iPhone XR 128GB – If you’re on the fence about picking up the iPhone XR, or just curious about how the 128GB version holds up in 2024, I get it. The iPhone XR was released in 2018, and even though newer iPhones are out now, the XR still holds its ground in terms of performance, price, and features. I’ve had the chance to play around with the 128GB model for a while, and here are 7 key features you really need to know. I’ll also be honest about a few hiccups I’ve had along the way, just to keep it real.
1. Display Quality: The Liquid Retina Screen Holds Up
Let’s start with the screen. The iPhone XR was one of the first to use Apple’s “Liquid Retina” display, and though it doesn’t quite match up to the OLED screens of newer iPhones, it’s still pretty impressive. It’s a 6.1-inch LCD that has bright, vibrant colors and gets decently sharp in almost all lighting conditions.
I’ll admit, I was a little skeptical at first. Coming from a phone with an OLED display, I thought I’d immediately notice the difference. But honestly, for day-to-day use, it’s hardly a dealbreaker. It’s still sharp enough to binge Netflix or scroll Instagram for hours. In fact, I’ve actually been impressed by how crisp images still look. If you’re not a hardcore pixel peeper, you’ll likely be fine with this screen.
2. Camera Quality: Surprisingly Good for the Price
Now, this one surprised me. The iPhone XR packs a 12MP single-lens rear camera. I know, I know—it’s a single lens, and we’re in a world of multiple lenses on phones nowadays. But hear me out: the photos you get with this camera still look amazing, especially in daylight. The colors pop, and the detail is crisp.
Low-light performance? It’s decent. It’s not going to blow you away, especially compared to newer iPhones with their advanced Night Mode, but it still does the job. I found that if you’re in a slightly darker area, it might take a few extra seconds to focus, but once it locks in, the photo quality is solid.
The 7MP front-facing camera is also no slouch. It’s perfect for selfies or video calls. Plus, I think FaceTime looks better on this phone than on some of the newer iPhones. It has a sort of “natural” feel to it that I’ve found more pleasing than the overly enhanced filters you sometimes get on other devices.
3. Performance: Powered by the A12 Bionic Chip
I’ll admit, when I first picked up the iPhone XR, I wasn’t expecting it to be as fast as the newer models. But the A12 Bionic chip is still more than capable in 2024. Whether I’m playing graphic-heavy games, switching between multiple apps, or even running AR experiences, the phone handles it all without breaking a sweat.
Now, I’ve read some complaints about how older iPhones might feel sluggish after a couple of years, and I’ll be honest, I did notice a tiny bit of slowdown here and there. But overall, the XR still holds its own. The 128GB storage has been enough for me—plenty of room for apps, photos, and music. If you’re a power user, maybe consider a newer model, but for most people, this thing will still perform just fine.
4. Battery Life: More Than Enough for a Full Day
I’ve always been a little paranoid about battery life. I mean, who isn’t? And the iPhone XR, with its 2942mAh battery, manages to give me about 7-8 hours of solid screen time, depending on how hard I’m pushing it. It’s definitely not the best battery out there, but it’s reliable. I’ve gotten through entire days of heavy use without the need for a midday charge, which is a win in my book.
Here’s a tip: if you’re watching videos or using the phone for social media for hours, you might see the battery dip a bit faster. But it still outlasts my old iPhone 8, and that’s saying something.
5. iOS Updates: It’s Still Supported
One of the great things about the iPhone XR is that it still gets regular iOS updates from Apple. That means you’re not stuck with outdated software and security patches. As someone who’s always on the lookout for new features or improvements, I’ve found this really reassuring. Even though the iPhone XR is technically a few years old, it’s still rocking the latest iOS updates as of 2024, which makes it feel fresh and modern.
Of course, there’s always the risk that in a year or two, Apple will drop support for older devices, but I’m not losing sleep over that just yet. If you’re on the fence about buying a used one, know that you’ll get a few more years of updates—at least.
6. Face ID: Still Pretty Awesome
Even though Face ID has been around for a while, I still think it’s one of the coolest features Apple has added to its phones. With the iPhone XR, you get Face ID, which uses advanced facial recognition to unlock your phone and make payments. I’ve never had major issues with it—it’s quick and secure, even in low-light conditions.
Now, the one downside is that Face ID isn’t as fast as some newer iPhones (like the iPhone 12 or 13), but it’s still incredibly reliable. If you’re used to using Face ID on other devices, the XR won’t disappoint.
7. Price: Still a Good Deal in 2024
Here’s the big thing: the iPhone XR is still a fantastic option if you’re on a budget or just looking for a deal. In 2024, it’s one of the more affordable iPhones you can get, especially if you’re considering used or refurbished models. It offers a premium experience without the premium price tag of the newer iPhones.
When I first picked up the XR, I was a bit hesitant because, you know, it’s older. But after using it for a while, I realized that for most people, it’s honestly all the phone they need. The 128GB storage gives you a good amount of space, and with its solid performance, camera, and battery life, I’d say it’s a great buy if you’re not itching for the latest and greatest.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get the iPhone XR 128GB?
In short, yes. The iPhone XR 128GB still holds up as an excellent choice for many users, especially if you want an affordable iPhone that doesn’t sacrifice too much in terms of features. Its display, performance, and camera still feel solid in 2024, and the iOS updates keep it fresh. While it might not have the cutting-edge features of newer models, it’s still an incredibly capable phone for most everyday tasks.
So, if you’re looking for a reliable, affordable option without breaking the bank, the iPhone XR might just be the sweet spot. Just keep in mind that if you’re a heavy gamer or need the absolute latest tech, you might want to explore newer models. But for the average user? The XR is still a great pick.
