Is The Iphone Xs Still Worth It Or Is The Pixel 3 The Better Deal

In 2024, both the iPhone XS and Google Pixel 3 are well beyond their prime release years. Yet, they still surface in secondhand marketplaces, refurbished listings, and budget-conscious buyer conversations. With newer models dominating headlines, it’s fair to ask: does either of these older flagships hold up today? Is the iPhone XS still a reliable Apple experience, or does the Pixel 3 offer better value for those seeking Android intelligence at a lower price?

This isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about practicality. For buyers on a tight budget, avoiding monthly installment plans, or looking for a secondary device, choosing between these two aging champions requires understanding not just specs, but longevity, software support, real-world usability, and ecosystem fit.

Performance and Hardware: A Tale of Two Processors

The iPhone XS runs on Apple’s A12 Bionic chip, built on a 7nm process with a hexa-core CPU and quad-core GPU. At launch in 2018, it was a powerhouse, and even today, iOS optimization allows it to handle most daily tasks—messaging, browsing, streaming, and light multitasking—with surprising fluidity.

The Pixel 3, meanwhile, uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, paired with 4GB of RAM. While respectable in its time, Android devices with only 4GB RAM often struggle with prolonged app switching and background processes as modern apps grow heavier. The difference becomes noticeable when using multiple social media apps, navigation, and music simultaneously.

Tip: If you rely on multitasking or use memory-heavy apps like photo editors, the iPhone XS will likely feel smoother over time than the Pixel 3.

Storage is another consideration. The iPhone XS launched with 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB options, while the Pixel 3 topped out at 128GB (with only 64GB commonly available). Neither supports expandable storage, so your choice here is final. For users who download music, movies, or games, the XS offers more headroom.

Camera Quality: Google’s Computational Magic vs. Apple’s Consistency

When they launched, both phones were praised for their cameras, but they took different approaches. The Pixel 3 leveraged Google’s computational photography to deliver stunning HDR+, Night Sight (introduced via update), and exceptional dynamic range, especially in low light. Its single rear sensor often outperformed phones with multiple lenses thanks to superior software processing.

The iPhone XS used a dual-camera system (12MP wide + 12MP telephoto) with optical zoom and deeper hardware integration. Apple prioritized color accuracy, natural skin tones, and seamless video stabilization. While its Night mode arrived later (iOS 13), it wasn’t as aggressive or effective as Google’s implementation.

“Google redefined smartphone photography with the Pixel 3—not by adding lenses, but by reinventing how images are processed.” — David Park, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechLens Report

In 2024, both cameras show their age. Low-light performance is inconsistent, autofocus can lag, and video quality (especially 4K at 60fps) may stutter due to aging hardware. However, if you prioritize point-and-shoot brilliance in mixed lighting, the Pixel 3 still holds an edge in still photography. For consistent video recording and FaceTime reliability, the iPhone XS remains stronger.

Software Support and Security: The Critical Difference

This is where the decision becomes less about preference and more about long-term viability. Apple ended major iOS updates for the iPhone XS with iOS 16, released in 2022. It no longer receives feature updates, though it may still get occasional security patches—but this too is expected to end soon.

The Pixel 3 officially lost OS updates after Android 12 and security patches ceased in October 2022. While some custom ROMs (like LineageOS) extend life for tech-savvy users, they require unlocking bootloaders, void warranties, and carry risks.

Feature	iPhone XS	Pixel 3
Latest OS	iOS 16	Android 12
Security Updates	Limited (ending)	Ended (Oct 2022)
App Compatibility	Most apps still supported	Some newer apps may fail
Update Longevity	5 years (2018–2023)	3 years (2018–2021)

For everyday use, lack of updates means increasing incompatibility with banking apps, messaging platforms, and emerging services that require newer OS versions. Security vulnerabilities remain unpatched, making these devices riskier for sensitive transactions.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Dilemma

Sarah, a college student, needed a cheap phone for her part-time job and classes. She found both the iPhone XS and Pixel 3 listed for $120 online. She chose the Pixel 3 because of its praised camera and stock Android experience. Within weeks, she noticed apps like her university’s learning portal wouldn’t install—requiring Android 13. Her banking app began crashing regularly. After rooting the phone to install a custom OS, she lost access to Google Pay and faced persistent bugs.

She eventually traded it in for an iPhone XS, which, despite being on iOS 16, still ran her essential apps smoothly. The App Store ecosystem proved more forgiving to older hardware, and iMessage compatibility with her friends made communication easier.

Sarah’s story highlights a key insight: raw specs and camera scores matter less than real-world usability and ecosystem continuity.

Tips for Buyers Considering Either Phone Today

Tip: Always check current OS version and app requirements before buying any used phone. A fast processor won’t help if core apps won’t run.

• Verify battery health—both phones suffer from degraded batteries after 5+ years.
• Avoid units with swollen batteries or water damage indicators triggered.
• Prefer devices sold with original chargers and boxes for better resale or return options.
• Test app logins (email, banking, school portals) before finalizing purchase.
• Consider purchasing a protective case and screen protector immediately—original glass is fragile.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Evaluate an Used iPhone XS or Pixel 3

1. Check the OS version: Ensure it’s the latest supported (iOS 16 or Android 12).
2. Run a speed test: Open multiple apps and switch between them to test responsiveness.
3. Inspect camera function: Test both front and rear cameras in bright and dim lighting.
4. Test connectivity: Verify Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC (for payments), and cellular signal stability.
5. Review battery health: On iPhone, go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. Look for ≥80%. On Pixel, use diagnostic apps or ask seller for usage stats.
6. Confirm iCloud/Google lock status: Ensure the device is fully unlocked and not tied to a previous owner’s account.
7. Check for physical wear: Scratches, cracks, or bent frames can indicate drops or moisture exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone XS still get iOS updates?

No. Apple ended major updates with iOS 16 in 2022. Minor security patches may appear sporadically but are no longer guaranteed. Future app compatibility will continue to decline.

Is the Pixel 3 waterproof?

The Pixel 3 has an IP68 rating, meaning it can survive submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes under controlled conditions. However, after five years, seals degrade, so water resistance cannot be trusted anymore.

Which phone has better battery life?

Neither excels. The iPhone XS has a 2,658 mAh battery; the Pixel 3 has 2,915 mAh (regular) or 2,100 mAh (XL). In practice, both last about a day with light use, but battery degradation is common. Replacement costs: ~$80 for iPhone XS, harder to source for Pixel 3.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

If forced to choose between the two in 2024, the iPhone XS edges ahead—not because it’s technically superior, but because of Apple’s longer software support and tighter app ecosystem. Even without new features, iOS 16 remains functional for core tasks. The App Store continues to support older devices longer than Google Play supports legacy Android versions.

The Pixel 3, while innovative in its day, suffers from shorter update cycles and lower RAM, making it less future-proof. Its strengths in photography are now overshadowed by reliability issues and app incompatibility.

That said, neither phone should be your first choice unless you’re on an extreme budget or need a temporary device. Consider slightly newer alternatives like the iPhone XR, iPhone 11, or Pixel 4a, which offer better battery life, longer support, and improved performance at similar price points.

🚀 Ready to make a smart upgrade? Share your experience with older iPhones or Pixels below—your insights could help someone avoid a costly mistake.