Iphone 5s Vs 5c Does Size Really Matter Or Is It All The Same

When Apple introduced the iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C in September 2013, it marked a turning point in the company’s strategy. For the first time, Apple offered two distinct models at different price points, both built on the foundation of the iPhone 5. On the surface, they looked nearly identical—same screen size, similar dimensions—but under the hood, the differences were stark. One was a premium device with cutting-edge tech; the other, a colorful, more affordable alternative. But does physical size truly define the experience, or do internal specs and long-term usability matter more?

The debate between the iPhone 5S and 5C isn’t just about millimeters and grams—it’s about value, longevity, and user priorities. While both phones shared the same 4-inch Retina display and overall footprint, their materials, processing power, and intended audience set them on divergent paths.

Design and Build: Plastic vs Precision

The most immediate difference between the two devices lies in their construction. The iPhone 5C featured a polycarbonate (plastic) unibody shell available in bright colors like blue, green, pink, yellow, and white. Apple marketed this as a fun, youthful option—approachable and vibrant. Despite being plastic, the build quality was solid, with tight seams and a smooth finish that resisted fingerprints better than glass or metal.

In contrast, the iPhone 5S retained the aluminum and glass design language of its predecessor. Its sleek, minimalist aesthetic appealed to users who valued sophistication over flash. Available in silver, gold, and space gray, the 5S projected a premium feel, reinforced by its weight and material integrity.

Tip: If you prioritize durability and resale value, the metal chassis of the 5S typically holds up better over time than plastic, which can develop micro-scratches.

Interestingly, despite the 5C’s larger battery, it weighed slightly less than the 5S due to the lighter plastic body. However, many users reported that the 5S felt more substantial and “premium” in hand—a psychological factor that influenced perception of quality.

Performance: A Clear Divide

Under the hood, the gap between these two models was significant. The iPhone 5S introduced the Apple A7 chip—the first 64-bit processor in any smartphone at the time. Paired with an M7 motion coprocessor, it delivered noticeably faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and superior graphics performance. This wasn’t just a minor upgrade; it future-proofed the device for upcoming iOS versions and demanding apps.

The iPhone 5C, meanwhile, used the same A6 chip found in the iPhone 5. While still capable for basic tasks in 2013, it struggled sooner with newer operating systems. By iOS 10 and beyond, the 5C became sluggish, especially in app switching and background processes. Users upgrading from the 5 or 4S noticed little improvement in speed, undermining the perceived value of the new model.

“Choosing between the 5S and 5C came down to whether you wanted a phone that would last three years or one that might struggle after two.” — David Kim, Mobile Tech Analyst at GadgetInsight

Camera and Biometrics: Innovation vs Compromise

Both phones featured an 8-megapixel rear camera with similar sensor sizes, but the 5S included critical upgrades: a larger f/2.2 aperture, dual-LED True Tone flash, and improved image signal processing. These changes resulted in better low-light performance, more accurate color reproduction, and reduced noise—subtle but meaningful improvements for photography enthusiasts.

Perhaps the most iconic addition to the 5S was Touch ID, Apple’s fingerprint recognition system embedded in the home button. This wasn’t just a gimmick; it laid the groundwork for secure mobile payments and password-free app access. At launch, only the 5S had this feature, giving it a clear edge in security and convenience.

The 5C, lacking Touch ID, relied on traditional passcodes. In a world increasingly concerned with digital privacy, this omission made it feel outdated even at release.

Detailed Comparison Table

Feature	iPhone 5S	iPhone 5C
Processor	A7 (64-bit) + M7 Coprocessor	A6
RAM	1GB	1GB
Storage Options	16GB, 32GB, 64GB	16GB, 32GB
Camera	8MP, f/2.2, True Tone Flash	8MP, f/2.4, Single LED Flash
Fingerprint Sensor	Yes (Touch ID)	No
Battery Life (Video Playback)	Up to 10 hours	Up to 10 hours
Weight	112g	132g
Build Material	Aluminum & Glass	Polycarbonate (Plastic)
Colors	Silver, Gold, Space Gray	Blue, Green, Pink, Yellow, White

Real-World Usage: A Mini Case Study

Jessica, a college student in 2013, faced the decision between the 5C and 5S. She liked the bright colors of the 5C and appreciated its $50 lower price tag. She bought the green 5C, excited by its playful look. Within six months, however, she noticed apps took longer to open, Safari lagged when loading complex pages, and iOS updates caused noticeable slowdowns.

Her roommate, Mark, chose the gold iPhone 5S. Though he paid more upfront, his phone remained responsive through iOS 9. He used Touch ID daily, loved the better camera for night shots, and didn’t need to replace his device until 2016. Jessica upgraded in 2015, effectively paying more per year of use.

This scenario played out for thousands of consumers: short-term savings with the 5C often led to earlier replacement, reducing long-term value.

Does Size Really Matter?

Physically, no—both phones measure 4.87 x 2.31 x 0.35 inches and weigh within 20 grams of each other. They use the same Lightning connector, earphones, cases, and screen protectors. From a pocketability and ergonomics standpoint, they are functionally identical.

But \"size\" in technology extends beyond dimensions. It includes processing power, memory bandwidth, software support lifespan, and ecosystem integration. In those terms, the 5S was significantly \"larger\"—more capable, more durable, and more aligned with Apple’s innovation trajectory.

The 5C’s size advantage—its slightly larger battery—was offset by the less efficient A6 chip, resulting in nearly identical real-world battery life. Meanwhile, the 5S’s M7 coprocessor optimized motion data collection, improving fitness tracking and navigation without draining the battery.

Checklist: Choosing Between iPhone 5S and 5C (If Still Considering)

• ✅ Prioritize performance and longevity? Choose the 5S.
• ✅ Want Touch ID and better camera? Choose the 5S.
• ✅ Prefer colorful design and lower initial cost? 5C may appeal.
• ✅ Planning to use beyond two years? Avoid the 5C.
• ✅ Need strong resale value? The 5S retains value better.
• ✅ Using modern apps or iOS 9+? The 5C will struggle.

FAQ

Can the iPhone 5C run the latest iOS versions?

No. The 5C maxes out at iOS 10.3.3 (for 32-bit models). It cannot install iOS 11 or later, limiting app compatibility and security updates.

Is the iPhone 5S still usable today?

For very basic tasks—calls, texts, light web browsing—it can function, but most modern apps either won’t install or will run extremely slowly. It lacks support for current iOS features and security patches.

Why did Apple discontinue the 5C so quickly?

Despite its colorful design, the 5C was seen as a \"cheap\" iPhone, which conflicted with Apple’s premium brand image. Sales underperformed expectations, and the internal hardware didn’t justify its price. Apple replaced it with the more successful iPhone SE line in 2016.

Conclusion: Value Over Vanity

The iPhone 5S vs 5C debate ultimately wasn’t about physical size—it was about substance. The 5C offered visual variety but compromised on the components that determine real-world performance and longevity. The 5S, though more expensive, delivered technological leadership, better materials, and a longer functional lifespan.

For users today looking back at this era, the lesson remains relevant: don’t be swayed by aesthetics alone. Internal specifications, software support, and ecosystem integration often matter far more than color or marginal price differences. The 5S proved that what’s inside counts more than how it looks on the outside.

💬 Do you remember choosing between the 5S and 5C? Share your experience or thoughts on Apple’s dual-launch strategy—was it smart or confusing? Join the conversation below.