nullThe iPhone 17 Pro's aluminum body is highly scratch-resistant for normal use, though the camera area requires some care.
Main Body Durability
Apple's anodization process gives the aluminum a Mohs hardness rating of 9, just one step below diamond. Testing confirms:
- Keys and coins won't scratch the main body
- Daily handling poses no durability concerns
- Flat surfaces hold up well over time
Camera Area Vulnerability
The one weak point is the camera plateau. The raised edges around the camera module have a less secure anodized coating and can pick up scratches from:
- Rough surfaces or abrasive materials
- Being placed face-down on tables
- Contact with sand or grit
About Those Viral Scratch Photos
Apple addressed the "scratchgate" controversy by explaining the marks on store display units were material transfer from worn MagSafe risers, not actual scratches. Real-world testing shows wear patterns comparable to other premium phones after similar use periods.
Color and Visibility
Scratch visibility varies by color:
- Silver: Least visible (closest to raw aluminum underneath)
- Cosmic Orange: Moderate visibility
- Deep Blue: Most noticeable contrast when scratched
Protection Recommendations
For maximum durability, consider:
- A protective case (the smooth aluminum is also more slippery than titanium)
- Camera lens protectors if you're concerned about that specific area
- Choosing Silver if you plan to go caseless
For typical careful use without a case, expect normal wear over time but no significant scratching from everyday items.
We may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. How ShopSavvy makes money
How we researched this
Where this comes from: this answer draws on the product's published specifications and the reviews ShopSavvy collected for it, alongside prices from ShopSavvy's price data.
Download ShopSavvy App
Compare prices across tens of thousands of stores, set price alerts, watch for deals by keyword, and much more.
Install ShopSavvy Browser Extension
Compare and track prices automatically while you shop online at thousands of websites.
More Answers
If you're still curious about the iPhone 17 Pro, here are some other answers you might find interesting:
- 📶 Does the iPhone 17 Pro have Wi-Fi connectivity issues?
So you've heard about Wi-Fi problems on the iPhone 17 Pro? Let me give you the full picture. Some users are seeing their Wi-Fi drop briefly when they unlock...
- ✈️ Can I use my iPhone 17 Pro internationally with eSIM for travel?
Planning to take your iPhone 17 Pro abroad? Good news: eSIM makes international travel much easier than the old days of hunting for SIM cards at airports....
- 📲 How do I transfer data from my old iPhone to the iPhone 17 Pro?
Just got an iPhone 17 Pro? Here's how to get all your stuff from your old iPhone without losing anything. This is what most people should use. Just put your...
- 📱 What's the difference between the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max?
Deciding between the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max? Good news: they're almost identical phones, so you really can't go wrong. The differences come down to size,...
- 🤖 What Apple Intelligence features are available on the iPhone 17 Pro?
The iPhone 17 Pro comes loaded with Apple Intelligence, Apple's AI feature suite that runs right on your phone. Here's what you actually get and what's still...
- What's new with the iPhone 17 Pro front-facing camera?
The iPhone 17 Pro introduces a redesigned 18-megapixel Center Stage front camera, a significant upgrade from the 12-megapixel sensor on previous models. |...
- What is the iPhone 17 Pro price and where can I buy it?
The iPhone 17 Pro starts at $1,099 for the 256GB model, marking the first time an iPhone Pro has launched above $1,000. | Storage | iPhone 17 Pro | iPhone 17...
- Does the iPhone 17 Pro have overheating problems during heavy use?
The iPhone 17 Pro features improved thermal management compared to previous models, thanks to a new vapor chamber cooling system. Some warmth during intensive...
- What is the Dynamic Island on iPhone 17 Pro and how does it work?
The Dynamic Island is the interactive, pill-shaped area at the top of the iPhone 17 Pro display that houses the front camera and Face ID sensors while serving...
- How much brighter is the iPhone 17 Pro display than the iPhone 16 Pro?
The iPhone 17 Pro display reaches 3,000 nits peak outdoor brightness, which is 50% brighter than the iPhone 16 Pro's 2,000 nits maximum. | Condition | iPhone...
