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When Apple unveiled the all-new iPhone 14, the company's phone line had to change. Apple will permanently stop supporting older models, and the iPhone 11 may be one of the models that will no longer be supported or receive updates in the future.
Despite being four years old, the iPhone 11 may still suit those on a budget as you can find the phone for less than $499.
However, price isn't the only factor to consider when buying a new phone. You should also consider the features and future-proofing of the device.
Now that we've cleared things up, let's take a look at the iPhone 11 to determine if it's still worth buying.
iPhone 11 prices and specifications
After the release of the iPhone 13 series, Apple kept the iPhone 11 in its series at a reduced price. The iPhone 11 costs $499 for the 64GB variant and $549 for the 128GB model.
The iPhone 11 is available in six colors: black, green, yellow, purple, red and white. For such a price, it offers excellent features. Check out some of the key specs for yourself:
| Body measurements | 150,9 x 75,7 x 8,3 mm (5,94 x 2,98 x 0,33 tommer) |
| Weight | 194 g |
| Display type | Liquid Retina IPS LCD, 625 nits (type) |
| Screen resolution | 828 x 1792 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~326 PPI density) |
| Chipset | Apple A13 Bionic (7nm+) |
| Memory | Intern 64GB 4GBram, 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM NVMe |
| Main camera | Dual 12 MP, f/1.8, 26 mm (bred), 1/2.55″, 1.4 µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS 12 MP, f/2.4, 120˚, 13 mm (ultrabreed), 1/3.6″ |
| Camera-selfies | Dual 12 MP, f/2.2, 23 mm (wide), 1/3.6" |
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| USB | Lightning, USB 2.0 |
| Functions | Sensors Face ID, accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity, compass, barometer Ultra Wideband (UWB) supports USB Power Delivery 2.0 Qi wireless charging |
| Bacteria | Li-Ion 3110 mAh, non-removable (11.91 Wh) |
| To upload | Fast charging 18W, 50% in 30 min (advertised) |
| Battery life | Endurance 94 hours |
It quickly becomes clear that it doesn't come close to the new releases, but again, this is value for money. So let's get back to the question.
Should you buy an iPhone 11 in 2023?
Lack of 5G technology
It is common for a phone launched in 2019 to lack some modern technologies. 5G connectivity is one of the most noticeable features missing from the iPhone 11 compared to the iPhone 13 and iPhone 12.
The iPhone 11 is an LTE-only smartphone, so if you don't want to wait for the next generation of wireless technology, the iPhone 11 should suffice.
Remember, 5G launched on the iPhone 12 series, and the availability of faster 5G bands depends on where you live. Buying the iPhone 12 therefore makes your purchase more future-proof.
Old but solid display
Most people are now looking for displays with higher refresh rates than 60Hz, and the iPhone 11 will disappoint you if you are one of them.
The iPhone 11 has a sharp LCD screen that updates at 60 frames per second60 Hz. In this case, the iPhone 12 will not be enough if you are looking for a higher refresh rate, as it only has a better screen technology (OLED) than the iPhone 11, but the refresh rate is still 60Hz.
Upgradable operating system
Many older iPhones can run Apple's latest operating system, iOS 15.5. According to Apple's policy of supporting iPhones for six years, we can estimate that the iPhone 11 will be supported until 2025.
This ensures that your operating system will remain up to date for at least a few years.
Less durable than newer models
If you choose the iPhone 11, you will miss out on a number of sustainability features found on the latest iPhone models. The display material on the iPhone 12 is one of the most important upgrades.
Apple calls it “ceramic shield” glass. The ceramic screen glass is said to be stiffer than most metals. If you're clumsy and prone to slips and falls, choosing the iPhone 13 or 12 is a wise decision.
The best cases for the iPhone 11
Four essential scenarios will make the iPhone 11 the best phone you ever buy:
- You need a temporary replacement for your phone
- Your young child needs a decent smartphone
- You are a photographer who needs a smartphone with a good camera.
- Battery life is an important factor for you
Now let's take a closer look at each of them.
Temporary replacement
If you're looking for a phone that you can keep for a few years, opt for one of Apple's current flagships. Considering the existence of Applesoftwaresupport track record, an iPhone 13 should be able to get iOS updates until at least 2027.
However, not everyone is willing to keep the same smartphone for so long. The iPhone 11 will continue to receive updates for a few more years and will meet your requirements, which indicates that it is not a future-proof device, but can serve you well as a temporary replacement.
The best choice for a teenager
When it's time for your teen to get a phone, your old phone may be the best option if you decide to upgrade.
But with current smartphone prices, trading in your phone for a newer model can minimize costs, and even selling it can generate income that can help you buy a newer phone.
In this case, the iPhone 11 is an excellent choice for your child. It has a more modern design than the cheaper iPhone SE, but still costs less than $500.
Great camera for photographers
If you mainly use your smartphone to take photos, the iPhone 11 could be a good buy. iPhone 11's ultra-wide-angle camera gives you flexibility when taking spectacular photos.
The iPhone 11 is a much better option for taking photos in low light than phones in the same price range.
Long battery life
Various battery tests showed that the iPhone 11 lasted more than 11 hours. It's also much better than the iPhone SE (2022). That phone only lasted 9 hours and 5 minutes, which is below the industry standard for a smartphone.
The iPhone 12 mini, Apple's other budget smartphone, performs much worse and does not reach the 8.5 hour mark. Remember, the iPhone 11 only has 4G, while the iPhone SE and iPhone 12 mini have more power-hungry 5G connections.
There are newer alternatives to the iPhone 11, but none match the battery life of the Apple device.
iPhone 11 – in some cases the best option
With a quick search, you can find hundreds of smartphones for under $500. Some even offer superior features and components, like a better camera or screen.
But if you prefer Apple over any other brand and find that working with iOS is much easier than working with Android, then the iPhone 11 may be for you.
As a four year old phone it will hold up so far. If you don't expect much from your phone and 4G is enough, working with the iPhone 11 would be a dream come true.
The final decision is yours, and depends on your budget; you can decide if you need the device in your life.
Will Apple stop selling the iPhone 11?
At the time of writing, Apple no longer sells the iPhone 11 in its stores. Currently you can buy iPhone 14, 14 Pro, 13, 12 and iPhone SE directly from Apple. To buy the iPhone 11, it is best to buy from online storesBest BuyInAmazon.
How long does an iPhone 11 last?
We expect an iPhone 11 to last about 2 to 3 years, so until about 2025. This is fairly standard for the lifespan of Apple phones.
What is an iPhone 11 worth now?
Prices vary for the iPhone 11, but depending on where you go, you can get the model for around $499 for the 64GB variant and $549 for the 128GB variant. However, it's worth noting that you may be able to buy one cheaper in some places if it has been refurbished.
