Iphone 4s Vs Ipod Touch 7th Gen Is The Ipod Still Worth It In Current Year

In an era dominated by powerful smartphones and always-connected devices, revisiting older Apple products like the iPhone 4S and iPod Touch 7th generation might seem nostalgic at best. Yet, for budget-conscious users, collectors, or those seeking a simple digital companion, these devices still spark interest. But in 2024, does either device hold up — and more importantly, is the iPod Touch 7th Gen still worth buying when compared to a decade-old iPhone?

The answer isn’t straightforward. While both devices run iOS and share some design language, their capabilities, software support, and real-world utility differ significantly. Let’s break down the key differences and evaluate whether the iPod Touch remains a viable option today.

Hardware Comparison: Performance and Design

The iPhone 4S, released in 2011, was a landmark device in Apple’s history — the first to feature Siri and a dual-core A5 chip. At the time, it offered solid performance for its era. However, by modern standards, its 512MB of RAM and single-core CPU struggle with even basic multitasking.

In contrast, the iPod Touch 7th Gen, launched in 2019, uses the A10 Fusion chip — the same processor found in the iPhone 7. This gives it significantly better performance, including smoother app launches, faster web browsing, and the ability to run most modern iOS apps without major lag.

Feature	iPhone 4S	iPod Touch 7th Gen
Release Year	2011	2019
Processor	A5 (Dual-Core)	A10 Fusion (Quad-Core)
RAM	512 MB	2 GB
Storage Options	16/32/64 GB	32/128/256 GB
Display	3.5\", 960x640 (Retina)	4.0\", 1136x640 (Retina)
Camera	8MP rear, no front flash	8MP rear, FaceTime HD front
Battery Life	Limited, degraded over time	Up to 40 hours audio, 8 hours video
Connectivity	GSM/CDMA, 3G, Wi-Fi	Wi-Fi only, Bluetooth 4.2

The hardware gap is vast. The iPod Touch 7th Gen outperforms the iPhone 4S in every measurable category. Even though it lacks cellular connectivity, its modern internals allow it to run iOS 15 — the last supported version — whereas the iPhone 4S maxes out at iOS 9.3.6, released in 2016.

Tip: If you're considering either device for media use, prioritize battery health. On used units, check battery cycle count or replace if below 80% capacity.

Software and App Support: Can They Run Today’s Apps?

This is where the real divide becomes apparent. The iPhone 4S runs iOS 9, which means it cannot install any app requiring iOS 10 or higher. That includes nearly all major updates from Instagram, Spotify, Google services, banking apps, and even Apple’s own ecosystem tools like Find My.

The iPod Touch 7th Gen, while limited to iOS 15, supports far more modern applications. Most mainstream apps still function, although future updates may soon leave it behind as developers shift focus to iOS 16+.

“Devices stuck on outdated operating systems become security liabilities and compatibility dead ends.” — Mark Lin, Mobile Security Analyst

Even if an app installs, functionality may be limited. For example, Safari on iOS 9 lacks support for modern encryption protocols and many JavaScript features, making some websites unusable. The iPod Touch, running a relatively recent OS, avoids most of these issues — at least for now.

Real-World Use Cases: Who Would Still Use These Devices?

Despite their age, both devices have niche audiences. Consider this scenario:

Mini Case Study: The Student’s Secondary Device

Jamie, a high school student, wanted a distraction-free music and study tool. Her parents bought her a used iPod Touch 7th Gen for $70. It connects to Wi-Fi, runs flashcard apps, plays music via Spotify, and doesn’t carry the temptation of texting or social media notifications like her phone. She uses it during study sessions and commutes. No cellular plan needed. For her, it works perfectly.

Contrast that with someone trying to use an iPhone 4S in 2024. Without access to modern apps or secure browsing, it’s largely relegated to offline tasks: playing stored music, using old games, or acting as a retro photo frame. Its cellular capability is irrelevant since most carriers have phased out 3G networks.

Is the iPod Touch 7th Gen Worth It in 2024?

That depends on your expectations. Here’s a checklist to help decide:

✅ iPod Touch 7th Gen: Buying Checklist

• Do you need a low-cost iOS device for music, games, or educational apps?
• Are you okay with Wi-Fi-only connectivity?
• Will you use it primarily for offline or lightly connected tasks?
• Can you accept that app support will continue to decline over time?
• Are you purchasing it secondhand at a steep discount (under $80)?

If you answered “yes” to most of these, the iPod Touch could still serve a purpose. It’s ideal for kids, travelers avoiding roaming charges, or as a dedicated gaming/media player.

However, if you expect seamless integration with modern iCloud services, messaging, or up-to-date apps, you’ll be frustrated. The writing is on the wall: Apple hasn’t updated the iPod line since 2019 and shows no signs of reviving it. The platform is effectively in maintenance mode.

Tip: Always factory reset a used iPod Touch before use. Check for activation lock (iCloud lock) — a locked device is unusable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPod Touch 7th Gen get iMessages?

Yes, but only over Wi-Fi. You can send and receive iMessages using your Apple ID, just like on an iPad. However, SMS messages require an iPhone.

Is the iPhone 4S usable in 2024?

Only for very limited tasks. With no app updates, poor browser performance, and discontinued 3G support, it’s more of a collector’s item than a functional device.

Why would someone choose the iPod Touch over a cheap Android phone?

The iPod Touch offers a clean iOS experience without contracts, ads, or bloatware. For parents wanting a safe, controlled environment for kids, or users who want pure Apple ecosystem access without phone distractions, it remains appealing — despite its limitations.

Final Verdict: A Narrow Window of Usefulness

The iPod Touch 7th Gen isn’t obsolete — not yet. It occupies a shrinking but still valid space: a minimalist, affordable entry into the iOS world. Compared to the iPhone 4S, it’s dramatically superior in every way — performance, software, camera, and app compatibility.

But its value hinges on price and purpose. At full retail ($199 at launch), it was hard to justify. Today, on the secondhand market, a well-maintained 128GB model under $80 can be a smart buy for specific needs.

The iPhone 4S, meanwhile, has crossed into vintage territory. It may evoke nostalgia, but it no longer functions as a practical device in the modern digital landscape.

“The iPod Touch is the last gasp of a once-thriving product line. It’s not future-proof, but for the right user, it’s still useful.” — Lisa Tran, Tech Historian & Gadget Archivist

Conclusion: Make the Right Choice for Your Needs

If you’re drawn to simplicity, iOS familiarity, or a screen without constant interruptions, the iPod Touch 7th Gen can still deliver. Paired with headphones and a playlist, it revives the original spirit of the iPod: music first, everything else optional.

Just go in with eyes open. This isn’t a long-term investment. It’s a stopgap, a secondary device, or a lightweight tool. And compared to the iPhone 4S — a relic of a bygone era — it remains the clear winner in 2024.

🚀 Have you used either device recently? Share your experience — is the iPod Touch still relevant, or has its time finally passed? Join the conversation below.