iPhone XS or XS Max? Which Size Should You Choose?

With the advent of the new iPhones, buyers once again have an interesting dilemma: Go for the larger phablet-like iPhone XS Max ($1,099) or choose the standard sized iPhone XS ($999).

If you’re already going to drop $1,000 on a phone, the upgrade doesn’t cost much more, and you’ll gain a significantly larger screen. But which size is right for you? Let’s go over how to make the right decision!

Note: the iPhone XR is a bit larger than the iPhone XS. We’re primarily considering the big jump between the XS and XS Max sizes, but remember that the XR, with its 6.1-inch display, is a contender for a smaller size upgrade, at least if you don’t mind lower screen quality.

Phone Size vs Display Size

In 2018 and beyond, smartphone makers are downsizing bezels and increasing display sizes where possible – so just going by display size doesn’t tell the whole story. Screen size can increase while the physical size of the phone stays the same, or even gets smaller.

Fortunately, there are some easier comparisons to make with Apple products.

If you’ve already seen an iPhone X, it’s the same size as the XS: Not even Apple could squeeze any more screen real estate onto the model, so the physical dimensions of the phone are more or less the same (the XS is a bit heavier, but the size remains unchanged).

The XS Max has a massive 6.5-inch display that covers the entire face of the device. However, the model itself is slightly smaller than the iPhone 8 Plus, just with a larger screen!

If you aren’t especially familiar with the 8 Plus, the Max is about the size of a Galaxy Note 9 phone, although also slightly smaller and with a squidge larger screen.

It’s a big phone, but not the absolute biggest out there and remains pocketable.

Did You Like the iPhone 8 Plus?

Let’s dig into finding out if the XS or XS Max is the better choice for you.

The obvious question for Apple fans is: “Did you like the 8 Plus?” Did its size feel comfortable to you? Because as it sits in the hand, the 8 Plus has a very similar feel to the XS Max.

The big difference is that the display measures a whole inch larger than the 8 Plus, and the Max manages to be a bit lighter at the same time, so it’s a definite improvement!

If you don’t really know the 8 Plus that well, but are still interested in the larger version, we have to dig a little deeper.

Is Your iPhone an Entertainment Hub?

A bigger screen is clearly great for movies and photos, so spare some thought as to how exactly you use your iPhone. If you spend a lot of time watching shows on the elliptical or snapping and editing pics for your friends, a bigger screen could be very useful (and the OLED upgrade would also be worthwhile).

Note that the camera in both models is the same, but a larger screen does give you a clearer shot of the photo and makes it easier to edit or mark up photos before sending.

How Do You Feel About Pockets?

The XS Max is 6.2 inches high and 3.05 inches wide (and 0.30 inches deep, although that’s not as important for this point). There are a lot of pockets in the world, and not all of them can accommodate a phone that size. A laptop bag or purse can handle it, no problem. But if you like your skinny jeans or tight hoodies, you may want to test out the Max or a similarly sized phone first to see how comfortable the fit is. Women’s pockets can be uncomfortable places for phablet-like phones, especially once you add in protective case, so make sure the Max can pass this test.

Finally, Let’s Talk About Hands

Everybody’s hands are different, just like their phone habits. You may be fine with using two hands to operate the Max – in fact, if you have large hands, you may really appreciate how the extra display space makes it easier to select icons. Or you may prefer to use a phone with one hand, in which case the XS is probably your best bet.

If you have smaller hands, the XS Max may often take both hands to use too, so you might want to stick to the smaller model. That’s why it’s important to test out both models in person whenever possible!

Grab a nearby iPhone 7 Plus or 8 Plus and see if it feels comfortable to hold. If it does, the iPhone XS Max will be perfect for you. If it feels too big, you’ll want to pick up the standard-size XS.