Introduction: Why the iPhone XR Still Matters
When Apple released the iPhone XR in 2018, it was designed as a budget-friendly alternative to the premium XS and XS Max. But even years later, the XR remains one of Apple’s most popular devices thanks to its mix of performance, design, and affordability.
If you’re considering buying an iPhone XR in 2025, or just want to know what makes it special, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks down everything you need to know: features, specs, performance, and whether it’s still worth it today.
iPhone XR Design and Build
Apple struck gold with the iPhone XR’s design.
- Colors: Unlike its siblings, the XR came in vibrant shades like blue, coral, yellow, and red, making it one of the most stylish iPhones ever.
- Size: With a 6.1-inch display, it hit the sweet spot, not too big, not too small.
- Materials: It featured an aluminum frame and glass back, offering wireless charging while maintaining durability.
Even now, the iPhone XR design feels modern, especially compared to budget phones in its price range.
Display: Liquid Retina Brilliance
Instead of an OLED panel, the iPhone XR uses a Liquid Retina LCD display. While some critics pointed out the lower resolution compared to the XS, most users found it sharp and colorful.
- Resolution: 1792 x 828 pixels
- True Tone: Adjusts white balance based on lighting conditions
- Color Accuracy: Wide color gamut for vibrant visuals
For everyday use, streaming, browsing, social media, the display holds up beautifully even in 2025.
iPhone XR Camera: Simplicity Meets Quality
Apple kept things simple with the iPhone XR’s camera system.
- Rear Camera: 12MP wide-angle lens with Smart HDR and portrait mode.
- Front Camera: 7MP TrueDepth camera with Face ID support.
Despite having a single rear lens, the XR’s portrait mode uses software to create depth-of-field effects, making it great for casual photography.
Even now, the XR is capable of capturing bright, colorful photos that rival many mid-range phones today.
Performance: Powered by the A12 Bionic Chip
Under the hood, the iPhone XR runs on Apple’s A12 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone XS and XS Max.
What this means for users:
- Smooth Performance: Apps, games, and multitasking remain snappy.
- iOS Updates: The XR continues to receive iOS updates, ensuring security and access to new features.
- Longevity: The A12 chip ensures the XR won’t feel outdated for most daily tasks.
For a phone released in 2018, that’s impressive.
Battery Life: A Hidden Strength
One of the most underrated aspects of the iPhone XR is its battery life.
- Capacity: 2,942 mAh
- Performance: Often outlasts the iPhone XS thanks to its lower-resolution display.
- Charging: Supports wireless charging and fast charging (with an 18W adapter).
Even in 2025, users report solid all-day battery life for streaming, texting, and browsing.
iPhone XR vs. Newer Models
So how does the XR compare to Apple’s newer releases?
- Against iPhone 11: The XR is very similar, but the 11 added an ultra-wide camera and slightly better battery.
- Against iPhone 13/14: The XR can’t compete with OLED screens, 5G support, or advanced cameras.
- Against iPhone SE (2022): The SE has a newer chip, but many prefer the XR’s modern design and larger display.
If you don’t need cutting-edge specs, the XR remains a great budget-friendly iPhone option.
Is the iPhone XR Still Worth Buying in 2025?
The answer depends on your needs.
Yes, if you:
- Want an affordable iPhone with Face ID.
- Value battery life and performance for everyday tasks.
- Don’t need 5G or high-end camera features.
Maybe not, if you:
- Need the latest camera technology.
- Want 5G connectivity.
- Plan to keep your phone for another 5+ years.
At the right price, the iPhone XR still offers tremendous value in 2025.
Pros and Cons of the iPhone XR
Pros:
- Affordable compared to newer iPhones.
- Great battery life.
- Face ID and modern design.
- Wide variety of fun colors.
Cons:
- Single rear camera.
- No OLED display.
- Lacks 5G support.
Final Thoughts
The iPhones XR may not be Apple’s newest release, but it remains one of the best-value iPhones you can buy. With reliable performance, solid battery life, and a timeless design, it’s a strong contender for budget-conscious Apple fans in 2025.
Whether you’re upgrading from an older model or just want an affordable entry point into the Apple ecosystem, the iPhonse XR still delivers.
FAQs
1. Does the iPhones XR support 5G?
No, the iPhone XR only supports 4G LTE. For 5G, you’ll need the iPhone 12 or newer.
2. How long will the iPhones XR receive iOS updates?
Apple typically supports iPhones for 5–6 years. The XR is still receiving updates in 2025, but support may taper off within a few years.
3. Is the iPhones XR waterproof?
The iPhones XR has an IP67 rating, meaning it can survive being submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes.
