Is The iPhone X Good in 2025?

Is the iPhone X Good in 2025? Revisiting Apple’s First True Future Phone

When people ask is the iPhone X good, they’re really asking if Apple’s 2017 innovation still holds its charm nearly a decade later. When it first arrived, the iPhone X completely changed how smartphones looked and worked. It introduced the first edge-to-edge display, Face ID facial recognition, and an OLED screen that made older LCDs look outdated overnight. Tim Cook himself called it “the biggest leap forward since the original iPhone.”

In 2025, that leap still resonates. The design feels modern, the display remains beautiful, and performance—while dated—still handles day-to-day life with ease. For buyers on a budget who want to enter Apple’s ecosystem, the question is the iPhone X good is worth exploring in depth. Let’s break down how this pioneering handset has aged.

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Why the iPhone X Still Stands Out

The iPhone X wasn’t just a new model; it was a declaration of Apple’s new design philosophy. Gone were bezels and the Home button. Instead, it featured Face ID, full-screen gestures, and the stainless-steel frame that later became a Pro-series hallmark. When people wonder is the iPhone X good compared to today’s entry-level iPhones, its premium build often surprises them.

Even now, its compact yet luxurious feel makes it desirable. The smooth glass back supports wireless charging, while IP67 water-resistance keeps it practical. It’s this blend of beauty and durability that answers part of the question: yes, is the iPhone X good for buyers who appreciate design quality—it absolutely is.

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Display — Small but Stunning

The 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED panel remains one of Apple’s most eye-pleasing screens. With HDR, Dolby Vision, and True Tone technology, it still outshines many mid-range phones. Blacks are deep, colours are vivid, and brightness peaks comfortably outdoors.

So is the iPhone X good for content consumption? Yes. Movies, photos, and games all look crisp at 458 ppi. While newer iPhones feature higher refresh rates, few budget phones in 2025 can match the colour accuracy of this screen.

If you prefer compact, pocket-friendly devices, the iPhone X’s display size is perfect—modern yet manageable. Even after eight years, is the iPhone X good for everyday visuals? Definitely.

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Camera — Still Respectable

When launched, the iPhone X’s dual 12 MP setup was groundbreaking. It offered optical stabilisation on both lenses, smart HDR processing, and up to 10× zoom. Fast-forward to 2025, and it still delivers excellent results for casual photographers. Portrait Mode remains pleasing, and video quality—up to 4K at 60 fps—rivals many current mid-range phones.

Selfies via the 7 MP TrueDepth camera look natural, and Face ID works reliably even in dim light. For anyone asking is the iPhone X good for photos in 2025, the answer depends on expectations. It won’t compete with modern triple-lens flagships, but it’s more than adequate for social media and daily memories.

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Performance — How the A11 Bionic Holds Up

Inside, the A11 Bionic chip remains efficient for its age. Everyday tasks—browsing, messaging, and light gaming—still feel smooth. It was Apple’s first chip allowing all six cores to work simultaneously, giving the iPhone X a level of power that keeps it viable even now.

If you’re a heavy gamer or use complex editing apps, you might feel its limits. But for regular users wondering is the iPhone X good for speed and reliability, it’s perfectly serviceable. Apple’s optimisation ensures the phone runs fluidly under iOS 16, the latest version it officially supports.

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Software & Connectivity — The Main Drawback

Here’s the big caveat. The iPhone X no longer receives full iOS updates beyond iOS 16. That means missing newer features introduced in iOS 17 and 18. It still gets occasional security patches, but eventually those will stop. So is the iPhone X good for long-term use? Only if you’re comfortable without the latest features.

It also lacks 5G and eSIM support, meaning you’ll rely on physical SIM cards and 4G LTE speeds. For basic use, it’s fine—but tech enthusiasts may find it limiting.

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Battery Life & Charging

Battery endurance was never the iPhone X’s strongest trait. With typical wear, a full charge lasts around a day of mixed use. The phone supports Qi wireless charging and fast-charging with a 20 W adapter. Replacement batteries are inexpensive, making refurbishment practical.

So, is the iPhone X good for battery life? Adequate, not exceptional. Frequent users may need midday top-ups, while casual users will find it manageable. The convenience of wireless charging softens the blow.

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Price & Where to Buy in 2025

Since Apple discontinued it, the iPhone X now lives mostly in the refurbished market. Prices range from £120 – £170 in the UK depending on condition and storage. At this level, is the iPhone X good value? Undeniably. You’re paying a fraction of its £999 launch price for a phone that still looks and feels premium.

Refurbished sellers like UsedMobiles 4U and Back Market fully test, replace worn parts, and offer warranties. A well-maintained iPhone X performs almost identically to a new one for everyday use, making the value proposition compelling.

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Verdict — So, Is the iPhone X Good in 2025?

After examining its design, display, camera, and performance, the verdict is clear. Is the iPhone X good in 2025? Yes—if you know what you’re getting. It’s ideal for users who want a stylish, reliable iPhone for everyday tasks at a low price. It’s not built for the future, but it’s perfect for the present.

Pros

• Premium stainless-steel build

• OLED display still excellent

• Face ID remains fast and secure

• Good camera quality for social media

• Affordable refurbished pricing

Cons

• No 5G or eSIM

• Limited iOS support beyond iOS 16

• Average battery life

For minimalists, students, or anyone needing a dependable Apple handset without overspending, is the iPhone X good? Absolutely. It remains a symbol of Apple’s design revolution—and one of the best-looking used iPhones you can buy today.