprisingly soulful portraits, lacks the versatility of an ultrawide lens. If you're the type who loves capturing vast landscapes or group family photos at a crowded dinner table, you'll feel the squeeze.
Also, the leap to RM3,999 for the 512GB version feels like a steep "storage tax" that might push some buyers towards a discounted base iPhone 17 instead.
The iPhone 17e is a masterclass in practical luxury. It's designed for the "Lama Tak Tukar" crowd who are looking for an iPhone they can use for years to come.
If you're currently clutching a cracked iPhone 11 or a tiring SE and want a modern experience without the RM6,000 price tag, the iPhone 17e is worth considering.
It's also the ideal choice for students needing a reliable companion for university or parents who just want a phone that simply works for video calls and photos of their family.
It's not the most "pro" tool Apple makes, but for the vast majority of Malaysians, it is the most sensible one.
