iPhone 10 vs iPhone 11: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
Choosing a new iPhone can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Are you trying to decide between the iPhone 10 and the iPhone 11? This comparison will break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision.
The iPhone 10, released in 2017, was a significant leap forward, introducing Face ID and a stunning all-screen design. However, the iPhone 11, launched in 2019, brought notable upgrades to the camera and performance. This article will help you decide which phone best suits your needs.
We’ll explore everything from the design and display to the camera capabilities and performance. We’ll delve into the battery life and overall value of each device, so you can confidently choose between the iPhone 10 vs iPhone 11.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone X | iPhone 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 5.8-inch | 6.1-inch |
| Display Type | Super Retina OLED | Liquid Retina IPS LCD |
| Processor | A11 Bionic | A13 Bionic |
| RAM | 3GB | 4GB |
| Main Camera | Dual 12MP | Dual 12MP |
| Ultra Wide Camera | No | Yes |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 12MP |
| Video Recording | 4K up to 60fps | 4K up to 60fps |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP68 |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 13 hours | Up to 17 hours |
| Face ID | Yes | Yes |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 256GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone 10: Features a 5.8-inch Super Retina display with a resolution of 2436 x 1125 pixels. It offers vibrant colors and excellent contrast, but the notch can be intrusive for some users.
- iPhone 11: Sports a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display with a resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels. While not as sharp as the iPhone X, it offers good color accuracy and is larger.
- Winner: iPhone X
Processor
- iPhone 10: Powered by the A11 Bionic chip, which was a powerful processor at the time, offering smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming. It is now outdated compared to the newer chips.
- iPhone 11: Equipped with the A13 Bionic chip, significantly faster and more efficient than the A11. This results in snappier performance, improved graphics, and longer battery life.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Camera System
- iPhone 10: Comes with a dual 12MP rear camera system, offering good image quality in various lighting conditions. It supports Portrait mode, but the telephoto lens has limitations.
- iPhone 11: Features a dual 12MP rear camera system with a standard wide and an ultrawide lens. The ultrawide lens expands creative possibilities. Night mode significantly improves low-light photography.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Battery Life
- iPhone 10: Offers decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate usage. However, it’s not known for exceptional longevity.
- iPhone 11: Provides significantly improved battery life compared to the iPhone X, easily lasting a full day with heavy use.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Design
- iPhone 10: Features a sleek glass and stainless steel design with a distinctive notch. It feels premium but the glass back is prone to fingerprints.
- iPhone 11: Has a glass back and aluminum frame with a slightly thicker build. The camera bump is different. It’s more durable and comes in more colors.
- Winner: Tie
Water Resistance
- iPhone 10: Rated IP67 for water and dust resistance, offering protection against splashes and brief submersion.
- iPhone 11: Rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, providing improved protection, able to withstand submersion in deeper water for longer periods.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Price (at Launch)
- iPhone 10: Launched at a higher price point, reflecting its premium features and materials.
- iPhone 11: Launched at a more competitive price point compared to the iPhone X, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Front Camera
- iPhone 10: The front-facing camera takes good photos, but lacks some of the advanced features of the iPhone 11.
- iPhone 11: Features a 12MP front-facing camera that includes a wider field of view, improved image quality, and supports slow-motion video.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone 11 |
| Camera | iPhone 11 |
| Battery Life | iPhone 11 |
| Display | iPhone 11 |
| Durability | iPhone 11 |
| Value | iPhone X |
What They Have in Common
- Face Id: Both phones feature Face ID for secure authentication and unlocking. This uses facial recognition technology to identify the user.
- Wireless Charging: Both iPhone models support wireless charging, allowing users to conveniently charge their devices without cables.
- Dual-Camera System: Both phones feature a dual-camera system on the back, enabling features like Portrait mode.
- 4K Video Recording: Both models can record video in 4K resolution at up to 60 frames per second.
- iOS Ecosystem: Both phones are fully integrated within the iOS ecosystem, offering similar software experiences and access to the App Store.
iPhone 10 vs iPhone 11 Buying Guide
Performance
The iPhone 11 boasts a significantly more powerful A13 Bionic chip compared to the iPhone X’s A11 Bionic. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved performance in graphically demanding games. The A13 also offers enhanced machine learning capabilities, further optimizing the user experience. While the iPhone X remains capable for everyday tasks, the iPhone 11 offers a noticeable performance advantage, especially for power users and those interested in gaming.
The iPhone 11’s performance is noticeably superior, providing a smoother and more responsive experience overall. The iPhone X, while still functional, can feel sluggish in comparison when running demanding applications.
Camera
The iPhone 11 features a dual-camera system with a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a significant upgrade over the iPhone X’s single-lens setup. This allows for wider shots and creative photography options. The iPhone 11 also boasts improved image processing, resulting in better low-light performance and more vibrant colors. Night mode is a standout feature, absent on the iPhone X. Video recording is also enhanced, with improved dynamic range and stabilization.
The addition of an ultra-wide lens, night mode and the improvements of the image processing truly puts the iPhone 11 ahead in photography. The iPhone X’s camera is capable, but the iPhone 11 offers a more versatile and higher-quality experience.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key area where the iPhone 11 excels. The device offers significantly longer battery life compared to the iPhone X. Users can expect several hours of additional usage on a single charge with the iPhone 11. This is due to a larger battery capacity and the improved efficiency of the A13 Bionic chip. The iPhone X’s battery life is adequate, but it can struggle to last a full day under heavy usage.
The longer battery life on the iPhone 11 is a significant advantage for users who need a phone that can last a full day without needing to be recharged. The iPhone X can require mid-day charging for heavy users.
Display
Both the iPhone X and iPhone 11 feature Liquid Retina HD displays, but the iPhone X offers a slightly crisper OLED display. This results in deeper blacks and higher contrast ratios on the iPhone X. However, the difference is subtle and not immediately noticeable to most users. The iPhone 11’s display is still excellent, with vibrant colors and good viewing angles. The differences are not significant enough to be a primary deciding factor.
While the iPhone X’s OLED display has some slight advantages in contrast, both phones offer excellent viewing experiences. The iPhone 11 holds its own, providing a bright and vibrant display, suitable for all types of content. The differences are subtle and not a major factor in the decision.
Design and Build Quality
The iPhone 11 and iPhone X share a similar design language, with glass backs and aluminum frames. The iPhone 11 is slightly thicker and heavier, but the overall feel is comparable. Durability is a key consideration, both phones are susceptible to damage from drops. The iPhone 11 has a more refined design, offering a more modern aesthetic. The iPhone X, with its stainless-steel frame, still feels premium.
The design differences are minimal, but the iPhone 11 offers a more current design. Both phones feel premium and well-built. The build quality of both phones is excellent, but users should consider using a case to protect them from potential damage.
Price and Value
The iPhone 11, being the newer model, typically has a higher price tag compared to a used iPhone X. Considering the performance upgrades, camera improvements, and longer battery life, the iPhone 11 offers better overall value for money. However, if budget is a primary concern, a used iPhone X can still be a good option. The price difference should be weighed against the feature improvements.
The iPhone 11 provides significantly more value due to its upgrades. The iPhone X still offers a decent experience, but the iPhone 11’s features make it the better choice if considering the price. Consider the price and your needs when deciding between the two.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone X If…
- You prefer a smaller, more compact phone size.
- You’re looking for a more affordable option.
- You don’t need the latest camera features like an ultrawide lens.
- You primarily use your phone for basic tasks.
Buy iPhone 11 If…
- You want improved battery life.
- You want a better camera system, including an ultrawide lens.
- You want a faster processor for smoother performance.
- You prioritize a more durable phone with better water resistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has a better camera?
The iPhone 11 has a much better camera system. It includes an ultra-wide lens, improved image processing, and night mode, features not found on the iPhone X. The iPhone 11 excels in low-light conditions and offers more versatility.
Is the iPhone 11 faster than the iPhone X?
Yes, the iPhone 11 is significantly faster due to its A13 Bionic chip. It provides quicker app loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in graphically intensive applications. The iPhone X has a capable processor, but it does not match the iPhone 11’s speed.
Does the iPhone 11 have better battery life?
Yes, the iPhone 11 offers considerably better battery life than the iPhone X. The A13 Bionic chip and a larger battery capacity contribute to several extra hours of usage on a single charge. The iPhone X’s battery can drain faster with heavy use.
What are the design differences?
Both phones share a similar design language, but the iPhone 11 is slightly thicker and heavier. It also has a more refined design, with a more modern aesthetic. The differences are subtle, but the iPhone 11 offers a more updated look.
Which phone is more expensive?
The iPhone 11, being the newer model, typically costs more than a used iPhone X. The price difference depends on the condition of the iPhone X and where you buy it. The price should be weighed against the features.
Does the iPhone 11 have a better display?
Both phones have excellent displays. The iPhone X uses an OLED display, offering slightly better contrast and deeper blacks. However, the iPhone 11’s Liquid Retina HD display is still excellent, with vibrant colors and good viewing angles.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The iPhone 11 is better for gaming due to its more powerful A13 Bionic chip. It provides smoother gameplay, faster loading times, and handles graphically demanding games more effectively. The iPhone X is still capable, but the 11 has the edge.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 11 emerges as the superior choice due to its enhanced performance, superior camera capabilities with an ultra-wide lens and night mode, and significantly improved battery life. While the iPhone X remains a capable device, the iPhone 11’s upgrades offer a more modern and well-rounded user experience. The iPhone 11 provides a better overall value.
Winner: iPhone 11