iPhone XS vs iPhone 13

Released a few years apart, it might be tempting to pick the newer iPhone 13 over the iPhone XS. Introduced in 2021, the iPhone 13 is one of Apple’s newest models. The iPhone XS was released in 2018 as an upgraded version of the iPhone X. 

For everyday use though, how different are these two iPhone models? Here are the similarities and differences to help you decide between the iPhone XS vs iPhone 13.

Dimensions, screen size, and display

Both the iPhone XS and iPhone 13 are fairly compact in size, but the iPhone 13 is slightly larger. Here are the dimensions of each model: 

• iPhone XS size: 5.65 inches (143.6 mm) H x 2.79 inches (70.9 mm) W x 0.30 inch (7.7 mm) D

• iPhone 13 size: 5.78 inches (146.7 mm) H x 2.82 inches (71.5 mm) W x 0.30 inch (7.65 mm) D

These iPhones are also close in weight. The iPhone XS is just barely heavier, weighing 6.24 ounces (177 grams) compared to 6.14 ounces (174 grams) for the iPhone 13.

There’s a more noticeable difference between the iPhone 13 and iPhone XS in screen size. The iPhone 13 has a 6.1-inch screen size, while the iPhone XS has a 5.8-inch screen.

When it comes to their displays, size isn’t the only difference between these two phones. Both models feature an all-screen OLED display, but the iPhone 13’s newer Super Retina XDR display has an edge over the HD version on the iPhone XS. The XDR display has a slightly higher resolution and is brighter, making it easier to see the screen in daylight.

Camera

These iPhone cameras are actually more similar than you might think. Both feature dual rear cameras with a 12MP main camera. However, the iPhone 13 swaps out the Telephoto lens found on the XS for an Ultra Wide lens. 

The iPhone 13 provides a few photography enhancements that aren’t available on the XS, like Night Mode and Photographic Styles. Video recording is also similar on these models. The iPhone 13 does add Cinematic Mode for users who want to create professional-looking, movie-style scenes with automatic shifts between foreground and background.

Storage capacity

The options for storage capacity are another big difference between these two iPhones. The iPhone XS starts at 64GB and jumps up to 265GB or 512GB versions. The iPhone 13 also offers three storage options but starts at a higher capacity; it comes in 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB. The iPhone XS skips the 128GB option but has a lower entry point for those who don’t need much storage on their phone.

Performance and connectivity 

For everyday messaging, browsing, and app use, it’s hard to tell much of a difference in how these phones perform. However, users who consume a lot of video content or like to play more intense video games on their phone might notice a weaker performance from the iPhone XS. While its A12 Bionic chip is an improvement over the iPhone X’s A11, it still can't compete with the faster processing of the iPhone 13’s newer A15 chip.

Many iPhone 13 reviews also credit the A15 Bionic chip for the phone’s excellent power efficiency and long battery life. The iPhone 13 battery can last for up to 19 hours of video playback, about 5 hours longer than the iPhone XS battery.

The iPhone 13 also has an edge over the XS when it comes to connectivity. It’s compatible with 5G technology while the iPhone XS isn’t. If you live in or travel to areas with 5G networks, you may want to consider this factor when deciding which smartphone to buy.

Design and colors

In the few years between their release dates, not much looks different about the design of these two iPhones at first glance. They’re similar in size and shape, with rounded corners. The camera placement on the back of each phone is different, though. The iPhone 13’s two rear cameras are placed diagonally instead of vertically like on the XS.

There are also more choices for iPhone 13 colors than for the XS. Twice as many, to be exact. The iPhone 13 comes in six colors: Green, Pink, Blue, Midnight, Starlight, and Red. The iPhone XS only comes in three color choices: Silver, Gold, and Space Gray.

Which is the better value: iPhone 13 or iPhone XS?

The iPhone 13 is the better choice if you’re looking for a high-end device with exceptional performance. It can stand up to heavy use and runs smoothly on all applications with its advanced A15 Bionic chip. It’ll also likely be supported by Apple’s software and security updates for at least another 5 or so years, so you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues for a while.

The iPhone XS is much cheaper and still provides a great value with excellent performance for the price. Whichever model you choose, you can’t go wrong with a used and refurbished iPhone. Not only will you save money by buying a refurbished device, you’ll also help save the planet from unnecessary e-waste.