Which iPhone XS Storage Size Should You Buy?

Choosing the right iPhone XS or iPhone XS Max storage size for your needs and budget can be difficult, so we want to help you decide between the 64GB model, the mid-range 256GB model, and the expensive 512GB configuration.

While it may be tempting to buy one of the larger storage options, most of you won’t need to shell out for 256GB or 512GB storage.

There are a few important factors to consider before deciding on an iPhone XS storage size, and we’ll break them all down for you here in this guide.

iPhone XS Storage Options

The iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max come in three colors that match the three storage options Apple has launched.

instead of offering two options as it does with iPhone X (64GB, 256GB), iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max It comes in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB storage options.

There’s a big gap between the 64GB and the 256GB and 512GB models, with the 512GB offering twice the storage space than the 256GB model.

The huge gap between the three models makes this a difficult decision for many people.

Apples iPhone XS used to start at $999, but the price has dropped significantly since the phone was launched in 2018. The same goes for the iPhone XS Max, but still more expensive than the iPhone XS.

You can find iPhone XS less than $500 The iPhone XS Max is available through sites like Amazon. still gives $600+ most places.

Unlike many Android phones, there is no way to add additional storage via the microSD card. If you need extra storage, you can do so through the company’s iCloud service or through a Lightning compatible driver.

Apple won’t be adding any additional storage options down the road, so you’re stuck with 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB.

Pay Now or Pay Later for Storage

When we reviewed the iPhone 8, we found that 64GB of storage isn’t enough space for many. If you plan to shoot 4K videos, download a lot of movies for travel, or play a lot of games, you will likely need additional space.

It’s been over three years since we bought a 256GB iPhone X and we’ve managed to use over 150GB of internal storage. That’s well beyond the 64GB threshold and more than half of 256GB.

We do not store large movie files or 4K videos on the phone. Instead, the storage is mostly taken up by important apps, 1080p videos, photos and music.

Most of you can survive with the 64GB iPhone XS or iPhone XS Max, but many of you will likely have to pay extra for additional storage.

If you go with the cheaper 64GB option, you’ll probably have to be very careful with your storage and app usage as the months go by. Some of you may start approaching the threshold just weeks after purchasing the device.

In such a case, you will have to start getting rid of files you no longer want, or if you want to keep your data, Buy iCloud Storage Plan.

You may also need to rely on streaming movies and other content when you’re running out of space on your iPhone. This can lead to excessive data charges and force you to purchase a larger data plan to better meet your needs. Like iCloud, these are costly.

Who Should Buy the 64GB iPhone XS?

this 64GB iPhone XS/iPhone XS Max It is the cheapest option. You will save on the upfront cost of the phone and this is quite attractive considering the price of other variants. Who should buy the 64GB iPhone XS:

Who Should Buy the 256GB iPhone XS?

The cheapest option is a great choice for many people, but others may want the peace of mind that comes with this option. 256GB iPhone XS or iPhone XS Plus.

Again, we had a great experience with the 256GB iPhone and enjoyed knowing we could do almost anything on the device without approaching that 256GB mark. Those who should consider buying the 256GB model:

Who Should Buy the 512GB iPhone XS?

512GB version iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max It has the most storage, but also costs a lot more. Most users should be fine with 256GB or 64GB, but there are some folks who might enjoy the additional storage.

Checking Your Storage

If you’re already using an iPhone, you’ll want to check your available storage before deciding on new iPhone XS options. Checking your storage space can give you insight into your habits and needs.

Here’s how to do this:

If you are in the right place, you will be able to see how much free storage you currently have and how much you are currently using. You can also see what is taking up the most storage space on your device.

For many of you, this will be your photos, videos, apps, and iMessages if you don’t use Messages in iCloud.

Which iPhone XS Storage Size Should You Buy?

If you only plan to use the iPhone XS for a year before upgrading, there is much less pressure to use the larger storage sizes. When new models arrive next year, you can simply do it and upgrade to a larger model.

Unless you plan to upgrade your iPhone for several years or more, the 256GB model (or 512GB if you really think you need it) is a safer choice.

You should be able to avoid paying for iCloud or spending additional money.

The last update is 2022-02-21. This post may contain affiliate links. Click here to read our disclosure policy for more details. Images via Amazon API