When Apple launched the iPhone X in 2017, it marked a pivotal moment for smartphones: edge-to-edge screens, Face ID, and OLED technology became mainstream. Just a year later, Apple introduced the iPhone XR, positioned as a more budget-friendly alternative that retained many of the X’s key features. However, one of the most talked-about distinctions between these two phones lies in their display technology — OLED vs. LCD. This difference has profound implications on visuals, battery life, and overall user experience.
TL;DR — iPhone X vs. iPhone XR Display Summary
The iPhone X uses a sharper, more vibrant OLED screen, offering deeper blacks and better contrast. The iPhone XR, though slightly larger, employs an LCD display that is more energy-efficient to produce and still features accurate color. While the X wins in display quality, the XR compensates with better battery life, a lower price, and faster internals. Ultimately, choosing between these two depends on whether display quality or overall value matters more to the user.
Display Technology: OLED vs. LCD
iPhone X: The iPhone X was Apple’s first phone to utilize OLED technology. OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) panels allow for each pixel to light up individually or shut entirely off. This results in exceptionally deep blacks and a sharp contrast ratio, which LCDs typically can’t achieve.
iPhone XR: Apple took a different route with the XR, opting for a Liquid Retina LCD panel. While Apple’s LCD technology is remarkably precise—with accurate color calibration and wide color gamut—the absence of self-illuminating pixels means it can’t match OLED’s deep blacks or infinite contrast ratio.
Verdict: If pure display performance is a priority, the iPhone X’s OLED panel is clearly superior. However, for most casual users, the XR’s LCD still delivers excellent color and sharpness.
Resolution and Sharpness
Another area where the iPhone X edges ahead is resolution. The device sports a 2436×1125 pixel resolution at 458 pixels per inch (ppi). The XR, on the other hand, has a resolution of 1792×828 pixels at 326 ppi.
Although the XR has a bigger screen at 6.1 inches (compared to the 5.8 inches on the X), it comes with lower pixel density. Not everyone notices the difference—but for users who consume a lot of high-resolution content or play graphically intensive games, the difference could be meaningful.
Verdict: The iPhone X wins in resolution and sharpness, offering a crisper and more detailed image.
Brightness and Color Accuracy
When it comes to brightness, the two phones are very close. Apple claims a maximum brightness of around 625 nits for both devices. In real-world conditions, the XR’s LCD can sometimes feel a bit brighter in direct sunlight because LCDs tend to handle glare slightly better.
Color accuracy, however, is excellent on both phones. Apple includes True Tone and wide color (P3) support on both displays. Despite the XR using LCD, Apple has calibrated it to deliver highly accurate hues right out of the box.
Verdict: For most users, there’s little noticeable difference in brightness or color accuracy. Both perform admirably in day-to-day scenarios.
Design and Aesthetics
Because OLED panels are thinner and more flexible, Apple was able to make the iPhone X’s bezels slightly slimmer. This gives it a more futuristic and refined look when compared to the XR. On the flip side, the XR features slightly thicker bezels, which allow for better drop protection — especially when combined with its aluminum frame versus the stainless steel of the X.
Verdict: The iPhone X offers more premium design aesthetics, while the XR is sturdier and potentially more durable.
Battery Life and Power Efficiency
Despite having a lower-resolution LCD, the iPhone XR often delivers better battery life than the iPhone X. LCD panels use a constant backlight and may consume more power in darker scenes, but the XR’s efficiency comes from a combination of factors — including the A12 Bionic chip, which is more power-efficient than the iPhone X’s A11 Bionic.
Verdict: The XR wins here, thanks to a more power-optimized chip and display that sips less energy during typical activities like browsing and texting.
Performance and Hardware
- iPhone X: A11 Bionic chip
- iPhone XR: A12 Bionic chip
The A12 chip in the XR is estimated to be about 15% faster in performance and 50% more efficient in graphics and neural processing. For multitasking and gaming, users may notice smoother performance and quicker app launches on the XR.
Verdict: While both are fast in day-to-day use, the XR is a step ahead under the hood thanks to the newer processor.
Facial Recognition and Biometrics
Both devices come equipped with Face ID, enabled through Apple’s TrueDepth camera system. Face ID was introduced with the iPhone X and carried forward to the XR. In both models, it works with high accuracy and speed.
Verdict: No clear winner—Face ID is excellent and identical on both devices.
Price and Value
When considering used or refurbished markets today, the iPhone XR usually comes at a lower price than the iPhone X. Given its newer chip, better battery life, and colorful design options, it offers exceptional value to those less concerned about OLED display precision.
Verdict: For budget-conscious buyers, the XR is the better deal. For display purists, the X might still be worth the splurge.
Conclusion
In the battle of iPhone X vs iPhone XR, there’s no one-size-fits-all winner—it all comes down to priorities. The iPhone X packs a superior OLED panel with a sharper display and a more premium build. The XR counters with stronger internals, longer battery life, and better price-to-performance ratio while still offering a solid display experience.
For users who prioritize visual excellence and design elegance, the iPhone X remains a top choice. However, the iPhone XR delivers more value and is likely the better fit for everyday users looking for longevity and reliability.
FAQ: iPhone X vs. iPhone XR
- Q: Is the iPhone X screen better than the XR?
A: Yes, the iPhone X uses an OLED panel with better contrast, deeper blacks, and higher resolution compared to the XR’s LCD screen. - Q: Does the iPhone XR have Face ID like the iPhone X?
A: Yes, both phones feature Apple’s TrueDepth camera system for fast and secure Face ID. - Q: Is LCD worse than OLED?
A: Not necessarily worse—it depends on the use case. OLED offers better contrast and deep blacks, while LCDs can be more durable and cost-effective. - Q: Which phone has better battery life?
A: The iPhone XR typically has better battery life due to its lower screen resolution and more efficient A12 chip. - Q: Which iPhone is better for gaming and apps?
A: The iPhone XR performs better overall, thanks to its newer A12 Bionic processor.