iPhone XR in 2025: Apple’s Budget Legend Still Holds Value
When Apple released the iPhone XR in late 2018, it was positioned as the more affordable sibling to the iPhone XS—without compromising too much on performance. With its vibrant colors, powerful A12 Bionic chip, and long battery life, the XR quickly became a best-seller.
Fast forward to 2025, and the iPhone XR still has a place in the smartphone world, especially for users looking for a reliable iOS experience on a tight budget.
💰 iPhone XR Price in 2025
Though Apple officially discontinued the iPhone XR, it’s still readily available on the refurbished and secondhand markets:
- Refurbished price: $180 – $250 USD
- Used price: $130 – $200 USD
- Carrier-locked units: As low as $100 USD
Prices vary based on storage capacity, battery health, and cosmetic condition.
📱 iPhone XR – Full Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Release Date | October 2018 |
| Operating System | iOS 12 (launch), supports up to iOS 17 (2025) |
| Display | 6.1″ Liquid Retina IPS LCD, 828×1792 resolution |
| Processor (SoC) | Apple A12 Bionic |
| RAM | 3 GB |
| Storage Options | 64 GB / 128 GB / 256 GB (no microSD slot) |
| Rear Camera | 12 MP (f/1.8) with Smart HDR and Portrait Mode |
| Front Camera | 7 MP (f/2.2), supports Face ID |
| Battery | 2,942 mAh, Fast Charging 18W, Wireless Charging |
| Biometrics | Face ID (no fingerprint sensor) |
| Water Resistance | IP67 |
| Headphone Jack | No |
| Build Material | Glass front/back (Gorilla Glass), aluminum frame |
| Weight | 194 g |
🔍 Why Consider the iPhone XR in 2025?
- iOS Support: Still runs iOS 17, giving it a longer usable life than many Android counterparts.
- Solid Performance: The A12 Bionic chip handles everyday tasks, streaming, and social media smoothly.
- Great Battery Life: One of the best battery performers from its generation.
- Value for Money: A great entry point into the Apple ecosystem for under $200.
⚠️ Things to Note
- LCD Display: Not as sharp or vibrant as OLED found in newer iPhones.
- No 5G: The XR is limited to 4G LTE, which may be a drawback for future-proofing.
- Single Rear Camera: Versatile for everyday use, but lacks ultrawide or telephoto options.
🧠 Final Verdict
In 2025, the iPhone XR remains one of the best-value iPhones for casual users, teens, or those upgrading from older devices. It balances performance, design, and longevity in a way that still makes it worth buying—especially if you’re on a budget and want a solid iPhone with Face ID and modern software.