iPhone XR vs iPhone XS – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Apple iPhone XS & Apple iPhone XR share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Apple iPhone XS rather than the Apple iPhone XR. 

Why Do I Recommend The Apple iPhone XS

  • The Apple iPhone XS has a Super Retina OLED display that delivers vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast, compared to the iPhone XR’s Liquid Retina IPS LCD, providing a superior viewing experience.
  • Apple iPhone XS features a dual-camera system with a telephoto lens for 2x optical zoom and better portrait shots, compared to the iPhone XR’s single wide camera, offering more versatility in photography.
  • It has 4GB of RAM for smoother multitasking and faster performance compared to the iPhone XR’s 3GB.
  • The Apple iPhone XS supports more storage options up to 512GB to store significantly more data, apps, photos, and videos compared to the iPhone XR’s maximum of 256GB.
  • Apple iPhone XS has a higher pixel density (458 ppi) on its 5.8-inch display for sharper and clearer visuals compared to the iPhone XR’s 326 ppi.
  • The Apple iPhone XS is IP68 water and dust resistant to withstand submersion up to 2 meters for 30 minutes, compared to the iPhone XR’s IP67 rating (1 meter).
  • The Apple iPhone XS is built with a stainless steel frame for a more premium and durable build compared to the iPhone XR’s aluminum frame, enhancing longevity and a luxurious feel.

Maybe the Apple iPhone XR price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Apple iPhone XS. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureApple iPhone XSApple iPhone XR
Display TypeSuper Retina OLED, HDR10, Dolby VisionLiquid Retina IPS LCD
Display Resolution1125 x 2436 pixels, 458 ppi828 x 1792 pixels, 326 ppi
Display Size5.8 inches6.1 inches
Frame MaterialStainless steelAluminum
Camera (Rear)Dual 12MP, 2x optical zoomSingle 12MP (wide)
Optical Zoom2x optical zoomNo optical zoom
RAM4GB3GB
Storage Options64GB, 256GB, 512GB64GB, 128GB, 256GB
Battery Capacity2,658 mAh2,942 mAh
Battery Life (Talk)Up to 14 hoursUp to 16 hours
Water ResistanceIP68IP67
Weight177 grams194 grams
Dimensions143.6 x 70.9 x 7.7 mm150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3 mm
ColorsSpace Gray, Silver, GoldBlack, White, Blue, Yellow, Coral,RED
PriceCheck iPhone XS PriceCheck iPhone XR Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Operating System: Both iPhone XS and XR are compatible with the latest iOS updates, providing similar software features and functionality.
  • Processor: Both models are equipped with the A12 Bionic chip, ensuring similar performance for apps, multitasking, and gaming.
  • Face ID: Both phones use Face ID for secure biometric authentication, utilizing the TrueDepth camera system for facial recognition.
  • Front Camera and Features: Both feature a 7MP front camera with the same aperture, supporting Animoji, Memoji, and Portrait Mode selfies.
  • Wireless and Fast Charging: Both models support wireless charging via Qi technology and fast charging that can reach 50% battery in 30 minutes.
  • Audio: Both devices feature stereo speakers, delivering immersive sound for media playback and calls.
  • Water Resistance: While the certification differs (IP68 vs. IP67), both offer water and dust resistance, suitable for accidental splashes.
  • Connectivity: Both support dual SIM (Nano-SIM and eSIM), Bluetooth 5.0, and Wi-Fi with dual-band support, ensuring modern connectivity options.
  • Video Recording: Both can record 4K video at various frame rates (24, 30, 60 fps), as well as 1080p slow-motion videos.
  • Portrait Mode and Smart HDR: Both models offer advanced photography features like Smart HDR and Portrait Mode, enabling high-quality shots with depth effects.
  • Apple Pay and NFC: Both devices support NFC for contactless payments via Apple Pay, enhancing convenience in transactions.
  • AR Support: The A12 Bionic chip in both models supports augmented reality (AR) applications, making them compatible with AR-based apps and games.

Common Features

FeatureApple iPhone XSApple iPhone XR
Operating SystemiOSiOS
ProcessorA12 BionicA12 Bionic
Face IDYesYes
Front Camera7MP, f/2.27MP, f/2.2
Animoji/MemojiYesYes
TrueDepth CameraYesYes
Wireless ChargingYesYes
Fast ChargingYesYes
Lightning PortYesYes
Stereo SpeakersYesYes
Water ResistanceYesYes
SIM SupportNano-SIM and eSIMNano-SIM and eSIM
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 5.0
Wi-Fi VersionWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-bandWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band
NFCYesYes
Battery ChargingWireless and Fast ChargingWireless and Fast Charging
Video Recording4K at 24/30/60 fps4K at 24/30/60 fps
Portrait ModeYesYes
Smart HDRYesYes
Apple PayYesYes
AR SupportYesYes
Price Check iPhone XS Price Check iPhone XR Price

FAQ

Is the iPhone XS or iPhone XR better for photography?
The iPhone XS is generally better for photography due to its dual-camera system, which includes a telephoto lens for optical zoom and portrait mode with more depth control. The iPhone XR, with its single camera, lacks optical zoom and has fewer portrait lighting effects, but it still takes good quality photos with Smart HDR.

Do both the iPhone XS and iPhone XR have Face ID?
Yes, both the iPhone XS and iPhone XR are equipped with Face ID, utilizing the TrueDepth camera system for secure facial recognition and authentication. Face ID works similarly on both devices, allowing you to unlock your phone, make payments, and access apps securely.

Can both phones be wirelessly charged?
Yes, both the iPhone XS and iPhone XR support wireless charging using the Qi standard. You can charge either device on any Qi-compatible wireless charging pad. They also support fast charging, allowing for a 50% charge in about 30 minutes with a compatible fast charger.

Are the iPhone XS and iPhone XR water-resistant?
Yes, both models are water-resistant, but to different extents. The iPhone XS has an IP68 rating, which means it can withstand being submerged in water up to 2 meters for 30 minutes. The iPhone XR has an IP67 rating, allowing submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.

Do both phones support dual SIM functionality?
Yes, both the iPhone XS and iPhone XR support dual SIM functionality, featuring one physical Nano-SIM slot and an eSIM. This allows users to have two numbers or plans on one device, which is particularly useful for traveling or managing personal and work numbers.

Can I upgrade the iPhone XS and iPhone XR to the latest iOS?
Yes, both the iPhone XS and iPhone XR can be updated to the latest version of iOS. Apple provides software updates for several years, ensuring that both devices remain functional and secure with new features.

Which phone has better battery life, iPhone XS or iPhone XR?
The iPhone XR has slightly better battery life than the iPhone XS due to its larger battery capacity and more power-efficient LCD screen. The XR can provide up to 16 hours of talk time compared to 14 hours on the XS. This makes the XR more suitable for users who prioritize battery longevity.

Do both models support fast charging?
Yes, both the iPhone XS and iPhone XR support fast charging. With a compatible 18W charger or higher, both devices can charge up to 50% in around 30 minutes. However, fast chargers are not included in the box and must be purchased separately.

Are the displays on the iPhone XS and iPhone XR the same quality?
No, the displays are different in both quality and technology. The iPhone XS features a Super Retina OLED display, which offers higher resolution, better contrast, and more vibrant colors. The iPhone XR has a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, which is lower in resolution and lacks the deep blacks and contrast levels of the OLED panel.

Which phone is more durable, the iPhone XS or iPhone XR?
The iPhone XR is considered slightly more durable due to its aluminum frame, which is less prone to bending compared to the stainless steel frame of the iPhone XS. However, both devices have a glass back and front, making them vulnerable to cracks if dropped. Using a protective case and screen protector is recommended.

Can both phones record 4K video?
Yes, both the iPhone XS and iPhone XR are capable of recording 4K video at 24, 30, or 60 frames per second. They also support 1080p slow-motion video recording at 120 or 240 fps. Despite their similar video capabilities, the iPhone XS benefits from the dual-camera setup for additional optical zoom options.

Do both phones have portrait mode?
Yes, both the iPhone XS and iPhone XR offer portrait mode. However, the XS has more portrait lighting effects and the ability to use portrait mode with both the wide and telephoto lenses. The XR only uses the wide lens and has fewer lighting effects.

Which phone is more affordable, the iPhone XS or iPhone XR?
The iPhone XR was more affordable at launch compared to the iPhone XS, and this trend continues in the resale market. The XR’s lower price point makes it more accessible, especially for users who do not need the premium features of the XS.

Which model should I choose if I prefer a larger screen?
If screen size is your priority, the iPhone XR is the better choice as it has a 6.1-inch display compared to the iPhone XS’s 5.8-inch screen. While the XR’s display quality is slightly lower, the larger size provides a more immersive experience for media and gaming.

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