Iphone Xs Vs Xr Is The Older Model Actually The Better Deal In 2024

As Apple continues to release new iPhone models each year, many consumers are turning to older devices for more affordable entry points into the iOS ecosystem. The iPhone XS and iPhone XR, both launched in 2018, remain popular secondhand options in 2024. At first glance, the XS appears superior with its stainless steel build and OLED display. But when real-world usage, software support, and pricing are factored in, the question arises: is the older iPhone XS still the better choice—or has the XR emerged as the smarter buy?

This isn’t just about specs on paper. It’s about longevity, daily usability, and value for money in today’s market. With iOS 17 running smoothly on both models and iOS 18 expected to maintain compatibility, now is a critical time to evaluate which device offers the most bang for your buck—especially if you're shopping on a budget.

Design and Build Quality: Premium vs Practical

The iPhone XS features a sleek stainless steel frame with a glass back, giving it a premium feel that aligns with flagship expectations. Its compact 5.8-inch OLED Super Retina display delivers deep blacks, high contrast, and excellent color accuracy. In contrast, the iPhone XR uses aerospace-grade aluminum, making it lighter but less luxurious. It also has a larger 6.1-inch LCD Liquid Retina display, which, while sharp, lacks the vibrancy and true blacks of OLED.

Despite the XS’s higher-end materials, durability in real-world use tells a different story. The XR consistently scores better in drop tests due to its more flexible aluminum frame absorbing impact. The XS, while beautiful, is prone to chipping at the edges and costs significantly more to repair if cracked.

Tip: If you tend to drop your phone, the XR’s lower repair cost and sturdier real-world performance may outweigh the XS’s premium look.

Performance and Longevity in 2024

Both phones run the same A12 Bionic chip, which remains surprisingly capable in 2024. Most everyday tasks—browsing, messaging, social media, and even moderate gaming—are handled without lag. However, differences emerge under sustained load or when multitasking.

The XS benefits from 4GB of RAM compared to the XR’s 3GB. While this doesn’t drastically affect day-to-day use, it does help when switching between apps or using augmented reality features. Users report slightly faster app reload times on the XS when multiple background apps are open.

Software support is nearly identical. Both devices received updates through iOS 17 and are likely to be supported through iOS 18, potentially into 2025. After that, security updates may continue for a short period, but major feature updates will cease. Given this shared timeline, neither holds a long-term advantage in update lifespan.

“Even older iPhones can last years beyond their release, provided they’re well-maintained and used within their performance limits.” — David Kim, Mobile Analyst at TechTrend Insights

Camera Comparison: When Specs Don’t Tell the Whole Story

The iPhone XS has a dual-camera system: 12MP wide and 12MP telephoto, enabling 2x optical zoom and Portrait mode on more subjects, including pets and objects. The XR, by contrast, has a single 12MP wide lens but uses computational photography to simulate depth for Portrait mode.

In daylight, both cameras produce excellent results with natural colors and good dynamic range. The XS pulls ahead in low light and zoomed scenarios. Its telephoto lens allows tighter framing without digital loss, and Smart HDR handles shadows and highlights more gracefully.

However, the XR’s larger pixel size (1.4µm vs 1.22µm on the XS) gives it a slight edge in low-light sensitivity. Combined with Apple’s image signal processor, the XR often produces brighter night shots with less noise—though at the cost of some detail.

Feature	iPhone XS	iPhone XR
Display Type	OLED	LCD
Screen Size	5.8\"	6.1\"
Rear Cameras	Dual 12MP (wide + telephoto)	Single 12MP (wide)
Portrait Mode	All subjects + lighting effects	People only
Battery Life (Video Playback)	Up to 14 hours	Up to 16 hours
RAM	4GB	3GB
Starting Storage	64GB	64GB
Water Resistance	IP68 (2m for 30 mins)	IP67 (1m for 30 mins)

Battery Life and Real-World Usability

Apple rated the XR with up to 16 hours of video playback, outperforming the XS’s 14-hour estimate. In practice, users consistently report an extra 1–2 hours of screen-on time with the XR, thanks to its larger battery and efficient LCD panel.

For heavy users—those streaming music, navigating, or using GPS—the XR’s endurance makes a tangible difference. It’s not uncommon for the XS to require a midday charge during travel or long workdays, while the XR often lasts from morning to bedtime on a single charge.

Charging speeds are identical: both support 18W fast charging (with compatible adapter) and Qi wireless charging. Neither includes a fast charger in the box, so upgrading requires an additional investment.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah, a freelance photographer based in Portland, needed a reliable iPhone for client communication, editing apps, and portfolio sharing. She considered both the XS and XR at a local resale shop, priced at $220 and $180 respectively.

Initially drawn to the XS’s OLED screen and dual cameras, she ultimately chose the XR after testing both. “I realized I rarely zoomed optically,” she said. “And the extra battery life meant I could shoot tethered to my drone without worrying about power.”

After six months, she hasn’t missed the telephoto lens and appreciates the lower insurance premium due to the cheaper replacement cost. For her workflow, the XR delivered 90% of the camera quality at 80% of the price—with better battery to boot.

Value Proposition in 2024: Price, Availability, and Resale

Today, the iPhone XR typically sells for $150–$190 in good condition, while the XS ranges from $200–$260 depending on storage and cosmetic state. That $50–$70 gap is significant for budget-conscious buyers.

Additionally, the XR tends to have lower failure rates over time. Fewer moving parts (no 3D Touch mechanism), a simpler display assembly, and broader temperature tolerance contribute to longer functional life. Repair costs are also notably lower—replacing an XR screen averages $80–$120, compared to $150–$200 for the XS.

Resale value follows a similar trend. After one year of ownership, the XR retains about 60% of its purchase price, while the XS holds closer to 50%, largely due to higher initial depreciation and fragility concerns.

Tip: Always check battery health before buying. Anything below 80% capacity will need a $49 Apple service or third-party replacement to restore full usability.

Checklist: What to Verify Before Buying Either Model

• ✅ Confirm battery health is above 80%
• ✅ Check for iCloud lock (ask for proof of sign-out)
• ✅ Inspect screen for burn-in (especially on XS OLED)
• ✅ Test all buttons, speakers, and charging port
• ✅ Verify carrier compatibility (XR has CDMA/GSM; XS varies by model)
• ✅ Look for water damage indicators inside SIM tray

FAQ

Can both phones run iOS 18?

While not officially confirmed, historical patterns suggest both the iPhone XS and XR will support iOS 18, expected in fall 2024. However, performance may degrade slightly, especially on the XS with heavier visual effects.

Is the iPhone XR camera really that much worse?

For casual photographers, the difference is minimal. The XR excels in daylight and produces vibrant, well-balanced photos. You’ll only notice limitations in low light with zoom or when using Portrait mode on non-human subjects.

Which should I buy if I want it to last two more years?

The iPhone XR is the safer bet. Its battery life, lower repair costs, and proven durability make it more sustainable for long-term use. Unless you prioritize display quality or optical zoom, the XR offers better overall value.

Final Verdict: The XR Wins on Value

In 2024, the iPhone XR emerges as the smarter purchase despite being the “lesser” model at launch. Its combination of strong performance, superior battery life, lower cost, and greater resilience makes it ideal for students, secondary-device users, or anyone entering the iPhone ecosystem affordably.

The iPhone XS still appeals to those who appreciate premium materials and a more compact form factor. But unless you specifically need the telephoto lens or OLED display for creative work, its advantages don’t justify the higher price tag or fragility.

Technology evolves, but value is timeless. When comparing real-world utility against cost, the iPhone XR proves that sometimes, the more practical choice is also the better one.

🚀 Ready to make a smart upgrade? Reconsider what “premium” means—not just how it looks, but how it lasts. Share your experience with older iPhones and help others choose wisely!