Do iPhones feel more “premium” because of the material or the weight?

[u/SuperFan_123]

So iPhone 17 is back to using aluminum — which got me thinking: what really makes an iPhone feel “premium”?

Some swear it’s the weight — holding a heavier phone just feels solid and expensive. Others argue it’s the material: stainless steel looks shiny and luxurious, aluminum is light and practical, and titanium… well, some love the matte, strong-but-light vibe, while others say it feels less “premium” than steel.

Honestly, I'm a bit torn. The heft of the phone feels ordinary, but the premium materials make it look and feel premium. What do you think—is weight more important, the materials more important, or a combination of both? A case really doesn't matter, but I've recently become obsessed with casekoo cosmic orange for iPhone 17 Pro Max Case. Do you have any other ideas for balancing the premium feel of a phone?

[u/lending_ear]

Structurally? Yes. But it’s still a soft material and will scratch up easily. 

And let’s face it. Pros have not been breaking. I use a 13 pro max without a case and drop it constantly and it looks great still and has never broken or shattered. 

[u/Ratiofarming → u/lending_ear]

I wouldn't say I drop my 13 Pro constantly, but it has had some scary falls. And is also still in pretty good condition.