EDITOR'S NOTE:
Since their releases in 2019 and 2018, respectively, the iPhone 11 and iPhone XR have been replaced by newer iPhone models. Although several years old, the iPhone 11 will continue to support the latest iOS software updates. The iPhone XR no longer receives Apple software support and is considered obsolete.
The information below reflects the data and pricing at the time of the devices' release dates, and availability will differ from when we first reviewed them. You can upgrade to a newer iPhone, or you may still be able to find refurbished models of these devices through retailers such as Amazon or eBay.
Apple's iPhone 11 is a worthy successor to last year's iPhone XS, featuring an awesome camera, bigger battery and powerful processor—all for just $699. Of course, the XR is no slouch either, an affordable performer ($599) that has emerged as one of the most popular iPhones ever.
Whether you're trying to decide between the iPhone XR or this year's iPhone 11—or debating upgrading to the 11—you'll want to read through our breakdown of their respective specs below.
Compare iPhone 11 vs. iPhone XR specs
Where can I buy a refurbished iPhone?
If you’re buying a refurbished iPhone, prioritize trusted sellers that offer warranties, proper testing, and return policies. Generally, the best places to get a used iPhone in great condition or with replaced parts are from Apple itself or massive retailers like Amazon or Best Buy.
You can buy a refurbished iPhone on:
Although cheaper deals exist on peer-to-peer platforms (like OfferUp), the risk of getting a faulty or blacklisted device might not be worth the savings.
iPhone 11 Vs. iPhone XR: Which camera is better?
Two is better than one, right? The iPhone XR sports a single rear-facing 12MP wide-angle camera, while the iPhone 11 has both a wide and ultra wide camera. This dual camera setup allows you to accurately capture both tight spaces and expansive landscapes in a way that you can't with the XR. Video recording is also better with the iPhone 11, making use of real-time editing and the ability to switch between lenses (both the 11 and the XR can take 4K video though). On the front, the iPhone XR has a 7MP camera, while the 11 has a 12MP camera.
Quick Take: Cameras
The iPhone XR has a single rear-facing lens, while the iPhone 11 has two.
iPhone 11 Vs. iPhone XR: Battery life
One of the most impressive things about the iPhone XR is its battery, giving you up to 16 hours of video playback on a single charge. The iPhone 11 ups the ante even further with a bigger battery (3,110 mAh to the XR's 2,942 mAh), good for an hour more life over the XR.
Really, though, the iPhone 11 and iPhone XR's batteries are so similar in size and performance that the real-world difference is probably fairly negligible.
Quick Take: Battery Life
The iPhone 11 and iPhone XR sport similar battery sizes. The iPhone 11 lasts up to 1 hour longer than the iPhone XR, according to Apple.
iPhone 11 Vs. iPhone XR: Performance
The A12 chip that powers the iPhone XR (as well as the now-discontinued XS) was the fastest chipset in any smartphone in 2018. The new A13 chip found in the iPhone 11 outdoes its predecessor in every respect, with 1.5 billion more transistors, better thermal management, and 20% faster speed. It's an instant industry leader, and should help to make the experience of using the iPhone 11 pretty excellent.
Quick Take: Processor
The A12 processor that powers the iPhone XR was the fastest smartphone chip in 2018. The A13 that powers the iPhone 11 is 20% faster and 15% more power efficient.
iPhone 11 Vs. iPhone XR: Build, Display, Colors
Build
Both the iPhone XR and the iPhone 11 feature aluminum and glass designs (their more expensive cousins, the iPhone XS and iPhone 11 Pro, are made of stainless steel), though the latter sports what Apple calls "the toughest glass in a smartphone."
Display
The iPhone XR and the iPhone 11 sport identical 6.1" Liquid Retina LCD displays.
Colors
Like the iPhone XR, the iPhone 11 is available in black, white, yellow and red, but swaps out blue and coral for (a very attractive) green and purple.
iPhone 11 Vs. iPhone XR: Pricing and availability
Because they are much older models, both the iPhone 11 and iPhone XR are reasonably priced, by today's standards. A refurbished iPhone XR can be found around $150 on sites like Amazon, eBay, and Best Buy, while an iPhone 11 will run you around $250 for a used model.
Quick Take: Cost
Both the iPhone XR and iPhone 11's prices fall well short of the standard iPhone cost due to their discontinued status.
iPhone 11 Vs. iPhone XR: Which is worth buying?
The iPhone XR was a great phone upon its debut, and it remains a great one today. It's got a fast processor, powerful battery and capable camera—all for just $599. The iPhone 11 improves in all of these areas fairly significantly, and is only $100 more than the XR. The upgrade from the XR to the 11 might not be worth shelling out for, but if you're buying new we'd suggest springing for the iPhone 11. Really, though, you can't go wrong with either device.
Chris Holmes
Staff Writer
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