Iphone Xr Vs 6s Is The Xr Still Worth It In 2024

In 2024, choosing between older iPhone models like the iPhone XR and iPhone 6s isn’t just about price—it’s about longevity, usability, and whether a device can keep up with modern apps and software updates. The iPhone 6s was once a flagship powerhouse, but nearly a decade later, its limitations are stark. Meanwhile, the iPhone XR, released in 2018, represented a major leap in Apple’s mid-tier strategy. So, is the XR still a viable option today when compared to the aging 6s? The answer depends on your needs, budget, and expectations for daily use.

Performance and Hardware Comparison

The most critical difference between the iPhone XR and 6s lies in their processors and overall system performance. The iPhone 6s runs on the A9 chip with 2GB of RAM, which was impressive in 2015 but now struggles with multitasking, app loading, and even basic navigation in newer versions of iOS. In contrast, the iPhone XR uses the A12 Bionic chip—Apple’s first 7nm processor—with 3GB of RAM. This chip introduced machine learning capabilities and dramatically improved graphics and CPU efficiency.

Even though the A12 is six years old as of 2024, it remains capable of handling modern applications, social media platforms, streaming services, and even moderate gaming. Apps like Instagram, TikTok, and Google Maps run smoothly on the XR, while users of the 6s often experience lag, crashes, or long load times.

Tip: If you rely on productivity apps or use your phone for work, avoid devices with chips older than the A10. The A12 in the XR is the bare minimum for smooth 2024 performance.

Camera Capabilities: One Clear Winner

When it comes to photography, the gap between these two phones is massive. The iPhone 6s features a 12MP rear camera without optical image stabilization (OIS), and its front-facing camera is only 5MP. Low-light performance is poor, and video recording maxes out at 4K/30fps—but even that feature feels sluggish due to hardware constraints.

The iPhone XR, on the other hand, has a 12MP rear camera with OIS, advanced Smart HDR, portrait mode (via software depth mapping), and better noise reduction. Its single-lens setup may seem limited compared to newer dual-camera iPhones, but it still produces vibrant, well-balanced photos in daylight and usable shots in dim lighting. The 7MP TrueDepth front camera supports Portrait Mode and Animoji, offering far more versatility for selfies and video calls.

“Even with one lens, the XR’s computational photography gives it an edge over earlier multi-sensor phones from its era.” — David Kim, Mobile Photographer & Tech Analyst

Battery Life and Daily Usability

Battery degradation is inevitable in older devices, but the XR starts from a much stronger position. Apple rated the XR for up to 16 hours of video playback, and real-world usage typically yields 1.5 to 2 full days with light use. Even with aging batteries, many XR units in good condition still manage a full day under mixed usage in 2024.

The iPhone 6s, by comparison, was rated for up to 14 hours of talk time, but actual battery life today is often insufficient for a full day—especially after multiple charge cycles and years of wear. Users frequently report needing midday charging, and iOS background processes increasingly drain the already limited capacity.

Additionally, the XR supports faster charging (with a compatible adapter) and wireless charging—features absent on the 6s. While not groundbreaking by today’s standards, they add convenience that improves the user experience significantly.

iOS Support and Software Longevity

This is where the decision becomes clearer. As of 2024, the iPhone 6s no longer receives iOS updates. It topped out at iOS 15, meaning it lacks security patches, new features, and compatibility with updated apps that require iOS 16 or later. Many developers are beginning to drop support for iOS 15, making certain banking, messaging, and productivity apps unusable or unstable.

The iPhone XR, however, received updates through iOS 17 and is expected to be supported until at least iOS 18 in 2025. This means continued access to new features like StandBy mode, enhanced privacy controls, and improved Siri functionality. More importantly, it ensures better app compatibility and ongoing security protections—critical for protecting personal data.

Feature	iPhone XR	iPhone 6s
Latest iOS Version	iOS 17 (likely iOS 18)	iOS 15 (no further updates)
Processor	A12 Bionic	A9
Rear Camera	12MP with OIS, Smart HDR	12MP, no OIS
Front Camera	7MP TrueDepth	5MP FaceTime HD
Battery Life (Video Playback)	Up to 16 hours	Up to 14 hours
Charging	Fast & Wireless Charging	Limited to 5W wired
RAM	3GB	2GB
Water Resistance	IP67 (1m for 30 mins)	No official rating

Real-World Example: Choosing for a Family Member

Sarah, a college student, inherited her brother’s iPhone 6s in early 2023. Initially, it worked fine for texting and browsing. But by late 2023, she noticed her Canvas app wouldn’t open properly, her Instagram crashed constantly, and her phone couldn’t update to iOS 16, locking her out of using her school’s secure login portal. After switching to a refurbished iPhone XR, her experience transformed—apps loaded instantly, Zoom calls were stable, and she could finally receive security-critical updates. For Sarah, the upgrade wasn’t about luxury; it was about staying connected and functional in an increasingly digital academic environment.

Checklist: Is the iPhone XR Right for You in 2024?

• ✅ Need a reliable phone for everyday tasks (calls, texts, social media)
• ✅ Want access to current iOS features and app ecosystem
• ✅ Prefer longer battery life without constant charging
• ✅ Use your phone for photos or video calls
• ✅ Are on a tight budget but want something durable
• ❌ Expect high-end gaming performance or pro-level camera features
• ❌ Need 5G connectivity or advanced night modes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone XR still run popular apps in 2024?

Yes. The iPhone XR handles most mainstream apps—including WhatsApp, TikTok, YouTube, and Uber—without significant lag. Some newer games or AR-heavy apps may run slower or not be supported, but general usage remains solid.

Is it safe to buy an iPhone XR in 2024?

It can be, provided you purchase from a reputable source and verify the battery health. Check the device’s cycle count and ensure iOS is up to date. Avoid units with less than 80% battery capacity, as they’ll need replacement soon.

Will the iPhone XR get iOS 18?

While not officially confirmed, historical patterns suggest the XR will likely receive iOS 18, given that Apple typically supports devices for five to six years. However, performance may degrade slightly with future updates.

Conclusion: The Verdict for 2024

Between the iPhone XR and 6s, the choice is clear. The iPhone 6s, while iconic, has outlived its practical usefulness. It lacks modern software support, suffers from performance bottlenecks, and can’t reliably handle today’s app demands. The iPhone XR, despite being nearly six years old, remains a competent daily driver in 2024. It offers strong performance, decent cameras, usable battery life, and crucially, ongoing iOS support that keeps it secure and functional.

If you’re considering either phone secondhand or as a backup device, the XR is absolutely still worth it—provided the battery is in good condition. It strikes a rare balance between affordability and capability that few older iPhones can match. For students, seniors, or anyone needing a simple, dependable iPhone without spending $1,000, the XR continues to deliver value long after its release.

🚀 Still using an iPhone 6s? Consider upgrading to an XR or newer model to stay secure, connected, and productive in 2024 and beyond. Share your experience or questions below—we’d love to hear how your older iPhone is holding up!