Is the iPhone XS Max Still Worth It in 2025? The Ultimate Review

The iPhone XS Max, released in 2018, made a massive splash in the smartphone market with its high-end features, sleek design, and exceptional performance. Fast forward to 2025, and many people still wonder whether this once flagship model holds up against newer iPhone versions and other smartphones on the market. Is the iPhone XS Max still a worthy investment, or has it become obsolete in the face of more advanced technology?

In this ultimate review, we’ll dive deep into the iPhone XS Max, exploring its features, performance, camera quality, and how it compares to newer iPhone models. We’ll also discuss whether it’s a good option for those looking to buy a smartphone in Australia in 2025. Plus, we’ll take a look at how it stacks up against its competitors, helping you make a well-informed purchasing decision. And, for your convenience, we’ll show you how you can purchase the iPhone XS Max from Wise Market Australia, a trusted retailer offering competitive prices.

Overview: iPhone XS Max – The Smartphone That Defined an Era

What Was So Special About the iPhone XS Max?

Released as part of Apple’s 12th generation of iPhones, the iPhone XS Max was a game-changer. With a larger 6.5-inch OLED display, improved camera technology, and the powerful A12 Bionic chip, the XS Max was built to deliver top-tier performance. The iPhone XS Max was designed to provide a premium experience, with its sleek, edge-to-edge screen and high-end features catering to both tech enthusiasts and everyday users.

Today, we can still see the lasting impact of the iPhone XS Max on the market, even as it faces competition from newer models like the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15.

iPhone XS Max: Design and Build Quality

Still Sleek in 2025?

One of the first things you’ll notice about the iPhone XS Max is its design. With its stainless steel frame, glass back, and curved edges, it has a sophisticated and polished look that still competes with modern smartphones. The 6.5-inch Super Retina OLED display offers deep blacks and vibrant colors, making it perfect for watching videos, playing games, or browsing content.

While it’s no longer the latest and greatest, the design is still contemporary enough that it doesn’t feel outdated. The iPhone XS Max also features the iconic Face ID technology, which remains just as secure and convenient in 2025.

Durability: How Does It Hold Up Over Time?

The iPhone XS Max has a durable build, with Corning’s ceramic shield on the front and water resistance (IP68 rating). While newer models feature even more durable materials and better drop resistance, the XS Max’s build quality is still impressive, making it a good choice if you're looking for a long-lasting device.

Comparison with the Latest iPhone Models

iPhone XS Max vs. iPhone 14 Pro: Which One Is Better in 2025?

The iPhone XS Max and iPhone 14 Pro are both high-quality smartphones, but there are several differences to note. Let’s break it down:

• Display: The iPhone 14 Pro has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion, offering a smoother 120Hz refresh rate, which the XS Max lacks.

• Processor: The iPhone 14 Pro features the A16 Bionic chip, offering a significant performance boost compared to the A12 Bionic chip in the XS Max.

• Camera: The iPhone 14 Pro boasts a triple-lens system with advanced features like Night Mode and ProRAW support, which the XS Max doesn’t have.

• Battery Life: The iPhone 14 Pro has a larger battery and better power efficiency, providing longer-lasting battery life than the XS Max.

For those looking for cutting-edge technology and features, the iPhone 14 Pro is the obvious choice. However, the iPhone XS Max is still an excellent option for users who don’t need the latest features and are looking for a more affordable alternative.

Performance: Does the iPhone XS Max Hold Up in 2025?

A12 Bionic Chip: Is It Still Fast Enough?

The A12 Bionic chip powering the iPhone XS Max may be a few generations old, but it still delivers impressive performance. While newer iPhones come with the A14, A15, or A16 chips, the A12 Bionic chip is still capable of handling day-to-day tasks, gaming, and multitasking with ease. For most users, the XS Max still feels snappy and responsive, especially with iOS updates and optimizations over the years.

However, if you’re someone who needs the absolute latest in terms of processing power for tasks like heavy gaming, video editing, or other resource-intensive applications, the newer iPhone models (such as the iPhone 14 or iPhone 15) might be a better fit.

Battery Life: How Does the iPhone XS Max Fare?

When it comes to battery life, the iPhone XS Max comes with a 3,174 mAh battery, which Apple claims will last up to 15 hours of video playback. In 2025, the battery performance may not hold up as well as it did when the phone was brand new, especially if you’ve had the device for a few years and the battery health has deteriorated.

Fortunately, you can replace the battery, and with proper care, the XS Max can still deliver decent battery life. However, newer models like the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 offer better energy efficiency, thanks to more advanced processors and larger batteries.

Camera Quality: How Does It Compare to Newer Models?

Dual Camera System: Still Good Enough?

The iPhone XS Max features a dual 12MP rear camera setup, consisting of a wide and telephoto lens. While it doesn’t have the multiple lenses that modern iPhones (like the iPhone 15 Pro) offer, the XS Max camera still produces stunning photos, especially in well-lit conditions. The Smart HDR technology helps to improve dynamic range, making the photos look more vibrant and detailed.

The front-facing camera is also a 7MP TrueDepth sensor, capable of 1080p video recording and FaceTime calls. In terms of selfie quality and video calls, it still competes well against newer models.

However, compared to the newer iPhone models, the XS Max’s camera setup lacks some advanced features, such as Night Mode, ProRAW, and cinematic video recording. If photography and videography are crucial to you, you might want to consider upgrading to a newer iPhone model for those added capabilities.

Is the iPhone XS Max Still Worth Buying in 2025?

Why It Might Be Worth It:

• Affordability: The iPhone XS Max is significantly cheaper than newer models, making it a great choice for budget-conscious consumers in Australia. With devices like the iPhone 15 costing over $1,500, the XS Max offers great value for its performance and features.

• Still a Premium Experience: Despite being several years old, the iPhone XS Max still offers a premium user experience with its beautiful design, solid performance, and good camera system.

• Reliable iOS Support: Apple provides long-term software support, so even though the iPhone XS Max is no longer the newest iPhone, it still runs iOS updates and provides a secure, modern experience.

Why You Might Want to Skip It:

• Battery Life Concerns: The battery life might not be as robust as it once was, especially if you buy a used model. If you're a heavy user, a newer iPhone might offer better longevity.

• Camera Limitations: If photography or videography is a priority for you, newer models with more advanced camera systems will likely suit your needs better.

• Performance: While the iPhone XS Max still offers solid performance, it may lag behind newer iPhones when it comes to heavy tasks like gaming, multitasking, or resource-intensive applications.

How to Buy the iPhone XS Max in Australia

If you’re convinced that the iPhone XS Max is the right choice for you, Wise Market Australia offers a great place to purchase the device. Known for its competitive pricing and reliable customer service, Wise Market Australia ensures you get the best deal when buying an iPhone XS Max.

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone XS Max Still a Smart Choice in 2025?

In conclusion, while the iPhone XS Max isn’t the latest and greatest in terms of technology, it still holds up in 2025 as a solid, reliable smartphone for most users. If you’re after a premium design, smooth performance for everyday use, and good camera quality, the iPhone XS Max is definitely worth considering. With more affordable prices compared to the latest iPhones, it's a great option for budget-conscious consumers in Australia.

For those who require cutting-edge technology, especially in terms of camera capabilities and overall performance, upgrading to a newer model such as the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 15 might be a better fit.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you choose the iPhone XS Max or a newer model, you can trust that Apple’s premium craftsmanship and software support will provide a satisfying experience for years to come.