iPhone 11 vs Xr: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
Choosing a new iPhone can feel like navigating a maze, especially with so many great options available. Are you torn between the iPhone 11 and the iPhone XR? Both phones offer a compelling experience, but they cater to slightly different needs and budgets.
This comparison dives deep into the key differences between the iPhone 11 and iPhone XR. We’ll explore everything from their displays and cameras to their performance and battery life. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which iPhone is the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
The iPhone 11 brought notable upgrades over the XR, including a better camera system and a faster processor. However, the iPhone XR still holds its own with a vibrant display and a more affordable price point. Let’s see how they stack up against each other.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone XR |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Display Type | Liquid Retina IPS LCD | Liquid Retina IPS LCD |
| Processor | Apple A13 Bionic | Apple A12 Bionic |
| Main Camera | 12MP Wide + 12MP Ultrawide | 12MP Wide |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 7MP |
| Video Recording | 4K up to 60fps | 4K up to 60fps |
| RAM | 4GB | 3GB |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | 64GB, 128GB |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP67 |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | No | No |
| Weight | 194 grams | 194 grams |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone 11: Features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display with a resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels. Offers good color accuracy and brightness, but the resolution is lower compared to some competitors. The display is suitable for everyday use, but can appear less sharp than higher-resolution screens.
- Xr: Also features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display with a resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels. Similar to the iPhone 11, it provides good visuals but the resolution isn’t as crisp as some other phones. It offers a good balance of screen size and quality.
- Winner: Tie
Processor
- iPhone 11: Equipped with the A13 Bionic chip, offering significant performance improvements over the A12 Bionic. Provides faster processing speeds, improved graphics, and enhanced power efficiency. This results in smoother multitasking and gaming.
- Xr: Powered by the A12 Bionic chip. While still a capable processor, it’s not as powerful as the A13. It handles most tasks smoothly, but might show a slight performance difference in demanding applications.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Camera System
- iPhone 11: Features a dual-camera system with 12MP wide and ultrawide lenses. Offers improved low-light performance, Night mode, and enhanced video recording capabilities. Provides versatile shooting options and captures detailed photos.
- Xr: Comes with a single 12MP wide-angle lens. Lacks the ultrawide lens and Night mode. While it still takes good photos in daylight, it is limited compared to the iPhone 11 in terms of features and low-light performance.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Battery Life
- iPhone 11: Offers slightly better battery life than the XR. Can easily last a full day with moderate to heavy usage. Provides a comfortable battery experience for most users.
- Xr: Provides excellent battery life, typically lasting a full day or even longer for some users. Known for its efficient power management. A strong point of the phone.
- Winner: Tie
Design
- iPhone 11: Features a similar design to the XR, but with a redesigned camera bump. Made with a glass back and aluminum frame. Offers a modern and premium feel.
- Xr: Boasts a glass back and aluminum frame, with a design that is still appealing. Offers a range of colors.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- iPhone 11: Launched at a higher price point than the XR. Pricing depends on storage capacity.
- Xr: Originally priced lower than the iPhone 11. Can be found at a reduced price point.
- Winner: XR
Video Recording
- iPhone 11: Supports 4K video recording up to 60fps, and features extended dynamic range for video up to 30fps. Offers better video stabilization.
- Xr: Supports 4K video recording up to 60fps.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Storage Options
- iPhone 11: Available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options. Offers plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos.
- Xr: Available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone 11 |
| Camera | iPhone 11 |
| Value | iPhone XR |
| Display | Tie |
| Battery Life | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Display Size: Both phones feature a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display, offering a large and immersive viewing experience. This makes them suitable for media consumption and everyday tasks.
- Wireless Charging: Both the iPhone 11 and XR support wireless charging, providing a convenient way to power up your device. This eliminates the need for cables.
- No Headphone Jack: Neither phone includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, requiring the use of wireless headphones or a Lightning adapter. This is a common design choice for modern iPhones.
- Design: Both phones share a similar design aesthetic with an all-screen display and a notch for the front-facing camera and sensors. This provides a modern look.
- Operating System: Both phones run on iOS, ensuring a consistent user experience with access to the App Store and regular software updates. This provides a seamless user experience.
iPhone 11 Vs XR Buying Guide
Performance & Processor
The iPhone 11 boasts the A13 Bionic chip, offering a significant performance leap over the XR’s A12 Bionic. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming experiences. The A13 also features improved power efficiency, leading to better battery life. While the A12 in the XR is still a capable processor, the iPhone 11 provides a noticeable edge in overall responsiveness and future-proofing, especially for demanding applications and games. The graphical performance on the iPhone 11 is superior.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone 11 features a dual-camera system with both a standard wide and an ultrawide lens, providing greater versatility in capturing photos and videos. The XR, with its single-lens camera, is limited in its zoom capabilities and field of view. The iPhone 11 also benefits from improved computational photography, including Night mode, which significantly enhances low-light performance. The XR’s camera, while still good, doesn’t match the iPhone 11’s versatility or low-light prowess. The iPhone 11 also has 4k video recording.
Display Quality
Both phones feature Liquid Retina LCD displays, but the iPhone 11 offers a slightly improved viewing experience. The iPhone 11 has a slightly higher pixel density, which results in sharper images and text. While the XR’s display is still excellent and vibrant, the iPhone 11’s display provides a touch more detail. The difference is subtle for most users, but the iPhone 11 has slightly better colors. The screen is also more durable.
Battery Life & Charging
The iPhone 11 offers slightly improved battery life compared to the XR. This difference, while not drastic, can translate to an extra hour or two of usage on a single charge. Both phones support fast charging, but you’ll need to purchase a separate fast charger. The iPhone 11’s optimized power efficiency further contributes to its longer battery performance. The XR is still great in terms of battery, but the iPhone 11 edges it out.
Design & Build
Both phones share a similar design aesthetic, but the iPhone 11 features a more durable glass back and a redesigned camera bump. The iPhone 11 also offers a wider range of color options. The XR’s design is still modern and appealing, but the iPhone 11’s design is a refinement. The build quality of both phones is excellent, with both offering IP68 water resistance. The iPhone 11 is also more resistant to drops.
Price & Value
When both phones were new, the iPhone 11 was priced slightly higher than the XR. However, with the XR being older, it can often be found at a lower price point. Considering the performance, camera, and feature upgrades, the iPhone 11 offers better value, especially if you plan to keep the phone for several years. The XR remains a great option if you’re on a budget and prioritize affordability. Consider the features you need when choosing.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 11 If…
- You want a better camera system with an ultrawide lens.
- You want a more powerful processor for smoother performance.
- You prioritize slightly better water resistance.
- You want the latest features and technology.
Buy iPhone XR If…
- You are on a tighter budget.
- You don’t need the extra camera features of the iPhone 11.
- You are happy with the performance and features offered by the A12 Bionic chip.
- You prioritize a more affordable option without sacrificing key features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in performance between the iPhone 11 and XR?
The iPhone 11 uses the A13 Bionic chip, which is significantly faster and more efficient than the A12 Bionic in the XR. This results in snappier app loading, smoother multitasking, and improved graphics performance. The A13 also contributes to better battery life. The XR is still capable but the 11 is more future-proof.
How does the camera on the iPhone 11 compare to the XR?
The iPhone 11 features a dual-camera system with an ultrawide lens and Night mode, offering greater versatility and improved low-light performance. The XR has a single-lens camera, limiting its zoom and low-light capabilities. The 11 excels in both photo and video.
Does the iPhone 11 have a better display than the XR?
Both phones use Liquid Retina LCD displays. While the displays are similar, the iPhone 11 has a slightly higher pixel density, leading to slightly sharper images and text. The difference is subtle for most users, but the 11 edges it out in terms of clarity and color accuracy.
What is the battery life like on the iPhone 11 versus the XR?
The iPhone 11 offers slightly better battery life than the XR. This difference, although not significant, can provide you with an extra hour or two of usage on a single charge. The iPhone 11’s improved power efficiency contributes to its longer battery performance.
Are there any design differences between the two phones?
Both phones share a similar design, but the iPhone 11 has a more durable glass back and a redesigned camera bump. The iPhone 11 also has more color options. The XR’s design is still contemporary and appealing, but the 11’s design is a refinement.
Which phone is more expensive?
When launched, the iPhone 11 was more expensive. However, since the XR is older, it can often be found at a lower price point now. The price difference depends on the condition and availability of the phones in the market. Check the current market for more accurate pricing.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The iPhone 11’s A13 Bionic chip provides significantly better gaming performance than the XR. This includes faster loading times, smoother frame rates, and enhanced graphics. The XR can still play games, but the iPhone 11 offers a more enjoyable and future-proof gaming experience.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 11 surpasses the XR in several key areas, including performance, camera capabilities, and battery life. While the XR remains a solid choice, the iPhone 11’s upgrades make it the superior option for most users. The improved features justify the slightly higher price point, making it a better investment for the long term. The iPhone 11 provides a more modern experience.
Winner: iPhone 11