Iphone Xs Max Vs Note 10 Is The Older Iphone Still Worth It In 2024

In 2024, flagship smartphones are faster, smarter, and more capable than ever. Yet many users still hold onto devices from the late 2010s—particularly the iPhone XS Max and Samsung Galaxy Note 10. Both were powerhouses in their time, but how do they stack up today? More importantly, if you're considering a budget-friendly upgrade or second-hand purchase, is the iPhone XS Max still a viable option compared to the slightly newer Android contender?

This isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s about value, longevity, and real-world usability. While neither phone receives major OS updates, their hardware and ecosystem support vary significantly. Let’s break down the key differences and determine whether Apple’s 2018 flagship remains competitive against Samsung’s stylus-equipped powerhouse.

Performance and Hardware Longevity

The iPhone XS Max launched with Apple’s A12 Bionic chip—a 7nm processor that set new standards for mobile performance in 2018. Even by 2024 benchmarks, it holds up surprisingly well in everyday tasks like web browsing, messaging, and media playback. iOS optimization ensures that even older iPhones remain responsive longer than most Android counterparts.

The Galaxy Note 10, released in 2019, came with either the Exynos 9825 (in Europe) or Snapdragon 855 (in the U.S.). Both were top-tier chips at launch, but over time, thermal throttling and less aggressive software optimization have led to noticeable slowdowns—especially on Exynos models.

Tip: On older phones, disable animations and background app refresh to improve responsiveness.

While both devices feature 4GB of RAM (Note 10) and 4GB (XS Max), iOS’s memory management gives the iPhone an edge in multitasking efficiency. Apps reopen faster, and background processes are handled more smoothly—even after years of use.

Software Support and Security Updates

This is where the divide becomes stark. The iPhone XS Max received iOS updates until iOS 17, which launched in September 2023. That means it got **five full years** of OS upgrades—a rarity in the smartphone world. While it won’t get iOS 18, it still runs the latest secure version of iOS 17 as of early 2024, including critical security patches.

In contrast, the Galaxy Note 10 stopped receiving major Android updates after Android 12 (One UI 4). It received three years of OS upgrades and four years of security patches, ending in late 2022. As of 2024, it no longer receives official security updates from Samsung, making it increasingly vulnerable to exploits.

“Apple’s long-term software support is unmatched in the industry. Five years of updates mean older iPhones stay functional and secure far longer.” — David Lin, Mobile Security Analyst at TechShield Insights

For users concerned about privacy and data safety, this difference is critical. An unsupported Android device connected to banking apps, email, or social media poses a growing risk over time.

Camera Comparison: Still Relevant in 2024?

Both phones featured strong camera systems in their prime. The iPhone XS Max has a dual 12MP rear setup (wide and telephoto), known for consistent color science, excellent dynamic range, and reliable portrait mode processing. Video recording remains impressive—supporting 4K at 60fps with advanced stabilization.

The Note 10 introduced a triple rear system: 12MP wide, 16MP ultra-wide, and 12MP telephoto with variable aperture (f/1.5–f/2.4). Samsung’s processing favors brighter, punchier photos, especially in daylight. Its front-facing 10MP camera also supports 4K video and live focus effects.

Feature	iPhone XS Max	Note 10
Rear Cameras	Dual 12MP (Wide + Telephoto)	Triple 12+16+12MP (Wide, Ultra-Wide, Telephoto)
Front Camera	7MP TrueDepth	10MP
Video Recording	4K@60fps, HDR, Stereo Audio	4K@60fps, HDR10+
Night Mode	No (added later via Deep Fusion)	Yes
Low-Light Performance	Good, but inconsistent	Better due to Night Mode

In 2024, both cameras struggle in very low light without third-party apps. However, the Note 10’s Night Mode gives it a slight edge in dark environments. That said, the iPhone’s video quality, audio capture, and consistency across lighting conditions still make it a favorite for vloggers and casual creators.

Battery Life and Charging Realities

Neither phone offers all-day battery life under heavy use in 2024. The iPhone XS Max has a 3,174mAh battery, while the Note 10 packs 3,500mAh. In practice, both last around 5–6 hours of screen time with modern app usage.

However, battery degradation is a bigger issue. After five years, most original batteries are below 80% health. Replacing the iPhone XS Max battery costs $69 through Apple and restores significant performance. Samsung batteries are harder to replace officially, and third-party options vary in quality.

Charging is another differentiator. The Note 10 supports 25W fast charging and wireless power sharing. The XS Max only supports 18W fast charging (with USB-C adapter, sold separately) and standard Qi wireless charging.

Tip: Replace aging batteries before assuming the phone is “slow”—many performance issues stem from poor battery health.

Real-World Use Case: Can You Still Rely on These Phones?

Meet Sarah, a freelance writer who switched to an iPhone XS Max in 2023 after her 2016 iPhone SE died. She bought it refurbished for $220. Her needs: email, Safari, Google Docs, Zoom calls, and occasional photography.

After six months, she reports smooth performance for daily tasks. iMessage and FaceTime work flawlessly. She uses Notes and Apple Pencil (via iPad when needed) for drafting. However, she noticed Instagram crashes occasionally and TikTok lags during scroll-heavy sessions. She replaced the battery early on and now gets about 6 hours of mixed use.

She considered the Note 10 but avoided it due to lack of security updates and concerns about app compatibility. “I don’t want my client emails exposed because my phone can’t get patches,” she says.

Sarah’s experience reflects a broader trend: older iPhones remain functional for lightweight users, especially within the Apple ecosystem. But heavy social media or gaming users will feel limitations quickly.

Checklist: Is the iPhone XS Max Right for You in 2024?

• ✅ Need a secondary or backup phone
• ✅ Primarily use basic apps (calls, messages, browser, email)
• ✅ Already in the Apple ecosystem (iCloud, Mac, AirPods)
• ✅ Willing to replace the battery soon
• ✅ Not using intensive apps like AR games or 4K video editing
• ❌ Require latest features (Face ID may slow down, no 5G)
• ❌ Depend on cutting-edge camera performance
• ❌ Want guaranteed security updates beyond 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone XS Max run iOS 17 smoothly?

Yes, it runs iOS 17, but some features like StandBy mode or enhanced autocorrect may lag. General navigation remains fluid, though app launches can be slower than on newer models.

Is the Galaxy Note 10 safer to use in 2024 than the XS Max?

No. The Note 10 no longer receives security patches, making it more vulnerable. The XS Max, despite being older, benefits from Apple’s extended support cycle and still receives critical fixes.

Which phone holds resale value better?

The iPhone XS Max retains value better due to brand loyalty and iOS longevity. Refurbished units sell for $180–$250, while Note 10 units typically go for $120–$180, reflecting weaker demand.

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone XS Max Still Worth It?

In a market dominated by 5G, high-refresh displays, and AI-powered features, the iPhone XS Max and Galaxy Note 10 are relics—but not obsolete. For users with modest needs, either can serve as a capable daily driver, especially if purchased at a steep discount.

Yet the iPhone XS Max pulls ahead in 2024. Its combination of long-term software support, robust build quality, seamless ecosystem integration, and superior post-purchase service makes it the more responsible choice. The Note 10 offers a better screen (Dynamic AMOLED), S Pen functionality, and more versatile cameras, but its discontinued software support undermines its practicality.

If you’re buying used or helping someone transition to a smartphone on a tight budget, the XS Max is the safer bet. Just budget for a battery replacement and accept that performance-intensive apps will test its limits.

💬 Have experience using either phone in 2024? Share your story in the comments—your insights could help others decide between legacy loyalty and modern convenience.