iPhone 11 Pro Max vs iPhone 13: Which Should You Buy?
Choosing a new iPhone can feel like navigating a tech minefield. With so many models and features, it’s easy to get lost in the specifications. Today, we’re putting two popular models head-to-head to help you make the right decision.
We’re comparing the iPhone 11 Pro Max, a powerhouse from a few years back, against the newer iPhone 13. This comparison will delve into the key differences, helping you determine which phone offers the best value and performance for your needs. We’ll examine everything from the camera and display to the processor and battery life.
Whether you’re looking for an upgrade or simply curious about the evolution of Apple’s technology, this comparison of the iPhone 11 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 will provide valuable insights. Let’s dive in and find out which iPhone reigns supreme in this battle of the titans!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 11 Pro Max | iPhone 13 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.5 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Display Technology | Super Retina XDR | Super Retina XDR |
| Chip | A13 Bionic | A15 Bionic |
| RAM | 4GB | 4GB |
| Base Storage | 64GB / 256GB / 512GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Main Camera | Triple 12MP | Dual 12MP |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Video Recording | 4K up to 60fps | 4K up to 60fps |
| 5G Connectivity | No | Yes |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 20 hours | Up to 19 hours |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Release Year | 2019 | 2021 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR display. Offers vibrant colors and good brightness, but lacks the ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate. Considered excellent for its time, but shows its age in terms of smoothness.
- iPhone 13: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with a brighter display and improved color accuracy compared to the 11 Pro Max. Still lacks ProMotion, but offers a more modern viewing experience overall.
- Winner: iphone 13
Processor
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: A13 Bionic chip. Powerful for its time, still handles most tasks well, but may struggle with the most demanding games and apps compared to newer chips.
- iPhone 13: A15 Bionic chip. Significantly faster and more efficient than the A13, resulting in smoother performance, improved graphics, and better battery life.
- Winner: iphone 13
Cameras
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: Triple 12MP camera system with wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses. Produces excellent photos and videos, especially in good lighting conditions. Lacks some of the advanced features found in the iPhone 13.
- iPhone 13: Dual 12MP camera system with improved sensors and features like Cinematic mode and Photographic Styles. Delivers better low-light performance and overall image quality compared to the 11 Pro Max.
- Winner: iphone 13
Battery Life
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: Offers excellent battery life, typically lasting a full day of heavy use. One of the strongest points of this phone at the time of release.
- iPhone 13: Improved battery life compared to the iPhone 12, providing a full day of use, and sometimes more, depending on usage.
- Winner: iphone 13
Design
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: Features a stainless steel frame and a matte glass back. A premium design that still looks good, but the design is a bit dated compared to the iPhone 13.
- iPhone 13: Features a flat-edged design with a more durable ceramic shield front cover. A more modern and refined design.
- Winner: iphone 13
Storage Options
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: Available in 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options.
- iPhone 13: Available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options. The base storage is significantly improved.
- Winner: iphone 13
5G Connectivity
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: Doesn’t support 5G connectivity.
- iPhone 13: Supports 5G connectivity, offering faster download and upload speeds in areas with 5G coverage.
- Winner: iphone 13
Price & Availability
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: No longer available new from Apple. Can be found used, and therefore is a cheaper option.
- iPhone 13: Still available new from Apple and other retailers. Often a more expensive option, but offers the latest technology.
- Winner: iphone 13 (considering modern features and longevity)
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone 13 |
| Camera Versatility | iPhone 11 Pro Max |
| Display Size | iPhone 11 Pro Max |
| 5G Connectivity | iPhone 13 |
| Design | iPhone 13 |
What They Have in Common
- Display Technology: Both phones utilize Super Retina XDR displays, providing vibrant colors and sharp details for an immersive viewing experience.
- Water Resistance: Both the iPhone 11 Pro Max and the iPhone 13 are rated IP68 for water resistance, offering protection against spills and splashes.
- Front Camera: Both phones feature a 12MP front-facing camera, allowing for high-quality selfies and video calls.
- Video Recording: Both devices support 4K video recording at up to 60fps, ensuring clear and detailed video capture.
- iOS Ecosystem: Both phones run on the iOS operating system, providing access to the App Store, seamless integration with other Apple devices, and regular software updates.
iPhone 11 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Buying Guide
Performance
The iPhone 13 boasts a significant performance upgrade with its A15 Bionic chip, outperforming the iPhone 11 Pro Max’s A13 Bionic. This translates to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming experiences. The A15 Bionic features a more advanced Neural Engine, improving machine learning tasks. While the iPhone 11 Pro Max remains capable, the iPhone 13 offers a noticeable edge in raw processing power and efficiency. This difference becomes more apparent during demanding tasks like video editing or running graphically intensive games.
Display
The iPhone 13 offers a slightly brighter Super Retina XDR display compared to the iPhone 11 Pro Max. Although both phones have excellent displays, the iPhone 13’s display offers improved visibility in direct sunlight. The iPhone 13 also has a smaller notch, providing more screen real estate. Both devices have vibrant colors and excellent contrast ratios. The iPhone 13’s display also contributes to slightly better battery efficiency in some usage scenarios.
Camera
The iPhone 13 camera system benefits from sensor-shift stabilization and a larger sensor, leading to improved low-light performance and better image quality overall. The iPhone 13 offers Photographic Styles for more personalized photo edits. The iPhone 11 Pro Max, with its triple-camera system, still captures excellent photos and videos, especially in well-lit conditions. However, the iPhone 13’s advancements in image processing and hardware give it a clear advantage in various shooting scenarios.
Battery Life
The iPhone 13 generally offers improved battery life compared to the iPhone 11 Pro Max. This is due to the A15 Bionic’s efficiency improvements and a slightly larger battery capacity. While the iPhone 11 Pro Max has respectable battery life, the iPhone 13 can often last a full day of heavy use. Real-world usage will vary based on individual habits, but the iPhone 13 holds a noticeable advantage in endurance, especially during video playback and gaming.
Design & Build Quality
Both phones feature premium build quality with durable materials. The iPhone 13 has a slightly more modern design with flatter edges, while the iPhone 11 Pro Max retains the rounded edges. Both phones are water and dust resistant. The iPhone 13 has a redesigned camera bump and a smaller notch. The choice here comes down to personal preference for aesthetics and the feel of the device in hand, as both are well-constructed.
Price & Value
The iPhone 11 Pro Max can be found at a lower price point now that it is an older model, making it a potentially attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The iPhone 13, being the newer model, comes with a higher price tag. Consider your budget and desired features when making your decision. If you prioritize performance, camera improvements, and longer battery life, the iPhone 13 justifies its price. If you’re looking for a great phone at a more affordable price, the iPhone 11 Pro Max remains a solid choice.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 11 Pro Max If…
- You prioritize a larger display for media consumption and gaming.
- You want a phone with a triple-lens camera system for enhanced versatility.
- You prefer to save money and are comfortable with a slightly older model.
- You don’t need 5G connectivity.
Buy iPhone 13 If…
- You want the latest A15 Bionic chip for improved performance and efficiency.
- You want 5G connectivity for faster download and streaming speeds.
- You desire a more modern design with a smaller notch.
- You prefer a more compact phone that’s easier to handle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in performance?
The iPhone 13 utilizes the A15 Bionic chip, offering a significant performance boost over the iPhone 11 Pro Max’s A13 Bionic. This translates to faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming experiences. The A15 Bionic is more efficient, contributing to better battery life. Benchmarks consistently show the iPhone 13 outperforming the iPhone 11 Pro Max, particularly in graphics-intensive tasks.
Which phone has a better camera system?
The iPhone 13 has a more advanced camera system. It includes sensor-shift image stabilization and a larger sensor, improving low-light performance. It also introduces Photographic Styles for more refined photo editing. While the iPhone 11 Pro Max still captures excellent photos, the iPhone 13 offers superior image quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions and with its enhanced video capabilities.
Does the iPhone 13 have a better display?
Yes, the iPhone 13 features a slightly brighter display with improved visibility in direct sunlight. The notch is also smaller, providing a slightly larger screen area. Both devices have excellent displays with vibrant colors and great contrast. The iPhone 13’s display enhancements contribute to a better overall viewing experience and slightly better battery efficiency.
Which phone has better battery life?
The iPhone 13 generally offers better battery life due to its more efficient A15 Bionic chip and a slightly larger battery capacity. While the iPhone 11 Pro Max has good battery life, the iPhone 13 can often last longer on a single charge, especially during heavy usage scenarios like video playback or gaming. The difference is noticeable in real-world usage.
What is the price difference between the two phones?
The iPhone 11 Pro Max is generally available at a lower price point, being the older model. The iPhone 13 is the newer model, and consequently, it comes with a higher price tag. The price difference depends on the condition and storage capacity of the iPhone 11 Pro Max. Consider your budget and desired features when making your decision.
Is the design of the iPhone 13 significantly different?
Yes, the iPhone 13 has a slightly more modern design with flatter edges, giving it a more contemporary look compared to the rounded edges of the iPhone 11 Pro Max. The camera bump is also redesigned. Both phones are well-constructed with premium materials, but the iPhone 13 offers a more updated aesthetic, which may be preferred by some users.
Which phone should I buy?
The choice depends on your priorities. The iPhone 13 offers superior performance, camera improvements, and better battery life, making it the more advanced device. However, the iPhone 11 Pro Max provides excellent value, especially if you prioritize saving money. Evaluate your budget and desired features to determine which phone best suits your needs.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 13 emerges as the superior choice due to its enhanced performance, camera capabilities, and battery life. While the iPhone 11 Pro Max remains a capable device, the upgrades in the iPhone 13 provide a more refined and efficient user experience. The improved display and design also contribute to the iPhone 13’s overall appeal.
Winner: iPhone 13