Iphone Xs Max Vs Iphone Se Why Are People Still Debating This In 2024

Five years after its release, the iPhone XS Max remains a symbol of Apple’s premium smartphone era—large, powerful, and packed with features. Meanwhile, the latest iPhone SE continues a different legacy: compact design, affordability, and surprisingly capable internals. Yet in 2024, forums, social media threads, and tech communities are still buzzing about which one is “better.” On the surface, it seems like an odd debate—one device is high-end and aging, the other budget-friendly and current—but dig deeper, and the conversation reveals fundamental shifts in consumer priorities, longevity expectations, and what people actually need from their phones.

The Core Divide: Performance vs. Practicality

The iPhone XS Max, released in 2018, was a flagship powerhouse. It featured a 6.5-inch OLED display, Face ID, dual 12MP cameras, and the A12 Bionic chip—a processor that held up remarkably well for years. In contrast, the third-generation iPhone SE (2022) runs the A15 Bionic chip, the same as the iPhone 13 series, making it faster in raw processing power than the XS Max. But it retains the older iPhone 8-style design with a 4.7-inch LCD screen and Touch ID.

This creates a paradox: the newer, cheaper phone outperforms the older flagship in benchmarks, yet lacks modern features like edge-to-edge displays, advanced camera systems, or 5G in some regions. The debate persists because users weigh these trade-offs differently. Power users might prioritize speed and efficiency, while others value screen size, camera quality, or ergonomics.

“People don’t buy specs—they buy experiences. The ‘best’ phone depends on how you use it, not just what’s under the hood.” — David Chen, Mobile Analyst at TechPulse Insights

Tip: If you plan to keep your phone for 4+ years, prioritize software support and chip longevity over screen size or camera megapixels.

Longevity and Software Support: Who Lasts Longer?

Apple typically provides around five to six years of iOS updates. The iPhone XS Max launched with iOS 12 and received updates through iOS 17—likely its final major update. The iPhone SE (2022), however, shipped with iOS 15 and is expected to receive updates until at least 2027, possibly into iOS 21 or beyond.

This extended support window makes the SE a compelling choice for those who want a future-proof device without paying flagship prices. Despite its modest design, it benefits from newer architecture, better battery management, and compatibility with upcoming features like enhanced Siri intelligence and on-device AI processing.

Meanwhile, the XS Max, while still functional, may begin showing signs of obsolescence—slower app launches, reduced background app retention, and eventual incompatibility with new apps optimized for newer chips.

Value Proposition in 2024: Price vs. Long-Term Use

In today’s secondhand market, both devices occupy overlapping price ranges. Used iPhone XS Max units sell for $150–$250 depending on condition, while refurbished iPhone SE models start around $350 new. This narrowing gap fuels the debate: is it worth spending more for a larger screen and better cameras, or should you opt for longer support and superior performance in a smaller package?

To break it down, consider real-world usage patterns:

• Media consumers benefit from the XS Max’s large OLED screen for videos and reading.
• One-handed users often prefer the SE’s compact form factor.
• Budget-conscious buyers lean toward the SE for its long-term software promise.
• Photography enthusiasts still find value in the XS Max’s telephoto lens and Portrait Mode depth control.

Comparison Table: Key Specs Side-by-Side

Feature	iPhone XS Max	iPhone SE (2022)
Release Year	2018	2022
Chipset	A12 Bionic	A15 Bionic
Display	6.5\" OLED, 2688×1242	4.7\" LCD, 1334×750
Camera (Rear)	Dual 12MP (wide + telephoto)	Single 12MP (wide)
Biometric Security	Face ID	Touch ID
Expected iOS Support	Up to iOS 17 (ended)	Through iOS 20/21 (est.)
Battery Life	~13 hours video playback	~15 hours video playback
Current Market Price (Used/New)	$150–$250	$300–$400

Real-World Example: Two Users, Two Choices

Take Sarah, a freelance writer who commutes daily and reads extensively on her phone. She bought a used iPhone XS Max for $200 because she values screen space and immersive content viewing. Despite its age, it handles Safari tabs, audiobooks, and note-taking apps smoothly. However, she notices slower photo processing and occasional app reloads when multitasking.

Then there’s James, a college student needing a reliable phone for classes, messaging, and light gaming. He chose the iPhone SE for $350, attracted by its long update cycle and snappy performance. Though he misses having Face ID, he appreciates the physical home button and pocket-friendly size. His phone boots faster, handles AR apps better, and feels more “current” despite the outdated look.

Their choices reflect divergent philosophies: one prioritizes present-day experience, the other future readiness.

Why the Debate Still Matters in 2024

The persistence of this debate underscores a broader trend: smartphones are no longer rapidly obsolete. With diminishing hardware improvements year-over-year, many users extend device lifespans to 4–5 years or more. As a result, older flagships like the XS Max remain viable, especially in developing markets or among cost-sensitive buyers.

At the same time, Apple’s strategy with the SE—repackaging cutting-edge chips into older designs—creates a unique value proposition. It challenges the assumption that newer always means bigger or more complex. For users who don’t need advanced cameras or expansive screens, the SE delivers core functionality with exceptional efficiency.

Moreover, environmental awareness plays a role. Consumers increasingly consider e-waste and sustainability. Choosing a durable, long-supported device like the SE aligns with eco-conscious values. Conversely, giving a high-end device like the XS Max a second life reduces demand for new manufacturing.

Actionable Checklist: How to Choose Between Them

1. Assess your primary use: media consumption, productivity, photography?
2. Determine whether screen size or portability matters more.
3. Evaluate how long you plan to keep the phone (3+ years favors SE).
4. Check carrier compatibility, especially 5G needs (SE has it, but XS Max does not).
5. Test both devices in person if possible—ergonomics matter.
6. Verify battery health if buying used (ask for serial number check).
7. Consider repairability: the SE is easier and cheaper to fix than the XS Max.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone SE replace a flagship experience?

For most everyday tasks—messaging, browsing, navigation, and even gaming—the iPhone SE performs like a flagship thanks to the A15 chip. The main limitations are the single rear camera and small screen, but if those aren’t critical, yes, it can effectively replace a high-end phone.

Is the iPhone XS Max still secure in 2024?

While it no longer receives major iOS updates, the XS Max continues to get occasional security patches. However, its lack of future OS support increases vulnerability over time, especially as apps adopt newer encryption and authentication standards. It’s usable but not ideal for long-term sensitive tasks.

Which phone holds resale value better?

Historically, iPhones retain value well, but the SE tends to depreciate slower due to lower initial cost and strong demand in secondary markets. The XS Max, being older and lacking 5G, has seen steeper decline. However, pristine-condition XS Max units with original accessories still command decent prices among collectors or users seeking large-screen iOS devices.

Conclusion: It’s Not About Specs—It’s About Fit

The ongoing discussion between the iPhone XS Max and iPhone SE isn’t irrational—it’s reflective of a maturing smartphone market where personal fit outweighs technical superiority. In 2024, we’re past the era of chasing incremental upgrades. Instead, smart consumers ask: What do I actually need? How long will this last? Does it feel right in my hand and my life?

Whether you choose the enduring elegance of the XS Max or the efficient modernity of the SE, the decision should be guided by lifestyle, not hype. Both phones prove that Apple’s ecosystem offers pathways for diverse users—from minimalists to multimedia lovers.

💬 Still torn between old-school flagship and new-school compact? Share your experience or current setup in the comments—we’re all learning how to make smarter tech choices together.