Iphone Xs Max Vs 11 Is It Worth Upgrading In 2024 Or Is The Older Model Still Good

As we move deeper into 2024, many iPhone users are reconsidering their devices—especially those still holding onto an iPhone XS Max. Released in 2018, it was a flagship powerhouse with a stunning OLED display and solid build quality. The iPhone 11, launched a year later, brought notable upgrades in performance, camera systems, and battery efficiency. But nearly six years after its debut, is the jump from the XS Max to the iPhone 11 still meaningful today? Or has time diminished the gap between these two models?

This comparison isn’t just about specs on paper—it’s about real-world usability, software support, battery health, and whether the upgrade will actually improve your daily experience.

Performance and Processor: A Clear Leap Forward

The most significant difference between the iPhone XS Max and the iPhone 11 lies under the hood. The XS Max runs on Apple’s A12 Bionic chip, while the iPhone 11 features the A13 Bionic. Though only one generation apart, the A13 delivers a tangible improvement in speed, efficiency, and thermal management.

In real-world use, this means faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and better performance in graphics-intensive apps and games. More importantly, the A13 chip allows the iPhone 11 to run iOS 17 and is expected to support iOS 18 and possibly even iOS 19—extending its usable lifespan well into 2025 or beyond. In contrast, the A12 in the XS Max may struggle with future iOS updates, especially as Apple optimizes new features for more powerful hardware.

“Even a one-generation leap in Apple’s silicon can translate to two extra years of usable life.” — David Lin, Mobile Hardware Analyst at TechPulse Insights

Tip: If you plan to keep your phone for more than two years, prioritize newer chipsets—they age far better.

Battery Life: Where the iPhone 11 Pulls Ahead

Battery degradation is inevitable, especially for an iPhone XS Max purchased in 2018. Even with a replaced battery, original capacity rarely lasts beyond four years of regular use. The iPhone 11, however, not only benefits from a fresher battery but also a more power-efficient design.

Apple rated the iPhone 11 for up to 17 hours of video playback, compared to the XS Max’s 15 hours. Real-world tests show the iPhone 11 consistently delivers 5–6 hours of screen-on time, whereas the XS Max often struggles to reach 4 hours after several years of use.

More importantly, the A13 Bionic’s improved energy efficiency means less strain during background tasks like location tracking, notifications, and app refreshes—key factors in extending daily usability.

Estimated Daily Battery Performance (2024 Conditions)

Model	Avg. Screen-On Time	Likely Need for Charging
iPhone XS Max (used)	3.5 – 4.5 hours	Midday recharge required
iPhone 11 (refurbished/used)	5 – 6 hours	Single charge sufficient

Camera Comparison: More Than Just Megapixels

The iPhone XS Max featured a dual 12MP rear system (wide + telephoto) and a capable 7MP front camera. While photos were excellent in daylight, low-light performance lagged, and Night Mode wasn’t available—a feature introduced with the iPhone 11.

The iPhone 11 upgraded to a wide + ultra-wide dual-camera setup, offering greater flexibility in composition. More crucially, it introduced Night Mode, which dramatically improves low-light photography without flash. The front camera also received a bump to 12MP and added 4K video recording.

If you frequently take photos indoors, at night, or enjoy capturing wider scenes (like landscapes or group shots), the iPhone 11 offers a noticeably better experience. Its Smart HDR and Deep Fusion technologies further enhance dynamic range and texture detail.

Real Example: Weekend Photography Test

Sophia, a freelance writer based in Portland, held onto her iPhone XS Max until early 2024. She used it to photograph a rainy weekend trip to the coast. Despite using third-party apps to boost brightness, her images came out grainy and underexposed. After switching to a used iPhone 11, she noticed immediate improvements—Night Mode automatically activated in dim cafes, and the ultra-wide lens helped capture full views of coastal cliffs without stepping back.

“I didn’t realize how much I was missing until I saw the difference,” she said. “The 11 makes me feel like I’m using a modern phone again.”

Design and Display: Trade-offs Between Old and New

The iPhone XS Max boasts a 6.5-inch Super Retina OLED display with deep blacks and vibrant colors—still superior in contrast and viewing angles to the iPhone 11’s 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD. If screen quality is a top priority, the XS Max holds an edge.

However, the iPhone 11 introduces a more durable front glass and better water resistance (IP68 vs IP67), meaning it can survive longer submersion in water. It’s also slightly lighter and features a more modern color palette, appealing to users who value aesthetics.

One notable downgrade: the XS Max has 3D Touch, which allows pressure-sensitive interactions. The iPhone 11 replaces this with Haptic Touch—a long-press alternative that works well but lacks the nuance of true pressure detection.

Software Support and Longevity Outlook

As of 2024, both devices support iOS 17. However, historical patterns suggest the iPhone 11 will receive one to two additional major updates. Apple typically supports iPhones for five to six years after release. The iPhone 11 (2019) could see iOS 19 in 2025, while the XS Max (2018) is likely at the end of its update cycle.

Remaining on an outdated OS poses risks: lack of security patches, incompatibility with newer apps, and reduced performance due to unoptimized software. For example, newer versions of banking apps, messaging platforms, and productivity tools increasingly require iOS 15 or later—and may soon drop support for devices unable to install recent updates.

Tip: Check your current iOS version. If you're on iOS 16 or earlier and can't upgrade, your device is nearing obsolescence.

Upgrade Checklist: Should You Move to iPhone 11 in 2024?

• ✅ Is your XS Max battery below 80% health?
• ✅ Do you struggle with slow app loading or frequent crashes?
• ✅ Are you unable to install the latest iOS version?
• ✅ Do you want better low-light photos?
• ✅ Do you rely on your phone for work or daily communication?

If you answered yes to two or more, upgrading to the iPhone 11—or even considering it as a budget-friendly option—is a smart move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the iPhone 11 still supported in 2024?

Yes. The iPhone 11 runs iOS 17 and is eligible for iOS 18, expected in fall 2024. It should remain secure and functional through at least 2025.

Can the iPhone XS Max last another year?

Possibly—but with caveats. If you’ve replaced the battery and don’t need cutting-edge features, it can function as a secondary device or basic phone. However, expect declining app compatibility and slower performance over time.

Is the iPhone 11 waterproof?

It has an IP68 rating, meaning it can withstand being submerged in up to 2 meters of water for 30 minutes. This is an improvement over the XS Max’s 1-meter depth limit.

Final Verdict: To Upgrade or Not?

The decision hinges on your usage, expectations, and budget. If you’re clinging to an aging XS Max with degraded battery and sluggish performance, the iPhone 11 represents a meaningful upgrade—one that brings better cameras, longer software support, and noticeably improved battery life.

That said, if your XS Max is still running smoothly with a recently replaced battery and you’re not bothered by missing Night Mode or newer iOS features, holding on a bit longer is reasonable—especially if you're planning to upgrade to an iPhone 15 or 16 later in 2024.

For most users, though, the iPhone 11 remains a compelling choice in the used market. Priced affordably and backed by strong performance, it bridges the gap between legacy hardware and modern smartphone demands.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? Evaluate your current device’s health, consider your photo and battery needs, and weigh the long-term value. Whether you upgrade or stay put, informed decisions keep your tech working for you—not against you.