Why an iPhone X is still a smart choice in 2024
Buying an iPhone X in 2024? The phone is six years old. Outdated technology. You'll miss out on the latest features. And yet more and more people are consciously buying this model. Not because they're nostalgic or on a budget. They discovered something Apple would rather not tell you: the iPhone X still does everything you need every day , but for a fraction of the price.
The screen is sharp enough. The camera takes excellent photos. Face ID works flawlessly. Of course, you'll want a good protective case and the right accessories to make the device last longer. But here's the interesting thing: precisely because the iPhone X is now 'old', you can get a virtually new phone for little money through refurbished channels. A phone that Apple itself will continue to provide updates for until 2025.
Useful links
- View the refurbished iPhone X collection
- Protect your screen with a screen protector
- Discover all iPhone accessories
The iPhone X in 2024: More than enough for everyday use
The smartphone market revolves around the latest models. Yet, more and more people are consciously choosing an older phone. Not out of nostalgia, but for practical reasons. The iPhone X from 2017 proves to be perfectly capable of keeping up with today's demands. The device features a 5.8-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 2436 x 1125 pixels. For everyday tasks such as browsing, texting, and watching video, this is more than sufficient.
The A11 Bionic chip still performs smoothly under standard use. Apps open quickly, multitasking is smooth, and even some demanding games run smoothly. Apple supports this model until iOS 16, meaning you'll still have access to the most important security updates and new features.
Why refurbished is the smart choice
A new iPhone can easily cost over a thousand euros. For that price, you naturally get the latest technology. But how many of those new features do you actually use? A refurbished model often costs less than half that, even though the device has been thoroughly checked and repaired.
The refurbishment process
Professional refurbishers apply strict controls:
- Battery condition is being tested (minimum 85% capacity)
- Screen and housing are inspected
- All buttons and ports are checked
- Software is completely reset
- Defective parts are replaced with original components
So you essentially get a virtually new phone, but at a much lower price. Plus, you often get a warranty, which provides extra peace of mind.
Cameras that still impress
This model's dual 12-megapixel cameras take photos that are more than sufficient for most users. The main camera has optical image stabilization, which delivers sharp photos even in low light. The second telephoto camera offers 2x optical zoom without loss of quality.
Portrait mode works great for photos with a blurred background. The 7-megapixel front camera also supports portrait mode, handy for better selfies. You can record videos in 4K at up to 60 frames per second. Slow-motion options are available up to 240 fps in Full HD.
Comparison with newer models
Compared to an iPhone 13 or 14, you mainly miss:
- Night mode for photos in the dark
- Ultra wide angle lens
- ProRAW photo options
- Cinematic video mode
But ask yourself: how often do you really need these features? For Instagram, WhatsApp, and holiday snaps, the X's camera is more than adequate.
Face ID and other useful features
This was the first model with Face ID. Facial recognition works quickly and reliably, even in varying light conditions. The system learns your face better and better, so it also works with glasses or slight changes in your appearance.
Wireless charging via the Qi standard means you can simply place the device on a charging pad. IP67 water and dust resistance protects against accidents. The device can survive up to 30 minutes at a depth of one meter.
Practical considerations when purchasing
Battery life
The original battery lasts about a day with normal use. A refurbished model often has a replaced battery or at least 85% of its original capacity. This is sufficient for a workday, but heavy users may want to top up their batteries in between.
Choose storage
- 64 GB: sufficient for basic use, apps and some photos
- 256 GB: space for many photos, videos and large apps
iCloud offers extra space for backups and photos. With 5 GB of free and affordable add-ons, you don't have to store everything locally.
Accessories for a longer lifespan
Invest in good protection:
- A sturdy case prevents damage from falls
- Screen protector protects against scratches
- Original or MFi-certified cables prevent charging problems
Conclusion: a wise choice
Buying the iPhone X in 2024 might seem counterintuitive in a world that revolves around the latest and greatest. Yet, for many users, it's an excellent option. The device offers premium features like an OLED display, Face ID, and wireless charging for a fraction of the price.
Buying a refurbished device doesn't mean compromising on quality. You'll receive a professionally inspected and repaired device with a warranty. For everyday use—social media, browsing, taking photos, and calling—this model will perform flawlessly for years to come.
The savings compared to a new model can amount to hundreds of euros. Money you can spend on other things, or simply save. Moreover, you're doing something good for the environment by giving an existing device a second life instead of contributing to the production of new electronics.
The iPhone X: a conscious choice, no compromise
A refurbished iPhone X isn't a compromise, but a conscious choice. For a few hundred euros, you get a device that does everything you need every day: good cameras, fast enough for all apps, and premium features like Face ID and wireless charging. With the right accessories, it will last for years to come.
Why pay more for features you don't use? The iPhone X proves that "old" doesn't automatically mean "outdated."
