Is iPhone XS Max Still Worth Buying in 2025
Introduction
The iPhone XS Max, released in 2018, marked Apple’s entry into the “Max” lineup, offering a massive 6.5-inch OLED display, premium stainless-steel design, and a significant step up in performance at the time. It quickly became a favorite for those who wanted the biggest and most advanced iPhone available.
Now, in 2025, many shoppers are wondering if the iPhone XS Max still holds up. While it remains a stylish and capable device on paper, software support and performance are crucial factors when deciding whether it’s still worth buying today.
iPhone XS Max in 2025 (Price and Usability)
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, the Certified Used and Refurbished iPhone XS Max now starts around $170+, putting it well below most modern iPhones. For buyers focused strictly on budget, that might sound like a tempting offer.
The device still brings some impressive specs to the table, even in 2025:
- 6.5-inch Super Retina OLED display
- A12 Bionic processor
- Dual 12MP rear cameras with Smart HDR
- Face ID for secure unlocking
- Wireless charging and premium build quality
In terms of usability, the XS Max can still handle basic tasks like calling, messaging, social media, and video streaming. It continues to feel premium in the hand thanks to its stainless-steel frame and OLED screen, which rivals newer devices in brightness and quality.
Limitations of iPhone XS Max in 2025
Despite its attractive price and premium design, the iPhone XS Max faces significant limitations that make it a poor investment in 2025:
- No iOS 26 Support: The XS Max is capped at iOS 25. Without the latest iOS 26, it won’t get new features and will eventually lose access to important security patches.
- App Compatibility Risks: As developers optimize for iOS 26 and beyond, the XS Max will gradually lose compatibility with newer apps and updates.
- Performance Gap: Powered by the A12 Bionic chip, the XS Max shows its age when compared to A13 and A14 devices, especially with demanding apps, games, or multitasking.
- Device Age: Released in 2018, the iPhone XS Max is now 7 years old in 2025. Even refurbished units may have hardware wear-and-tear that impacts reliability.
- Battery Degradation: Battery health is a major concern on older devices. Many XS Max units may have noticeable battery wear, leading to shorter daily runtimes and more frequent charging.
- Shorter Lifespan: Even if it works fine for light use today, the XS Max has limited years left before becoming unusable, which reduces the value of its lower upfront cost.
In short, while the iPhone XS Max can still function for basic daily use, it lacks the software support, battery reliability, and long-term durability that most buyers should expect when purchasing an iPhone in 2025.
Best Alternatives to iPhone XS Max
iPhone 11 Pro — $180+
Specs Comparison
| Feature | iPhone XS Max | iPhone 11 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.5-inch OLED | 5.8-inch OLED |
| Processor | A12 Bionic | A13 Bionic |
| iOS Support | iOS 18 (Ending in 2025) | iOS 26 |
| Camera | Dual 12MP | Triple 12MP (Ultra-Wide, Wide, Telephoto) |
| Battery | Up to 15 hours video playback | Up to 18 hours video playback |
| Size & Weight | 6.20 x 3.05 x 0.30 in, 7.34 oz | 5.67 x 2.81 x 0.32 in, 6.63 oz |
Key Differences
Performance: The A13 Bionic chip gives the iPhone 11 Pro a big jump in speed and efficiency compared to the XS Max’s A12.
Software Longevity: Unlike the XS Max, the iPhone 11 Pro supports iOS 26, guaranteeing more years of updates.
Camera System: With a triple-camera setup including Ultra-Wide, the iPhone 11 Pro captures more versatile and professional-quality photos than the XS Max.
Compact Design: The 11 Pro is smaller and lighter, making it easier to carry, while still offering OLED quality.
iPhone 11 Pro Max — $220+
Specs Comparison
| Feature | iPhone XS Max | iPhone 11 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.5-inch OLED | 6.5-inch OLED |
| Processor | A12 Bionic | A13 Bionic |
| iOS Support | iOS 18 (Ending in 2025) | iOS 26 |
| Camera | Dual 12MP | Triple 12MP (Ultra-Wide, Wide, Telephoto) |
| Battery | Up to 15 hours video playback | Up to 20 hours video playback |
| Size & Weight | 6.20 x 3.05 x 0.30 in, 7.34 oz | 6.22 x 3.06 x 0.32 in, 7.97 oz |
Key Differences
Familiar Screen Size: Like the XS Max, the 11 Pro Max has a 6.5-inch OLED, but it delivers better brightness, contrast, and HDR performance.
Performance Upgrade: With the A13 Bionic chip, the 11 Pro Max handles multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps more smoothly.
Improved Battery Life: The 11 Pro Max has one of the best batteries in any iPhone, lasting much longer than the XS Max.
iOS 26 Support: Unlike the XS Max, the 11 Pro Max runs iOS 26 and will receive updates for years ahead.
iPhone 12 Pro Max — $240+
Specs Comparison
| Feature | iPhone XS Max | iPhone 12 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.5-inch OLED | 6.7-inch OLED with Ceramic Shield |
| Processor | A12 Bionic | A14 Bionic |
| iOS Support | iOS 18 (Ending in 2025) | iOS 26 |
| Camera | Dual 12MP | Triple 12MP with LiDAR |
| Battery | Up to 15 hours video playback | Up to 20 hours video playback |
| 5G | No | Yes |
| Size & Weight | 6.20 x 3.05 x 0.30 in, 7.34 oz | 6.33 x 3.07 x 0.29 in, 8.03 oz |
Key Differences
Largest Display: At 6.7 inches, the 12 Pro Max offers more screen space than both the XS Max and 11 Pro Max, with Ceramic Shield for added durability.
5G Connectivity: Unlike the XS Max, the 12 Pro Max supports 5G, making it much more future-proof.
Superior Performance: The A14 Bionic chip ensures excellent speed and efficiency, outperforming the A12 by a wide margin.
Advanced Cameras: With LiDAR and enhanced Night Mode, the 12 Pro Max takes better photos and videos than the XS Max and even the 11 Pro series.
Future Longevity: As a newer device with iOS 26 support, the 12 Pro Max will remain relevant for years.
Conclusion — Should You Buy the iPhone XS Max in 2025?
At first glance, the iPhone XS Max seems like a great bargain in 2025, with Certified Used and Refurbished models starting at just $170+. It still looks premium, has a large OLED display, and handles basic tasks.
However, the XS Max is officially capped at iOS 18, which ends support in 2025. That means no iOS 26 updates, no long-term security patches, and shrinking app compatibility. Combined with its age and potential battery wear, the savings quickly lose their appeal.
Instead, buyers should look at more future-proof options. The iPhone 11 Pro ($180+) is the best budget alternative under $200, the iPhone 11 Pro Max ($220+) offers the same big-screen experience with iOS 26 support, and the iPhone 12 Pro Max ($240+) is the smartest long-term pick with 5G and superior performance.
If you’re upgrading in 2025, skip the XS Max and spend a little more — you’ll get years of extra life, performance, and security.
| Feature | iPhone XS Max | iPhone 11 Pro | iPhone 11 Pro Max | iPhone 12 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (2025 Certified Used / Refurbished) | $170+ | $180+ | $220+ | $240+ |
| Display | 6.5-inch OLED | 5.8-inch OLED | 6.5-inch OLED | 6.7-inch OLED with Ceramic Shield |
| Processor | A12 Bionic | A13 Bionic | A13 Bionic | A14 Bionic |
| iOS Support | iOS 18 (Ending in 2025) | iOS 26 | iOS 26 | iOS 26 |
| Camera | Dual 12MP | Triple 12MP (Ultra-Wide, Wide, Telephoto) | Triple 12MP (Ultra-Wide, Wide, Telephoto) | Triple 12MP with LiDAR |
| Battery Life | Up to 15 hrs video playback | Up to 18 hrs video playback | Up to 20 hrs video playback | Up to 20 hrs video playback |
| 5G Support | No | No | No | Yes |
| Size & Weight | 6.20 x 3.05 x 0.30 in, 7.34 oz | 5.67 x 2.81 x 0.32 in, 6.63 oz | 6.22 x 3.06 x 0.32 in, 7.97 oz | 6.33 x 3.07 x 0.29 in, 8.03 oz |
| Recommended? | ❌ Not Recommended | ✅ Best Budget Option | ✅ Great Value | ✅ Best Long-Term Choice |
FAQ: Buying the iPhone XS Max in 2025
1. How much does the iPhone XS Max cost in 2025?
Certified Used or Refurbished iPhone XS Max models start at around $170+, making it one of the cheapest “Max” iPhones available.
2. How old is the iPhone XS Max in 2025?
The iPhone XS Max was released in September 2018, which makes it 7 years old in 2025.
3. Does the iPhone XS Max still get iOS updates?
No. The iPhone XS Max is capped at iOS 18, which ends support in 2025. It will not receive iOS 26 or future Apple software updates.
4. Is it safe to buy a refurbished iPhone XS Max in 2025?
Not really. Without iOS 26, the XS Max will miss new features and long-term security updates. It may still work for basic tasks, but it isn’t a future-proof investment.
5. Which iPhone should I buy instead of the XS Max?
The best alternatives are the iPhone 11 Pro ($180+), iPhone 11 Pro Max ($220+), and iPhone 12 Pro Max ($240+), all of which support iOS 26 and provide years of updates.
6. Is the iPhone 11 Pro better than the XS Max?
Yes. The iPhone 11 Pro has the faster A13 Bionic chip, triple cameras, better battery life, and support for iOS 26, making it a much smarter buy in 2025.
7. Does the iPhone 12 Pro Max have 5G?
Yes. The iPhone 12 Pro Max is the first “Max” model to support 5G, making it a great long-term option compared to the 4G-only XS Max.
8. How long will the iPhone XS Max last?
Since it ends support with iOS 18 in 2025, the XS Max will only remain usable for another year or two before apps and security become major issues.
9. Where can I find the best deals on refurbished iPhones?
The easiest way is through UpTrade, where you can compare real-time prices on Certified Used and Refurbished iPhones from trusted sellers like Amazon, BestBuy, and Apple.
