In 2019, Apple introduced the iPhone 11, a device that quickly became a favorite among users. Fast forward to 2023-2024, and the question arises: is the iPhone 11 still a viable option? Sadly, no 🙁 This is the first year where we are not recommending the iPhone 11 anymore as its age has really caught up to it.
The iPhone 11 can still be a decent low-end option in 2024 for people who want to use it as a secondary phone or something for their kids – especially for those on a budget. But for the small difference in cost of going up to a 12 or even a 13, it doesn’t make much sense to settle on the iPhone 11. The 11 lacks some of the advancements in newer models, like 5G connectivity and improved cameras. Consider your needs and budget before making a decision.
| Factor | Pro | Con | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower cost compared to newer models | May not be significantly cheaper than newer budget options | Good value for budget-conscious users |
| Performance | A13 Bionic chip still handles most tasks well | Lacks newer processor features and may struggle with demanding apps/games | Okay for everyday use, not ideal for power users |
| Camera | Dual-lens rear camera delivers good quality photos | Missing features like telephoto lens and improved night mode on newer models | Decent photography, not cutting-edge |
| Display | Liquid Retina HD LCD screen is bright and clear | Lacks OLED technology of newer models and has lower resolution | Fine for most users, not ideal for media enthusiasts |
| Battery Life | Average battery life, can last a day with moderate use | Newer models offer better battery performance | Can get you through the day, but heavy users may need to charge more often |
| Software Updates | Supported with iOS updates until 2024 | Will miss out on newer iOS features and security updates after 2024 | Secure and functional until 2024, but limited future support |
| 5G | Lacks 5G connectivity | May be inconvenient in areas with widespread 5G coverage | Acceptable for users not relying on 5G yet, future-proof options available |
Alternatives:
- iPhone 12/13:Offer better performance,cameras,and battery life,but at a higher price.
- Android phones:Many budget-friendly Android options offer similar or better specs than the iPhone 11.
Key Takeaways
- Performance: The A13 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance, comparable to newer models.
- Camera Quality: Dual-camera system with 12 MP lenses, though lacking in advanced features of newer models.
- Battery Life: Decent, with fast charging capabilities, but not as long-lasting as newer iPhones.
- Display: 6.1-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD, vibrant but not as advanced as OLED displays in newer models.
- Design: Durable build with a variety of colors, though design is similar to older models.
- Price: More affordable than newer models, offering good value for its features.
iPhone 11: A Comprehensive Look
Design and Build Quality
The iPhone 11’s design is robust, featuring a glass and aluminum build. It’s slightly larger and heavier than the iPhone 14 but offers a comfortable grip. Available in colors like black, white, green, yellow, purple, and (PRODUCT)RED, it caters to various tastes. The device is also IP68 rated, ensuring dust and water resistance.
Display
Boasting a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display, the iPhone 11 offers vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles. It supports True Tone technology, adjusting the display’s color temperature to match ambient lighting, enhancing the viewing experience. However, it lacks the always-on feature and Dynamic Island found in newer models.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone 11 features a dual-camera system with 12 MP wide and ultra-wide lenses. It excels in low-light conditions with its night mode, but lacks HDR for the front-facing camera and the ProRes feature found in the iPhone 13 and 14 series. The camera quality, while impressive, falls slightly behind newer models.
Performance
Powered by the A13 Bionic chip, the iPhone 11 delivers smooth performance and fast app launch times. It offers 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of internal storage and supports Face ID. While it doesn’t have a ProMotion display, its performance is on par with newer iPhones for most tasks.
Battery Life
The iPhone 11’s battery life is commendable, with up to 17 hours of talk time or 10 hours of internet use. It supports fast charging and Qi wireless charging, but lacks MagSafe charging capabilities.
Price and Value
As newer models have been released, the iPhone 11’s price has become more attractive. It offers a balance of features and affordability, making it a great option for those seeking a high-performance device without the high cost of the latest models.
Real-World User Experiences
Reddit users have shared their experiences with the iPhone 11, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. One user praises its speed and camera quality but notes the LCD screen as a downside. Another user emphasizes the camera quality as a major selling point. Users like No_Particular2470 mention its responsive performance and impressive battery life.
iPhone 11 vs. Newer Models
Comparing the iPhone 11 to newer models like the iPhone 12 and 13, the differences become apparent. The newer models offer OLED displays, 5G capabilities, and advanced camera features. However, the iPhone 11 still holds its ground in terms of performance and overall usability.
Conclusion
The iPhone 11 remains a strong phone if you have it in the smartphone market, but it’s no longer worth buying new (or used) if you don’t. It still offers a decent balance of performance, camera quality, and price, but the savings over going with a newer model (like the 12 or 13) just don’t make it a viable option.
What will happen shortly into your time with the iPhone 11 is that you’ll see performance decreases as more and more iOS updates are released. Eventually, Apple will also discontinue and cut off iPhone 11 from being able to update to the latest iOS versions (expected sometime in 2024 or 2025).
One plus that might interest you about the 11 is that it is EXTREMELY affordable to do repairs on. The prices of the components (batteries, screens, framing, etc.) are very low and very available. So if you’re the type to constantly break your phone, that could be an angle.
Overall though, our recommendation is to spend the relatively small premium to go with an iPhone 12 or iPhone 13 vs. the iPhone 11 to buy additional years onto the life of the phone.
Relevant Videos
- Using the iPhone 11 in 2023 – worth it?
- iPhone 11 in LATE 2023 – Still Worth it??
- iPhone 11 In 2023! (Still Worth It?) (Review)
Further Reading
- iPad 9th Generation Review: Is It Worth Buying In 2024?
- Laptop Repair in Las Vegas | Lowest Prices | GadgetMates
FAQ
Q: How long will the iPhone 11 receive iOS updates? A: The iPhone 11 is expected to receive iOS updates at least until 2025, ensuring it stays up-to-date with the latest features and security enhancements.
Q: Is the iPhone 11’s camera competitive with newer models? A: While the iPhone 11’s camera is very good, especially in low-light conditions, it lacks some of the advanced features found in newer models like the iPhone 13 and 14 series.
Q: Can the iPhone 11 handle high-end games and apps? A: Yes, the A13 Bionic chip in the iPhone 11 is capable of handling high-end games and apps smoothly, making it a good choice for gaming and heavy app usage.
Q: Is the iPhone 11 suitable for video recording and editing? A: The iPhone 11 supports 4K video recording and has powerful editing capabilities, making it suitable for video recording and editing tasks.
Q: How does the iPhone 11’s battery life compare to newer models? A: The iPhone 11 offers decent battery life, but it may not last as long as some of the newer models with more efficient batteries and power management features.
