iPhone XR – Okay, let’s talk about the iPhone XR. I know, I know, it’s a few years old at this point, but hear me out—this phone is still floating around in the world of iPhones, and you’re probably wondering: Is it worth getting one in 2025? After all, there’s been a bunch of new iPhones since the XR debuted in 2018, so should you be looking at something newer, or is the XR still good enough to hold its ground?
I’ll be honest—I was a little skeptical myself. I’ve been through a few iPhones over the years, and each time a new model comes out, I feel like I’m getting pressure from every direction to upgrade. But when I got my hands on the XR (not that long ago), I started thinking that maybe, just maybe, the XR still has some life left in it. So, let’s break this down and see if the iPhone XR is still worth your time and money in 2025.
Is the iPhone XR Worth It in 2025? Here’s What You Need to Know
What Makes the iPhone XR Stand Out in 2025?
Here’s the thing: the XR was a pretty solid phone when it came out. It’s not just a leftover, “budget” model designed to make the high-end iPhones look even fancier. No, the XR brought a lot of features to the table that were pretty impressive back in the day—and even now, in 2025, some of those features still hold up.
First off, let’s talk about the display. The iPhone XR is equipped with a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display, which, sure, isn’t as fancy as the OLED displays in the newer iPhones, but honestly, it still looks great. The colors pop, it’s sharp enough, and while you might not be getting the deep blacks of an OLED screen, the XR’s display is still very enjoyable for watching videos, browsing, or scrolling through Instagram.
And that A12 Bionic chip? It’s still packing a punch. I was worried that, after all these years, the performance would start to slow down, but nope—it holds up. I’ve used the XR for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and even some light gaming, and it hasn’t let me down. Sure, it’s not as fast as the A14 or A15 chips in the newer models, but you’re not going to be sitting there twiddling your thumbs, waiting for apps to load.
Also, let’s not forget that it still has a great camera system. The single-lens 12MP rear camera takes solid photos—especially in good lighting. It’s not as fancy as the triple-camera setups on newer models, but for most people, the XR’s camera is going to do the trick. Plus, Apple’s software still does a great job at enhancing photos, so you’re getting a pretty good bang for your buck in that department.
So, Why Would You Even Consider the XR in 2025?
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Sure, the iPhone XR is no spring chicken, but what if I told you that, in 2025, this might actually be a great option for a lot of people?
Let’s start with the price. If you’re looking for a more affordable option in the iPhone world, the XR still delivers. You’re not going to get hit with the crazy-high prices of the latest iPhone 15 or 16, but you’re still getting a device that’s plenty capable for the majority of everyday tasks. For many people, the newer models have features they’ll never use (looking at you, 120Hz ProMotion display), and they’ll be paying extra for features that are overkill for what they need. The XR gives you a solid experience without that steep price tag.
And I’m not the only one who’s noticed this. I’ve had a lot of conversations with friends who are looking for a budget-friendly option but don’t want to skimp on quality, and the XR keeps coming up as a great choice. Whether they’re upgrading from an older phone or buying their first iPhone, it’s like the perfect balance of performance and price.
Are There Any Drawbacks in 2025?
Of course, nothing’s perfect. If you’re thinking about getting the XR, there are some things to consider before making the jump. For starters, while the XR has solid battery life, it doesn’t quite match up to the newer iPhones, especially with all the extra power-saving features that have been added in more recent models. If you’re using your phone all day for work, social media, or gaming, you might find yourself reaching for the charger a bit more often than you’d like.
Another thing is the camera. It’s good, but it’s not great by 2025 standards. The newer iPhones have better low-light performance, ultra-wide lenses, and even a telephoto lens for zooming in. If photography is your thing, you’ll definitely feel a bit limited by the single-lens camera on the XR. You can still take decent photos, but the newer models have much more versatility.
Also, if you’re someone who’s really into having the latest and greatest tech, you might find the XR a bit outdated when compared to the iPhone 15 or 16. Features like 5G support, MagSafe, and better screen technology might make the newer models more appealing if you’re a tech enthusiast who wants to future-proof your device.
Final Verdict: Is the iPhone XR Worth It in 2025?
So, is the iPhone XR still worth it in 2025? For a lot of people, absolutely. If you’re on a budget or just need a solid iPhone for everyday use, the XR still delivers. It has a good display, solid performance, and a camera that gets the job done. Plus, the price is way more manageable than what you’d pay for a new iPhone.
That said, if you’re someone who craves the latest and greatest features or really needs top-of-the-line photography and performance, you might want to consider shelling out for a newer model. But for most casual users, the iPhone XR is still more than enough.
Ultimately, it’s all about what you value most in a phone. If you’re just looking for something that works, lasts, and doesn’t break the bank, the iPhone XR could be a perfect fit for you in 2025. It’s not as flashy as the newer models, but hey, sometimes it’s the reliable old favorite that wins the race.
