Iphone 6 Plus Vs Xs Max Screen Was The Upgrade Worth It For The Size

When Apple released the iPhone XS Max in 2018, many long-time users of older models like the iPhone 6 Plus faced a critical decision: was upgrading to the newer flagship worth the jump in both price and physical dimensions? The most noticeable change between these two devices lies in the display — not just in size, but in technology, clarity, and overall user experience. For those clinging to their 6 Plus out of familiarity or budget concerns, understanding whether the screen upgrade justifies the move is essential.

The iPhone 6 Plus, launched in 2014, was revolutionary at the time for bringing a 5.5-inch display to Apple’s lineup. It set the standard for “Plus” models with larger screens and improved multitasking. Fast forward four years, and the iPhone XS Max arrived with a 6.5-inch OLED display, Face ID, slimmer bezels, and a significantly more advanced visual experience. But does that translate into meaningful improvements for everyday use?

Display Technology: LCD to OLED Evolution

The most significant leap between the iPhone 6 Plus and the XS Max is the shift from LCD to OLED technology. The 6 Plus uses an IPS LCD panel, which was top-tier in 2014 but now feels dated compared to modern standards. In contrast, the XS Max features a Super Retina HD OLED display, offering deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios, and more vibrant colors.

OLED pixels emit their own light, allowing individual pixels to turn off completely when displaying black. This results in true black levels and infinite contrast — a feature particularly noticeable when watching HDR content or using dark mode interfaces. On the 6 Plus, blacks appear more like dark grays due to backlight bleed, limiting immersion in video and gaming experiences.

Feature	iPhone 6 Plus	iPhone XS Max
Screen Size	5.5 inches	6.5 inches
Display Type	IPS LCD	OLED (Super Retina HD)
Resolution	1920 x 1080	2688 x 1242
PPI (Pixels Per Inch)	401	458
Contrast Ratio	1300:1	1,000,000:1
HDR Support	No	Yes (Dolby Vision, HDR10)

The resolution bump may seem modest on paper, but combined with the higher pixel density and OLED advantages, the difference in sharpness and color accuracy is immediately apparent. Text appears crisper, images pop with greater detail, and videos take on a cinematic quality previously unavailable on iPhones.

Tip: If you frequently watch movies or stream content on your phone, the HDR support and superior contrast of the XS Max make it a far better viewing device than the 6 Plus.

Size and Usability: Bigger Isn’t Always Better

While the XS Max offers a larger screen, its footprint is surprisingly close to what you’d expect given the minimal bezels. Despite having a 6.5-inch display, it's only slightly taller and wider than the 6 Plus, which had thick bezels by today’s standards. However, the increased height can affect one-handed usability, especially for users with smaller hands.

In practice, the extra screen real estate benefits multitasking, web browsing, and media consumption. Split-view apps, landscape keyboard usage, and reading long articles become noticeably more comfortable. Yet, this comes at the cost of pocketability and grip security. Many users report the XS Max feels unwieldy compared to the more compact 6 Plus, particularly during extended use.

“The transition from the 6 Plus to the XS Max isn’t just about screen size — it’s about redefining how you interact with your phone. The display becomes a canvas, not just a window.” — David Lin, Mobile UX Designer

Real-World Example: Upgrading After Four Years

Consider Sarah, a freelance photographer who used her iPhone 6 Plus for daily communication, social media posting, and occasional photo editing. She held onto the device for nearly five years, citing battery life and familiarity as reasons to delay upgrading. When she finally moved to the XS Max, her first reaction was shock at the brightness and color fidelity of the new screen.

Editing RAW photos directly on the phone became feasible thanks to the accurate color reproduction and high brightness (up to 1200 nits peak HDR). She could confidently adjust exposure and white balance without needing to cross-check on a computer. Additionally, reviewing client galleries on the larger, sharper display improved her workflow efficiency.

However, she also noted challenges. The size made single-handed operation difficult, and she initially dropped the phone twice within the first week due to poor grip. Over time, she adapted by using a case with a grip edge and enabling Reachability consistently. Her verdict? The screen upgrade was transformative for her professional needs, but casual users might not see the same return on investment.

Is the Upgrade Worth It? A Step-by-Step Evaluation

Deciding whether to upgrade should be based on personal usage patterns, not just specs. Here’s a practical timeline to help assess if the screen improvement justifies the change:

1. Assess Your Current Needs: Are you satisfied with your 6 Plus screen for reading, browsing, and media? If yes, the upgrade may offer diminishing returns.
2. Test Content Quality: Try watching a 4K HDR video on both devices. Notice differences in contrast, color depth, and clarity.
3. Evaluate One-Handed Use: Hold the XS Max in-store or borrow one. Can you comfortably reach across the screen?
4. Check App Compatibility: Some older apps haven't been optimized for taller displays. Ensure your core apps scale well.
5. Consider Longevity: The XS Max runs modern iOS versions smoothly and will receive updates longer than the aging 6 Plus hardware.

Tips for Maximizing the New Display Experience

Tip: Enable Auto-Brightness and True Tone on the XS Max to adapt the display to ambient lighting, reducing eye strain and improving color accuracy.

• Use Dark Mode to leverage OLED’s power-saving black pixels.
• Adjust display zoom settings under Accessibility to reduce interface scale if the size feels overwhelming.
• Invest in a protective case with textured edges to improve grip and prevent drops.
• Regularly calibrate your perception by viewing known reference images to appreciate color consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the XS Max screen consume more battery than the 6 Plus?

Despite being larger, the XS Max’s OLED panel is generally more efficient, especially when displaying dark content. However, maximum brightness and prolonged HDR playback can drain the battery faster. Overall, battery life is comparable or slightly better due to hardware optimizations.

Can I notice the difference in sharpness with my eyes?

Absolutely. The combination of higher PPI, better contrast, and improved color gamut makes text smoother and images more lifelike. This is especially evident when viewing high-resolution photos or streaming HD video.

Is the size increase too much for daily carry?

It depends on your lifestyle. If you carry your phone in tight pockets or prefer lightweight devices, the XS Max may feel bulky. But if you prioritize screen space for productivity or entertainment, the trade-off is often worthwhile.

Final Verdict: Who Should Upgrade?

For creative professionals, avid media consumers, or anyone relying on visual accuracy, the screen upgrade from the iPhone 6 Plus to the XS Max is absolutely worth it. The technological advancements in display quality represent a generational leap that enhances nearly every visual interaction.

On the other hand, casual users who primarily make calls, send messages, and browse social media may find the benefits less compelling. The learning curve associated with Face ID, gesture navigation, and the sheer size of the device could outweigh the visual gains.

If your current 6 Plus still functions reliably, consider waiting unless screen performance is a priority. But if you're ready to embrace a modern smartphone experience where the display plays a central role, the XS Max delivers a level of visual excellence the 6 Plus simply can’t match.

💬 Have you made the jump from iPhone 6 Plus to XS Max? Share your experience with the screen upgrade — did the size and quality make a real difference in your daily use?