Ask anyone in Australia about their favourite iPhone, and you’ll likely hear the usual suspects—iPhone 11, iPhone 13 Pro, maybe even the latest iPhone 15. But for many savvy users, especially those who care about performance, battery life, and value, the real MVP of Apple’s lineup is the iPhone XR.
You might be surprised, especially considering it first launched back in 2018. But the more you dig into what the iPhone XR offers—and more importantly, what it still does better than some newer models—the clearer it becomes. This is not just a “budget iPhone” or a device for second-hand buyers. It’s a well-rounded, high-performance smartphone that hits a sweet spot few others manage.
At Wise Market Australia, we see it every day. People come looking for the latest model, but leave with an iPhone XR because it simply makes more sense. With a wide colour range, strong battery life, reliable performance, and a beautiful display, the iPhone XR holds up remarkably well in 2025—and it’s often hundreds of dollars cheaper than newer iPhones.
Let’s break down exactly why the iPhone XR might be the best iPhone ever, especially for Australian users looking for quality and value without compromise.
1. The Display That Still Delivers
When the iPhone XR was first released, its Liquid Retina HD display was met with curiosity. Some critics focused on its lower resolution compared to OLED displays, but in real-world use, this screen performs beautifully.
With a 6.1-inch all-screen design, accurate colour reproduction, and support for True Tone and wide colour (P3), the iPhone XR’s display is bright, vibrant, and spacious. Watching footy highlights, streaming Netflix, reading articles, or scrolling through your social feeds feels just right.
In Australia, where outdoor brightness can be a real factor, the XR holds up surprisingly well. Whether you’re on a tram in Melbourne or walking the beachside path in Noosa, this screen remains readable and crisp. And because it’s LCD, it tends to be more power-efficient and durable compared to OLEDs, making it a long-lasting choice.
2. Battery Life That Outperforms Newer Models
One of the most underrated features of the iPhone XR is its incredible battery performance. Even compared to newer models like the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13, the XR holds its own—often outlasting them in day-to-day use.
With smart battery management built into iOS and a more energy-efficient display, the iPhone XR can easily last a full day and more with typical use. Streaming Spotify, using FaceTime, checking emails, taking photos—none of it drains the battery the way you might expect from a phone released several years ago.
For Australians who spend a lot of time on the go—whether it’s commuting, exploring the Outback, or managing work-life balance—reliable battery life isn’t just a bonus. It’s essential. And the XR delivers consistently.
3. Fast, Reliable Performance Thanks to the A12 Chip
Apple’s custom silicon is known for aging gracefully, and the A12 Bionic chip inside the iPhone XR is proof of that. It’s still fast in 2025, whether you’re playing games like Call of Duty Mobile, editing photos in Lightroom, or multitasking with several apps open.
The chip is paired with 3GB of RAM, which may sound modest, but Apple’s optimisation makes it more than enough for most users. The iPhone XR feels smooth, responsive, and capable. It doesn’t freeze or lag, even during intensive use.
In Australia, where many people rely on their phones for both business and pleasure, that level of reliable speed matters. Whether you’re checking your MyGov account, accessing work files, or playing games to pass time on the train, the XR won’t slow you down.
4. The Camera That’s Smarter Than It Looks
The iPhone XR features a single-lens 12-megapixel wide camera on the back, which might make it seem underpowered next to triple-lens flagships. But here’s the truth: most people use the main camera 95% of the time, and Apple made sure it was a good one.
The XR supports Smart HDR, deep detail rendering, and Portrait Mode using advanced software processing—even though it only has one lens. The result? Beautiful, natural-looking photos with excellent dynamic range, especially in daylight.
It’s ideal for capturing Australia’s vast natural landscapes, colourful markets, or a sunset over Bondi. And for everyday memories—family barbecues, dog walks, graduation ceremonies—it holds up beautifully.
5. Face ID: Fast, Secure, and Still Industry-Leading
Face ID remains one of Apple’s most convenient and secure features, and the iPhone XR was one of the earliest models to include it. Even in 2025, it performs exceptionally well—whether you’re unlocking your phone, logging into banking apps, or approving a purchase.
In Australia, where privacy is top of mind and many services like government apps or contactless payments require strong identity verification, Face ID is more than a convenience—it’s a trusted tool.
It works in the dark, from various angles, and even adjusts as your appearance changes over time. And importantly, it’s fast. In side-by-side comparisons, the XR’s Face ID matches the responsiveness of newer iPhones.
6. Colour That Reflects Personality
The iPhone XR was the first iPhone to embrace vibrant colour again. It comes in white, black, blue, yellow, coral, and (PRODUCT)RED—a palette that still turns heads.
This variety is part of what makes it special. Australians love personalisation, and the XR makes it easy to show your personality without needing to buy a case. Whether you prefer bold and bright or sleek and minimalist, there’s a colour for everyone.
And when you shop through Wise Market Australia, you often get access to multiple colour options in stock, not just the usual black or white.
7. Durable, Water-Resistant Design
Let’s talk about durability. The iPhone XR is built with aerospace-grade aluminium and a strong glass front and back. It also features an IP67 water and dust resistance rating—meaning it can handle being submerged in water up to 1 metre for 30 minutes.
In real life, that means it’s fine if it gets splashed at the beach, dropped in the sink, or caught in the rain during a Melbourne storm. For active Australians, that’s peace of mind.
It’s also resistant to scratches, and replacement parts are more readily available than on newer models. So if you do crack the screen or need a battery swap, it won’t cost as much to fix.
8. Better Value Than You Think (Especially in 2025)
Here’s where things get really interesting. A brand-new iPhone 13 or 14 can cost upwards of $1,200 AUD. But a certified refurbished iPhone XR, especially from a trusted seller like Wise Market Australia, can be found for as low as $450–$600, depending on condition and storage size.
That’s hundreds of dollars saved—money you can put toward AirPods, an Apple Watch, or anything else you need.
Wise Market Australia also offers:
- Full 12-month warranty
- Battery health guarantees
- Local support and return policies
- Eco-conscious, sustainable buying options
You’re not just getting a great deal—you’re getting a smarter, safer way to buy.
9. Long-Term iOS Support
Apple has an unmatched track record when it comes to software updates. As of 2025, the iPhone XR runs iOS 17 smoothly—and is expected to support iOS 18 as well.
That means access to new features, updated privacy controls, and security patches for years to come. Android phones in this price range can rarely make the same promise.
And because Apple’s updates are consistent across devices, the XR benefits from the same improvements as the latest flagship. You won’t feel left behind—because you aren’t.
10. Seamless Apple Ecosystem Experience
One of the biggest reasons people love iPhones is how well they work with other Apple devices. And the XR is no exception.
It connects seamlessly to:
- AirPods and AirPods Pro
- Apple Watch SE or Series 8
- MacBooks, iPads, and Apple TVs
- Apple Pay, iCloud, iMessage, FaceTime
If you’re an Apple user, the XR slots in perfectly. If you’re thinking about switching from Android, it’s a reliable, budget-friendly way to join the Apple ecosystem without jumping straight into high-end pricing.
A Quick Comparison with Other iPhones
iPhone XR vs iPhone 11: The iPhone 11 adds a night mode and an ultra-wide lens, but has nearly identical internals. Most users won’t notice a big difference in everyday use—and the XR is cheaper.
iPhone XR vs iPhone 12: The 12 has OLED, 5G, and a faster chip, but its battery life is shorter. The XR offers more reliability for a lower price—especially if 5G isn’t a priority.
iPhone XR vs iPhone SE (2022): The SE has a newer chip but a tiny screen and outdated design. For Australians who want modern usability, the XR is a much better experience.
iPhone XR vs iPhone 13 or 14: Unless you absolutely need cinematic mode or sensor-shift stabilisation, the XR still holds its own. And it costs half the price.
Why Buy Your iPhone XR from Wise Market Australia?
Wise Market isn’t just another phone reseller. They’re one of the most trusted refurbished device retailers in Australia, offering quality you can count on.
Here’s what sets them apart:
- 100% Australian-based operation
- Free shipping across the country
- Battery health checks on every device
- Transparent condition grading
- Warranty and easy returns
Their team understands Aussie customers—what they value, what they need, and how to deliver real service. You’re not buying from an overseas warehouse. You’re supporting a local business that supports you right back.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone XR might not be the newest model, but it may well be the smartest choice for Australian users in 2025. From its vibrant display and solid camera to its all-day battery life and rugged build, it balances everything most people need in a smartphone—without breaking the bank.
Add in ongoing software support, seamless Apple ecosystem compatibility, and reliable Face ID, and the case becomes stronger. But when you factor in the incredible value offered through Wise Market Australia, it’s clear: the iPhone XR isn’t just a good phone. It might be the best iPhone ever for those who want performance, simplicity, and long-term satisfaction.
Now’s the time to act. Stocks of quality refurbished iPhone XRs are limited, and the best deals don’t last forever. Head over to Wise Market Australia, find the colour and storage that suits you, and experience the iPhone XR for yourself.