Iphone 5s Vs 7 Plus Is Upgrading Really Worth It In Current Year

For many long-time iPhone users, the decision to upgrade isn’t just about new features—it’s about whether those improvements still matter today. The iPhone 5s, released in 2013, was a landmark device with Touch ID and a sleek aluminum design. The iPhone 7 Plus, arriving four years later in 2016, brought dual cameras, water resistance, and significantly better processing power. But now, in the current year, does jumping from the 5s to the 7 Plus still make sense? For users clinging to older devices, this question carries real weight—especially when budget, app compatibility, and daily usability are on the line.

Performance: A Quantum Leap in Processing Power

The most immediate difference between the iPhone 5s and 7 Plus lies in performance. The 5s runs on Apple’s A7 chip—the first 64-bit processor in any smartphone at the time. While revolutionary in 2013, it struggles today with modern apps, multitasking, and even basic web browsing due to limited RAM (1GB) and outdated architecture.

In contrast, the iPhone 7 Plus features the A10 Fusion chip, a quad-core powerhouse with twice the CPU performance and up to twice the graphics speed of the A7. It also includes 3GB of RAM, enabling smoother background app switching and better handling of resource-heavy applications like photo editing tools, video streaming, and mobile games.

Tip: If your current phone takes more than 10 seconds to open common apps like Instagram or Chrome, a hardware upgrade will deliver noticeable improvements.

Real-world testing shows that launching apps on the 7 Plus is nearly instantaneous compared to the lag often seen on the 5s. Even iOS updates reflect this gap: the 5s maxed out at iOS 12, while the 7 Plus supports up to iOS 16—meaning access to newer security patches, features, and app compatibility.

Camera Comparison: From Basic to Brilliant

Photography has evolved dramatically since 2013. The iPhone 5s features an 8MP rear camera with no optical image stabilization (OIS), basic autofocus, and poor low-light performance. Selfies are limited to the 1.2MP front-facing camera, which produces grainy results.

The 7 Plus changes the game entirely. Its dual 12MP rear system includes a wide-angle and telephoto lens, enabling 2x optical zoom and Portrait Mode—a feature absent on the 5s. OIS improves photo clarity in motion or dim lighting, and Smart HDR (in later iOS versions) enhances dynamic range. Video recording jumps from 1080p on the 5s to 4K at 30fps on the 7 Plus.

“Even by today’s standards, the iPhone 7 Plus delivers surprisingly capable photography for social media, family moments, and casual creators.” — David Lin, Mobile Photography Analyst

If capturing clear, vibrant photos matters—even for sharing online or preserving memories—the upgrade is substantial. Nighttime shots, group selfies, and zoomed-in details are all vastly improved.

Battery Life and Build Quality

Battery degradation is inevitable, especially on a device as old as the 5s. Original batteries have likely lost 40–60% of their capacity, leading to frequent charging and unexpected shutdowns. The 7 Plus starts with a larger 2900mAh battery and better energy efficiency thanks to the A10 chip and optimized iOS versions.

In practical use, the 7 Plus offers around 13 hours of mixed usage (calls, browsing, video), compared to roughly 6–7 hours on a worn 5s. This means going from needing two charges per day to potentially lasting a full day on a single charge—even with moderate use.

Build quality also improves. The 7 Plus introduces IP67 water and dust resistance—something the 5s lacks entirely. Dropping your phone near water or getting caught in the rain becomes less of a crisis. The aluminum body feels sturdier, and the overall design accommodates larger hands better with its 5.5-inch display.

Detailed Feature Comparison Table

Feature	iPhone 5s	iPhone 7 Plus
Release Year	2013	2016
Processor	A7 (64-bit)	A10 Fusion
Rear Camera	8MP, no OIS	Dual 12MP, OIS, 2x zoom
Front Camera	1.2MP	7MP, Retina Flash
Display Size	4.0 inches	5.5 inches
Battery Life (Video)	Up to 10 hours	Up to 14 hours
iOS Support	Up to iOS 12	Up to iOS 16
Water Resistance	No	IP67 (up to 1m for 30 min)
Storage Options	16/32/64GB	32/128/256GB
RAM	1GB	3GB

Real-World Scenario: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision

Sarah had been using her iPhone 5s since 2014. By 2023, she found herself restarting the phone multiple times a day, unable to update essential apps like WhatsApp and banking tools. Her camera couldn’t handle school events, and the battery died by noon. After researching, she bought a used iPhone 7 Plus for $120.

The change was immediate. Apps opened quickly, FaceTime HD made video calls clearer, and she could finally use Apple Maps without crashing. She uploaded photos directly to cloud storage instead of transferring via computer. For Sarah, the upgrade wasn’t about luxury—it restored functionality she didn’t realize she’d lost.

Tip: When buying used, check IMEI status, ensure iCloud lock is removed, and verify battery health (if possible).

When the Upgrade Makes Sense—And When It Doesn’t

Not every 5s user needs to move to the 7 Plus. Consider these factors before deciding:

• App Usage: If you only use messaging, email, and occasional web searches, the 5s may still suffice.
• Budget: Spending money on a 7-year-old phone may not be wise if newer models are within reach.
• Repair Costs: Replacing a swollen 5s battery can cost $60–$80—sometimes approaching the price of a functional 7 Plus.
• Security: Devices stuck on iOS 12 miss critical security updates. The 7 Plus receives patches up to late 2023.

Checklist: Is Upgrading from 5s to 7 Plus Right for You?

1. Are you unable to install key app updates?
2. Does your phone frequently freeze or restart?
3. Is your battery life under 4 hours of screen-on time?
4. Do you want better photo quality for family or social media?
5. Are you concerned about lacking water resistance or modern features?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, upgrading is likely worthwhile—even in the current year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 7 Plus still run modern apps smoothly?

Yes. While not ideal for heavy gaming or professional video editing, the 7 Plus handles everyday apps like Safari, Gmail, Instagram, TikTok, and Zoom efficiently. Most mainstream apps remain compatible through iOS 16.

Is the iPhone 5s obsolete in 2024?

Effectively, yes. With no official iOS updates beyond 2019 and dwindling app support, the 5s is functionally outdated. Major services like banking apps and ride-sharing platforms increasingly require newer operating systems.

Should I consider a newer model instead?

If your budget allows, yes. iPhones like the SE (2020 or 2022) or iPhone XR offer better longevity, faster processors, and longer software support. However, the 7 Plus remains a cost-effective bridge for those not ready for a $400+ investment.

Conclusion: A Practical Step Forward

Upgrading from the iPhone 5s to the 7 Plus in the current year isn’t about chasing the latest tech—it’s about reclaiming reliability, security, and usability. The performance jump, camera improvements, and extended software support make the 7 Plus a meaningful upgrade, especially for users struggling with slowdowns, outdated apps, or poor photo quality.

While neither phone matches today’s flagship standards, the 7 Plus delivers a noticeably modern experience at a fraction of the cost. For someone holding onto a 5s out of necessity or nostalgia, this transition can breathe new life into daily digital routines.

🚀 Ready to make the leap? Check certified refurbished listings, compare prices, and take the next step toward a smoother, safer, and more capable iPhone experience today.