iPhone X vs Xs vs Xr: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
Choosing the right iPhone can be a tough decision, especially when comparing models like the iPhone X and the iPhone XS. Both phones offer premium features and sleek designs, but there are key differences that might sway your choice.
The iPhone X, released in 2017, was a revolutionary device, introducing the world to the notch and Face ID. The iPhone XS, released the following year, built upon the foundation of the iPhone X, offering upgrades in performance and camera capabilities.
This comparison will delve into the details, helping you understand the nuances between the iPhone X and the iPhone XS. We’ll explore their displays, processors, cameras, and battery life to help you make an informed decision. Get ready to discover which phone best suits your needs and budget!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | iPhone X | iPhone XS |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 5.8-inch | 5.8-inch |
| Resolution | 2436 x 1125 pixels | 2436 x 1125 pixels |
| Processor | A11 Bionic | A12 Bionic |
| RAM | 3GB | 4GB |
| Main Camera | Dual 12MP | Dual 12MP |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 7MP |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 24/30/60fps | 4K @ 24/30/60fps |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP68 |
| Face ID | Yes | Yes |
| Display Technology | Super Retina OLED | Super Retina OLED |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone X: Features a 5.8-inch Super Retina display with a resolution of 2436 x 1125 pixels. It offers vibrant colors and excellent contrast, making it great for media consumption. However, the notch design can sometimes be intrusive.
- Xs: Also boasts a 5.8-inch Super Retina display, identical in size and resolution to the iPhone X. Improvements include HDR10 and Dolby Vision support, enhancing the visual experience. The display is bright and crisp, but the notch remains.
- Winner: XS
Processor
- iPhone X: Powered by the A11 Bionic chip, which was powerful at the time of its release. It still handles most tasks smoothly, but is showing its age compared to newer chips.
- Xs: Equipped with the A12 Bionic chip, offering significant performance improvements over the A11. This results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming capabilities.
- Winner: XS
Camera
- iPhone X: Features a dual 12MP rear camera system with optical image stabilization. It captures good photos in various conditions, but struggles slightly in low light compared to newer models.
- Xs: Also has a dual 12MP rear camera, but with improved sensors and a faster processor. Offers Smart HDR for better dynamic range and improved low-light performance.
- Winner: XS
Battery Life
- iPhone X: Offers decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use. Heavy users may need to charge it before the end of the day.
- Xs: Provides slightly improved battery life compared to the iPhone X. Offers approximately an hour more of usage, allowing for a longer day of use.
- Winner: XS
Design
- iPhone X: Features a glass and stainless steel design with a notch at the top of the display. It’s a premium-feeling phone, but the glass back can be prone to scratches.
- Xs: Maintains the same overall design as the iPhone X, but with improved materials. The stainless steel frame is more durable, and the glass is more resistant to scratches.
- Winner: XS
Water Resistance
- iPhone X: Rated IP67 for water and dust resistance, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
- Xs: Upgraded to IP68, offering even better water resistance, up to 2 meters for 30 minutes. This provides increased protection against accidental spills and submersion.
- Winner: XS
Storage Options
- iPhone X: Available in 64GB and 256GB storage options.
- Xs: Available in 64GB, 256GB, and a larger 512GB storage option, providing more flexibility for users with extensive media libraries.
- Winner: XS
Price (at Release)
- iPhone X: Launched at a premium price point, making it one of the most expensive iPhones at the time.
- Xs: Also launched at a premium price point, similar to the iPhone X, reflecting the upgrades and improvements.
- Winner: Tie (Price is comparable, depends on the current market value)
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone XS |
| Camera | iPhone XS |
| Water Resistance | iPhone XS |
| Storage Options | iPhone XS |
What They Have in Common:
- Display: Both phones feature the same stunning 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED display, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks for an immersive viewing experience.
- Design: Both the iPhone X and XS share a similar design language, with a glass front and back, stainless steel frame, and the iconic notch at the top of the display.
- Face Id: Both models utilize Face ID for secure authentication and unlocking, replacing the traditional home button and fingerprint sensor.
- Dual Cameras: Both phones have a dual 12MP camera system, providing excellent image quality and various shooting modes, including Portrait mode.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, allowing for convenient charging with compatible Qi-certified chargers.
iPhone X Vs Xs Vs Xr Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The iPhone X, powered by the A11 Bionic chip, offered impressive performance for its time. However, the iPhone Xs saw a significant upgrade with the A12 Bionic chip, boasting faster processing speeds and improved graphics capabilities. This translates to snappier app launches, smoother multitasking, and enhanced performance in graphically intensive games and applications. The iPhone XR, while also using the A12 Bionic, may experience slight differences in performance due to its lower display resolution and different thermal management.
The A12 chip in the Xs delivers a noticeable edge in everyday tasks and demanding workloads. The Xs also benefits from a Neural Engine that enhances machine learning tasks, offering improvements in areas like photo processing and augmented reality experiences. While the X remains capable, the Xs represents a clear upgrade in terms of raw power and efficiency. Consider your usage needs; if you often run demanding apps, the Xs is a better choice.
Camera Capabilities and Features
The iPhone X’s dual 12MP rear cameras delivered excellent image quality, with features like Portrait Mode. The iPhone Xs built upon this foundation with improvements to the Smart HDR feature, resulting in enhanced dynamic range and more detailed photos in various lighting conditions. The Xs also features improved Portrait Mode capabilities, including adjustable depth of field. The iPhone XR, while having a single 12MP wide-angle camera, still produces excellent photos and offers Portrait Mode, although it’s limited to people and lacks the telephoto lens for optical zoom.
The Xs’s camera system provides a more versatile and refined photography experience. Smart HDR significantly improves photo quality, especially in challenging lighting. The XR, while capable, is less versatile due to its single-lens setup. Consider what kind of photography is important to you: if you want the best image quality, the Xs is the better option. If you primarily take photos of people, the XR’s Portrait Mode is still a great feature.
Display Technology and Quality
All three iPhones feature impressive displays, but there are differences. The iPhone X uses a 5.8-inch Super Retina display, offering vibrant colors and excellent contrast. The iPhone Xs also has a 5.8-inch Super Retina display, but it boasts improvements in brightness and dynamic range. The iPhone XR features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display, which, while not OLED like the X and Xs, still delivers a sharp and vibrant viewing experience.
The Xs offers a slightly superior display experience due to its increased brightness and improved dynamic range. The XR’s LCD screen is still excellent, but it may not appear as vibrant as the OLED displays. Consider the importance of display quality for your needs. If you prioritize the best visual experience, the Xs is the better option. The XR’s larger screen is also a plus for media consumption.
Battery Life and Charging Options
Battery life varies slightly across the three models. The iPhone XR generally offers the best battery life due to its efficient display and larger battery capacity. The iPhone Xs provides good battery life, suitable for a full day of use for most users. The iPhone X’s battery life is adequate but may not last as long as the Xs or XR, especially with heavy usage. Wireless charging is supported by all three models.
The XR is the clear winner in terms of battery life. The Xs provides a solid battery performance, while the X may require charging more frequently. Consider your typical usage patterns and how important long battery life is to you. If you need a phone that lasts all day without needing to recharge, the XR is the best choice. Wireless charging is a convenient feature available on all three models.
Design and Build Quality
All three iPhones share a similar design language, featuring glass backs and stainless steel or aluminum frames. The iPhone X and Xs have a stainless steel frame, giving them a more premium feel. The iPhone XR uses an aluminum frame, which is still durable but feels slightly different. All three models have water resistance, although the Xs and XR have slightly improved ratings compared to the X.
The Xs offers a more premium feel due to its stainless steel frame. The XR, while using aluminum, is still well-built and sturdy. Consider the importance of the materials to you. The design is mostly similar. The XR is a good choice if you prefer a slightly more colorful design, and the X and Xs are a better choice if you want the premium feel.
Pricing and Value Proposition
When considering value, the iPhone XR often stands out due to its lower price point while still offering excellent performance and features. The iPhone Xs, being the more premium model, typically carries a higher price tag. The iPhone X, being the older model, might be available at a lower price, depending on its condition and where you buy it. The price will vary depending on your location and the seller.
Consider your budget when deciding. If you want the best value, the XR is the best choice. The Xs offers more advanced features but at a higher cost. The iPhone X is a good option if you want a premium iPhone experience but are on a budget. Factor in the cost of replacing the battery, and whether you are buying used or new.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone X If…
- You’re on a tighter budget and want a flagship iPhone experience without breaking the bank.
- You’re upgrading from an older iPhone and appreciate the modern design and features.
- You don’t need the absolute latest processor or the minor improvements of the XS.
Buy iPhone XS If…
- You want the best possible performance with the faster A12 Bionic chip.
- You prioritize the improved camera capabilities, including Smart HDR.
- You need the added water resistance with the IP68 rating.
- You desire the option of a 512GB storage model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between iPhone X and iPhone Xs?
The iPhone Xs features a faster A12 Bionic chip, improved camera capabilities with Smart HDR, and a slightly better display in terms of brightness and dynamic range compared to the iPhone X. The Xs also features an improved water resistance rating and a slightly more premium feel due to its stainless steel frame.
Does the iPhone XR have a better battery life than the Xs?
Yes, the iPhone XR generally has better battery life than both the iPhone X and the iPhone Xs. This is due to its larger battery capacity and the efficiency of its Liquid Retina display. The XR is a better choice if battery life is your top priority.
Which phone has the best camera?
The iPhone Xs has the most versatile and advanced camera system due to its dual-lens setup and features like Smart HDR. The iPhone XR has a single-lens camera that’s still excellent, but its features are more limited, particularly compared to the Xs’s telephoto lens and enhanced Portrait Mode.
Are the displays of the X and Xs the same?
The iPhone X and Xs have the same screen size (5.8 inches) and resolution. The Xs offers improvements in brightness and dynamic range, making the image quality slightly better than the iPhone X. Both use OLED technology, which provides vibrant colors and deep blacks.
What is the difference in design?
The iPhone X and Xs have stainless steel frames, providing a premium feel. The iPhone XR has an aluminum frame. All three have a similar all-screen design with a glass back. The Xs and XR have slightly improved water resistance ratings. The XR comes in multiple colors.
Which iPhone is the best value for money?
The iPhone XR often provides the best value for money due to its lower price point while still offering excellent performance, a large display, and good battery life. The Xs is a more premium option with more advanced features, while the iPhone X might be available at a lower price.
Are these phones still worth buying in [current year]?
Yes, the iPhone X, Xs, and XR can still be worth buying in [current year], especially if you find them at a good price. They offer good performance, decent cameras, and access to the latest iOS updates. Consider your budget and your needs to determine which one is right for you.
Final Verdict
The iPhone Xs emerges as the winner, offering the best combination of performance, camera capabilities, and display quality. While the iPhone XR provides excellent value and outstanding battery life, and the iPhone X remains a solid choice, the Xs provides the most complete and refined experience.
Winner: iPhone Xs