iPhone X vs iPhone 11: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
Stuck between two iconic iPhones? You’re not alone! Choosing between the iPhone X and the iPhone 11 can be a tough call, especially if you’re looking for the best value and features.
Both phones brought significant advancements to the smartphone market. The iPhone X, with its revolutionary design, set a new standard, while the iPhone 11 refined the experience with impressive upgrades.
This in-depth comparison of the iPhone X vs iPhone 11 will help you navigate the key differences. We’ll explore everything from the design and display to the cameras, performance, and battery life, so you can make an informed decision and find the perfect iPhone for your needs.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | iPhone X | iPhone 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | September 2017 | September 2019 |
| Display Size | 5.8 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Display Type | Super Retina OLED | Liquid Retina IPS LCD |
| Processor | A11 Bionic | A13 Bionic |
| RAM | 3GB | 4GB |
| Main Camera | Dual 12MP | Dual 12MP |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 12MP |
| Video Recording | 4K@60fps | 4K@60fps |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP68 |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 256GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Face ID | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Capacity (approx.) | 2716 mAh | 3110 mAh |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design
- iPhone X: Features a stainless steel frame and a glass back, offering a premium feel. The notch at the top of the display is a defining characteristic, housing the Face ID sensors. Some users found the design dated compared to later models.
- iPhone 11: Sports an aluminum frame and a glass back, with a slightly thicker build than the X. The camera bump is more pronounced. Offers a wider range of colors.
- Winner: 11
Display
- iPhone X: Equipped with a 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED display, delivering vibrant colors and deep blacks. The display is sharp but smaller than the iPhone 11.
- iPhone 11: Features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display. While not as technically advanced as the OLED, it offers a good viewing experience and is larger than the X.
- Winner: 11
Processor
- iPhone X: Powered by the A11 Bionic chip, which was powerful at the time of release but is now outdated.
- iPhone 11: Runs on the A13 Bionic chip, providing significantly improved performance and efficiency compared to the X.
- Winner: 11
Cameras
- iPhone X: Includes a dual 12MP rear camera system. Offers good image quality, but lacks some of the advanced features of later models.
- iPhone 11: Features a dual 12MP rear camera system, but with wider lenses and improved image processing. Introduces Night mode for better low-light photography.
- Winner: 11
Battery Life
- iPhone X: Provides decent battery life for its time, but it may struggle to last a full day with heavy usage.
- iPhone 11: Offers significantly improved battery life compared to the X, easily lasting a full day for most users.
- Winner: 11
Video Recording
- iPhone X: Records video up to 4K at 60fps.
- iPhone 11: Records video up to 4K at 60fps with improved dynamic range and video stabilization.
- Winner: 11
Price
- iPhone X: Was initially released at a premium price. Now available at much lower prices used.
- iPhone 11: Was released at a lower price point than the X. Currently also available at lower prices used.
- Winner: Tie
Water Resistance
- iPhone X: Rated IP67 for water and dust resistance.
- iPhone 11: Rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, offering better protection.
- Winner: 11
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone 11 |
| Display Quality | iPhone 11 |
| Camera (Overall) | iPhone 11 |
| Battery Life | iPhone 11 |
| Value | iPhone X (depending on price) |
| Design | iPhone X (subjective) |
What They Have in Common:
- Face Id: Both phones feature Apple’s Face ID technology for secure unlocking and authentication. This provides a convenient and secure way to access your device.
- Dual-Lens Camera: Both the iPhone X and iPhone 11 have dual-lens camera systems, allowing for wide and ultrawide shots. This lets you capture a variety of scenes.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, providing a convenient way to power up your device. This eliminates the need for cables.
- Water Resistance: Both phones offer water resistance, protecting them from splashes and brief immersion. This offers peace of mind in everyday use.
- Siri Integration: Both phones have Siri integration. Use voice commands to control your device.
iPhone X vs iPhone 11 Buying Guide
Performance
The iPhone 11 boasts a significant performance upgrade over the iPhone X, thanks to its A13 Bionic chip. This newer chip provides faster processing speeds, improved graphics performance, and enhanced machine learning capabilities. This translates to smoother multitasking, quicker app loading times, and a more responsive overall user experience. The A13 Bionic also contributes to better battery efficiency, allowing for longer usage between charges. The iPhone X, with its A11 Bionic chip, still offers respectable performance, but it simply can’t compete with the raw power of the iPhone 11.
Camera
The camera systems are a major differentiator. The iPhone 11 features a dual-camera system with a 12MP wide and ultrawide lens, offering greater versatility in capturing photos and videos. The ultrawide lens allows for significantly wider shots, perfect for landscapes and group photos. The iPhone 11 also has improved Night mode for low-light photography. The iPhone X, with its dual 12MP wide-angle and telephoto lenses, takes excellent photos in good lighting conditions. However, it lacks the ultrawide lens and the enhanced Night mode of the iPhone 11.
Display
Both phones feature excellent displays, but there are subtle differences. The iPhone X has a 5.8-inch Super Retina display, known for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast ratios. The iPhone 11 has a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display. While not an OLED like the iPhone X, the iPhone 11’s display is still very good, offering impressive color accuracy and brightness. The larger screen size on the iPhone 11 might be preferred by some users, but the iPhone X’s OLED technology provides a slightly richer viewing experience.
Battery Life
Battery life is a notable advantage for the iPhone 11. The more efficient A13 Bionic chip and a larger battery capacity contribute to significantly longer battery life compared to the iPhone X. Users can expect to get a full day of use, and possibly more, with the iPhone 11. The iPhone X, while still providing decent battery life, typically requires charging by the end of the day with moderate to heavy usage. The difference in battery performance can be a deciding factor for users who prioritize long-lasting power.
Design and Build Quality
Both phones feature premium build quality. The iPhone X has a stainless steel frame and glass back, while the iPhone 11 has an aluminum frame and glass back. Both are IP68 water-resistant. The iPhone 11 has a slightly thicker design, but the difference is minimal. The iPhone X’s design is considered iconic, with its smaller bezels and sleek appearance. The iPhone 11 has a more modern look, with a square camera bump on the back. Both phones are stylish and well-built.
Price and Value
The iPhone 11, being the newer model, generally held a higher initial retail price. However, since its release, the iPhone 11 has become more affordable on the used market. The iPhone X, being an older model, is typically available at a lower price point. When considering value, it comes down to individual needs and budget. While the iPhone 11 offers more advanced features and performance, the iPhone X remains a capable device, especially for those on a tighter budget. Consider your budget and the features you need before making a decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone X If…
- You prefer a smaller and more compact phone size.
- You want to save money and are looking for a more affordable option.
- You are upgrading from an older iPhone and appreciate the design.
Buy iPhone 11 If…
- You want the latest processor and improved performance.
- You prioritize a larger display for media consumption and gaming.
- You want a better front-facing camera for selfies.
- You want improved battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in performance?
The iPhone 11 has a significantly more powerful A13 Bionic chip, offering faster processing speeds and improved graphics performance compared to the iPhone X’s A11 Bionic chip. This results in smoother multitasking, quicker app loading, and a more responsive overall experience. The A13 also improves battery efficiency, leading to longer usage times.
How does the camera compare?
The iPhone 11 features a dual-camera system with a wide and ultrawide lens, providing greater versatility, especially for capturing expansive scenes. It also has a superior Night mode. The iPhone X has dual wide-angle and telephoto lenses, still taking great photos, but lacks the ultrawide capabilities and improved low-light performance of the iPhone 11.
Which phone has better battery life?
The iPhone 11 has a noticeably better battery life due to its more efficient A13 Bionic chip and a larger battery capacity. Users can expect a full day of usage, and possibly more. The iPhone X’s battery life is decent, but it generally requires charging by the end of the day with regular use.
What are the differences in display quality?
The iPhone X features a 5.8-inch Super Retina display with vibrant colors and deep blacks, thanks to its OLED technology. The iPhone 11 has a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display, which is very good with good color accuracy. While not OLED, it offers a larger screen, providing a slightly different viewing experience.
How do the designs differ?
Both phones have premium build quality, but with slight differences. The iPhone X has a stainless steel frame and the iPhone 11 has an aluminum frame. The iPhone X has a smaller bezel design. The iPhone 11 features a larger screen and a square camera bump on the back. Both are IP68 water-resistant.
Is the iPhone X still a good phone in 2024?
Yes, the iPhone X is still a capable phone in 2024. While it may not have the latest features, it offers good performance, a quality display, and a premium build. It’s a great option for users on a budget who don’t necessarily need the latest and greatest features found in the iPhone 11 or newer models.
Which phone is better for photography?
The iPhone 11 is generally better for photography due to its ultrawide lens and improved Night mode. These features provide greater flexibility and allow for better low-light shots. While the iPhone X still takes excellent photos in good lighting, the iPhone 11 has a clear advantage in terms of versatility and low-light performance.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 11 offers significant upgrades over the iPhone X, including a more powerful processor, a superior camera system with an ultrawide lens and improved Night mode, and longer battery life. While the iPhone X remains a capable device, the iPhone 11 provides a more modern and feature-rich experience. The iPhone 11’s performance enhancements and improved camera capabilities justify its higher price for most users.
Winner: iPhone 11