It’s not just the notch that makes the iPhone X so annoying 😒
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The iPhone X was a huge gamble from Apple, yet one that really paid off six months into our testing. Losing the home button and altering the design was a dangerous move, but one that was sorely needed after years of similarity and the premium design, extra power, all-screen front mix together to create – by far – the best iPhone Apple’s ever made.
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It’s Too Pricey
It’s almost pointless to discuss the iPhone X price – it launched as the most expensive flagship phone on the market and it’s still pricey now, but iPhone users are more willing than most to look past cost.
But, while the focus here is going to be on the technology, we still need to at least mention the price and release date. It’s out now, having launched worldwide on November 3 2017. The price is harder to swallow.
At launch, the iPhone X cost $999 / £999 / AU$1,579 for the basic, 64GB model. If you wanted the larger 256GB model it cost $1,149 / £1,149 / AU$1,829.
Slow on Cashless Pay
Another issue with Face ID as against Touch ID is when using Apple Pay. Where previously you’d approach the reader with your thumb over the home button and it would instantly verify the payment, with the iPhone X you’ll need to double-tap the side button to activate Face ID, have it register your face, and then it’ll be ready to pay.
It’s not a tough system to master – after a single attempt we were able to replicate it time and again – but it’s not as easy as before, which is irritating. You’ll sometimes believe you double-tapped the side button, thinkyou didn’t actually double tap it, tap it one more time to be sure, and realize you did double tap initially and triple tapped. This turns off the phone right as Apple Pay pops up, making your quick payment slower than paying with cash. Sometimes the Apple Pay menu is too slow.
Smudge Magnet
One negative thing to say about the design: it’s a smudge sucker. The outer band gets covered in fingerprints in no time at all, and the glass front and back will happily accept any oil your fingers want to deposit on them.
iPhone 8 is a Close Alternative
If you’re looking to get a new iPhone, and want to spend a lot but not quite as much as on the iPhone X, then the iPhone 8 Plus is the one to go for.
It’s got a large screen (although not as high-res, nor as premium tech), and virtually the same dual-camera setup. It’s not quite as powerful in low light as the iPhone X, but it’s certainly capable, and it’s the ‘next phone down’ on the Apple phone ladder.
If the iPhone 8 Plus size turns you off, then the iPhone 8 is the one to choose if you want something more manageable in the palm. Both phones have the old-fashioned home button you’re used to.
It’s got all the incredible power of both the iPhone X and the 8 Plus, and while it scrimps on the pixel density of the screen it still has True Tone technology, and the same fast and wireless charging capabilities.
