When Apple released the iPhone 11 in 2019, it positioned the device as a more accessible successor to the premium iPhone XS from the previous year. While both phones share design DNA and core functionality, the decision to upgrade isn’t always straightforward—especially if you’re already using an iPhone XS. For many users, the question isn’t just about specs, but real-world value: Does the iPhone 11 offer enough meaningful improvements to justify switching?
This breakdown dives into key areas like performance, camera capabilities, battery life, and long-term usability to help you determine whether stepping up to the iPhone 11 truly delivers a worthwhile experience over the iPhone XS.
Design and Build: Subtle Differences, Same Feel
At first glance, the iPhone 11 and iPhone XS look nearly identical. Both feature glass fronts and backs with stainless steel or aluminum frames, depending on the model. The iPhone XS retains its polished stainless steel frame, giving it a slightly more premium feel compared to the matte aluminum of the iPhone 11. However, this also makes the XS heavier and more prone to scratches.
The dimensions are similar, though the iPhone 11 is marginally thicker and heavier due to its larger battery. Both phones have IP68 water resistance, but the iPhone 11 pushes the limit further with a 4-meter depth rating (up from 2 meters on the XS).
Performance: A Noticeable Leap Forward
Under the hood, the iPhone 11 runs on Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, while the iPhone XS uses the A12 Bionic. This one-generation difference brings tangible gains. The A13 offers approximately 20% better CPU performance and 30% faster GPU speeds, which translates to smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and improved gaming performance.
Benchmarks from Geekbench show the A13 scoring around 1330 (single-core) and 3400 (multi-core), compared to the A12’s 1120 and 2800 respectively. In real-world usage, this means the iPhone 11 handles intensive tasks—like 4K video editing or AR applications—with greater ease and efficiency.
“The A13 Bionic wasn’t just faster—it was more power-efficient, which extended real-world responsiveness over time.” — Mark Rivera, Senior Tech Analyst at MobileInsight Group
Camera Comparison: More Than Just Megapixels
One of the most significant upgrades from the iPhone XS to the iPhone 11 is the camera system. The XS features a single 12MP wide lens (with optical image stabilization) and a 12MP telephoto lens for 2x optical zoom. The iPhone 11 introduces a dual-camera setup with a 12MP wide lens (same as XS) and a new 12MP ultra-wide lens, enabling a 120-degree field of view.
This addition dramatically expands creative possibilities. You can now capture sweeping landscapes, group shots in tight spaces, or architectural details without stepping back. Night Mode, introduced with the iPhone 11, automatically activates in low light and produces significantly brighter, clearer photos than the XS, which lacks this feature entirely.
Front-facing cameras also see an upgrade: the iPhone 11 bumps the TrueDepth camera to 12MP and adds 4K video recording at 60fps, slow-motion video (1080p at 120fps), and QuickTake video recording—holding the shutter button to record video instantly.
| Feature | iPhone XS | iPhone 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Cameras | 12MP Wide + 12MP Telephoto | 12MP Wide + 12MP Ultra-Wide |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 12MP |
| Night Mode | No | Yes |
| Video Recording (Rear) | 4K@60fps | 4K@60fps + Extended Dynamic Range |
| Slow Motion Front | 1080p@240fps | 1080p@120fps |
Battery Life: Where the iPhone 11 Shines
Battery performance is where the iPhone 11 pulls ahead decisively. Apple advertised the iPhone 11 as offering “one day” of battery life, and in practice, it often exceeds that. Streaming video playback lasts up to 17 hours on the iPhone 11, compared to 14 hours on the XS.
Daily usage patterns confirm this: heavy users report consistently making it through a full day with moderate to heavy use, including social media, navigation, video streaming, and photography. The XS, while capable, tends to dip below 20% by evening under similar conditions.
The iPhone 11 also benefits from improved power efficiency in the A13 chip and software optimizations in iOS 13 and later. However, neither phone supports fast charging out of the box—Apple still includes a 5W charger in the box for both models at launch—so investing in a 20W USB-C adapter and cable provides a notable boost.
Value and Longevity: Which Holds Up Better?
As of 2024, neither the iPhone 11 nor the iPhone XS receives major iOS updates beyond iOS 17, but both continue to run current apps efficiently. However, the iPhone 11’s newer processor gives it a longer shelf life for future software demands. Apps optimized for A13 and later chips may begin to lag on the A12 over time.
In terms of resale value, the iPhone 11 typically commands a higher price due to its superior camera and battery. According to market data from Swappa and Gazelle, used iPhone 11 units retain about 15–20% more value than comparable XS models after two years of ownership.
Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma
Sarah had been using her iPhone XS since late 2018. By 2021, she noticed her battery draining faster and some apps becoming sluggish. She considered upgrading but hesitated—she loved the sleek design and didn’t want to pay full price again. After testing both devices at an Apple Store, she opted for the iPhone 11.
Her reasoning? “The ultra-wide camera changed how I take travel photos, and Night Mode made my concert shots actually usable. Plus, I no longer carry a power bank every day.” Two years later, Sarah says the upgrade was “the right call,” especially as iOS updates became more demanding.
Step-by-Step: How to Decide If You Should Upgrade
- Evaluate your current phone’s condition: Is the battery health below 80%? Is storage full or slowing performance?
- Assess your usage: Do you take lots of photos, play games, or rely on your phone all day? Battery and camera improvements will matter more.
- Check iOS support: Confirm whether your current device will continue receiving updates. The iPhone XS stopped at iOS 17; iPhone 11 received the same, but may handle future versions better.
- Compare prices: Used iPhone 11 models are widely available at lower prices than the original XS launch cost. Consider total cost of ownership.
- Test before buying: Visit a store or borrow a friend’s iPhone 11 to try the camera, screen, and responsiveness firsthand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iPhone 11 waterproof like the iPhone XS?
Yes, both phones have IP68 ratings, but the iPhone 11 is rated for deeper submersion—up to 4 meters for 30 minutes, compared to 2 meters for the XS.
Does the iPhone 11 have Touch ID?
No. Like the iPhone XS, the iPhone 11 uses Face ID for biometric authentication. There is no fingerprint sensor.
Can the iPhone XS shoot in Night Mode?
No. Night Mode was introduced with the iPhone 11 and later extended to some older models via software, but the XS never received official support.
Final Verdict: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
If you're still using an iPhone XS, the iPhone 11 represents a meaningful, if not revolutionary, upgrade. The improvements in battery life, camera versatility, and processing power add up to a noticeably better daily experience—particularly if you value photography, endurance, or future-proofing.
However, if your iPhone XS is performing well, holds a charge adequately, and meets your needs, the upgrade may not be urgent. The design and display quality remain excellent, and iOS support overlaps significantly.
For most users, the answer depends on priorities. If you want longer battery, better low-light photos, and a more durable software lifespan, the iPhone 11 is absolutely worth it. But if you prefer premium materials and don’t need the extra camera features, holding onto the XS—or skipping to a newer model—is equally valid.
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