Is an iPhone X (2017) Still a Good Choice in 2023?
As of 2023, the iPhone X continues to hold value as a device but faces some limitations when compared to newer models. This article explores the pros and cons of owning an iPhone X in 2023 and whether it is still a worthwhile choice for today’s users.
Pros of the iPhone X (2017)
Design: The iPhone X features a premium glass and stainless steel design that remains modern and stylish.
Display: Its 5.8-inch Super Retina display offers excellent color accuracy and contrast, providing a vibrant visual experience.
Performance: Equipped with the A11 Bionic chip, the iPhone X can handle everyday tasks like social media, web browsing, and casual gaming with ease.
Camera: The dual-camera system delivers good photo quality in well-lit conditions, making it ideal for taking everyday photos and videos.
Cons of the iPhone X (2017)
Software Support: While the iPhone X received support for iOS updates for several years, Apple typically stops supporting devices after about 5-6 years. By 2023, users might not receive the latest iOS updates, limiting access to new features and security updates.
Battery Life: Depending on usage, the battery life may not be as strong as newer models, and battery health can deteriorate over time, leading to reduced performance.
Performance: Although adequate for basic tasks, more demanding applications and games may run slower on the iPhone X compared to newer iPhones equipped with the A14, A15, or A16 chips.
Conclusion
If you primarily use your phone for basic tasks and do not need the latest features, the iPhone X can still serve you well. However, if you are looking for the best performance, camera capabilities, and prolonged software support, it might be worth considering a more recent model.
Performance Grades
Camera: 7/10
Screen: 7/10
Battery: 5/10
Chip: 7–8/10
UI Experience (iOS): 9/10
Compactibility/Comfort: 9.5/10
Being Economical (compared to SE 2022): 7–8/10 (considering the SE 2022)
Personal Insights:
Yes, the iPhone X still receives iOS updates and Apple still offers repairs for it. There is no reason to replace it unless you need a bit higher camera quality. However, if the battery health is 70% or lower, it might be wise to get it repaired or replaced.
No, the iPhone X has several drawbacks. The display is only 60Hz unlike the new Pro iPhones, and it is not as bright. The battery life is terrible, often providing less than 5 hours of screen-on time. It overheats easily, even in idle cellular data mode. The camera is not that great compared to newer, cheaper phones. It will not get iOS 17 this is the last year of software updates. Face ID can be slow and sometimes doesn’t work at angles or in low light. The phone is feeling very slow due to its 5-year-old hardware, which is almost outdated and feels sluggish. I would suggest it only if you get it extremely cheap, say 100-150, which is extremely rare.
For most users, the iPhone X is still a viable option, especially if you are looking for a good balance between value and features. However, if you prioritize the latest technology, newer models might be the better choice.