Iphone 15 Pro Vs Iphone X Is It Finally Time To Upgrade From My Old X

If you’ve been holding onto your iPhone X since its 2017 debut, you’re not alone. Many users still rely on this iconic device for daily tasks, calls, and even photography. But with the release of the iPhone 15 Pro, a new question looms: is it finally time to let go? The leap between these two models spans nearly six years of technological evolution—so much so that comparing them feels almost unfair. Yet, for loyal iPhone X owners, the decision isn’t just about specs; it’s about practicality, longevity, and whether the benefits outweigh the cost.

The iPhone X was revolutionary in its time—introducing Face ID, an edge-to-edge OLED display, and a sleek design language Apple still uses today. But technology doesn’t stand still. The iPhone 15 Pro brings advancements in processing power, camera systems, materials, and connectivity that redefine what a smartphone can do. For someone still using an iPhone X, upgrading now isn’t just a refresh—it’s a transformation.

Performance: A Quantum Leap in Speed and Efficiency

The difference in performance between the iPhone X and iPhone 15 Pro is staggering. The iPhone X runs on the A11 Bionic chip, a powerful processor for its era but now significantly outpaced by modern standards. In contrast, the iPhone 15 Pro features the A17 Pro chip, built on a 3nm process with far superior CPU, GPU, and neural engine capabilities.

Real-world implications are immediate. Apps launch faster, multitasking is seamless, and demanding tasks like 4K video editing or gaming at high frame rates are not only possible—they’re effortless. The iPhone X struggles with newer iOS updates, often showing lag during animations or app switching. Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 Pro handles iOS 17 (and likely iOS 21) with ease.

Tip: If your current phone takes more than two seconds to open frequently used apps, it’s a strong sign that a hardware upgrade will improve your daily experience.

Camera Capabilities: From Good to Professional-Grade

The iPhone X’s dual 12MP rear cameras were excellent in 2017, offering Portrait mode and optical zoom. Today, they feel dated. Low-light performance is limited, dynamic range is narrower, and there’s no sensor-shift stabilization.

The iPhone 15 Pro changes the game. It features a 48MP main sensor with adaptive pixels, enabling superior detail and low-light capture. The telephoto lens now offers 5x optical zoom (up from 2x), and computational photography—including Smart HDR 5 and Photonic Engine—delivers stunning results across lighting conditions. Night mode activates faster and produces cleaner images. Video recording jumps from 4K at 60fps to 4K at 120fps with Log encoding for professional color grading.

“Smartphone photography has evolved from capturing moments to creating cinema. The iPhone 15 Pro is the first iPhone that truly replaces a dedicated camera for most users.” — David Kim, Mobile Photographer & Tech Journalist

Design and Build: Durability Meets Refinement

The iPhone X introduced a glass-and-stainless-steel design that felt premium but was prone to cracks and scratches. The iPhone 15 Pro shifts to a titanium frame—lighter, stronger, and more comfortable to hold. The edges are contoured for better ergonomics, and the overall weight is reduced by nearly 10% despite a larger footprint.

Both phones feature IP67 water resistance, but the iPhone 15 Pro improves durability with Ceramic Shield front cover and tougher back glass. Additionally, the Action button (replacing the mute switch) allows customizable shortcuts—ideal for launching the camera, turning on flashlight, or toggling Focus modes.

Feature	iPhone X	iPhone 15 Pro
Chip	A11 Bionic	A17 Pro (3nm)
RAM	3GB	8GB
Rear Cameras	Dual 12MP	Triple: 48MP + 12MP + 12MP
Battery Life (Video Playback)	13 hours	23 hours
Charging	Wired + Qi Wireless	USB-C + MagSafe + Qi2
Display	5.8\" OLED, 60Hz	6.1\" OLED, 120Hz ProMotion
Water Resistance	IP67 (1m for 30min)	IP68 (6m for 30min)

Software Support and Future-Proofing

iOS support is a critical factor. Apple typically supports iPhones for around 5–6 years after release. The iPhone X launched with iOS 11 and received updates through iOS 16—the last version it officially supports. As of 2024, it no longer receives security patches or feature updates, making it increasingly vulnerable and incompatible with new apps.

The iPhone 15 Pro, released in 2023, will likely receive iOS updates until 2029 or beyond. This means access to future AI-powered features, enhanced privacy tools, and deeper integration with Apple Vision Pro, HomeKit, and CarPlay+. Upgrading now ensures you stay within Apple’s active ecosystem for years to come.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Journey

Sarah, a freelance designer from Portland, held onto her iPhone X because “it still works fine.” She used it for emails, calendar, occasional photos, and messaging. But in early 2024, she began experiencing app crashes, slow iCloud sync, and failed Face ID recognition. After missing a client call due to a frozen screen, she upgraded to the iPhone 15 Pro.

Within days, she noticed smoother workflows, faster photo exports, and improved video call quality on FaceTime. Using the new Camera app, she started capturing product shots for her portfolio—something she previously outsourced. The USB-C port allowed her to transfer files directly to her MacBook without cloud delays. Six months later, she says, “I didn’t realize how much my old phone was slowing me down.”

Is It Time to Upgrade? A Practical Checklist

Still unsure? Use this checklist to evaluate your readiness:

• ✅ Does your iPhone X take more than 10 seconds to restart?
• ✅ Have you noticed frequent app crashes or freezing?
• ✅ Is battery life under 4 hours of screen-on time?
• ✅ Are you unable to update to the latest iOS version?
• ✅ Do photos look grainy or out of focus in low light?
• ✅ Do you rely on accessories that require newer connectors (e.g., USB-C)?
• ✅ Are you considering switching carriers or using eSIM-only plans?

If three or more apply, upgrading is not just beneficial—it’s practical. The iPhone 15 Pro eliminates pain points that accumulate over time, restoring reliability and responsiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my iPhone X stop working if I don’t upgrade?

No, it will continue to make calls and run basic apps. However, lack of software updates increases security risks, and many new apps may stop supporting it. Over time, web browsing and email could become unreliable.

Can I transfer everything from my iPhone X to the iPhone 15 Pro?

Absolutely. Use Apple’s Quick Start feature via Wi-Fi to migrate data, apps, settings, and accounts. Your messages, photos, passwords, and Health data will transfer seamlessly during setup.

Is the price difference justified?

At $999 for the iPhone 15 Pro versus $0 trade-in value for most iPhone X units, the cost is significant. But consider the long-term value: improved productivity, better photo quality, longer support, and reduced frustration. For heavy users, the ROI becomes clear within months.

Conclusion: Yes, It’s Finally Time

The iPhone X was a landmark device—one that redefined smartphones. But six years in tech is an eternity. The iPhone 15 Pro isn’t just an incremental upgrade; it’s a reimagining of what a mobile device can be. From blazing-fast performance and cinematic cameras to all-day battery life and future-ready software, the advantages are tangible and lasting.

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to upgrade, this is it. Your iPhone X served you well, but continuing to rely on outdated hardware limits your potential. Embrace the new standard. Upgrade with confidence, knowing you’re investing in a device designed for the next generation of digital life.

🚀 Ready to make the leap? Back up your iPhone X today and explore carrier trade-in deals on the iPhone 15 Pro. Your future self will thank you.