iPhone Xr vs iPhone 7 Plus: Which iPhone Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a new iPhone can feel like navigating a minefield of specs and features. The market is saturated with options, each vying for your attention and your wallet. Today, we’re putting two popular contenders head-to-head: the iPhone XR and the iPhone 7 Plus.
Both phones have earned their place in Apple’s history, offering a blend of performance and style. The iPhone XR, with its modern design, and the iPhone 7 Plus, a classic in its own right, both have their strengths. This comparison will help you decide which iPhone best suits your needs and budget.
We’ll delve into their displays, cameras, performance, and battery life, dissecting the key differences that matter most. Whether you’re upgrading or simply exploring your options, this in-depth analysis of the iPhone XR vs iPhone 7 Plus will provide all the answers.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | iPhone XR | iPhone 7 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 5.5-inch |
| Display Technology | Liquid Retina IPS LCD | Retina HD IPS LCD |
| Resolution | 1792 x 828 pixels | 1920 x 1080 pixels |
| Processor | A12 Bionic chip | A10 Fusion chip |
| RAM | 3GB | 3GB |
| Internal Storage | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | 32GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP wide-angle | Dual 12MP wide-angle and telephoto |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 7MP |
| Video Recording | 4K up to 60 fps | 4K up to 30 fps |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP67 |
| Face ID | Yes | No |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 16 hours | Up to 14 hours |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone Xr: Features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display with a resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels. It offers vibrant colors and good brightness, but the lower resolution compared to other iPhones can make text and images appear slightly less sharp.
- iPhone 7 Plus: Boasts a 5.5-inch Retina HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It has a higher pixel density than the XR, resulting in a sharper image, but the display is smaller overall.
- Winner: iphone 7 plus
Processor
- iPhone Xr: Powered by the A12 Bionic chip, providing excellent performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking. It’s significantly faster than the A10 Fusion chip in the iPhone 7 Plus.
- iPhone 7 Plus: Equipped with the A10 Fusion chip, which is still capable but shows its age. It handles most tasks smoothly, but may struggle with demanding games or intensive applications compared to newer chips.
- Winner: iphone xr
Camera
- iPhone Xr: Features a single 12MP wide-angle camera with excellent image quality, portrait mode capabilities (using software), and Smart HDR. It offers good performance in various lighting conditions.
- iPhone 7 Plus: Includes dual 12MP cameras with wide-angle and telephoto lenses, enabling optical zoom and more advanced portrait mode features. Offers versatile shooting options.
- Winner: iphone 7 plus
Battery Life
- iPhone Xr: Offers impressive battery life, often lasting a full day with moderate to heavy usage. It’s known for its excellent battery performance.
- iPhone 7 Plus: Provides decent battery life, but it may require charging before the end of the day with heavier usage. The battery can degrade over time.
- Winner: iphone xr
Design
- iPhone Xr: Features a modern design with an edge-to-edge display (with a notch), aluminum frame, and glass back. Available in multiple colors.
- iPhone 7 Plus: Has a more traditional design with thick bezels, an aluminum unibody, and a physical home button. It feels dated compared to newer iPhones.
- Winner: iphone xr
Storage Options
- iPhone Xr: Offered in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options.
- iPhone 7 Plus: Offered in 32GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- iPhone Xr: Typically available at a lower price point now that it is an older model, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- iPhone 7 Plus: Usually available at a even lower price point, but depends on the condition.
- Winner: iphone 7 plus
Software & Updates
- iPhone Xr: Runs on iOS, and is still supported with software updates, ensuring access to the latest features and security patches.
- iPhone 7 Plus: Still receives iOS updates, but may not receive updates for as long as the XR, and may not have all the latest features.
- Winner: iphone xr
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display | iPhone XR |
| Performance | iPhone XR |
| Camera (Overall) | iPhone XR |
| Battery Life | iPhone XR |
| Design | iPhone XR |
| Value | iPhone 7 Plus |
| Features | iPhone XR |
What They Have in Common:
- Water Resistance: Both phones share an IP67 rating, offering protection against water and dust. This means they can withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
- RAM: Both the iPhone XR and iPhone 7 Plus come with 3GB of RAM, contributing to smooth multitasking and app performance.
- Front Camera: Both phones feature a 7MP front-facing camera, suitable for selfies and video calls.
- Storage Options: Both models offer multiple storage configurations, allowing users to choose the capacity that best suits their needs, with options up to 256GB.
- Connectivity: Both phones support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular connectivity, ensuring users stay connected on the go.
iPhone XR vs iPhone 7 Plus Buying Guide
Performance
The iPhone XR boasts a significantly more powerful A12 Bionic chip, offering a considerable performance advantage over the iPhone 7 Plus’s A10 Fusion chip. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better overall responsiveness. While the iPhone 7 Plus is still capable for everyday tasks, the XR handles demanding games and resource-intensive applications with greater ease and efficiency. The performance difference is noticeable, especially for users who frequently use their phones for gaming or video editing. The A12 Bionic also contributes to improved battery efficiency.
Display
The iPhone XR features a Liquid Retina LCD display, which offers vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles. The iPhone 7 Plus has a Retina HD display that still looks good, but it’s not quite as sharp or immersive as the XR’s. The XR’s display is larger and covers more of the front of the phone due to the reduced bezels. This provides a more modern feel and a more expansive viewing experience for videos, photos, and browsing the web. Both displays are adequate, but the XR’s is a step up.
Camera
The iPhone XR features a single 12MP wide-angle lens that utilizes computational photography to produce impressive results. It excels in both daylight and low-light conditions. The iPhone 7 Plus has a dual-camera system, including a wide-angle and telephoto lens, offering features like Portrait mode with optical zoom. The XR’s Smart HDR capabilities often provide better dynamic range and detail. While the 7 Plus offers more versatility with its second lens, the XR’s single lens and software optimization often create stunning shots.
Battery Life
The iPhone XR generally boasts superior battery life compared to the iPhone 7 Plus. The XR’s larger battery and more efficient processor contribute to longer usage times. Users can expect the XR to easily last a full day of moderate to heavy use, while the iPhone 7 Plus might require charging before the end of the day. This is a significant advantage for users who prioritize battery life. The XR’s improved battery performance makes it more reliable for extended use.
Design & Build Quality
The iPhone XR features a more modern design with a nearly bezel-less display and an aluminum frame. It also includes Face ID, which replaces the home button and offers a more secure and intuitive unlocking experience. The iPhone 7 Plus has a more traditional design with larger bezels and a physical home button. Both phones are well-built, but the XR offers a more contemporary aesthetic and advanced features. The XR also comes in a wider range of colors.
Price & Value
When considering price, the iPhone XR typically costs more than a used or refurbished iPhone 7 Plus. The initial price difference was significant. However, the XR’s improved performance, display, and features often justify the higher price tag for many users. The iPhone 7 Plus remains a good value if you’re on a budget and prioritize features like a dual-camera system. The best value depends on individual needs and budget constraints, but the XR offers more future-proofing.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone XR If…
- You want a more modern design with a larger display.
- You prioritize a faster processor and improved performance.
- You want Face ID for secure and convenient unlocking.
- You value better battery life.
Buy iPhone 7 Plus If…
- You prefer a phone with a dual-camera system for optical zoom and portrait mode.
- You’re looking for a more affordable option.
- You prefer the classic home button and Touch ID.
- You don’t mind a slightly older design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the iPhone XR and the iPhone 7 Plus?
The iPhone XR features a more powerful processor (A12 Bionic), a larger and more modern display, and improved camera capabilities. It also offers Face ID and a more contemporary design. The iPhone 7 Plus has a dual-camera system with telephoto lens for optical zoom and a traditional design with a home button. Battery life is generally better on the XR.
Does the iPhone XR have a headphone jack?
No, neither the iPhone XR nor the iPhone 7 Plus have a 3.5mm headphone jack. Both devices rely on the Lightning port for audio output or Bluetooth headphones. Apple provides a Lightning to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter in the box for the 7 Plus, but not for the XR.
Which phone has a better camera?
While the iPhone 7 Plus has a dual-camera system with optical zoom, the iPhone XR’s single-lens camera often produces better results, especially in low light, due to its advanced computational photography features like Smart HDR. The XR’s camera is generally considered superior overall for image quality, although the 7 Plus offers the versatility of a telephoto lens.
Is the iPhone XR waterproof?
The iPhone XR is water-resistant to a depth of up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, according to the IP67 standard. The iPhone 7 Plus is also IP67 rated. This means both phones can withstand splashes and brief submersion in water, but they are not fully waterproof and should not be intentionally submerged for extended periods.
How does the battery life compare between the two phones?
The iPhone XR generally offers better battery life than the iPhone 7 Plus. The XR has a larger battery and a more efficient processor. Users can expect the XR to last a full day of moderate to heavy use, while the iPhone 7 Plus might need charging before the end of the day. This makes the XR a better choice for users who prioritize battery performance.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The iPhone XR, with its A12 Bionic chip, is significantly better for gaming. The A12 Bionic offers a noticeable performance advantage over the A10 Fusion chip in the iPhone 7 Plus. This results in faster loading times, smoother frame rates, and a better overall gaming experience, especially with graphically demanding games.
Should I buy a used iPhone 7 Plus or a new iPhone XR?
That depends on your budget and priorities. If you are on a tight budget, the iPhone 7 Plus can be a good value. However, the iPhone XR offers a more modern experience with a better display, improved performance, and a more up-to-date design. Consider the XR if you want a more future-proof device and are willing to spend a bit more.
Final Verdict
The iPhone XR emerges as the superior choice due to its advanced processor, improved display, better camera performance, and longer battery life. While the iPhone 7 Plus offers a dual-camera system at a potentially lower price, the XR’s overall performance and features provide a more compelling user experience. The XR represents a significant upgrade in nearly every aspect.
Winner: iPhone XR