iPhone XR Review: My Experience After 5 Years

 In 2018, I decided to buy the iPhone XR, a decision that marked my first foray into Apple's ecosystem. Fast forward to today, and I'm still using it as my daily driver. Here's my honest review of the iPhone XR based on my experience over the last few years.

Design and Aesthetics

The iPhone XR is undeniably beautiful. It comes in a variety of colors, but I chose a classic black, which still looks sleek and modern today. The 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display is vibrant and has served me well, whether I'm watching videos, scrolling through Instagram, or reading articles. The aluminum frame and glass back give it a premium feel, and it's surprisingly durable for a glass-backed phone. Despite being five years old, my iPhone XR has held up pretty well in terms of looks and design.

Camera Performance

While the iPhone XR has only one rear camera, the picture quality is surprisingly good. The 12-megapixel lens captures vibrant colors, and the Smart HDR feature ensures that every shot has the right amount of exposure and contrast. I've taken countless photos over the years, from scenic landscapes to everyday moments, and I rarely feel like I'm missing out because of the single-lens setup.

The portrait mode, despite having a single camera, performs remarkably well with software-based adjustments to create a bokeh effect. However, it does have limitations, especially in low-light conditions or when trying to capture objects that aren't people.

Video Quality

The iPhone XR also excels in video quality. It can shoot 4K video at 60 fps, and the results are consistently sharp and smooth. The stabilization is good enough for handheld shooting, and I've used it to capture many memorable moments without any complaints. Even in lower lighting, the video quality holds up fairly well, which is impressive for a device from 2018.

Battery Life

Now, onto a less glowing aspect — the battery life. When I first bought the iPhone XR, the battery life was decent, but over time, it has deteriorated noticeably. Nowadays, I find myself needing to charge it at least three to four times a day, especially if I’m actively using social media apps or watching YouTube videos. For someone who spends a lot of time online, this has been a bit frustrating. The battery drain is particularly noticeable when I’m streaming or multitasking between apps.

Final Thoughts

Despite the battery woes, the iPhone XR has been a reliable companion. Its beautiful design, impressive camera, and excellent video quality have made it a great device for everyday use. If you're considering buying a used or refurbished iPhone XR, it's still a solid choice, but keep in mind that battery health may be an issue over time. For heavy users like myself, frequent charging can become a hassle.

Would I buy it again in 2024? Maybe not, considering newer models offer better battery life and more advanced features. However, the iPhone XR will always have a special place in my heart as a beautifully designed, capable device that served me well for years.


What are your thoughts on the iPhone XR? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments!

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