iPhone XS Price and Specifications: Premium Design, Now More Affordable
Apple’s iPhone XS, originally released in September 2018, was a flagship that pushed boundaries in display quality, performance, and build. While it’s no longer the latest iPhone, it remains a strong contender in the used and refurbished markets in 2025 — offering premium performance, Face ID, and iOS support at a fraction of the price of newer models.
Whether you’re looking for an affordable way into the Apple ecosystem or a reliable backup device, the iPhone XS delivers flagship-level capabilities even in today’s smartphone landscape.
📱 iPhone XS Price in 2025
Though Apple officially discontinued the iPhone XS in 2020, it is widely available through refurbished marketplaces and resellers. Given its solid hardware and iOS compatibility, it remains in demand.
Current Price Range (2025):
- Refurbished (64GB): $180 – $250
- Refurbished (256GB): $240 – $290
- Refurbished (512GB): $300 – $350
- Available Through: Amazon Renewed, Back Market, Swappa, and local resellers
These prices may vary based on cosmetic condition, battery health, and warranty coverage.
🔍 Why Choose the iPhone XS in 2025?
Even in 2025, the iPhone XS holds its own, thanks to Apple’s long-term software support and durable design:
- Super Retina OLED Display: The 5.8-inch OLED screen with HDR10 and Dolby Vision support still delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks.
- A12 Bionic Chip: While it’s no longer the fastest chip, the A12 still handles iOS 17 (and likely iOS 18) smoothly, with support for multitasking, games, and demanding apps.
- Premium Build: Surgical-grade stainless steel frame, glass front/back, and IP68 water resistance give the XS a truly luxurious feel.
- Face ID & Secure Ecosystem: Fast and secure facial recognition, plus integration with Apple Pay, iCloud, and the App Store.
- Camera Performance: Dual 12MP rear cameras offer Smart HDR, Portrait Mode, and 4K video, still capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos.
📊 iPhone XS Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED, 2436 x 1125 pixels, HDR10, Dolby Vision |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Processor | Apple A12 Bionic (7nm), Hexa-core |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage Options | 64GB / 256GB / 512GB (no microSD slot) |
| Operating System | Ships with iOS 12, upgradable to iOS 17 (and expected iOS 18) |
| Rear Cameras | Dual 12MP (wide f/1.8 + telephoto f/2.4), 2x optical zoom, Smart HDR |
| Front Camera | 7MP TrueDepth with Portrait Mode and Face ID |
| Battery | 2658mAh, wireless charging, fast charging (50% in 30 minutes with 18W adapter) |
| Biometrics | Face ID |
| Audio | Stereo speakers, no headphone jack |
| Charging Port | Lightning connector |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IP68 (up to 2m for 30 minutes) |
| Build | Glass front/back, stainless steel frame |
| Colors | Space Gray, Silver, Gold |
| Weight | 177g |
| Dimensions | 143.6 x 70.9 x 7.7 mm |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC |
✅ Conclusion: Is the iPhone XS Still Worth It in 2025?
If you’re looking for a powerful, compact, and premium iPhone on a budget, the iPhone XS is a fantastic option. With a stellar display, reliable performance, solid cameras, and ongoing iOS support, it remains one of the best-value choices for Apple fans in the refurbished market.
Whether you’re upgrading from an older device or entering the Apple ecosystem for the first time, the XS offers a near-flagship experience — without the flagship price tag.
Would you like a comparison between the iPhone XS and newer iPhones like the iPhone 12 or SE (3rd Gen)?