When Apple launched the iPhone 11, it brought with it a fresh wave of excitement and speculation: how does it stack up against its predecessors, especially the iPhone X, which itself was a game-changer at the time of its release? Both phones have carved their niches in the smartphone market, offering distinct experiences tailored to different user needs and preferences. In this comparison, we dive deep into what sets these models apart, from their design and display to performance and beyond, guiding you through each aspect to help you make an informed decision on which iPhone suits you best.
Related: iPhone 11 Compared to iPhone 14 Plus
iPhone 11 vs iPhone X
Trying to decide between the iPhone 11 and iPhone X? Both offer a premium Apple experience, but they cater to slightly different needs. This in-depth comparison will help you choose the champion for your pocket.
Design and Display
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone X |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1 inches (LCD) | 5.8 inches (OLED) |
| Resolution | 1792 x 828 | 2436 x 1125 |
| Build Material | Aluminum and Glass | Stainless Steel and Glass |
| Design | Notch display, thicker bezels | Notch display, slimmer bezels |
The iPhone 11 and iPhone X mark significant points in Apple’s design timeline, with the former introducing a more refined aesthetic and the latter being the harbinger of a new design era with its notch display. The iPhone X’s stainless steel frame and glass back exude a premium feel, while the iPhone 11, though also featuring a glass back, opts for an aluminum frame, balancing durability with elegance. The color options have expanded with the iPhone 11, offering a more personalized touch to your device.
Display technology has seen subtle but impactful improvements from the iPhone X to the iPhone 11. The iPhone X’s Super Retina display was a marvel of its time, offering crisp, vibrant visuals. The iPhone 11, while retaining the same Liquid Retina technology, enhances color accuracy and brightness, providing a more immersive viewing experience. Though both phones share similar screen sizes, the iPhone 11’s display tweaks ensure content pops with more liveliness and detail.
Camera
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone X |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera | Dual-lens (12MP Wide + 12MP Ultrawide) | Dual-lens (12MP Wide + 12MP Telephoto) |
| Front Camera | 12MP TrueDepth | 12MP TrueDepth |
| Video Recording | 4K up to 60fps | 4K up to 60fps |
| Night Mode | Yes | No |
The camera capabilities of the iPhone 11 significantly leap forward from the iPhone X. The iPhone X’s dual 12MP rear cameras were impressive, offering high-quality photography with portrait mode and optical zoom. The iPhone 11 builds on this foundation with a dual-camera system that includes a wide and ultra-wide lens, opening new possibilities for photography enthusiasts. Night mode, an addition with the iPhone 11, allows for stunning low-light photography, a feature absent in the iPhone X.
Beyond specifications, the real-world performance of these cameras reveals the iPhone 11’s superiority in versatility and image processing. The iPhone 11 not only captures wider scenes with its ultra-wide lens but also produces better-balanced shots in varied lighting conditions, thanks to its improved HDR and night mode. Whether you’re capturing a sprawling landscape or a dimly lit dinner scene, the iPhone 11 consistently delivers higher quality photos.
Performance and Battery Life
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone X |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | A13 Bionic | A11 Bionic |
| RAM | 4GB | 3GB |
| Battery Life | Up to 17 hours video playback | Up to 13 hours video playback |
The heart of any smartphone is its chipset, and here, the iPhone 11’s A13 Bionic chip outpaces the iPhone X’s A11 Bionic in both efficiency and performance. The A13 chip not only handles day-to-day tasks more smoothly but also supports more demanding applications and games without breaking a sweat. This boost in performance ensures that the iPhone 11 remains a powerful companion for longer, future-proofing your investment.
Battery life is a crucial consideration, and the iPhone 11 outshines the iPhone X with improvements in both capacity and management. While the iPhone X introduced wireless charging and respectable battery life, the iPhone 11 extends usage times significantly, thanks to its more efficient processor and larger battery. Fast charging capabilities have also been enhanced, making the iPhone 11 more adaptable to our fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyles.
Software
Apple’s software support is legendary, ensuring both the iPhone 11 and iPhone X receive the latest iOS updates simultaneously. However, the iPhone 11’s newer hardware means it’s better equipped to take full advantage of new features and enhancements introduced with each iOS update, from augmented reality applications to more sophisticated health tracking functionalities.
The iPhone 11 comes with a slew of exclusive software features, thanks to its advanced A13 chip and updated sensor package. Features like Deep Fusion and night mode in the camera app, along with more immersive augmented reality experiences, are not available on the iPhone X, offering iPhone 11 users a richer, more dynamic user experience.
Other Features
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone X |
|---|---|---|
| Water Resistance | Up to 2 meters for 30 minutes | Up to 1 meter for 30 minutes |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB |
When it comes to connectivity, the iPhone 11 makes notable strides over the iPhone X, introducing Wi-Fi 6 support for faster, more secure internet connections and improved Bluetooth technology for a more reliable connection to peripherals and wearables. These enhancements ensure smoother streaming, gaming, and overall online experiences, keeping you connected with greater efficiency.
The iPhone 11 also expands its arsenal of sensors and capabilities, including a new U1 chip for ultra-wideband (UWB) spatial awareness, paving the way for next-generation location tracking and device interaction. This, coupled with improved Face ID that works from more angles, ensures that the iPhone 11 offers not just incremental but meaningful improvements over its predecessor.
Pros & Cons
iPhone 11
- Pros: Larger display, superior battery life, powerful A13 Bionic chip, ultrawide camera, Night mode, affordable price.
- Cons: Lower display resolution (LCD), thicker bezels, aluminum build (feels less premium).
iPhone X
- Pros: Sharper OLED display, more compact size, telephoto lens, stainless steel build (feels more premium).
- Cons: Smaller display, shorter battery life, older A11 Bionic chip, no ultrawide camera, no Night mode, potentially higher price (depending on retailer).
Which Should You Buy?
Get the iPhone 11 if:
- You prioritize a larger display, superior battery life, and the latest processing power.
- You enjoy capturing ultrawide photos and low-light shots with Night mode.
- You’re on a budget and prefer a more affordable option.
Get the iPhone X if:
- You prefer a sharper, more compact phone with a premium stainless steel build.
- You value having a telephoto lens for zooming capabilities.
- You find a great deal on a used or refurbished iPhone X.
Who Should Upgrade?
If you’re currently using an iPhone older than the iPhone X, upgrading to either phone will be a significant leap forward. iPhone X users might consider the iPhone 11 for the larger display, battery life boost, and camera improvements, especially if budget is a concern.
Who Can Stick With the iPhone X?
Here are some users who might be perfectly happy sticking with their iPhone X:
- Light phone users: If you primarily use your phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, browsing the web, and social media, the iPhone X still offers a smooth and powerful experience.
- Camera enthusiasts (with a caveat): While the iPhone 11 boasts an ultrawide lens and Night mode, the iPhone X’s dual-lens system with a telephoto lens is excellent for portrait shots and zooming in on distant objects.
- Those on a tight budget: If you found a great deal on a used iPhone X or simply can’t afford the upgrade right now, the iPhone X is still a fantastic phone with plenty of life left in it.
- Those who prefer a smaller phone: The iPhone X offers a more compact design compared to the larger iPhone 11, making it easier to handle and pocket.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the choice between the iPhone 11 and iPhone X boils down to your individual needs and priorities. Consider factors like display size, camera features, performance, battery life, and budget before making your decision.
No matter which phone you choose, both the iPhone 11 and iPhone X deliver a premium Apple experience.
Related: iPhone 11 Compare to iPhone 14
iPhone 11 vs iPhone X FAQs
Q: Which phone is newer?
A: The iPhone 11 is newer, released in 2019 compared to the iPhone X’s 2017 release.
Q: Which phone is more affordable?
A: The iPhone 11 generally starts at a lower price point than the iPhone X (depending on retailer and if considering new vs used).
Q: Which phone has a bigger screen?
A: The iPhone 11 has a larger 6.1-inch display compared to the iPhone X’s 5.8-inch display.
Q: Which phone has a sharper display?
A: The iPhone X features a higher-resolution OLED display, offering richer colors and deeper blacks. The iPhone 11 uses a larger LCD.
Q: Does the iPhone 11 take better pictures than the iPhone X?
A: It depends on your needs. The iPhone 11 offers an ultrawide lens and Night mode, while the iPhone X features a telephoto lens for zooming.
Q: Which phone is better for low-light photography?
A: The iPhone 11’s Night mode offers a significant advantage for low-light photos.
Q: Which phone is faster?
A: The iPhone 11 boasts the newer and more powerful A13 Bionic chip.
Q: Which phone will last longer on a charge?
A: The iPhone 11 offers superior battery life compared to the iPhone X.
Q: Will both phones receive future iOS updates?
A: Yes, both phones currently run the latest iOS version and likely will for some time to come. However, the iPhone 11 might receive updates for a longer period due to its newer processor.
Q: Should I upgrade from an iPhone X to an iPhone 11?
A: Consider your needs. If you prioritize a larger display, battery life, ultrawide camera, Night mode, and a price upgrade might be worth it.
Q: Is the iPhone X still a good phone in 2024?
A: Absolutely. The iPhone X remains a powerful and capable phone, especially for light users or those who prefer a smaller size and telephoto lens.
