The iPhone 11 lineup was just released by Apple on September 20, 2019.1 Consumers cannot help but be impressed by the newly improved hardware and the great performance of these newer models.
What is confusing to some individuals is the similarity between names in this new lineup. The iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max may sound similar. However, they have some key differences in size, performance, and price that potential new users should be aware of before choosing the best option for them.
ALDECAstock / ShutterstockiPhone 11
The iPhone 11 is most similar to the iPhone XR in size and performance. Aside from a few hardware changes and some slightly beefed-up performance improvements, users will not notice too many huge changes at first glance. The screen still extends from corner to corner with the large, black notch at the top of the screen.2
The biggest difference that most users will notice immediately with this newer model is the camera. In fact, this feature has plenty of people discussing whether the improved picture and video-taking options are worth the change in the look of the phone. While older iPhone models offered one camera lens, the iPhone 11 offers a dual-lens that allows it to take ultra-wide-angle photographs and gorgeous nighttime shots. Although this new 12MP camera certainly produces amazing photographs, some users insist that it has made the back of the camera appear bulky. However, photographers will enjoy the bright True Tone flash and Optical Image Stabilization.
As far as the specs for the iPhone 11 go, the waterproof 6.1-inch LCD model can be purchased in 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB storage options and can charge wirelessly. Users will be able to enjoy 17 hours of battery life when playing video and even longer life for everyday tasks. The colors currently offered include black, white, purple, yellow, green, and red.
This smartphone runs with an A13 Bionic chip, which puts many other smartphone processors to shame. While it is similar to the slightly older A12 chip, the new A13 has the fastest CPU and GPU of any smartphone according to Apple.3
The cost of this new model is similar to other models that Apple has released previously. The 64GB model costs $699, while the 128GB and 256GB options are listed at $749 and $849 respectively.4 Although pricy, it should be noted that the iPhone 11 is starting at a cheaper price point than the iPhone XR did when it was released.
Overall, the iPhone 11 is a superb smartphone for Apple lovers who have the money to spend on a new model and are looking for a mobile camera upgrade.
iPhone 11 Pro
Surprisingly, the iPhone 11 Pro has a smaller screen than the 11 with only 5.8 inches from corner to corner. Because it is an OLED screen rather than an LCD, many users find that colors are clearer and brighter. Plus, the pixel density is far higher. The higher pixel density makes it a better option for artists and photographers.5
Speaking of photographers, the 11 Pro is a great option for on-the-go photography. On top of the wide-angle and ultra-wide-angle lenses that the 11 offers, it includes a third lens on the rear of the camera for telephoto shots. While some maintain that this extra camera makes the back of the smartphone appear cluttered, others love the triple camera system, especially for portraits. New camera features reduce red-eye even more than usual, stabilize shots, and create gorgeous photographs even in low-light conditions.6
Other specs for the waterproof iPhone 11 Pro seem surprisingly similar to those of the iPhone 11. It comes with the A13 Bionic chip, allows for wireless charging, and comes in three storage size options. However, while the iPhone 11 comes with a maximum capacity of 256GB, the Pro offers up to 512GB of storage. This amount of storage is perfect for a graphic designer or photographer.
The 11 Pro will get up to 18 hours of video playback on a single charge and up to 34 hours with normal use. As such, this smartphone is sure to last all day long with plenty of power left over.7
The Pro comes in four colors: silver, space gray, gold, and midnight green. Prices start at $999 and go up to $1,349 for the largest capacity smartphone.
iPhone 11 Pro Max
The iPhone 11 Pro Max offers a very similar experience to that of the Pro. The main difference that users will immediately notice is the screen size. While the Pro has a screen that is smaller than the 11, the 11 Pro Max has a larger OLED screen that measures 6.5 inches from corner to corner.
However, many of the other features are the same. In fact, the front and back cameras are the same as are the storage capacities, colors, processor, and ability to wirelessly charge.8 These similarities may make the average user wonder who the Pro Max has been designed for.
The iPhone 11 Pro Max is ideally suited for:
- Big-screen enthusiasts;
- Amateur and professional photographers;
- Graphic designers who like to work on the go;
- Those who love watching movies on their iPhones, and;
- Anyone looking for a top-of-the-line smartphone that is smooth and intuitive.
Moreover, 11 Pro Max users will love the additional battery capacity. It gives them over 40 hours for everyday use and an incredible 20 hours for video playback.9
This extra display space comes with a premium price tag. The smallest internal storage option of 64GB costs $1,099, while the 256GB option costs $1,249 and 512GB option costs $1,449.
Not Ready to New iPhones?
Of course, for those who do not have the money for the newest iPhone offerings but need an upgrade of their favorite Apple device, now may be the right time to buy the iPhone 8 or iPhone XR model. Even though they may not have the updated camera or newest hardware, these devices still offer plenty of top-of-the-line features.
Since the release of the iPhone 11, Apple has marked down its older models. For instance, the iPhone 8 is available for only $449, while the iPhone XR is on sale for $599.10
Whether you choose a slightly older model or one of the newest options, Apple is sure to impress as it always does with an intuitive device that performs quickly and reliably.