The iPhone X, released in 2017, was a landmark device—Apple’s first with Face ID, an edge-to-edge OLED display, and a radical redesign. Three years later, the iPhone 11 Pro arrived as its spiritual successor, packing serious upgrades in performance, camera, and battery life. But now, in 2024, both phones are several generations behind. So if you're still holding onto an iPhone X, is upgrading to the 11 Pro—or even seeking one secondhand—still a smart move?
The answer isn’t just about specs. It's about real-world usability, software support, longevity, and how your daily habits align with what each phone offers. Let’s break down the key differences and determine whether the jump from iPhone X to iPhone 11 Pro holds meaningful value today.
Performance: A Noticeable Leap in Speed and Efficiency
The iPhone X runs on Apple’s A11 Bionic chip, a powerhouse in its time but now significantly outpaced by modern processors. The iPhone 11 Pro, in contrast, features the A13 Bionic—the same chip found in the iPhone 11 and 11 Pro Max. While not the latest silicon available, the A13 remains impressively capable in 2024.
In practical terms, the A13 delivers up to 20% faster CPU performance and 30% better GPU efficiency over the A11. This translates to smoother multitasking, quicker app launches, and better handling of graphically intensive games or AR applications. More importantly, the A13 supports longer software updates. As of 2024, iOS 17 runs well on the 11 Pro, while the iPhone X may struggle with future updates beyond iOS 18.
Camera Comparison: Night Mode and Triple Lenses Make a Difference
This is where the iPhone 11 Pro pulls far ahead. The iPhone X has a dual-camera system: 12MP wide and 12MP telephoto. It produces excellent photos in daylight but falters in low light, lacking Night Mode and advanced computational photography.
The 11 Pro introduced a third ultra-wide lens (12MP), expanding creative flexibility. More crucially, it debuted Night Mode—an AI-powered feature that dramatically improves low-light photos without flash. Whether you’re capturing dinner scenes, cityscapes at dusk, or indoor family moments, the difference is striking.
Video quality also sees a boost. The 11 Pro supports 4K recording at 60fps across all lenses and improved stabilization. For casual users, this means crisper home videos. For content creators, it offers more professional-grade output without additional gear.
“Even in 2024, the iPhone 11 Pro’s camera system outperforms many mid-range smartphones. Its Night Mode alone justifies the upgrade for anyone who takes photos after sunset.” — Marcus Lin, Mobile Photography Analyst at TechLens Review
Battery Life: From “Just Enough” to “All-Day Confidence”
Battery life was a consistent complaint about the iPhone X. With moderate use, it often required a midday charge. The iPhone 11 Pro addressed this directly, offering up to 18 hours of video playback—nearly 50% more than the X.
In real-world usage, that means:
- Streaming music for 11 hours vs. 8 on the X
- Up to 12 hours of internet use over Wi-Fi
- Reliable endurance through travel days or heavy social media/photo editing
If you frequently find yourself hunting for outlets or carrying a portable charger, the 11 Pro’s improved battery could be a game-changer—even in 2024.
Durability and Display: Subtle but Meaningful Upgrades
Both phones feature stainless steel frames and glass backs, but the 11 Pro uses a more scratch-resistant texture on the back glass. Both have IP67 water resistance (submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes), though the 11 Pro’s sealing is slightly improved.
The displays differ in subtle ways. The iPhone X has a 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED with excellent color accuracy. The 11 Pro retains the same size and panel type but improves brightness—up to 800 nits sustained and 1200 nits peak HDR—making it significantly more usable outdoors.
Neither phone supports ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate), so scrolling smoothness is identical. However, the 11 Pro’s brighter screen and better anti-reflective coating make reading emails, browsing maps, or watching videos in sunlight noticeably easier.
Software Support and Longevity Outlook for 2024
This is perhaps the most critical factor when deciding whether the upgrade is “worth it” today. As of 2024:
- iPhone X: Released with iOS 11, supported through iOS 17. Likely to stop receiving major updates with iOS 18 or iOS 19.
- iPhone 11 Pro: Released with iOS 13, fully compatible with iOS 17, and expected to receive iOS 18 and possibly iOS 19.
Remaining software support affects security, app compatibility, and access to new features like enhanced privacy controls, Siri improvements, and ecosystem integrations (e.g., Apple Vision Pro handoff).
If you plan to keep your phone for another 1–2 years, choosing the 11 Pro gives you a clearer path to continued functionality. App developers increasingly optimize for newer iOS versions, meaning older devices may see degraded performance or lose access to updated apps entirely.
Price and Value in 2024: What You Can Expect to Pay
Neither phone is sold new by Apple, but both are widely available used. Here’s a realistic look at current market pricing (as of early 2024):
| Model | Average Used Price (Good Condition) | Storage Options | Expected Lifespan (2024–2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone X (64GB) | $120–$160 | 64GB / 256GB | Limited; declining app support |
| iPhone 11 Pro (64GB) | $220–$280 | 64GB / 256GB / 512GB | Strong; likely 2+ more years |
The $100–$120 price gap may seem steep for a used phone, but consider this: spending extra now on the 11 Pro could delay your next smartphone purchase by 12–18 months compared to sticking with the X.
Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision in 2023
Sarah, a freelance photographer based in Portland, had been using her iPhone X since 2018. By late 2023, she noticed her camera struggled in low light, apps took longer to load, and her battery barely lasted half a workday.
She considered switching to Android but decided to test a used iPhone 11 Pro. After two weeks, she kept it. “The Night Mode alone changed how I shoot client previews,” she said. “And finally having an ultra-wide lens meant I could capture entire storefronts without stepping back. Plus, my battery lasts through outdoor shoots now.”
Though she paid $250 for the 11 Pro, she views it as a cost-effective tool that extended her workflow efficiency without jumping to a $1,000 flagship.
Checklist: Is the iPhone 11 Pro Upgrade Right for You?
Use this checklist to evaluate your needs:
- Do you regularly take photos in dim lighting? → Yes? 11 Pro wins.
- Does your current iPhone X need charging before noon? → Yes? Battery upgrade matters.
- Are you planning to keep your phone until 2025 or beyond? → Yes? Software longevity favors 11 Pro.
- Do you edit videos or use photo apps heavily? → Yes? A13 Bionic handles this better.
- Is your budget under $200? → Yes? Stick with X or consider iPhone XR/12.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the iPhone X still run Instagram and TikTok smoothly in 2024?
Yes, but with caveats. Basic functions work, but loading Reels, uploading HD videos, or using AR filters may lag. Crashes during prolonged use are more common than on the 11 Pro.
Is the triple camera on the 11 Pro worth it for casual users?
If you enjoy taking varied shots—landscapes (ultra-wide), portraits (telephoto), or night scenes (Night Mode)—then yes. The added flexibility enhances everyday photography, even if you don’t consider yourself a “pro.”
Should I wait for a newer model instead?
If you can stretch your budget to $350–$400, consider the iPhone 12 or 13. They offer 5G, better durability, and longer software support. But if you're buying used and want the best value under $300, the 11 Pro remains a strong contender.
Final Verdict: Yes, the Upgrade Still Makes Sense in 2024
The iPhone 11 Pro is no longer cutting-edge, but in 2024, it still delivers tangible improvements over the iPhone X. The combination of longer battery life, vastly superior low-light photography, stronger processor, and extended software support makes it a worthwhile upgrade—especially for users who depend on their phone daily for communication, creativity, and productivity.
You won’t get 5G or a 120Hz display, but you will gain reliability, capability, and peace of mind knowing your device can handle the next two years of iOS evolution. For those clinging to an aging iPhone X, stepping up to the 11 Pro isn’t just nostalgic—it’s practical.
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