In 2024, we'll take a look back at the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max - two models that were once considered the cutting edge of smartphone technology. Even years after their launch in September 2019, these devices remain relevant thanks to their robust construction and advanced features. At a time when the latest models often come with huge price tags and marginal improvements, it's worth examining whether the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max are still a viable option for users who value quality and performance, without needing the latest of the latest. In this article, we highlight the advantages that these models continue to offer, but also discuss the disadvantages and limitations that can come with using an older device. Let's find out if and for whom these iPhones are still a good choice in 2024.
Advantages of the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max
- High-resolution OLED displays: Both the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max feature OLED technology, known for its sharp picture quality and deep black levels. These displays offer high resolution that improves the viewing experience, especially outdoors, with a maximum brightness of up to 1200 nits.
- HDR content support: Both models support HDR10 and Dolby Vision, allowing them to offer a wider color gamut and better contrast ratios. This is particularly beneficial when watching high-resolution video content or playing graphics-intensive games.
- Versatile triple camera system: The inclusion of an ultra-wide-angle, wide-angle and a telephoto lens offers users creative flexibility. From sweeping landscape shots to detailed portraits, the camera setup covers a wide range of photography needs.
- Night mode for improved shooting in low light: Night mode is a particularly valuable feature for photography enthusiasts as it allows you to take clear and detailed shots even in less than ideal lighting conditions.
- A13 Bionic Chip: Despite the age of the devices, the A13 Bionic Chip still offers excellent performance. Apps and games run smoothly, and even demanding applications can be used without noticeable delays.
Disadvantages of the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max
- Potential Battery Wear: Over time, battery performance may deteriorate, especially if the device has been used extensively since it was first released. Users may find that they need to charge more frequently, which can be disruptive in everyday life.
- Limited future security through updates: Apple typically supports iPhone models with software updates for five years. Since the iPhones 11 Pro and Pro Max were released in 2019, they are nearing the end of their update cycle. This could increase security risks and limit user experience with newer apps and features.
- No 5G support: Unlike newer smartphone models that support 5G, the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max do not offer this technology. This could be a significant disadvantage for users who live in areas with 5G coverage and want to enjoy the highest possible internet speeds.
Alternatives to iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max
- Display technology with ProMotion: The iPhone 13 Pro offers a Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion that supports adaptive refresh rates of up to 120 Hz. This ensures a smoother display and better response speeds, which makes a significant difference, especially when scrolling and playing interactive games.
- Improved camera features: The iPhone 13 Pro camera comes with advanced features such as photographic styles and a cinematic mode for videos, which is a significant improvement over the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max cameras. The camera also offers improved night mode and macro photography.
- Powerful A15 Bionic Chip: The A15 Bionic offers increased efficiency and performance over the A13 Bionic, which not only improves overall speed but also extends battery life.
- 5G Support: Unlike the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max, the iPhone 12 Pro supports 5G, ensuring future-proof connectivity. This allows for faster browsing, streaming and downloading.
- Ceramic Shield: iPhone 12 Pro offers improved durability thanks to the Ceramic Shield, which is stronger than any smartphone glass, providing greater drop resistance.
- Improved HDR video capture: iPhone 12 Pro can capture HDR video with Dolby Vision, resulting in a significant improvement in video quality, particularly in terms of color depth and detail.
Conclusion
The iPhone 11 Pro and the iPhone 11 Pro Max still stand for quality and performance in 2024. They are particularly attractive to those looking for a robust smartphone with an excellent display and a high-quality camera. However, users who value the latest technologies and longer support through software updates may be better served with newer models.
Personal opinion
The iPhone 11 Pro was Apple's flagship at the time, and you can still feel that today. The quality and workmanship that comes with this model are undeniably high. You get a device that, even years after its release, can still compete with newer models in many aspects. For those who don't necessarily need the latest technology or the latest software features, the iPhone 11 Pro or Pro Max offers an excellent way to get a lot of performance for relatively little money. The Pro Max's larger display is great for media enjoyment and gaming, making it an attractive option for entertainment lovers.
However, if you rely on the use of the latest technologies such as 5G or always have access to the latest programs and features for work and private purposes, the iPhone 11 Pro could quickly reach its limits. In such cases, it would be advisable to look for newer models that can better meet these needs.
Overall, those who primarily use the basic functions of a smartphone in everyday life and value quality and reliability will still find strong partners in the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max in 2024.
