Apple iPhone XS Max

Revisiting a Classic: My Time Reacquainting with the iPhone XS Max

I recently spent some time revisiting the Apple iPhone XS Max, a device that, while not the newest kid on the block anymore, still holds a certain significance. Released back in 2018, it occupies an interesting space in the current market, and my goal was to see how it stacks up in 2024. My testing involved using it as a daily driver for a period, focusing on typical smartphone use cases – browsing, social media, media consumption, some light gaming, and of course, photography. Coming in at what is now a significantly lower price point on the second-hand market, it's clearly targeting budget-conscious users looking for a taste of the premium Apple experience. My initial impression? It’s surprisingly capable, though naturally showing its age in certain areas.

Market Context: A Blast from the Premium Past

The iPhone XS Max's relevance today lies primarily in the second-hand market. Apple's strategy of discontinuing older models upon releasing new ones creates a cascade effect, making previously flagship devices more accessible. From my perspective, this makes the XS Max an intriguing option for those who prioritize a large, high-quality screen and solid performance over having the absolute latest features. The price point it commands now makes it a compelling alternative to some newer budget or mid-range Android phones, particularly for those already entrenched in the Apple ecosystem. It represents a mature and polished piece of technology that, while no longer cutting-edge, still delivers a premium feel.

Design & Hardware: Still Holding its Own

Picking up the iPhone XS Max again, the first thing that struck me was its heft. At 208 grams, it has a substantial feel in the hand, a reassuring weight that speaks to its build quality. The stainless steel frame and glass back still feel premium, even by today's standards. While perhaps not as ergonomic as some of the more recent, curvier designs, the XS Max feels solidly constructed and durable. In my experience, it's a phone that can withstand the rigors of daily use, although a case is still advisable given the all-glass design.

Display: A Visual Treat That Endures

The 6.5-inch Super Retina OLED display remains a standout feature. Even in 2024, the colors are vibrant, the blacks are inky deep, and the overall picture quality is impressive. With HDR10 and Dolby Vision support, watching videos and movies is a genuinely enjoyable experience. In my testing, I found the brightness to be more than adequate for outdoor use, and the clarity made browsing and reading a pleasure. While it lacks the higher refresh rates of newer devices, the standard 60Hz still feels smooth for everyday tasks and even casual gaming. For media consumption, this display continues to shine.

Performance: A Bionic Chip That Still Packs a Punch

Under the hood, the A12 Bionic chip continues to impress. In my real-world testing, the phone handled multitasking, web browsing, and social media with ease. Even when pushing it with some graphically intensive games, I experienced minimal lag or stutter. While it might not blaze through tasks as quickly as the latest iPhones, the XS Max still offers a fluid and responsive experience. I did notice the phone getting slightly warm during extended gaming sessions, but nothing alarming. Overall, the performance remains surprisingly robust for a device of its age.

Camera System: Capturing Memories, Even Without the Latest AI

The dual 12MP rear cameras on the iPhone XS Max still deliver commendable results. In my experience, the main lens captures sharp, detailed images with good color accuracy, particularly in well-lit conditions. The telephoto lens offers a useful 2x optical zoom. While it lacks the computational photography prowess of newer iPhones, I was still able to capture some impressive shots, including that aforementioned bird in flight with decent detail. Video recording is also a strong point, with the ability to shoot up to 4K at 60fps with impressive stabilization. The 7MP front-facing camera is perfectly adequate for video calls and casual selfies. Compared to current market alternatives, it may lack some of the advanced features, but for everyday photography, it holds its own.

Battery & Charging: Showing its Age, But Still Manageable

Battery life is where the XS Max begins to show its age. The 3174mAh battery could generally get me through a typical workday with moderate usage, but on heavier days involving more media consumption or gaming, I often found myself needing to top it up in the late afternoon. In my charging tests, the fast charging capability helped to quickly bring the battery back up, but the reliance on the Lightning port in a USB-C world felt a bit anachronistic. Power management is decent, but it’s clear that battery longevity is one area where newer devices have made significant strides.

Software: Keeping Up with the Times (For Now)

The iPhone XS Max currently runs on the latest available iOS version it supports, which means it benefits from Apple's intuitive interface and a wide range of features. In my daily usage, I found the software to be stable and responsive. While it may not receive future major iOS updates beyond what's currently available, the existing features are polished and functional. Apple's consistent update policy for older devices has been a strong point, extending the usability of the XS Max for years, though the window for this is inevitably closing.

Value Analysis: A Compelling Option for the Budget-Conscious

Considering its current price point on the second-hand market, the iPhone XS Max offers a compelling value proposition. For users who prioritize a large, high-quality display, solid performance, and a capable camera system without needing the absolute latest features, it’s a strong contender. This phone is ideal for those on a tighter budget who still desire a taste of the premium Apple experience. However, those who prioritize cutting-edge camera technology, the latest connectivity options like 5G, or exceptional battery life should likely look elsewhere. In the competitive landscape, it sits as a more premium alternative to budget Android phones and a more affordable option compared to newer iPhones.

Conclusion: A Solid Second-Hand Choice with Lingering Appeal

My time with the iPhone XS Max has been a surprisingly positive experience. While it's certainly not the newest or most feature-packed phone on the market, it remains a well-built, capable device with a beautiful display and solid performance. For those seeking a reliable and enjoyable smartphone experience without breaking the bank, the iPhone XS Max is a worthwhile consideration in the second-hand market. It's a testament to Apple's build quality and the longevity of their devices. If you can live without the very latest innovations and are comfortable with a slightly older model, the iPhone XS Max offers excellent value and a taste of the premium iPhone experience at a much more accessible price.