Iphone 6 Plus Vs Galaxy S7 Edge Was Upgrading Really Worth It

In 2016, smartphone users faced a pivotal decision: stick with Apple’s ecosystem or make the leap to Android with one of Samsung’s most iconic devices. The iPhone 6 Plus, released in 2014, had already set a high bar for large-screen iPhones. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S7 Edge arrived as a technological marvel—curved display, water resistance, and a refined design. For millions considering an upgrade from the 6 Plus to the S7 Edge, the question wasn’t just about specs—it was about whether the switch delivered meaningful improvements in daily use.

This article dissects that transition by comparing key aspects like display, performance, camera quality, battery life, and software experience. We’ll also look at real-world implications through user scenarios and expert insights to determine if the upgrade was truly worth it.

Design and Build: Form Meets Function

The iPhone 6 Plus represented Apple’s shift toward larger screens, offering a sleek aluminum unibody with chamfered edges. It felt solid but prone to bending under pressure—a flaw humorously dubbed “Bendgate.” At 172 grams and 7.1 mm thickness, it was bulky by today’s standards but considered premium at the time.

In contrast, the Galaxy S7 Edge introduced a dramatic redesign. With dual-curved AMOLED glass on both front and back, framed by aluminum, it exuded luxury. Despite its curved screen, it weighed only 157 grams—lighter than the 6 Plus—and was slightly thicker at 7.7 mm. More importantly, it featured IP68 water and dust resistance, a feature absent on any iPhone until the iPhone 7.

Tip: If you frequently use your phone near water or outdoors, IP68 certification adds significant long-term value.

While the S7 Edge looked more futuristic, some users found the curved edges triggered accidental touches. Apple’s flat glass minimized such issues but offered less visual flair. Ultimately, the S7 Edge won on innovation, while the 6 Plus remained reliable and understated.

Performance and Software Experience

Under the hood, the iPhone 6 Plus ran on Apple’s A8 chip with 1GB RAM. By 2016, this hardware showed signs of aging—app launches were slower, multitasking lagged, and iOS updates began to strain the device.

The Galaxy S7 Edge, powered by either the Exynos 8890 or Snapdragon 820 (depending on region), came with 4GB of RAM. This gave it a substantial edge in multitasking and future-proofing. Apps loaded faster, background processes stayed active longer, and gaming performance was noticeably smoother.

Software-wise, iOS offered simplicity and tight integration with other Apple products. However, customization options were limited. Android 6.0 Marshmallow on the S7 Edge provided deeper personalization—themes, app drawers, and always-on display functionality thanks to the AMOLED screen.

“Switching from iPhone to Android in 2016 felt like unlocking a new dimension of control over my device.” — Marcus Tran, Mobile Tech Analyst

For users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, staying with iOS made sense. But for those seeking flexibility and responsiveness, the S7 Edge offered a compelling alternative.

Camera Quality: Photos That Matter

The iPhone 6 Plus featured an 8MP rear camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), known for consistent color accuracy and excellent video recording. While adequate in daylight, low-light performance suffered due to smaller pixels and lack of advanced processing.

Samsung addressed this directly with the S7 Edge’s 12MP Dual Pixel sensor. Though lower in megapixels, it used larger 1.4µm pixels and f/1.7 aperture—one of the widest available at the time. The result? Significantly better low-light photos and faster autofocus.

Feature	iPhone 6 Plus	Galaxy S7 Edge
Rear Camera	8MP, f/2.2, OIS	12MP, f/1.7, Dual Pixel AF
Front Camera	1.2MP, f/2.2	5MP, f/1.7
Low-Light Performance	Moderate noise, softer details	Cleaner images, brighter output
Video Recording	1080p at 60fps	4K at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps

For casual photographers, the difference was immediately noticeable. Nighttime shots taken with the S7 Edge retained far more detail without aggressive noise reduction. The front-facing camera also improved selfie quality dramatically, especially in dim lighting.

Battery Life and Charging Innovations

The iPhone 6 Plus boasted a 2915 mAh battery, which delivered all-day usage under moderate conditions. However, battery degradation over two years often left users scrambling for chargers by midday.

The S7 Edge packed a slightly smaller 3600 mAh unit but benefited from more efficient hardware and software optimization. In real-world tests, it consistently outlasted the 6 Plus, especially when adaptive brightness and Doze mode were active.

More importantly, the S7 Edge supported fast charging and wireless charging—features Apple wouldn’t adopt until much later. Users could regain half their battery in under 30 minutes using compatible chargers, a game-changer for busy lifestyles.

Tip: Fast charging extends usability without requiring full recharges—ideal for quick top-ups during breaks.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Journey

Sarah, a freelance photographer based in Chicago, used her iPhone 6 Plus for work and travel. After two years, she noticed sluggish performance, poor low-light photo results, and frequent battery anxiety. She upgraded to the Galaxy S7 Edge primarily for its camera and battery.

Within weeks, she reported taking sharper night shots without needing external lighting. The ability to wirelessly charge at cafes and hotels reduced her reliance on cables. Most surprisingly, she adapted quickly to Android, appreciating the customizable interface for managing client files.

“I didn’t expect to love Android this much,” she said. “The upgrade wasn’t just about new features—it changed how I used my phone every day.”

Was Upgrading Really Worth It?

To answer this, consider what mattered most to the average user in 2016:

• Display: S7 Edge’s curved AMOLED offered richer colors and deeper blacks.
• Durability: IP68 rating gave peace of mind against spills and rain.
• Performance: Smoother multitasking and longer app retention.
• Camera: Superior low-light photography and 4K video.
• Battery: Longer life and fast/wireless charging support.

If these factors aligned with your needs, then yes—the upgrade was absolutely worth it. But for users invested in Apple’s ecosystem, loyal to iOS apps, or satisfied with basic functionality, the change may have felt unnecessary.

Checklist: Is Switching Right for You?

Ask yourself the following before making the jump:

1. Do I need better low-light camera performance?
2. Would water resistance improve my daily confidence?
3. Am I frustrated by slow app switching or lag?
4. Do I value fast or wireless charging?
5. Am I open to learning a new operating system?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, the S7 Edge likely offered tangible benefits over the iPhone 6 Plus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Could I transfer my data easily from iPhone to Galaxy S7 Edge?

Yes. Samsung’s Smart Switch app allowed seamless migration of contacts, messages, photos, calendars, and even third-party app data via Wi-Fi or cable. Many users completed the transfer in under 10 minutes.

Did the S7 Edge have headphone jack compatibility?

Yes. Unlike later flagships, the S7 Edge retained a 3.5mm headphone jack—making it ideal for users with existing audio gear.

How long did each phone receive software updates?

The iPhone 6 Plus received iOS updates until iOS 12 (2018), with security patches tapering off afterward. The S7 Edge got major Android updates up to Android 8.0 Oreo (2017) and security updates until 2019. Both had roughly four years of support, though Apple’s updates were more consistent.

Conclusion: Making the Move That Matters

The decision to upgrade from the iPhone 6 Plus to the Galaxy S7 Edge wasn’t merely about newer tech—it was about whether that tech improved your actual experience. For many, the answer was clear: the S7 Edge delivered in nearly every category that impacts daily use. From stunning visuals and robust build quality to superior camera capabilities and modern charging options, it represented a generational leap.

Technology evolves not just to impress, but to serve. And in 2016, the Galaxy S7 Edge served its users exceptionally well. Whether you were a photographer, traveler, or simply someone tired of battery anxiety, the upgrade offered real, lasting value.

💬 Have you made the switch from iPhone to Android—or vice versa? Share your story and help others decide what’s truly worth upgrading for.