iPhone XS Review 2026: Is It Still Worth Buying?
The iPhone XS launched back in 2018, but plenty of shoppers still consider it in 2026, especially at today’s lower prices. This iPhone XS review 2026 guide walks through what the phone still does well, where it falls short, and how it stacks up against the iPhone XR.
You will also find setup steps, camera tips, battery advice, and current pricing so you can decide if this older model still makes sense for your budget and your daily habits.
iPhone XS vs iPhone XR: Which One Fits You
Both phones share the same A12 Bionic chip, so day-to-day speed feels similar. The real differences come down to screen quality, camera setup, and price.
iPhone XS strengths: a sharper OLED screen, a second camera lens for better zoom and portrait shots, and IP68 water resistance rated for two meters. Storage options run from 64GB up to 512GB.
iPhone XR strengths: a lower price, six color options, a single camera that still takes solid photos, and noticeably longer battery life than the XS.
Choose the XS if screen quality and photo detail matter most to you. Choose the XR if you want to spend less and charge less often. Both run current iOS updates and handle everyday apps without trouble.
Setting Up Your iPhone XS
Getting a new or used iPhone XS ready to use takes about ten minutes.
- Hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
- Choose your language and country.
- Connect to WiFi and enter your password.
- Set up Face ID by moving your head in a slow circle.
- Create a six-digit passcode.
- Choose to restore from a backup or start fresh.
- Sign in with your Apple ID.
- Review and accept the terms.
- Add a card to Apple Pay if you want it.
- Set your True Tone and text size preferences.
Using the iPhone XS Camera
The dual camera setup is still one of the better reasons to choose this phone over the XR.
Standard photos: open the Camera app, frame your shot, tap the shutter button, and pinch to zoom. Tap anywhere on screen to set focus.
Portrait mode: swipe to Portrait, step back three to eight feet from your subject, wait for the yellow Depth Effect box, then adjust lighting style with the icon before shooting.
Video: swipe to Video mode, tap the red button to start recording, tap the white button to grab still photos mid-recording, and tap red again to stop.
Battery Life Tips for iPhone XS
Battery health matters more on a phone this age, so a few settings changes go a long way.
- Turn on Low Power Mode under Settings> Battery.
- Lower screen brightness or let it adjust automatically.
- Turn off background app refresh for apps you rarely open.
- Disable location access for apps that don’t need it.
- Use WiFi instead of cellular data when you can.
- Turn off push email and check manually instead.
- Reduce motion effects in Accessibility settings.
- Turn on Airplane Mode in areas with weak signal.
iPhone XS Specifications
The A12 Bionic chip still handles most everyday apps well in 2026, even though it can’t match newer chips in raw speed.
Display: 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED, 2436 by 1125 resolution, 458 pixels per inch, with True Tone for natural color in any lighting.
Storage: 64GB, 256GB, or 512GB, with no memory card slot. The system itself uses roughly 10 to 12GB.
Water resistance: IP68 rated for two meters underwater for up to thirty minutes. Water damage still isn’t covered under Apple’s warranty.
iPhone XS Price Today
Prices have dropped a lot since launch, which is the main reason people still shop for this model.
New units: Apple stopped making the iPhone XS in September 2019, so new stock is rare. When available, expect to pay between 500 and 700 dollars depending on storage and seller.
Used and refurbished: used units typically run 250 to 450 dollars. Apple-refurbished models cost more but include a warranty. Always check battery health and screen condition before buying, and confirm whether the unit is carrier-locked.
Taking Care of Your iPhone XS
A few habits help an older phone like this last longer.
- Use a protective case and a screen protector.
- Avoid leaving it in extreme heat or cold.
- Skip overnight charging to protect long-term battery health.
- Clean the screen with a soft cloth, not paper towels.
- Install iOS updates as Apple releases them.
- Restart the phone weekly to keep it running smoothly.
- Back up photos to iCloud regularly.
Is the iPhone XS Still Good in 2026?
What still holds up: the camera takes genuinely good photos and video, the OLED screen still looks sharp, Face ID is fast, and the build quality feels solid.
What falls short: battery life is noticeably shorter than newer phones, there’s no 5G support, and Apple could end software updates within the next year or two. There’s also no way to add storage after purchase.
Overall, this iPhone XS review 2026 verdict comes down to price. At current used and refurbished prices, it’s a reasonable budget option if you mainly want a reliable camera and a sharp screen, and you’re comfortable with shorter battery life and no 5G.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone XS still holds up for everyday use in 2026, particularly for anyone who values camera quality and screen sharpness over battery life or 5G. Whether you’re comparing it to the iPhone XR or deciding if a used unit is worth the price, the phone remains a fair budget choice as long as you go in with realistic expectations about its age.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the iPhone XS battery last in a day?
Expect around 12 hours of internet use, 14 hours of video playback, or 20 hours of talk time on a full charge. Turning on Low Power Mode extends this further.
Is the iPhone XS camera still good for photos in 2026?
Yes. The dual camera system takes sharp photos in most lighting and records 4K video at 60 frames per second. Low-light shots are decent but not on par with newer iPhones.
What does a used iPhone XS cost right now?
Used units generally sell for 250 to 450 dollars depending on storage and condition. Refurbished models from Apple cost more but include a warranty, which is worth it if you want peace of mind.
How do iPhone XS specs compare to newer iPhones?
The A12 Bionic chip is slower than current chips, but the screen quality and storage options remain competitive. Water resistance is lower than what newer models offer.
Should I buy the iPhone XS or the iPhone XR?
Pick the XS if screen and camera quality matter most. Pick the XR if battery life and price matter more. Both run current iOS versions and handle daily use well.
