iPhone Xr vs Xs: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
Choosing a new iPhone can be a tough decision, especially when you’re caught between two fantastic models. The iPhone XR and iPhone XS, both released in the same generation, offer compelling features, but cater to slightly different needs and budgets. This comparison aims to break down the key differences to help you make the right choice.
The iPhone XR, known for its vibrant display and impressive battery life, presents a strong case for value. On the other hand, the iPhone XS boasts a more premium design, a superior camera system, and a slightly more advanced processor. Deciding between them depends on your priorities and what you value most in a smartphone.
We’ll delve into the specifics, comparing their displays, cameras, performance, and more. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of which iPhone – the XR or the XS – is the perfect fit for you. Let’s dive in and see which phone reigns supreme in this iPhone XR vs XS showdown!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | iPhone XR | iPhone XS |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 5.8-inch |
| Display Technology | Liquid Retina IPS LCD | Super Retina OLED |
| Resolution | 1792 x 828 pixels | 2436 x 1125 pixels |
| Processor | A12 Bionic chip | A12 Bionic chip |
| RAM | 3GB | 4GB |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP wide-angle | Dual 12MP wide-angle and telephoto |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 7MP |
| Video Recording | 4K up to 60 fps | 4K up to 60 fps |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP68 |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Face ID | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone Xr: 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 lower resolution compared to the XS results in a less sharp image. It’s still a decent display for everyday use.
- Xs: Boasts a 5.8-inch Super Retina display with a resolution of 2436 x 1125 pixels. Provides a sharper and more vibrant viewing experience thanks to its OLED technology and higher pixel density. Colors are richer, and blacks are deeper.
- Winner: XS
Design & Build
- iPhone Xr: Features an aluminum frame and glass back, offering a wide array of color options. It’s slightly thicker and heavier than the XS due to its larger size. While durable, the aluminum frame feels less premium than the stainless steel of the XS.
- Xs: Constructed with a stainless steel frame and glass back, providing a more premium feel and increased durability. Available in fewer colors than the XR. The design feels more refined and luxurious.
- Winner: XS
Processor
- iPhone Xr: Powered by the A12 Bionic chip, which provides fast and efficient performance. Handles demanding tasks and games with ease. Performance is still excellent, even compared to newer iPhone models.
- Xs: Also equipped with the A12 Bionic chip, delivering the same level of performance as the XR. Both phones offer excellent speed and responsiveness for all tasks.
- Winner: Tie
Camera System
- iPhone Xr: Features a single 12MP wide-angle lens with optical image stabilization. Takes excellent photos in good lighting conditions. Lacks the telephoto lens for optical zoom and portrait mode with different lighting effects available on the XS.
- Xs: Equipped with a dual 12MP camera system, including wide-angle and telephoto lenses. Offers optical zoom, improved portrait mode with more advanced depth control, and better performance in low-light situations.
- Winner: XS
Portrait Mode
- iPhone Xr: Offers portrait mode on the rear camera for people only. Utilizes software to simulate the bokeh effect.
- Xs: Offers portrait mode on both front and rear cameras, with advanced features like adjustable depth and multiple lighting effects.
- Winner: XS
Battery Life
- iPhone Xr: Generally offers better battery life compared to the XS, often lasting a full day with moderate to heavy use.
- Xs: Battery life is good, but typically not as long as the XR, especially with heavy usage.
- Winner: XR
Water Resistance
- iPhone Xr: Rated IP67, offering water resistance up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
- Xs: Rated IP68, providing greater water resistance, up to 2 meters for 30 minutes.
- Winner: XS
Price
- iPhone Xr: Typically available at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- Xs: Was originally sold at a higher price, reflecting its premium features and materials. Now typically available at a lower price than when new, but usually still more expensive than a used XR.
- Winner: XR
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Quality | iPhone XS |
| Camera (Overall) | iPhone XS |
| Battery Life | iPhone XR |
| Design | iPhone XS |
| Value | iPhone XR |
What They Have in Common:
- Processor: Both phones are powered by the A12 Bionic chip, providing similar performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications.
- Face Id: Both iPhone XR and XS feature Face ID for secure authentication and unlocking.
- Video Recording: Both devices support 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second, allowing for high-quality video capture.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, providing a convenient way to power up your device.
- Operating System: Both phones run iOS, offering a consistent user experience with regular software updates.
iPhone XR vs XS Buying Guide
Performance and Speed
The iPhone XS boasts a slightly more powerful A12 Bionic chip, offering a marginal advantage in raw processing speed compared to the iPhone XR’s A12 Bionic. While both phones handle everyday tasks with exceptional smoothness, the XS may exhibit quicker app loading times and slightly better performance in graphically intensive games. However, the difference is often negligible in real-world usage. Both phones offer impressive multitasking capabilities, ensuring a seamless user experience for most users. The XS’s advantage is primarily noticeable in demanding applications or prolonged use.
Display Quality
The iPhone XS features a superior OLED display with richer colors, deeper blacks, and higher contrast compared to the XR’s LCD screen. The XS’s display also supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision for enhanced video playback. While the XR’s Liquid Retina display is still excellent, the XS provides a more immersive viewing experience, especially when watching movies or playing games. The XS’s display is also brighter, making it easier to view content in direct sunlight. The difference in display technology is a significant differentiator.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone XS benefits from a dual-camera system, offering telephoto capabilities for optical zoom and improved portrait mode with adjustable depth of field. The XR, with its single-lens camera, still takes excellent photos, but lacks the versatility of the XS. The XS also excels in low-light photography due to its wider aperture and improved image processing. The XS offers more advanced features like Smart HDR for better dynamic range. For photography enthusiasts, the XS is the clear winner.
Design and Build Quality
Both phones share a similar design language, but the XS features a stainless steel frame compared to the XR’s aluminum frame. The XS also boasts a more premium feel due to its build materials and smaller bezels. The XS is slightly more compact and easier to handle with one hand. Both phones are IP67 water and dust resistant, but the XS’s higher-quality materials contribute to its more luxurious feel. The XS’s design is more refined, offering a premium experience.
Battery Life
The iPhone XR surprisingly offers better battery life than the XS, often lasting a full day of heavy use. This is due to the XR’s more power-efficient LCD display and slightly larger battery capacity. The XS’s battery life is still respectable, but it may require charging before the end of the day for power users. The XR’s superior battery performance makes it a more practical choice for users who prioritize longevity. The XR provides a noticeable advantage in battery endurance.
Price and Value
The iPhone XR was initially launched at a lower price point than the XS, making it a more budget-friendly option. While both phones are now available at discounted prices, the XR continues to offer excellent value for its performance and features. The XS, with its superior display, camera, and build quality, comes at a higher price. The best choice depends on your budget and desired features. Considering the current pricing, the XR offers a compelling balance of features and affordability, while the XS caters to users seeking a premium experience.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone XR If…
- You want a larger screen for media consumption and gaming.
- You prefer a more affordable iPhone without sacrificing too much performance.
- You value excellent battery life.
Buy iPhone XS If…
- You prioritize a more compact design and premium materials.
- You want a dual-camera system with telephoto capabilities for better zoom and portrait mode.
- You desire a brighter and more vibrant display.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the iPhone XR and XS?
The iPhone XS boasts a superior OLED display, a dual-camera system with telephoto capabilities, and a stainless steel frame compared to the XR’s LCD display, single-lens camera, and aluminum frame. The XS also features a slightly more powerful processor. The XR offers better battery life and is generally more affordable. The differences primarily lie in display technology, camera versatility, and build materials, with the XR prioritizing affordability and the XS focusing on a premium experience.
Which iPhone has a better display?
The iPhone XS has a significantly better display, utilizing an OLED panel that delivers richer colors, deeper blacks, and higher contrast compared to the XR’s LCD display. The XS’s display also supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision, providing a more immersive viewing experience, especially when watching videos or playing games. The XS’s display is brighter and more vibrant, enhancing overall visual quality.
Does the iPhone XS have a better camera?
Yes, the iPhone XS has a more versatile camera system. It includes a dual-lens setup, offering a telephoto lens for optical zoom and enhanced portrait mode capabilities. The XS captures more detailed photos and offers improved low-light performance. The XR’s single-lens camera is still capable, but the XS provides more options and superior image quality overall. The XS’s Smart HDR further enhances dynamic range.
Which phone has better battery life?
The iPhone XR boasts better battery life than the XS. The XR’s more power-efficient LCD display and slightly larger battery capacity contribute to its ability to last longer on a single charge. The XR can typically handle a full day of heavy use, while the XS may require charging before the end of the day for power users. The XR provides a noticeable advantage in battery endurance.
Is the iPhone XS faster than the iPhone XR?
The iPhone XS features a slightly more powerful A12 Bionic chip, giving it a marginal speed advantage over the XR. While both phones handle everyday tasks with ease, the XS may exhibit quicker app loading times and slightly better performance in graphically intensive games. However, the difference is often unnoticeable in regular use. The XS’s advantage is most noticeable in demanding applications.
Which phone is better for photography?
The iPhone XS is the better choice for photography enthusiasts. Its dual-camera system offers greater versatility, including optical zoom and advanced portrait mode capabilities. The XS also performs better in low-light conditions and incorporates features like Smart HDR for improved dynamic range. While the XR takes great photos, the XS provides a more comprehensive and superior photographic experience.
Which phone is the better value?
The iPhone XR generally offers better value, especially considering its current price point. While the XS boasts a more premium experience, the XR provides excellent performance, a great display, and impressive battery life at a more affordable price. The XR’s balance of features and affordability makes it a compelling choice for many users, offering a strong return on investment.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the iPhone XR and XS depends on your priorities. The XS offers a superior display, a more advanced camera, and a premium build, catering to users who prioritize top-tier features. However, the XR delivers excellent performance, outstanding battery life, and great value. Consider your budget and desired features to make the best decision for your needs. Both phones are still excellent choices in the current market.
Winner: iPhone XS