iPhone Xs or Xr: The differences at a glance
You face a choice. The iPhone Xs or the iPhone Xr ? Both of Apple's top models seem very similar at first glance, complete with Face ID and a large bezel-less screen. You can expand them both with the same stylish accessories or wireless AirPods. Yet there are significant differences that can significantly reduce your wallet. Because although the more expensive Xs distinguishes itself with an OLED screen and dual camera , the Xr surprisingly offers more ease of use for the average user: a better battery life, brighter colors and a price tag that leaves room for those coveted extras. So the question isn't which iPhone is better, but which suits you better.
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Display: LCD vs OLED
One key difference between the iPhone Xs and Xr is the screen type. The Xr has a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display, while the Xs features a 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED display. The OLED panel delivers better colors, higher contrast, and HDR support. This makes images appear more realistic. Still, the Xr's LCD display isn't bad at all—most users will be very happy with it. Only choose the Xs if you truly want the very best screen available.
Camera: single vs. dual
Photography works fine with both iPhones, but there are differences. The Xr has one main camera, while the Xs has two. Advantages of the dual Xs lenses include lossless optical zoom and better foreground and background separation in portrait photos. The Xr relies more on software for these functions. For the average user, however, the single Xr camera will serve them just fine.
Design and specs
In terms of size, the 6.1-inch Xr fits between the 5.8-inch Xs and 6.5-inch Xs Max. The Xr also comes in more vibrant colors than the stark standard colors of the Xs series. The aluminum side bezel of the Xr is slightly wider than the steel bezel of the Xs.
Other differences lie in the storage capacity (Xs up to 512GB vs Xr up to 256GB), the memory (Xs 4GB vs Xr 3GB) and the pressure sensitivity of the screen (Xs 3D Touch vs Xr Haptic Touch). The Xr has a slightly better battery life (15 hours vs 12-13 hours).
Conclusion
All in all, the iPhone Xs is the more advanced device in several areas: a better screen, a more versatile camera, faster hardware. This does come with a higher price tag. However, the iPhone Xr offers more than enough quality and options for most people at a more attractive price. Decide for yourself which features you really find important and what budget you have available. That way, you'll find the iPhone that suits you best.
Which iPhone is right for you?
The choice between an iPhone Xs or Xr is mainly a personal consideration. Are you a demanding user looking for the best of the best in terms of image quality and photography? Then the Xs with its OLED screen and dual camera is the right choice. On the other hand, are you looking for a powerful iPhone with excellent specifications, longer battery life and a more attractive price tag? Then the Xr offers the best value for money. Both devices are excellent smartphones that will give you years of enjoyment.
