iPhone XS Max: Timeless Performance with Premium Features
The iPhone XS Max, launched in September 2018, was Apple’s flagship device at the time, featuring cutting-edge technology and a larger-than-life display. While it has since been replaced by newer iPhone models, the XS Max still holds its ground as a reliable and premium device with great performance, even in 2025.
For users who don’t need the latest model but still want a premium experience—whether for gaming, productivity, or photography—the iPhone XS Max remains an excellent option, particularly for those who can find it at a discounted price.
iPhone XS Max Price in 2025
As a flagship device from 2018, the iPhone XS Max has dropped significantly in price but still offers premium features at a much lower cost than newer iPhones.
- Used (Good Condition): $350 – $450 USD / ₹30,000 – ₹37,000 INR
- Refurbished (Certified): $450 – $550 USD / ₹38,000 – ₹45,000 INR
- Original Launch Price (2018): $1,099 USD for the 64GB variant
Given the used or refurbished price, the iPhone XS Max offers excellent value for those who want a flagship iPhone experience on a budget.
iPhone XS Max Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Release Date | September 2018 |
| Display | 6.5-inch Super Retina OLED, 2688 x 1242 pixels, HDR10, Dolby Vision |
| Processor | Apple A12 Bionic chip (64-bit) |
| GPU | Apple-designed 4-core GPU |
| RAM | 4GB LPDDR4X |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Rear Camera | Dual 12MP (wide, f/1.8) + 12MP (telephoto, f/2.4), 2x optical zoom, OIS |
| Front Camera | 7MP TrueDepth camera, f/2.2, Portrait Mode, Animoji, 1080p HD video |
| Battery | 3,174mAh (Non-removable), 15 hours of video playback, Wireless charging (Qi) |
| Operating System | Originally iOS 12, upgradable to the latest iOS version (iOS 17 in 2025) |
| Build | Stainless steel frame, Glass front and back (Gorilla Glass) |
| Water Resistance | IP68 (dust and water-resistant up to 2 meters for 30 minutes) |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Face ID (via TrueDepth camera system) |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, NFC, GPS, Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) |
| Other Features | Stereo speakers, Apple Pay, Wireless charging, 3D Touch, Animoji, Memoji |
| Weight | 208 grams |
Is the iPhone XS Max Worth Buying in 2025?
Yes—especially if you’re looking for a premium iPhone experience at a lower cost. Here’s why:
Why Buy the iPhone XS Max in 2025?
✅ Premium Display: The Super Retina OLED display still holds up as one of the best on the market, offering vivid colors, deep blacks, and high resolution. It’s ideal for streaming, gaming, or simply enjoying media on a large, immersive screen.
✅ Flagship Performance: The A12 Bionic chip with 4GB of RAM continues to provide strong performance for daily tasks, apps, and even intensive workloads. Although it’s not the latest chip, it still runs iOS 17 smoothly, handling multitasking and apps with ease.
✅ Great Cameras: The dual 12MP rear cameras still take fantastic photos, offering features like portrait mode, optical zoom, and Smart HDR. The TrueDepth front camera also supports Face ID, and it’s still highly secure and efficient in 2025.
✅ Battery Life: While the 3,174mAh battery isn’t as large as newer models, it still offers a full day of use under normal conditions. Plus, it supports wireless charging and fast charging with the right adapter.
✅ Water Resistance: The IP68 rating means the iPhone XS Max can withstand splashes and accidental drops in water, adding an extra layer of durability.
Considerations
- No 5G: One of the major limitations is the lack of 5G connectivity. While 4G LTE is still fast for most uses, 5G is becoming more common, and the iPhone XS Max won’t support these faster speeds.
- Older Design: The XS Max still has large bezels compared to more modern iPhones with notch-less displays or hole-punch cameras. However, the screen size and build quality still feel premium by today’s standards.
- Aging Hardware: While the A12 Bionic chip is still capable, it’s a few generations old, so it might not perform as well as newer chips in demanding apps or tasks like gaming or video editing.
Conclusion
The iPhone XS Max in 2025 offers a premium experience at a significantly reduced price compared to newer iPhone models. It’s perfect for those who want an iPhone with a large display, strong performance, and reliable camera capabilities without paying the full price of newer models.
If you’re fine with the lack of 5G and older hardware, the XS Max remains a fantastic choice for a budget-conscious premium device that will continue to receive software updates and support for years to come.