Iphone Xs Or Xr In 2024 Is The Xs Still Worth It Or Is The Xr Good Enough

In 2024, choosing between the iPhone XS and iPhone XR isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a practical decision for budget-conscious buyers, second-hand shoppers, or those upgrading from even older models. Both phones launched in 2018, but their differences in display, performance, camera, and build quality still influence user experience today. With iOS updates continuing to support both devices through at least iOS 17 (and possibly beyond), they remain functional options. But which one makes more sense now?

The answer depends on your priorities: premium design and dual cameras versus longer battery life and affordability. Let’s break down what each phone offers nearly six years after release.

Design and Build: Glass vs. Durability

The iPhone XS features a stainless steel frame and glass back, giving it a noticeably heavier, more premium feel. It also supports IP68 water resistance—officially rated for up to 2 meters for 30 minutes. In contrast, the iPhone XR uses an aerospace-grade aluminum frame and slightly thicker glass, with IP67 rating (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes). While both can survive minor spills, the XS has a slight edge in real-world durability and luxury appeal.

However, that premium build comes at a cost. The XS is more prone to scratches on its polished steel band, and replacing the back glass is significantly more expensive than on the XR. For users who don’t use cases, this could be a drawback.

Tip: If you're buying used, inspect the charging port and volume buttons—these are common failure points on both models after years of wear.

Display Technology: OLED vs. LCD

This is one of the most significant differentiators. The iPhone XS uses a 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED display with deep blacks, high contrast, and excellent color accuracy. The iPhone XR, while using Apple’s “Liquid Retina” branding, relies on an LCD panel. Despite Apple’s tuning, LCDs can't match OLED in contrast or true black reproduction.

In practical terms, watching videos, viewing photos, or reading in low light is more immersive on the XS. However, the XR’s screen is brighter in direct sunlight and less susceptible to burn-in—a concern for static elements over time. For most daily tasks like browsing and messaging, the difference may not be glaring, especially to casual users.

Feature	iPhone XS	iPhone XR
Display Type	OLED	LCD
Size	5.8 inches	6.1 inches
Resolution	2436 x 1125	1792 x 828
PPI	458	326
HDR Support	Yes	No

Performance and Longevity in 2024

Both phones run the same A12 Bionic chip—an industry leader in 2018 and still surprisingly capable today. In everyday use, neither device feels slow. Apps launch quickly, multitasking is smooth, and even moderate gaming (like Genshin Impact on low settings) remains playable.

However, as iOS becomes more demanding, the lack of RAM begins to show. The iPhone XS has 4GB of RAM compared to the XR’s 3GB. This difference becomes noticeable when switching between multiple apps or using AR-heavy applications. Users report that the XS maintains app states better and experiences fewer reloads.

“Even five years later, the A12 Bionic handles modern iOS well, but memory management separates the XS from the XR under pressure.” — David Lin, Mobile Hardware Analyst at TechPulse

If you plan to keep the phone into 2025 or beyond, the XS’s extra RAM gives it a modest longevity advantage, particularly if future iOS versions become more resource-intensive.

Camera Comparison: Dual vs. Single Lens

The iPhone XS includes a dual-camera system: 12MP wide and 12MP telephoto lenses. This enables 2x optical zoom, improved Portrait Mode with depth control, and better low-light performance due to sensor improvements. The XR, meanwhile, has only a single 12MP wide lens. While software simulates depth for portraits, the results are less consistent—especially around fine details like hair or glasses.

In daylight, both cameras produce excellent dynamic range and color science. But in low light or when zooming, the XS pulls ahead. Its telephoto lens allows tighter framing without digital loss, and Smart HDR (introduced with iOS 12) works more effectively across both sensors.

For social media shooters or casual photographers, the XR is “good enough.” But for anyone serious about photography—even at hobbyist level—the XS offers more creative flexibility.

Real-World Example: Travel Photography

Consider Sarah, a digital nomad who bought a used iPhone XR in 2022 for travel blogging. She found that while daylight shots were vibrant and sharp, indoor café scenes often lacked detail, and she couldn’t get close-up architectural shots without losing clarity. After upgrading to a lightly used iPhone XS in 2023, she noted immediate improvements in portrait lighting and zoom capability—critical for her Instagram content. The OLED screen also helped her review photos more accurately in bright outdoor conditions.

Battery Life and Charging

Here, the iPhone XR shines. Despite having a less efficient LCD panel, its larger battery delivers significantly better endurance. Apple rated the XR for up to 16 hours of video playback; the XS manages about 13. Real-world usage confirms this gap—XR typically lasts a full day with moderate to heavy use, while the XS often requires a midday charge.

Both support fast charging (with a compatible adapter) and wireless charging. However, many users overlook that battery health degrades over time. By 2024, most existing units will have batteries at 80–85% capacity unless recently replaced. Replacing the battery costs roughly $50–$70 at third-party shops and can restore near-new endurance.

Tip: Before purchasing any used iPhone, check Battery Health > Maximum Capacity. Avoid units below 80% unless priced accordingly.

Which One Should You Buy in 2024?

The choice ultimately hinges on your usage pattern:

• Choose the iPhone XS if you value camera versatility, OLED display quality, premium materials, and slightly better long-term performance headroom.
• Choose the iPhone XR if battery life is critical, you prefer a larger screen, want to save money, and don’t need optical zoom or advanced portrait effects.

Prices in 2024 reflect this divide. Refurbished or used iPhone XS models typically sell for $120–$180, while XR units go for $90–$140. That $30–$50 difference could be better spent on a new battery or accessories.

Checklist: What to Verify Before Buying

1. Check iCloud Activation Lock status—never buy a phone still linked to the previous owner’s Apple ID.
2. Inspect physical condition: look for cracked screens, unresponsive Face ID, or swollen batteries.
3. Test all ports: charging, audio (if using Lightning headphones), and speaker/microphone.
4. Review Battery Health percentage in Settings > Battery.
5. Ensure iOS is updated to the latest supported version for security and compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can either phone run iOS 17 smoothly?

Yes. Both the iPhone XS and XR officially support iOS 17. Performance remains fluid for basic tasks, though some newer features like StandBy mode may feel sluggish on prolonged use.

Is the iPhone XR camera really that much worse?

It depends on expectations. For casual snapshots and social media, the XR performs admirably. But if you frequently take portraits, zoom, or shoot in dim environments, the XS’s dual-camera system offers tangible advantages.

Will these phones receive iOS 18?

Uncertain. Historically, Apple supports iPhones for 5–6 years. Since both launched in 2018, iOS 18 (2024) might be their final update. Rumors suggest iOS 18 could drop support for the A12 chip, making 2024 a potential cutoff year.

Final Verdict: Is the XS Worth the Premium?

In 2024, the iPhone XS remains the technically superior device. Its OLED display, dual cameras, and additional RAM provide a more refined experience, especially for users sensitive to image quality and responsiveness. However, “superior” doesn’t always mean “necessary.”

The iPhone XR continues to deliver strong core functionality at a lower price point. For teens, secondary device users, or those needing a reliable communicator and browser, the XR is absolutely good enough. Its larger screen and better battery make it more comfortable for extended use.

If your budget allows, the XS is worth the extra investment—particularly if you can find one with a replaced battery. But if you’re prioritizing value and longevity of daily use over specs, the XR holds its ground remarkably well for a six-year-old phone.

🚀 Ready to make a smart upgrade? Assess your needs, check battery health, and choose the iPhone that fits your lifestyle—not just the spec sheet. Share your experience with these models in the comments below.