iPhone XS Max Review: Is It Worth Buying or Upgrading Your Phone?

In the fast-paced world of tech, where new smartphones drop with bewildering regularity, it’s easy to get caught up in the hype for the latest and greatest. But sometimes, the smartest move isn’t always the newest one. Today, we’re diving deep into an iPhone XS Max review – a device that, despite being several generations old, is still making waves in the used market. The question isn’t just “is it good?”, but rather, “should you upgrade your smartphone to this particular model, and is it still a smart buy in 2024?”

The iPhone XS Max Review: A Blast from the Past, Or a Future-Proof Bargain?

Let’s be real: when the iPhone XS Max first launched, it was a beast. A true flagship that commanded top dollar. Now, as new models like the iPhone 11 Pro and beyond have taken the stage, the XS Max sits in a fascinating position – affordable, yet still packing a serious punch. For many, the allure of a premium iPhone experience without the premium price tag is incredibly strong, especially when considering an upgrade from an older device like an iPhone 6s Plus. (See also: Pixel 11 Pro XL vs. iPhone 17 Pro Max: Who Wins the Speed Battle?)

Design and Display: Still a Looker?

• Build Quality: The XS Max screams premium. Stainless steel frame, glass front and back – it feels solid and substantial in the hand. While newer iPhones have adopted flatter edges, the curved aesthetic of the XS Max is still elegant and comfortable. Just be ready for a fingerprint magnet, as with most glass-backed phones.
• The Super Retina OLED: This is where the iPhone XS Max truly shines, even today. Its 6.5-inch Super Retina OLED display (2688 x 1242 pixels, 458 ppi) is vibrant, bright, and boasts incredible contrast. As a gaming enthusiast, I can tell you that playing demanding titles like Genshin Impact or watching high-fidelity content on this screen is still an absolute pleasure. True Tone technology ensures accurate colors in various lighting conditions. While it lacks the ProMotion high refresh rate of newer Pro models, for most users and many games, 60Hz on a panel this good is perfectly acceptable.

Performance: Does the A12 Bionic Still Deliver?

This is arguably the most critical section for anyone considering an older iPhone. The iPhone XS Max is powered by Apple’s A12 Bionic chip, paired with 4GB of RAM. In 2018, this was cutting-edge, a marvel of mobile engineering. In 2024, how does it hold up? (See also: Foldable Phones 2025: Are They Worth Buying Now?)

Remarkably well, actually. The A12 Bionic is still a powerhouse. Daily tasks – browsing, social media, email, multitasking – are handled with absolute fluidity. More demanding applications and