Introduction
The iPhone 11, launched in 2019, remains one of Apple’s most popular smartphones, thanks to its balanced mix of performance, camera quality, and longevity. In 2025, many buyers wonder if the iPhone 11 is still worth considering, given the availability of newer models. In this blog, we’ll evaluate whether the iPhone 11 is a worthwhile purchase in 2025 and highlight its strengths and weaknesses.
Price and Availability
As per our UpTrade Price Tracker, the iPhone 11 is priced at around $140+ in 2025. Based on our historical data, we predict a 3% price drop per month, making it an even more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. For those looking for a reliable smartphone without spending a fortune, the iPhone 11 offers excellent value at this price point.
Why the iPhone 11 is Still a Great Choice in 2025
Software (Supporting iOS 26)
The iPhone 11 supports the latest iOS 26 and receives regular security updates from Apple. This ensures that the device remains secure, up-to-date, and compatible with the latest apps, giving it a significant edge over many older or similarly priced smartphones.
Performance
Powered by the A13 Bionic chipset, the iPhone 11 delivers fast and reliable performance, even by 2025 standards. It handles multitasking, gaming, and productivity apps with ease, making it suitable for a wide range of users.
Dual-Camera System
The iPhone 11 features a robust dual-camera setup with a 12 MP wide lens and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. Key features include:
- Night Mode: Exceptional low-light photography.
- 4K Video Recording: High-quality videos with up to 60fps support.
- Smart HDR: Enhanced color accuracy and detail in photos.
The camera system remains competitive, allowing users to capture stunning photos and videos.
All-Day Battery Life
With its 3110mAh battery, the iPhone 11 offers reliable all-day battery life. Apple’s optimizations ensure efficient power usage, making it ideal for daily tasks and media consumption.
Build Quality and Design
The iPhone 11’s glass and aluminum body exudes a premium feel, while its IP68 water and dust resistance adds durability. It’s available in vibrant colors, catering to various style preferences.
Value for Money
At $140+, the iPhone 11 provides flagship-level features at a fraction of the cost of newer models. Its longevity, combined with its current pricing, makes it a top contender for buyers seeking affordability without sacrificing quality.
Potential Drawbacks of Buying an iPhone 11 in 2025
Lack of 5G Support
Unlike newer models, the iPhone 11 only supports 4G LTE, which might limit connectivity speeds as 5G becomes more widespread. However, for many users, 4G LTE remains sufficient for daily tasks.
No ProMotion Display
The iPhone 11 features a 60Hz Liquid Retina IPS display, which is not as smooth or vibrant as the ProMotion (120Hz) OLED displays on newer iPhones. While adequate for most users, it may feel dated compared to newer options.
Base Storage
The base model starts at 64GB, which may be limiting for users who store a lot of apps, photos, or videos. Opting for the 128GB or 256GB models can address this concern.
Full Specs Comparison: iPhone 11 vs. iPhone 12
When considering whether to buy the iPhone 11 in 2025, it’s worth comparing it with the iPhone 12, priced at around $190. Here’s a detailed side-by-side comparison of the key features of both models:
| Feature |
iPhone 11 |
iPhone 12 |
| Network Technology |
4G LTE |
5G |
| Launch |
September 2019 |
October 2020 |
| Build |
Glass front and back (Gorilla Glass), aluminum frame |
Ceramic Shield front, glass back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions & Weight |
150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3 mm, 194g |
146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4 mm, 164g |
| Display |
6.1" Liquid Retina IPS LCD, 828 x 1792 pixels (326 ppi) |
6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED, 1170 x 2532 pixels (460 ppi) |
| Chipset |
A13 Bionic |
A14 Bionic |
| Camera System |
Dual: 12 MP wide + 12 MP ultrawide, Night Mode |
Dual: 12 MP wide + 12 MP ultrawide, Night Mode, Dolby Vision HDR |
| Front Camera |
12 MP, SL 3D |
12 MP, SL 3D, Night Mode |
| Battery |
3110 mAh, 18W fast charging |
2815 mAh, 20W fast charging |
| Water Resistance |
IP68 (2 meters for 30 min) |
IP68 (6 meters for 30 min) |
| Storage Options |
64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Operating System |
iOS 13, upgradable to iOS 18 |
iOS 14, upgradable to iOS 18 |
| 5G Support |
No |
Yes |
| Pricing (2025) |
$140+ |
$150+ |
Key Differences
Build and Durability
The iPhone 12 features a Ceramic Shield front, which offers better drop protection compared to the iPhone 11’s Gorilla Glass. It’s also lighter and thinner, making it easier to handle.
Display
The iPhone 12 offers a Super Retina XDR OLED display, which is brighter and has a higher resolution than the iPhone 11’s Liquid Retina IPS LCD. This makes the iPhone 12 superior for media consumption and everyday use.
Performance
Powered by the A14 Bionic chipset, the iPhone 12 delivers better performance and energy efficiency than the A13 Bionic in the iPhone 11. The A14 also supports advanced machine learning tasks and high-end gaming.
5G Connectivity
The iPhone 12 supports 5G, making it more future-proof in areas with widespread 5G coverage. The iPhone 11, while capable of high-speed 4G LTE, lacks this feature.
Camera Enhancements
While both models share a similar dual-camera setup, the iPhone 12 adds Dolby Vision HDR for videos and improved Night Mode capabilities for the front camera, enhancing its photography and videography capabilities.
Water Resistance
The iPhone 12 can withstand depths of up to 6 meters for 30 minutes, compared to the iPhone 11’s limit of 2 meters. This makes the iPhone 12 better suited for outdoor and adventurous use.
Battery Life
The iPhone 11 has a slightly larger battery, but the iPhone 12’s A14 Bionic chipset ensures comparable battery performance, with faster 20W charging support.
Conclusion
The iPhone 11 remains a strong contender in 2025, offering excellent value at $140+. Its support for the latest iOS version, robust performance, and impressive camera system make it a reliable choice for budget-conscious buyers.
For users who prioritize 5G connectivity, higher refresh rate displays, or more advanced features, newer models like the iPhone 12 may be worth considering, albeit at a slightly higher price, at $150+.
FAQ: Buying the iPhone 11 in 2025
1. How much does the iPhone 11 cost in 2025?
Certified Used or Refurbished iPhone 11 models typically start at $140+ in 2025, making it one of the most affordable iPhones still supported by iOS.
2. Is the iPhone 11 still supported by Apple in 2025?
Yes. The iPhone 11 runs the latest iOS 26 in 2025 and is expected to receive updates for at least a couple more years.
3. Is an iPhone 11 still good to buy?
Yes. The iPhone 11 is still a solid purchase in 2025 if you’re looking for a reliable iPhone at a budget-friendly price. It has strong performance, good cameras, and iOS 26 support — all for around $140+.
4. Why is the iPhone 11 so popular?
The iPhone 11 remains popular because it strikes a balance between affordability, performance, and long-term support. Its A13 Bionic chip is still capable, and Apple’s consistent iOS updates have kept it relevant for years.
5. Does the iPhone 11 have 5G?
No. The iPhone 11 only supports 4G LTE. If you want 5G, the better choice is the iPhone 12, which now starts at just $150+ Certified Used/Refurbished.
6. Is the iPhone 11 waterproof?
The iPhone 11 is water-resistant with an IP68 rating, meaning it can withstand being submerged in up to 2 meters of water for 30 minutes. It’s not fully waterproof, so extended or deep exposure to water should be avoided.
7. Was the iPhone 11 or 12 better?
The iPhone 12 is the better device overall. It offers 5G support, an OLED display, the faster A14 Bionic chip, and improved durability with Ceramic Shield. Since its price has dropped to $150+, it’s now a fantastic upgrade over the iPhone 11.
8. Is it worth paying extra for the iPhone 12 over the iPhone 11?
Yes, if 5G is important to you. The iPhone 12 has dropped from $190+ to $150+ this year, making it one of the best-value 5G iPhones in 2025.
9. How long will the iPhone 11 last?
With iOS 26 support and Apple’s typical update cycle, the iPhone 11 should continue to receive updates until around 2027, giving buyers at least two more years of usability.
10. Where can I find the best deals on a refurbished iPhone 11 or iPhone 12?
The best way is through UpTrade, where you can compare real-time prices from certified sellers like Amazon, BestBuy, and Apple to ensure you get the lowest price on a trusted device.
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