Hey, what is up guys, MKBHD here, and today we’re diving into the iPhone 11. This device is a solid improvement over the iPhone XR in several ways, and notably, it comes at a lower price than the Pro models. Let’s explore why this is the new iPhone most people should consider buying.
Design and Build
The design of the iPhone 11 is very familiar, echoing the look of the XR, XS, and X. It features the same shape, notch, and size as the XR, with its substantial 6.1-inch display. The iPhone 11 retains the aluminum rails, lightning port, and LCD display with a 1792 by 828 resolution. While the resolution might raise eyebrows for not supporting HD YouTube videos on a $700 phone, it didn’t bother many users last year.
In terms of water resistance, it maintains the IP68 rating, ensuring durability. The buttons, speakers, and overall build remain unchanged from the XR. However, there are new colors: black, green, yellow, purple, red, and white, with a more pastel tone compared to last year’s XR. While some might miss the vibrant blue or unique coral of the XR, there’s still a color for everyone.
Design Tweaks and Glass Finishes
One noticeable design tweak is the repositioning of the Apple logo to the middle of the back panel. The glass back now features two different finishes: a glossy finish around the logo and a matte finish on the camera square, opposite to the iPhone 11 Pro’s design. Interestingly, both finishes are achieved from a single piece of glass, showcasing Apple’s meticulous design approach.
Performance and Battery Life
The iPhone 11’s dimensions and weight are identical to the XR, but it boasts an improved battery life, with Apple claiming it lasts an hour longer than the XR. The XR was already praised for its battery longevity, so this is a welcome enhancement. This boost is partly due to the more efficient A13 Bionic chip, ensuring smooth performance and better power management.
Camera Improvements
The cameras are the most significant upgrade in the iPhone 11. It now features dual cameras: a new main camera and an ultra-wide camera. These additions allow for versatile photography options, including 4K video recording from both lenses and improved portrait mode capabilities, extending beyond human faces to animals and objects.
The front-facing camera has also been upgraded to a wider lens capable of capturing slow-motion videos, introducing the concept of “slofies.” Although it lacks the third telephoto camera found in the Pro models, the dual cameras perform exceptionally well, making it one of the best smartphone cameras available in 2019.
Pricing and Value
Apple has adjusted the iPhone 11’s price, starting at $700 for the 64GB model. While an upgrade to higher storage is advisable for many, this pricing fits well within Apple’s new iPhone pricing gradient. The iPhone XR remains available at a reduced price, and the iPhone 8 is even more affordable, offering options for various budgets.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the iPhone 11 is essentially an iPhone XR with incremental improvements: a new design, enhanced cameras, better battery life, and a new chip. It’s an easy recommendation for most people, thanks to its balance of performance, features, and price.
However, consider your priorities. If screen quality is crucial, the LCD display might not meet your expectations. In that case, the higher-resolution OLED displays of the XS or 11 Pro could be worth the extra investment. Additionally, the phone’s size might influence your decision. The 6.1-inch screen is large, so if you prefer something more compact, the 11 Pro offers a smaller form factor, while the Pro Max caters to those wanting a larger screen.
Budget-conscious buyers might also consider the XR, especially if they can forgo the new camera features.
Conclusion
Apple has crafted an iPhone 11 that’s easy to recommend. It builds on the success of the XR, with meaningful upgrades and a lower starting price. While the anticipation for the 2020 iPhone looms, the iPhone 11 stands out as the iPhone to get this year.
Thanks for reading this review. Stay tuned for more updates and catch you in the next one. Peace.
