Iphone Xs Vs Xr Three Years Later Is The Xs Still Worth It 4

Three years after their release, the iPhone XS and iPhone XR remain relevant for users considering budget-friendly iOS devices. While both launched in 2018 with the same A12 Bionic chip and iOS 12, they diverged in build, display, and camera quality. Today, in 2024, the question isn’t about launch excitement—it’s about real-world endurance. Is the premium price of the XS still justified when compared to the more affordable XR? For users weighing a secondhand purchase or holding onto an older device, this analysis cuts through marketing and focuses on daily usability, software support, and long-term value.

Performance and Software Longevity

The iPhone XS and XR both run on Apple’s A12 Bionic chip—a significant leap over its predecessor and still capable of handling iOS 17 efficiently. As of 2024, both devices officially support the latest version of iOS, though performance varies slightly under heavy workloads.

The XS benefits from 4GB of RAM compared to the XR’s 3GB. This difference becomes noticeable when multitasking—switching between apps like Safari, Instagram, and Maps. The XS maintains background apps more reliably, reducing reloads and improving fluidity. In contrast, the XR may occasionally refresh tabs or restart apps after extended use.

Tip: Disable background app refresh and reduce motion effects to extend responsiveness on either model.

Storage also plays a role. The XS launched with 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB options, while the XR maxed out at 256GB. Users with large photo libraries or those who install many apps will appreciate the XS’s higher capacity, especially as iOS updates grow larger each year.

Display and Build Quality Differences

The most immediate distinction between the two models lies in their displays and construction. The iPhone XS features a 5.8-inch OLED Super Retina display with deeper blacks, superior contrast, and HDR support. The XR uses a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD panel—bright and colorful, but lacking in pixel density and true black reproduction.

In practical terms, watching videos or using dark mode apps on the XS provides a noticeably richer experience. OLED also contributes to better battery efficiency in dark interfaces, giving the XS a subtle edge despite its smaller physical size.

Build materials further widen the gap. The XS has a stainless steel frame and glass back, lending it a premium feel. The XR uses aluminum, which is lighter but more prone to scuffs. Both are rated IP67 for water resistance, meaning they can survive brief submersion, but the XS’s sturdier frame inspires more confidence over time.

“After three years, build quality directly impacts resale value and user satisfaction. Devices that feel premium tend to be cared for longer.” — David Lin, Mobile Device Analyst at TechInsight Group

Camera Performance in Real-World Use

For many buyers, camera quality remains a deciding factor. Here, the XS holds a clear advantage. It features a dual 12MP camera system (wide and telephoto) with 2x optical zoom, Portrait mode on both lenses, and improved low-light processing. The XR has a single 12MP wide lens, relying on digital zoom and computational cropping for Portrait mode.

Over time, the limitations of the XR’s camera become more apparent. Zoomed shots lose detail quickly. Low-light photos exhibit more noise and less dynamic range. While Smart HDR helps bridge the gap, it can’t replicate the depth control and optical precision of the XS.

Videography is comparable—both shoot 4K at 60fps—but the XS supports stereo recording and has slightly better stabilization. For casual users, the XR’s camera is sufficient. But for those who regularly share photos or value creative control, the XS delivers consistently better results.

Feature	iPhone XS	iPhone XR
Display Type	OLED	LCD
Resolution	2436 x 1125	1792 x 828
Rear Cameras	Dual 12MP (Wide + Telephoto)	Single 12MP (Wide)
Portrait Mode	Both rear lenses + front	Cropped rear + front
RAM	4GB	3GB
Battery Life (Video Playback)	Up to 14 hours	Up to 16 hours
Starting Storage	64GB	64GB
Max Storage	512GB	256GB

Battery Life and Long-Term Usability

Battery degradation is inevitable after three years. Original battery health on either device likely ranges between 75%–85%, depending on charging habits. Apple recommends replacing batteries below 80% for optimal performance.

The XR has a slight edge in battery life due to its less power-hungry LCD screen and larger battery capacity. It averages 16 hours of video playback versus the XS’s 14. However, real-world usage shows diminishing returns. Background processes, location services, and app inefficiencies impact both equally as iOS grows heavier.

Charging speed is identical—neither supports faster than 18W wired charging without a third-party adapter. Both lack MagSafe, introduced in 2020. Wireless charging works on any Qi-compatible pad, but heat buildup over time can accelerate battery wear.

Tip: Replace the battery if health drops below 80%. A $49 Apple service can restore near-new performance.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah has used her iPhone XR since 2019. By late 2023, she noticed apps taking longer to load, frequent crashes in Safari, and sluggish camera response. She considered upgrading but found refurbished iPhone XS units priced only $50 higher.

She purchased one with 90% battery health and 256GB storage. Immediately, she noticed smoother multitasking, crisper photos, and better night-time visibility on the OLED screen. Though the battery life was slightly shorter, the overall experience felt more modern. After six months, she reported no slowdowns even after updating to iOS 17.4.

Her decision illustrates a key insight: for users already experiencing performance fatigue, investing a little more in a higher-tier legacy model often extends usability by another 1–2 years.

Checklist: Is Your iPhone XS or XR Still Viable in 2024?

• ✅ Check battery health in Settings > Battery > Battery Health
• ✅ Ensure you’re running the latest iOS version compatible with your needs
• ✅ Clear unused apps and offload photos to iCloud or external storage
• ✅ Consider a battery replacement if health is below 80%
• ✅ Evaluate your camera and multitasking needs—do they exceed the XR’s limits?
• ✅ Compare resale or trade-in value before deciding to upgrade

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the iPhone XS and XR get iOS 18?

As of current Apple patterns, iOS 18 (expected late 2024) may drop support for the A12 chip. Both the XS and XR could be among the last to receive major updates. Users should prepare for eventual obsolescence and consider upgrading if future-proofing is a priority.

Is the iPhone XS camera better than newer budget iPhones?

In daylight and moderate conditions, yes—the XS still produces sharp, well-balanced images. However, newer iPhones like the SE (3rd gen) or iPhone 11 offer Night mode, smarter HDR, and better autofocus, making them stronger all-around choices despite similar hardware age.

Which holds more resale value after three years?

The iPhone XS consistently retains higher resale value due to its premium materials, dual-camera system, and larger storage options. On average, a used XS sells for 15–25% more than an equivalent XR in similar condition.

Final Verdict: Is the XS Still Worth It?

Yes—but with caveats. If you’re buying used or holding onto your current device, the iPhone XS offers tangible advantages: a superior display, better camera flexibility, more RAM, and higher-end build. These factors translate into a smoother, more enjoyable experience in 2024.

The iPhone XR remains a capable device for light users, especially those prioritizing battery life and screen size over photographic precision. But for anyone who values image quality, multitasking, or long-term durability, the XS justifies its original premium—and still does today.

Ultimately, both phones have aged gracefully, a testament to Apple’s software support and hardware design. With a fresh battery and smart usage habits, either can serve another year or two. But if you have the choice, the XS is the more future-ready option—even four years later.

🚀 Still using an iPhone XS or XR? Share your experience—how has it held up for you? Join the conversation and help others decide their next move.