iPhone XS vs iPhone XS Max
Shop iPhone
iPhone XS
Starting at
£138.35£559.00 new
iPhone XS Max
Starting at
£168.09£459.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max?
iPhone XS vs Max comes down to the battery, screen size and weight. Refurbished, the iPhone XS starts at £138.35, £29.74 less than the iPhone XS Max.
Refurbished from
Battery
Screen size
Weight
- The iPhone XS Max has a bigger battery: 3174 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
- The iPhone XS Max has a bigger screen: 6.5 inch vs 5.8 inch.
- The iPhone XS has a lighter build: 177 g vs 208 g.
iPhone XS vs iPhone XS Max specs
The iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max are very similar in performance and features but differ primarily in size and battery capacity. The iPhone XS Max offers a larger 6.5 inch screen with a higher resolution, making it more suitable for watching videos or browsing with extra space. It also has a bigger 3174 mAh battery for longer use between charges. The iPhone XS is smaller and lighter, with a 5.8 inch screen and a 2658 mAh battery, fitting better in smaller hands or pockets. Storage options also vary, with the XS Max available in up to 512GB, ideal if you need more space for apps and media. Both devices run the same iOS and chipset, so performance and camera quality are the same. Choose the XS for compactness and the XS Max for screen size and battery life.
iPhone XS vs iPhone XS Max price
Colour
iPhone XS vs iPhone XS Max battery life and software updates
Battery life and software support are key for daily use.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone XS Max has a 3174 mAh battery, which is larger than the iPhone XS's 2658 mAh. This means the XS Max suits users who want longer use between charges, especially if you use your phone heavily. The iPhone XS, with its smaller battery, fits those who prefer a lighter device and are comfortable charging more often.
Software Updates
This ensures they remain secure and support current apps for the foreseeable future, making either a solid choice for ongoing software support.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone XS vs iPhone XS Max performance
Performance is identical across the two phones, with matching chipsets, RAM, and storage options except for one difference in maximum capacity.
Chipset and RAM
Both the iPhone XS and XS Max use the Apple A12 Bionic chipset and 4 GB of RAM. This combination keeps apps running smoothly and supports demanding tasks equally well on either device.
Storage Options
The iPhone XS comes with 64GB or 256GB of storage, while the XS Max also offers a higher 512GB option. If you need extra space for photos, videos, or apps, the XS Max provides more flexibility.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone XS vs iPhone XS Max screen
Screen size and resolution affect how you view content. Both devices feature Super Retina OLED displays but differ in size and detail.
Screen Size
The iPhone XS has a 5.8 inch screen, which is more compact and easier to handle with one hand. The iPhone XS Max offers a larger 6.5 inch display, ideal for watching videos, reading, or multitasking with more visible content.
Resolution
The iPhone XS Max has a resolution of 1242 x 2688, higher than the XS's 1125 x 2436. This results in sharper images and more detail on the larger screen, benefiting users who prioritise screen clarity.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone XS vs iPhone XS Max camera
Camera and front-facing sensor specs are the same on both devices, so photo and video quality will be consistent.
Camera Quality
Both the iPhone XS and XS Max have a 12 megapixel main camera and a 7 megapixel front camera. This ensures similar photo and video quality, suitable for everyday photography and video calls.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone XS vs iPhone XS Max size and design
Physical size, weight, and connectivity options define how the phones feel and fit in daily life. Both phones share many features here but differ notably in dimensions and weight.
Size and Weight
The iPhone XS measures 143.6 mm in height, 70.9 mm in width, and weighs 177 g. The XS Max is larger at 157.5 mm tall, 77.4 mm wide, and heavier at 208 g. The XS suits those wanting a lighter, more pocket-friendly phone, while the XS Max fits users who prefer a bigger device and don't mind the extra weight.
Connectivity and SIM
Both models are unlocked and support 4G networks with a Physical SIM plus eSIM setup. They use the Lightning connector for charging and accessories. This makes either device flexible for network choice and compatible with common Apple accessories.
Depth
Both phones have the same 7.7 mm thickness, so neither is notably bulkier than the other despite the size difference.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone XS or iPhone XS Max: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone XS if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £138.35, £29.74 less than the iPhone XS Max
- you want a lighter build (177 g vs 208 g)
Buy the iPhone XS Max if
- you want a bigger battery (3174 mAh vs 2658 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.5 inch vs 5.8 inch)
What our customers say
Customers say the iPhone XS looks like new and runs smoothly, with many praising its compact size and good battery life. Some mention the phone feels like new or excellent condition, with clear screens and strong performance. A few report minor cosmetic marks or issues like battery health below 100%, but most are pleased with the overall quality and camera performance.
Reviews for the iPhone XS Max highlight its excellent condition and value for the price. Customers appreciate the larger screen and good battery life, though some note variations in battery health and minor scratches that are often covered by cases. The XS Max is described as a good smartphone for those not needing the latest model, with easy setup and reliable performance.
Overall, the iPhone XS suits buyers wanting a compact and lighter phone with solid performance. The iPhone XS Max fits those who prefer a larger screen and longer battery life, potentially with higher storage needs.
iPhone XS vs iPhone XS Max FAQs
iPhone XS vs Max comes down to the battery, screen size and weight. The iPhone XS Max has a bigger battery: 3174 mAh vs 2658 mAh. The iPhone XS Max has a bigger screen: 6.5 inch vs 5.8 inch.
The iPhone XS is cheaper refurbished, from £138.35 compared with £168.09 for the iPhone XS Max.
The iPhone XS Max has a bigger battery: 3174 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the iPhone XS ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18. Updates for the iPhone XS Max ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
Refurbished, the iPhone XS comes in 64GB and 256GB, and the iPhone XS Max in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB.
