Apple has revealed its 2018 class of iPhones, and they all have fancy top-to-bottom screens like last year's iPhone X[1]. The 5.8-inch iPhone XS and 6.5-inch XS Max[2] both expand on what the X could do, with faster processors and more durable glass, better waterproofing, louder speakers, longer battery life, and "smart" HDR along with some other camera enhancements. Problem is, they start at $999.
Apple did introduce a more affordable third model, the $749 iPhone Xr[3], which comes in a bunch of alluring colors. It's nearly identical to the Xs, but without the dual camera or gorgeous OLED screen. But $749 is $50 more expensive than the cheapest iPhone 8 a year ago (which was $50 more expensive than the iPhone 7). We've gone from a $649 entry price to $749 in two years. Apple also axed its last compact, truly affordable phone: the $399 iPhone SE[4].
So, none of the new iPhones in 2018 has a trusty home button (fingerprint sensor), and they're all $749 or higher. There's also no iPhone for people with smaller hands anymore.
Some of you are probably excited to get your hands on the new iPhones. Maybe Face ID looks convenient or the larger, edge-to-edge screen is enticing. It's tough not to want the hot new phone, but in 2018, there's no shame in sticking with a tried-and-true design. Luckily, Apple had kept two classic iPhones in its lineup, and both are worth considering if you need an upgrade.
We've recommended the iPhone 8 over the iPhone X for a year now. It doesn't look as fresh and fabulous as the full-screen X iPhones or have Face ID or those...