When Apple unveiled the iPhone XR in 2018, it quickly became a popular choice for users who sought a balance between high-end performance and affordability. As technology advances and newer iPhone models are released, many potential buyers still wonder: Is the iPhone XR a good phone in 2025? In this article, we will delve into the key aspects of the iPhone XR, evaluate its pros and cons, and help you determine whether it remains a worthy investment today.
Design and Display
The iPhone XR stands out with its sleek design, featuring an aluminum frame and a glass back. Available in a range of vibrant colors, including coral, yellow, white, black, blue, and red, the XR offers plenty of options for users who appreciate a personalized touch. While not as premium as the stainless steel of the iPhone XS or the iPhone 11 Pro, the aluminum frame still provides a solid and attractive finish.
The 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display, which boasts a resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels, delivers sharp and accurate color reproduction. While it may not match the OLED displays of higher-end iPhones like the iPhone 12 or iPhone 13, the display on the XR is bright and crisp, making it a pleasant experience for casual media consumption, web browsing, and gaming.
Performance
Powered by Apple’s A12 Bionic chip, the iPhone XR remains a powerhouse in terms of performance. Even though newer iPhones are equipped with more powerful processors, the A12 Bionic chip is still capable of handling most tasks effortlessly. Whether you’re multitasking, streaming content, playing graphics-intensive games, or using demanding apps, the XR remains snappy and responsive.
With 3GB of RAM, the device handles day-to-day operations without any major slowdowns, and it is more than adequate for typical smartphone use. While newer models like the iPhone 13 or 14 have significantly more RAM, 3GB still holds up well for most users, especially in light of Apple’s optimization of iOS.
Camera Quality
The iPhone XR features a 12MP rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture, capable of capturing sharp, detailed images with true-to-life colors. While it lacks the dual-lens system seen in the iPhone XS and iPhone 11, the single camera does an admirable job, especially in well-lit conditions. The Smart HDR feature helps enhance details in both bright and dark areas, resulting in balanced photos.
In low-light situations, the camera is not as impressive as newer iPhone models with Night Mode, but it’s still a solid performer for most casual photographers. The 7MP front-facing camera also provides decent selfies and supports Portrait Mode with adjustable lighting effects, making it a good option for those who enjoy snapping photos and videos.
Battery Life
Apple equipped the iPhone XR with a 2942mAh battery, which offers all-day battery life under typical usage. On a single charge, users can expect up to 16 hours of video playback and up to 25 hours of talk time. While newer iPhone models with larger batteries or more power-efficient chips may last longer, the iPhone XR’s battery remains impressive by 2025 standards.
Charging the iPhone XR is fast with the support of 15W fast charging, though you’ll need to purchase a USB-C to Lightning cable and a compatible charger separately, as these are not included in the box.
Software and Updates
The iPhone XR launched with iOS 12, but since its release, it has received several software updates, including the latest iOS 17. Apple is known for providing long-term software support for its devices, and the iPhone XR is no exception. This means that users can continue to enjoy new features, security patches, and improvements for years to come.
In 2025, the iPhone XR is still supported and will likely continue to receive software updates for at least another two years. This longevity makes the iPhone XR a good long-term investment for those who prefer keeping their phones for several years.
Price and Value
One of the main selling points of the iPhone XR is its value for money. As Apple has discontinued the model in favor of newer iterations, the iPhone XR is now available at a significantly reduced price, especially in the second-hand market. With its solid performance, decent camera, and excellent battery life, the iPhone XR offers great value compared to newer iPhone models that come with premium price tags.
When you compare the iPhone XR to the latest iPhone models, you’re likely to save hundreds of dollars while still getting a phone that delivers an impressive user experience.
Pros and Cons of the iPhone XR
Pros:
- Solid performance with A12 Bionic chip
- Colorful, premium design
- Excellent battery life
- Long-term software updates
- Affordable compared to newer models
- Good camera for the price
Cons:
- LCD display is not as sharp or vibrant as OLED displays
- No Night Mode for low-light photography
- Limited RAM compared to newer models
- No 5G support
Is the iPhone XR Still a Good Phone?
For users who don’t require the latest and greatest features, the iPhone XR remains an excellent choice. It provides a balanced mix of performance, design, and affordability. While it lacks certain features found in more recent models, like 5G connectivity, Night Mode for photography, and OLED displays, the iPhone XR’s A12 Bionic chip, solid camera, and long-lasting battery life still make it a competitive option in 2025.
If you’re on a budget or looking for a reliable iPhone experience without breaking the bank, the iPhone XR is definitely worth considering. However, if you prioritize cutting-edge features or plan on using your phone for several more years, you might want to explore newer models with better displays, improved cameras, and enhanced performance.
Ultimately, whether the iPhone XR is the right phone for you depends on your specific needs, budget, and how much you’re willing to compromise on newer technologies.
