iPhone 13 vs iPhone XS
Shop iPhone
iPhone 13
Starting at
£249.06£599.00 new
iPhone XS
Starting at
£138.35£559.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 13 and iPhone XS?
iPhone 13 vs XS comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone XS starts at £138.35, £110.71 less than the iPhone 13. The iPhone 13 is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Front camera
- Chipset: Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 13, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS.
- The iPhone 13 has a bigger battery: 3240 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
- The iPhone 13 has a bigger screen: 6.1 inch vs 5.8 inch.
iPhone 13 vs iPhone XS specs
The iPhone 13 and iPhone XS each suit different users based on their specifications. The iPhone 13 has a larger screen, higher resolution, and a stronger battery capacity, making it suitable for those who want more screen space and longer battery life. It also supports 5G, benefiting users needing faster mobile networks. The iPhone XS is slightly smaller and heavier, fitting better in one hand or a pocket. Both offer 4 GB of RAM and a 12-megapixel main camera, but the iPhone 13 has a higher-resolution front camera for sharper selfies. Storage options vary, with the iPhone 13 offering larger maximum capacity. Overall, the iPhone 13 suits users wanting newer features and a bigger screen, while the iPhone XS is good for those preferring a compact size with solid performance.
iPhone 13 vs iPhone XS price
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iPhone 13 vs iPhone XS battery life and software updates
Battery capacity and operating system influence how long each phone lasts between charges and how it handles software updates. These differences impact daily use and longevity.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone 13 has a 3240 mAh battery, which offers more capacity than the iPhone XS's 2658 mAh battery. This means the iPhone 13 can support longer use between charges, which suits users who spend more time on their phone or use power-intensive apps. The iPhone XS's battery capacity supports everyday use but may require more frequent charging.
Operating System Version
The iPhone 13 runs iOS 15, providing access to newer features and security updates available in that version. The iPhone XS runs iOS, which may have a different software experience.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 13 vs iPhone XS performance
Performance depends on the chipset and RAM, affecting how smoothly the phone runs apps and handles multitasking. Storage options also determine how much data and apps you can keep on the device.
Chipset
The iPhone 13 uses the Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) chipset, while the iPhone XS uses the Apple A12 Bionic. The chipset in the iPhone 13 is designed for efficient processing and better handling of demanding tasks. Users who run intensive apps or want faster overall responsiveness may find the iPhone 13 more suitable.
RAM
Both devices have 4 GB of RAM, which supports smooth multitasking for everyday apps and general use. This amount of RAM suits users who run multiple apps but do not require very high memory for professional or heavy multitasking needs.
Storage Options
The iPhone 13 is available with 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB of storage, offering a wide range of capacity for apps, photos, and files. The iPhone XS comes with 64GB and 256GB options. Users needing more storage for media or large apps may prefer the higher capacity options of the iPhone 13.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 13 vs iPhone XS screen
Screen size, resolution, and type affect how content looks and feels on the device. Differences here influence video watching, gaming, and reading experiences.
Screen Size
The iPhone 13 has a 6.1-inch screen, which is larger than the iPhone XS's 5.8-inch display. This extra screen space on the iPhone 13 suits users who prefer a roomier display for watching videos, browsing, and multitasking.
Resolution
The iPhone 13 offers a resolution of 1170 x 2532 pixels, providing a sharper image than the iPhone XS's 1125 x 2436 pixels. A higher resolution can make text and images look clearer, which benefits users who value screen detail for reading or media.
Screen Type
Both phones use OLED screen technology, with the iPhone XS specified as Super Retina OLED. OLED screens provide vibrant colours and deep blacks, enhancing the viewing experience. Both displays suit users looking for high-quality visuals.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 13 vs iPhone XS camera
Camera quality plays an important role for those who use their phone for photos and video calls. Front and main cameras differ in resolution, influencing image detail.
Front Camera
The iPhone 13 has a 12-megapixel front camera, offering higher resolution selfies and video calls compared to the iPhone XS's 7-megapixel front camera. Users who prioritise selfie quality or video chatting may prefer the iPhone 13.
Main Camera
Both devices have a 12-megapixel main camera, suitable for capturing detailed photos and videos. This makes either phone a good choice for everyday photography.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 13 vs iPhone XS size and design
Other differences include mobile network support, physical dimensions, weight, and connectivity options, which influence usability and comfort.
Mobile Network
The iPhone 13 supports 5G networks, providing access to faster mobile internet where available. The iPhone XS supports 4G networks, which are widely available but slower than 5G. Users needing faster download speeds and improved connectivity on the go may prefer the iPhone 13.
Physical Size and Weight
The iPhone 13 measures 146.7 mm in height, 71.5 mm in width, and weighs 174 g. The iPhone XS is slightly smaller at 143.6 mm by 70.9 mm and weighs 177 g. Those who want a more compact phone might find the iPhone XS fits better in hand or pocket, while the iPhone 13 offers a larger footprint.
SIM Card Options
Both phones accept a physical SIM and an eSIM, allowing flexible mobile service options. This suits users who want to manage work and personal numbers or switch carriers easily.
Connector
Both the iPhone 13 and iPhone XS use the Lightning connector for charging and accessories. Users familiar with this standard will find consistent compatibility across both devices.
Unlocked Carrier Compatibility
Both phones come unlocked, so you can choose any compatible network provider. This flexibility suits users who want freedom in carrier choice.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
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Width
iPhone 13 or iPhone XS: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 13 if
- you want a bigger battery (3240 mAh vs 2658 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 5.8 inch)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (12 megapixels vs 7 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone XS if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £138.35, £110.71 less than the iPhone 13
What our customers say
Customers say the iPhone 13 looks like new and runs smoothly, with many noting excellent battery health and screen condition. Several mention the battery holding up well and the phone working like new, including those buying in fair condition. Users appreciate the larger screen and the phone's speed, with setup described as easy. Some customers highlight the value for money and the phone's reliability for everyday use.
Reviews for the iPhone XS describe it as feeling like new, with good battery life and smooth performance. Customers highlight its compact size and excellent condition, with many pleased with the camera quality and screen clarity. Some mention minor marks or faint screen issues but overall satisfaction is high. Users appreciate the phone's size and reliability for daily tasks, with battery life described as lasting well through the day.
The iPhone 13 suits users who want a larger display, longer battery life, and faster mobile networks. The iPhone XS appeals to those who prefer a compact phone with solid performance and good camera quality.
iPhone 13 vs iPhone XS FAQs
iPhone 13 vs XS comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 13, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS. The iPhone 13 has a bigger battery: 3240 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
The iPhone XS is cheaper refurbished, from £138.35 compared with £249.06 for the iPhone 13.
The iPhone 13 has a bigger battery: 3240 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 13 is still supported and can run iOS 27. Updates for the iPhone XS ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
The iPhone 13 adds a bigger battery (3240 mAh vs 2658 mAh), a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 5.8 inch) and a higher-resolution front camera (12 megapixels vs 7 megapixels). Refurbished, it costs £110.71 more (from £249.06 vs £138.35).
Refurbished, the iPhone 13 comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone XS in 64GB and 256GB.
