Iphone 11 Or Huawei P40 Lite Which Phone Holds Up Better In 2024

In 2024, the decision between older flagship models like the iPhone 11 and mid-range alternatives such as the Huawei P40 Lite hinges less on initial specs and more on longevity, software support, and real-world resilience. Both phones were released around the same time—Apple’s iPhone 11 in September 2019 and Huawei’s P40 Lite in March 2020—but their post-launch journeys have diverged sharply due to ecosystem differences, hardware quality, and global market constraints. For users looking for a reliable device that still performs well nearly half a decade after release, understanding how each model has aged is essential.

Performance and Hardware Longevity

The iPhone 11 runs on Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, a 7nm processor known for its efficiency and sustained performance. Even in 2024, this chip handles everyday tasks with ease—browsing, social media, video streaming, and even moderate gaming remain smooth. iOS optimization ensures minimal lag over time, thanks to tight integration between hardware and software. The 4GB of RAM, while modest by today’s standards, is effectively managed by iOS, reducing background clutter and memory bloat.

In contrast, the Huawei P40 Lite features the Kirin 810 chipset, paired with 6GB of RAM. While capable at launch, the Kirin 810 struggles more with modern app demands, especially multitasking-heavy workflows or newer versions of Android-based EMUI updates. Users report noticeable slowdowns when switching between apps or after extended use. Additionally, thermal throttling becomes apparent during prolonged usage, affecting both responsiveness and battery efficiency.

Tip: Devices with tightly integrated hardware-software ecosystems, like Apple’s iPhones, tend to maintain peak performance longer than similarly specced Android counterparts.

Software Support and Security Updates

This is where the gap widens significantly. Apple continues to support the iPhone 11 with the latest iOS versions—iOS 17 in 2023 and expected compatibility with iOS 18 in 2024. Regular security patches are rolled out every few months, ensuring protection against emerging threats. This long-term update policy is one of Apple’s strongest selling points for used or older devices.

Huawei’s situation is more complicated. Due to U.S. trade restrictions, the P40 Lite launched without Google Mobile Services (GMS), relying instead on Huawei Mobile Services (HMS) and the AppGallery. While functional, HMS lacks the breadth and polish of Google’s ecosystem. Many popular apps either don’t exist on AppGallery or require sideloading, which introduces security risks and update inconsistencies. Moreover, official EMUI updates for the P40 Lite ended in 2022, meaning no new feature enhancements or structured security patches since then.

“Longevity isn’t just about build quality—it’s about ongoing support. A phone can have great hardware, but without updates, it becomes obsolete faster.” — Lena Torres, Senior Analyst at Mobile Insight Group

Battery Life and Charging Over Time

Battery degradation is inevitable, but how manufacturers manage it affects usability years later. The iPhone 11 comes with a 3,110mAh battery and supports optimized charging—a feature that learns your daily routine and delays full charging until you need it, slowing down lithium-ion wear. Even after four years, many iPhone 11 units retain 80% or more of their original capacity if not subjected to extreme heat or fast charging abuse.

The P40 Lite packs a larger 4,000mAh battery, which helped deliver strong endurance at launch. However, it lacks adaptive charging intelligence. Combined with less efficient power management in EMUI, users often report needing midday charges by 2024, especially if the device hasn’t had a battery replacement. Fast charging at 40W sounds impressive, but frequent high-wattage charging accelerates cell aging.

Feature	iPhone 11	Huawei P40 Lite
Original Battery Capacity	3,110 mAh	4,000 mAh
Charging Speed	18W (wired), 7.5W Qi wireless	40W wired, no wireless
Battery Management Features	Optimized Charging, Low Power Mode	Limited adaptive features
Average Degradation (4 years)	15–20%	25–35%

Durability and Build Quality

Both phones feature glass backs and aluminum frames, making them susceptible to drops. The iPhone 11 uses tougher front glass (Apple claims “toughest ever in an iPhone”) and has IP68 water resistance—capable of surviving submersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. Real-world reports confirm it withstands accidental spills, rain, and brief underwater exposure far better than most mid-tier phones.

The P40 Lite offers only splash resistance—not officially rated for water immersion—and its rear glass is prone to chipping when dropped on hard surfaces. Replacement parts are also harder to source outside China and parts of Asia, increasing repair costs and downtime. Screen protectors and cases are practically mandatory for long-term use.

Real-World Example: Two Years of Daily Use

Consider Maria, a freelance photographer who used her iPhone 11 daily from 2020 to 2024. She shoots hundreds of photos, edits on-device, and relies on cloud sync. Despite heavy use, she upgraded only because she wanted improved camera hardware—not because her iPhone failed. Her battery was replaced once under Apple’s program, and iOS updates kept her apps secure and compatible.

Jamal, using a P40 Lite for similar tasks, faced challenges by late 2022. App crashes increased, GPS navigation via third-party maps became unreliable, and he could no longer update WhatsApp through official channels. By early 2024, he switched to a newer Android model simply because his workflow was disrupted—not due to physical damage.

Maintenance Checklist for Long-Term Phone Use

• ✅ Enable automatic security and OS updates whenever available
• ✅ Replace the battery when health drops below 80%
• ✅ Use a protective case and screen protector
• ✅ Avoid exposing the phone to direct sunlight or hot environments
• ✅ Clear cache and unused apps monthly to free up storage
• ✅ Back up data regularly to cloud or external drive
• ✅ Limit fast charging; unplug before reaching 100% frequently

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Huawei P40 Lite run WhatsApp reliably in 2024?

Yes, but not through official channels. Since the P40 Lite lacks Google Play Services, WhatsApp must be downloaded manually via APK. This method works but poses security risks, lacks automatic updates, and may violate terms of service. Performance depends on system stability and available storage.

Is the iPhone 11 still worth buying in 2024?

Absolutely—if purchased refurbished or secondhand with a healthy battery. It remains responsive, receives current iOS updates, and integrates seamlessly with other Apple devices. For users not demanding cutting-edge cameras or 5G, it delivers excellent value and reliability.

Which phone has better resale value after four years?

The iPhone 11 retains significantly higher resale value. Its continued software support, brand reputation, and consistent performance make it desirable in the used market. The P40 Lite, limited by regional availability and outdated software, sees steeper depreciation, especially outside Huawei’s core markets.

Final Verdict: Which Holds Up Better?

While the Huawei P40 Lite offered compelling value at launch—with a sleek design, large battery, and affordable price—the iPhone 11 proves superior in long-term durability and usability in 2024. Superior software support, consistent performance, better battery management, and broader ecosystem integration give it a decisive edge. Apple’s commitment to updating older devices ensures the iPhone 11 remains functional, secure, and relevant far beyond what most Android phones achieve.

Huawei’s innovation is undeniable, but geopolitical factors and restricted access to essential services limit the P40 Lite’s practicality over time. Unless you’re deeply embedded in Huawei’s ecosystem or reside in a region with strong local app support, the iPhone 11 is the more future-proof investment.

💬 Still using an iPhone 11 or P40 Lite in 2024? Share your experience—what’s working, what’s not? Your insights could help others decide their next move.