Apple iPhone X

Revisiting a Classic: My Take on the Apple iPhone X in Today's Landscape

I've spent the past couple of weeks revisiting the Apple iPhone X, a device that, while no longer the latest and greatest, holds a significant place in Apple's history. At its original launch price point, it was a premium offering, and even on the secondary market today, it occupies a space for those seeking a capable iPhone without breaking the bank. Putting it through its paces in 2024 has been a fascinating exercise in seeing how well this pioneering device holds up.

Market Context: A Glimpse into Apple's Evolution

The iPhone X's significance lies in the fact that it was the first iPhone to truly embrace the all-screen design, ditching the home button and introducing Face ID. It marked a pivotal shift in Apple's design language, influencing virtually every iPhone that followed. Looking back, it's clear this phone was a bold move, and it’s interesting to observe how Apple's strategy has evolved since. The pricing at the time was undoubtedly a barrier for some, and while it's more accessible now, understanding its original positioning helps contextualize its current value. For those considering it today, the price point makes it an entry-level option into the iOS ecosystem, albeit one with some understandable compromises compared to newer models.

Design & Hardware: Holding a Piece of History

Picking up the iPhone X, the first thing that strikes me is its surprisingly comfortable size. The 5.8-inch display feels almost compact compared to the current trend of larger phones, and it nestles nicely in the hand. The stainless steel band, while prone to fingerprints, still exudes a premium feel, and the glass back, though potentially fragile, contributes to its sleek aesthetic. The build quality remains impressive; even after several years, the device feels solid and well-constructed. While I wouldn't intentionally test its durability with drops, it feels like it could withstand the typical bumps and scrapes of daily use. The absence of a physical home button, now commonplace across the iPhone lineup, was revolutionary at the time and still feels intuitive to navigate with its swipe-based gestures.

Display: Still a Visual Treat

The "Super Retina" OLED display on the iPhone X continues to impress. In my testing, the brightness is more than adequate for most indoor and outdoor conditions, making content easily viewable even under direct sunlight. Media consumption, whether it's watching videos or browsing photos, is a genuinely enjoyable experience thanks to the vibrant colors and excellent contrast that OLED technology provides. While it lacks the higher refresh rates found on newer smartphones, the responsiveness is still perfectly acceptable for everyday tasks and casual gaming. During my gaming sessions, I didn't feel held back by the display's refresh rate, although hardcore gamers might notice the difference. For daily use, scrolling through social media, reading articles, and navigating apps feels smooth and fluid.

Performance: A Testament to Apple's Chip Design

Under the hood, the A11 Bionic chip, while several generations old, continues to deliver a surprisingly capable performance. In my real-world testing, navigating the operating system, launching apps, and multitasking felt smooth and responsive. Even when pushing it with graphically intensive games, the iPhone X held its own, although I did notice it getting slightly warm during prolonged sessions. Multitasking, switching between several open apps, was handled without any noticeable lag. While it might not blaze through benchmarks like the latest iPhones, for the vast majority of everyday tasks, the performance is more than sufficient. One notable quirk is the longer app loading times compared to newer devices, but this is expected given the advancements in chip technology. However, for its age, the A11 Bionic remains a testament to Apple's silicon engineering.

Camera System: A Solid Foundation

The dual 12MP camera system on the iPhone X still delivers respectable results. During my photo-taking experiences, I found the image quality to be generally good, particularly in well-lit conditions. The colors are accurate, and there's a decent level of detail. I tested it in various shooting scenarios, from landscapes to close-up shots, and it consistently produced usable images. Video recording is also a strong point, with the ability to shoot 4K video at up to 60fps. Compared to market alternatives in its current price range, the iPhone X's camera holds its own, offering a user-friendly experience and consistent results. While it lacks the advanced computational photography features of newer iPhones, such as Night mode, it still performs admirably in real-world usage scenarios for capturing everyday moments.

Battery & Charging: Managing Expectations

Battery life on the iPhone X is where its age becomes more apparent. In my observed battery performance, a full day of moderate use required careful management. Heavy users will likely need to top it up during the day. Charging speed is also slower compared to modern standards; the lack of super-fast charging means you'll be tethered to a charger for a more extended period. Power management is adequate, but I found myself being more conscious of background app activity to conserve battery life. Real-world endurance is acceptable for light to moderate use, but it's definitely an area where newer devices offer a significant advantage.

Software: The iOS Experience, with Caveats

The iPhone X runs on older versions of iOS, and while it still provides a smooth and familiar user experience, it's important to note that it no longer receives the latest feature updates. Daily usage is still pleasant, with access to a vast ecosystem of apps. The interface remains intuitive and easy to navigate. However, the lack of the newest iOS features and potential security updates is a factor to consider. While it can still handle most modern apps, some newer apps might have compatibility limitations in the future.

Value Analysis: A Question of Priorities

Evaluating the iPhone X in today's market boils down to understanding its limitations and balancing them against its current price. For someone looking for an affordable entry point into the Apple ecosystem or a reliable secondary device, it offers a decent price-to-feature ratio. However, those prioritizing cutting-edge features, the latest camera technology, or all-day battery life should definitely look elsewhere. In the competitive landscape of used smartphones, the iPhone X offers a recognizable brand and a generally polished experience, but it faces stiff competition from newer Android devices at a similar price point. It’s a solid choice for users who value the iOS experience and don't necessarily need the absolute latest hardware.

Conclusion: A Capable Veteran

The Apple iPhone X, even in 2024, remains a surprisingly capable smartphone. While it shows its age in areas like battery life and charging speed, its design, display, and fundamental performance hold up well. My time with it has reinforced its legacy as a groundbreaking device. Ultimately, the decision to buy an iPhone X today depends on your priorities. If you're seeking an affordable way into the iOS world and are willing to accept some compromises, it's a viable option. However, for those demanding the latest features and performance, newer models are undoubtedly a better investment. The iPhone X is a testament to Apple's engineering, a classic that still has some life left in it.