Introduction: The Enduring Legacy of the iPhone 11

The iPhone 11 was a game-changer when it launched, offering a perfect blend of affordability and flagship features. Fast forward to 2025, and it’s still a popular choice, especially among budget-conscious buyers and those looking for a reliable secondary device. With the latest iOS updates, a robust A13 Bionic chip, and a dual-camera system, the iPhone 11 continues to deliver impressive performance for everyday tasks, social media, and even light gaming. But how does it stack up against the competition in 2025? Let’s break it down.

Design and Build Quality: Timeless or Outdated?

The iPhone 11 features a classic Apple design with an aluminum frame and a glass back, available in six vibrant colors: Black, Green, Yellow, Purple, Red, and White. While it lacks the sleek, flat-edged design of the iPhone 12 and later models, its rounded edges and compact form factor make it comfortable to hold and use. The 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display is bright and colorful, though it falls short of the OLED screens found in newer iPhones. The bezels are slightly thicker, but the overall build quality remains solid and premium.

The iPhone 11 is also IP68-rated for water and dust resistance, meaning it can survive accidental drops in water up to 2 meters for 30 minutes. This durability is a major plus for users who want a phone that can withstand daily wear and tear.

Key Design Features:

Materials: Aluminum frame with a glass back, ensuring a premium feel and wireless charging compatibility.
Display: 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD with a resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels and a pixel density of 326 PPI. While not as sharp as OLED, it’s still vibrant and bright.
Durability: IP68 water and dust resistance, making it suitable for outdoor and active use.
Colors: Available in Black, Green, Yellow, Purple, Red, and White, offering a variety of choices for personalization.
Size and Weight: 150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3 mm and 194 grams, making it lightweight and easy to handle.

Performance: How Does the A13 Bionic Hold Up in 2025?

The iPhone 11 is powered by Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, which was a powerhouse in 2019 and remains impressively capable in 2025. The A13 Bionic features a third-generation Neural Engine, which enhances machine learning tasks and overall efficiency. Benchmark tests and real-world usage show that the iPhone 11 still handles multitasking, gaming, and productivity apps like Google Docs, Zoom, and Canva with ease. While it may not match the raw power of the A16 or A17 chips found in newer iPhones, it outperforms many mid-range Android devices in its price bracket.

One of the biggest advantages of the iPhone 11 is its continued software support. As of 2025, the iPhone 11 supports iOS 18, ensuring users have access to the latest features, security updates, and app compatibility. Apple’s commitment to long-term software support is unmatched in the industry, making the iPhone 11 a future-proof choice for at least another year or two.

Performance Highlights:

A13 Bionic Chip: Still one of the fastest chips in the mid-range segment, offering smooth performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.
iOS 18 Support: Regular updates ensure the iPhone 11 remains secure and feature-rich, with access to the latest iOS innovations.
Benchmark Scores: While not as high as the latest iPhones, the A13 Bionic still outperforms many Android phones in its price range.
Gaming and Multitasking: Handles popular games like Call of Duty Mobile and Genshin Impact at medium settings, though newer titles may require lower graphics settings.
Thermal Management: The iPhone 11 maintains good thermal performance, though prolonged gaming sessions may cause slight warming.

Camera: Does the Dual-Camera System Still Impress?

The iPhone 11 introduced Apple’s dual-camera system, featuring a 12MP wide lens and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. While it lacks the telephoto lens found in the Pro models, the camera setup remains highly capable for everyday photography. The wide lens offers excellent detail and color accuracy, while the ultra-wide lens expands your creative possibilities with a 120-degree field of view. Night Mode, introduced with the iPhone 11, is a standout feature that significantly improves low-light photography, making it a favorite among social media enthusiasts.

In 2025, the iPhone 11’s camera still holds up well for casual photography, social media, and video recording. However, it struggles in areas like zoom and advanced computational photography, where newer iPhones like the iPhone 15 and 16 series excel. If you’re a professional photographer or videographer, you might find the iPhone 11 limiting, but for most users, it’s more than adequate.

Camera Features and Performance:

Dual 12MP Cameras: Wide and ultra-wide lenses offer versatility for different shooting scenarios.
Night Mode: Dramatically improves low-light photography, making it ideal for nighttime or indoor shots.
4K Video Recording: Supports 4K video at 60fps, with excellent stabilization and dynamic range.
Portrait Mode: Uses software to create a depth effect, though it lacks the dedicated telephoto lens found in Pro models.
Front Camera: 12MP TrueDepth camera with improved Face ID and excellent selfie quality.
Limitations: No telephoto lens means digital zoom is limited, and computational photography features like ProRAW are not available.

Battery Life: Does It Last a Full Day in 2025?

Battery life is a critical factor for any smartphone, and the iPhone 11 excels in this area. With a 3,110mAh battery, it easily lasts a full day of moderate to heavy use, including web browsing, social media, video streaming, and light gaming. Apple’s optimization between hardware and software ensures efficient power management, even with iOS 18. Fast charging is supported, though the iPhone 11 does not include a fast charger in the box—a common criticism among users.

In 2025, the iPhone 11’s battery life remains one of its strongest selling points. While newer iPhones offer slightly better endurance, the difference is marginal for most users. If you’re coming from an older iPhone or an Android device with poor battery life, the iPhone 11 will feel like a significant upgrade.

Battery Performance:

Battery Capacity: 3,110mAh, providing all-day battery life for most users.
Fast Charging: Supports 18W fast charging, though a compatible charger must be purchased separately.
Wireless Charging: Compatible with Qi wireless chargers, adding convenience for users with wireless charging pads.
Battery Health: After 5+ years, battery health may degrade, but Apple’s battery replacement program ensures you can restore full capacity if needed.
Optimization: iOS 18 includes battery optimization features that extend the lifespan of the battery.

Current Market Price and Deals (2025)

As of 2025, the iPhone 11 is available at highly competitive prices, making it one of the best value-for-money iPhones on the market. Prices vary depending on storage capacity and condition (new, refurbished, or used), but you can typically find the iPhone 11 for as low as $140–$200. Refurbished models, which undergo rigorous testing and often come with warranties, offer additional savings and are an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Apple’s official refurbished store frequently offer discounts and bundle deals, especially during holiday seasons. If you’re looking for the best deal, consider purchasing a refurbished model from a reputable seller to ensure quality and reliability.

Price Breakdown (2025):

New (Sealed): $200–$250, depending on storage (64GB, 128GB, or 256GB).
Refurbished (Certified): $140–$180, often with a warranty and like-new condition.
Used (Good Condition): $100–$150, though battery health and cosmetic condition may vary.
Carrier Deals: Some carriers offer the iPhone 11 for free or at a heavily discounted price with a new line or trade-in.
Best Time to Buy: Holiday sales (Black Friday, Cyber Monday) and back-to-school seasons often feature the best discounts.

Pros and Cons of the iPhone 11 in 2025

Pros:

Affordable Price: One of the cheapest ways to enter the iPhone ecosystem without sacrificing performance.
Long-Term Software Support: Supports iOS 18 and will likely receive updates until 2027, ensuring longevity.
Excellent Performance: The A13 Bionic chip still handles most tasks with ease, from multitasking to gaming.
Great Camera System: Dual 12MP cameras with Night Mode and 4K video recording are still competitive.
All-Day Battery Life: Reliable battery performance that lasts through a full day of use.
Durable Design: IP68 water and dust resistance, along with a premium glass and aluminum build.
Wide Availability: Easy to find new, refurbished, or used, with plenty of deals and discounts.

Cons:

No 5G Support: Limited to 4G LTE, which may be a dealbreaker for users in areas with strong 5G coverage.
LCD Display: While good, the Liquid Retina LCD is not as vibrant or power-efficient as the OLED displays in newer iPhones.
No Telephoto Lens: Digital zoom is limited, and the camera system lacks advanced features like ProRAW.
Older Design: Thicker bezels and lack of a flat-edge design may feel outdated compared to newer models.
Limited Storage Options: Base model starts at 64GB, which may be insufficient for heavy users.
No MagSafe: Lacks MagSafe compatibility, which is now standard in newer iPhones.

Pro Tips for iPhone 11 Users in 2025

If you’re using or planning to buy an iPhone 11 in 2025, here are some pro tips to maximize your experience:

Enable Battery Health Management: Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health and enable “Optimized Battery Charging” to extend your battery’s lifespan.
Use Night Mode Creatively: Experiment with Night Mode in low-light conditions to capture stunning photos without a flash.
Update to iOS 18: Ensure your iPhone 11 is running the latest iOS version for the best performance, security, and features.
Invest in a Fast Charger: Since the iPhone 11 supports 18W fast charging, purchasing a compatible charger will significantly reduce charging time.
Clear Storage Regularly: Use iCloud or external storage to free up space, as the base 64GB model can fill up quickly.
Consider a Refurbished Model: If you’re on a tight budget, opt for a certified refurbished iPhone 11 from Apple or a reputable retailer.
Use a Protective Case: While the iPhone 11 is durable, a case and screen protector will help maintain its condition over time.
Explore Trade-In Options: If you plan to upgrade in the future, check Apple’s trade-in program for potential discounts on newer models.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the iPhone 11 still worth buying in 2025?

Yes, the iPhone 11 is still worth buying in 2025 if you’re looking for a budget-friendly iPhone with solid performance, a good camera, and long-term software support. It’s especially ideal for students, first-time iPhone users, or anyone who needs a reliable secondary device.

How long will the iPhone 11 receive iOS updates?

Apple typically supports iPhones for 5–6 years. Since the iPhone 11 was released in 2019, it will likely receive updates until 2026 or 2027, giving you at least another year or two of software support.

Does the iPhone 11 support 5G?

No, the iPhone 11 only supports 4G LTE. If 5G is a priority, consider the iPhone 12 or newer models.

What is the battery life like on the iPhone 11 in 2025?

The iPhone 11’s battery life remains excellent in 2025, easily lasting a full day with moderate to heavy use. However, if your battery health has degraded significantly, consider replacing the battery for optimal performance.

Can the iPhone 11 run the latest apps and games?

Yes, the iPhone 11 can run most apps and games available on the App Store, thanks to its A13 Bionic chip and iOS 18 support. However, some graphically intensive games may require lower settings for smooth performance.

Is the iPhone 11 camera still good in 2025?

Absolutely. The iPhone 11’s dual-camera system, featuring a 12MP wide and ultra-wide lens, still delivers excellent photo and video quality. Night Mode and 4K video recording make it a great choice for social media and casual photography.

Where can I buy the iPhone 11 in 2025?

You can purchase the iPhone 11 from various retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, Apple’s official refurbished store, and carrier stores. For the best deals, consider certified refurbished models or look for promotions during holiday sales.

Should I upgrade from the iPhone 11 to a newer model?

If you’re satisfied with the iPhone 11’s performance and features, there’s no urgent need to upgrade. However, if you want 5G, a better camera system, or a more modern design, upgrading to the iPhone 13, 14, or 15 series may be worth considering.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the iPhone 11 in 2025?

The iPhone 11 remains a standout choice in 2025 for anyone seeking a reliable, affordable, and capable smartphone. Its combination of a powerful A13 Bionic chip, dual-camera system, all-day battery life, and long-term software support makes it a compelling option, especially for budget-conscious buyers. While it lacks 5G and some of the advanced features found in newer models, the iPhone 11 delivers where it matters most: performance, camera quality, and value.

If you’re a first-time iPhone user, a student, or someone looking for a secondary device, the iPhone 11 is an excellent investment. For those who prioritize cutting-edge technology, however, upgrading to a newer model like the iPhone 13 or 14 may be more suitable. Ultimately, the iPhone 11 proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a high-quality smartphone experience.