Iphone 4s Vs 5s Is The Upgrade Really Worth It Still Relevant In 2025

In 2025, comparing the iPhone 4s and 5s might seem like a trip down memory lane rather than a practical tech decision. Yet, for some users—particularly those in emerging markets, collectors, or individuals seeking a basic backup phone—this question remains surprisingly relevant. Both devices represent pivotal moments in Apple’s history, but their relevance today hinges on more than nostalgia. Can either device still function as a daily driver? Is upgrading from the 4s to the 5s meaningful nearly a decade after both were discontinued?

The answer depends on your needs, expectations, and use case. While neither phone supports modern iOS features or most current apps, the differences between them are substantial enough to warrant careful consideration—even now.

Performance and Hardware: A Clear Leap Forward

The iPhone 4s, released in 2011, was powered by the Apple A5 chip and came with 512MB of RAM. At the time, it delivered smooth performance for iOS 5 and early versions of popular apps. However, by today’s standards, it struggles even with basic tasks. Most web pages fail to load properly due to outdated browser engines, and app compatibility ended years ago. The last supported iOS version was iOS 9.3.6, released in 2016.

In contrast, the iPhone 5s, launched in 2013, featured the 64-bit Apple A7 chip—the first 64-bit processor in any smartphone—and 1GB of RAM. This architectural leap allowed the 5s to run iOS 12.5.7, the final update released in January 2023, making it significantly more capable in 2025 than its predecessor.

Tip: If you're holding onto an old iPhone, check its iOS support status before attempting to use it for anything beyond emergency calls.

Feature	iPhone 4s	iPhone 5s
Processor	Apple A5 (32-bit)	Apple A7 (64-bit)
RAM	512 MB	1 GB
Final iOS Version	iOS 9.3.6 (2016)	iOS 12.5.7 (2023)
App Compatibility (2025)	Nearly none	Limited (older app versions only)
Fingerprint Sensor	No	Yes (Touch ID)
Camera Resolution	8 MP rear, 0.3 MP front	8 MP rear, 1.2 MP front

Software Support and Security: Why It Matters Today

One of the most critical distinctions in 2025 is ongoing security. Apple issued its final patch for the iPhone 5s in early 2023 to address critical vulnerabilities. While no further updates are expected, that means the 5s received security fixes over seven years longer than the 4s.

Using either device for sensitive tasks like banking, email, or messaging poses risks. Without current security patches, both phones are vulnerable to known exploits. However, the 5s at least benefits from having run a more modern OS, which included stronger encryption, sandboxing, and privacy controls.

“Even legacy devices benefit from recent firmware updates. An iPhone 5s patched in 2023 is far safer than one frozen in 2016.” — David Lin, Mobile Security Analyst at TechShield Labs

Additionally, the 5s introduced Touch ID, a foundational feature for secure authentication. In 2025, this may seem trivial, but it enables limited functionality with older versions of password managers and two-factor apps that still support iOS 12.

Real-World Usability in 2025: A Mini Case Study

Consider Maria, a rural teacher in the Philippines who uses an iPhone 5s as her primary device due to limited access to newer smartphones. She relies on offline educational apps, downloaded YouTube videos via third-party tools, and SMS-based communication. Her 5s, running iOS 12.5.7, allows her to use Khan Academy’s offline mode, read PDFs, and manage student records through lightweight productivity apps.

If she had an iPhone 4s instead, her options would be severely restricted. Most educational platforms no longer support iOS 9, and even basic web browsing fails on sites requiring modern JavaScript. The lack of Touch ID also complicates app logins, forcing reliance on passcodes that aren’t always supported in older interfaces.

This example illustrates a key truth: while neither phone is ideal, the 5s offers tangible functional advantages in low-resource environments where smartphone access is limited but still transformative.

Is the Upgrade Still Worth It in 2025?

For most users, the idea of upgrading from a 4s to a 5s in 2025 is academic. But for collectors, tinkerers, or those in regions with constrained budgets, the difference can be meaningful.

The iPhone 5s supports:

• More recent versions of essential apps (e.g., WhatsApp up to late 2022)
• Better camera performance with improved low-light processing
• Smoother multitasking due to double the RAM
• Touch ID for basic app and device security
• iCloud Keychain and limited two-factor authentication

However, it’s important to temper expectations. Neither phone can run modern Safari securely, stream HD video reliably, or support apps like Instagram, TikTok, or Google Maps beyond very old versions. Battery degradation is also a widespread issue—original batteries in both models are now over a decade old and unlikely to hold charge effectively without replacement.

Tip: If using either device, replace the battery and reset settings to factory defaults for the best possible performance.

Checklist: Can Your iPhone 4s or 5s Still Be Useful in 2025?

Before deciding whether to keep, upgrade, or retire your device, go through this checklist:

1. Determine your primary use: Emergency calls, music player, offline reading?
2. Check iOS version: If below iOS 10, consider retirement.
3. Test core functions: Can you send iMessage, use Maps, or browse Wikipedia?
4. Assess battery health: Does it die within an hour of use?
5. Evaluate security risk: Are you logging into any accounts with saved passwords?
6. Explore alternatives: Refurbished iPhone SE (1st gen) runs iOS 15 and costs only slightly more.

FAQ

Can I still use WhatsApp on an iPhone 4s or 5s?

No. WhatsApp ended support for iOS 10 and earlier in 2022. Since the 4s maxes out at iOS 9 and the 5s at iOS 12.5.7, they no longer meet minimum requirements. Some users report limited functionality with sideloaded APKs, but this is unsupported and risky.

Is the iPhone 5s safe to use in 2025?

It can be used safely for non-sensitive tasks—like playing music, taking photos, or acting as a dedicated alarm clock. However, avoid entering passwords, using banking apps, or connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, as these expose you to potential data theft.

What’s a better alternative to upgrading from a 4s/5s?

The first-generation iPhone SE (2016) is the natural successor. It runs iOS 15, supports modern apps, has a comparable form factor, and often sells for under $50 used. Even budget Android phones today offer far superior performance and security.

Conclusion: Practical Wisdom Over Nostalgia

The iPhone 4s to 5s upgrade represented a major technological leap when it launched. In 2025, that same upgrade is no longer about speed or features—it’s about marginal gains in usability and safety. For most people, keeping either device as a primary phone isn't advisable. But if you’re attached to one for sentimental reasons or operate in a resource-limited setting, choosing the 5s over the 4s still makes sense.

Technology evolves rapidly, and clinging to outdated hardware comes with real trade-offs in security, functionality, and peace of mind. If you're still relying on a 4s or 5s, consider repurposing it—as a retro gaming device, a kitchen recipe viewer, or a digital photo frame—while moving your daily tasks to a more capable device.

🚀 Ready to move forward? Explore affordable refurbished smartphones that balance cost and capability. Share your experience with legacy iPhones in the comments—your story might help someone else make a smarter choice.