Iphone 6 Vs 5s For Gaming In 2024 Is The Upgrade Worth It For Real

In 2024, few would expect either the iPhone 6 or the iPhone 5s to deliver a competitive mobile gaming experience. Yet, millions of users still rely on these devices daily—some out of necessity, others due to loyalty or budget constraints. For those stuck between the two, the question remains: if you're currently using an iPhone 5s, is upgrading to an iPhone 6 actually worthwhile for gaming in today’s app landscape?

The answer isn’t as straightforward as raw specs suggest. While the iPhone 6 technically outperforms the 5s, both are over a decade old. App developers have moved on, prioritizing newer hardware and iOS versions. Still, for casual gamers or those in emerging markets where older iPhones remain common, understanding the real differences matters.

Hardware Comparison: The Foundation of Performance

Gaming performance hinges on three core components: processor speed, RAM, and graphics capability. The iPhone 5s, released in 2013, was revolutionary at the time with its A7 chip—the first 64-bit processor in a smartphone. But by 2024 standards, it's severely outdated. The iPhone 6, arriving just a year later in 2014, uses a slightly refined version of the same architecture but with meaningful improvements.

Feature	iPhone 5s	iPhone 6
Processor	A7 (1.3GHz dual-core)	A8 (1.4GHz dual-core)
RAM	1GB	1GB
GPU	PowerVR G6430 (quad-core)	PowerVR GX6450 (quad-core)
Display Resolution	1136 x 640 (326 PPI)	1334 x 750 (326 PPI)
iOS Support Cutoff	iOS 12	iOS 15

The A8 chip in the iPhone 6 delivers about 25% better CPU performance and up to 50% improved graphics rendering over the A7. That may not sound like much, but in practice, it translates to smoother frame rates, faster load times, and better multitasking—critical for modern games that demand background processes and high-resolution textures.

Tip: Close unused apps before launching a game to free up RAM and reduce lag on older devices.

Gaming Experience in 2024: Can Either Device Keep Up?

Most current mobile games require at least iOS 13 or higher. This immediately disqualifies both the iPhone 5s (max iOS 12) and iPhone 6 (max iOS 15) from running titles like Genshin Impact, Call of Duty: Mobile, or Marvel Snap. Even if sideloaded or installed via third-party methods, performance would be unplayable.

However, there’s still a niche library of lightweight or retro-style games compatible with iOS 12. Titles such as Monument Valley, Cut the Rope, Badland, and older versions of Angry Birds run adequately on both devices. Where the iPhone 6 pulls ahead is consistency: fewer crashes, quicker touch response, and better thermal management during extended sessions.

“Even modest games now assume background services, cloud sync, and frequent updates—all of which strain legacy hardware.” — David Lin, Mobile Performance Analyst at TechPulse Labs

Beyond compatibility, user experience deteriorates on the 5s. Loading screens stretch longer, animations stutter, and switching between apps often triggers reloads. The iPhone 6 mitigates some of this with more efficient memory handling and a faster storage controller.

Real-World Example: Two Gamers, Two Devices

Consider Maria, a college student in Manila who inherited her brother’s iPhone 5s. She enjoys puzzle games and light RPGs during commutes. After installing Pokémon Shuffle (an older title), she notices it takes nearly 20 seconds to load and frequently freezes when switching tabs. Restarting the device becomes routine.

She borrows her cousin’s iPhone 6—same game, same Wi-Fi network. Load time drops to 8 seconds. No crashes occur during a 30-minute session. The difference isn’t just technical; it changes how she perceives gameplay. What felt frustrating on the 5s becomes enjoyable on the 6.

This scenario illustrates that while neither phone is future-proof, the iPhone 6 offers a noticeably better quality of life for basic gaming tasks—even nearly a decade after release.

Long-Term Usability and Upgrade Considerations

As of 2024, Apple no longer provides security updates for either device. This poses risks beyond performance: vulnerabilities go unpatched, and many online games block access due to outdated TLS protocols or unsupported authentication frameworks.

If your primary goal is gaming, investing in a used iPhone 6 over continuing with a 5s makes sense—but only as a short-term bridge. The real value isn’t in owning another aging device, but in gaining time to save for something capable of running current software.

• The iPhone 6 supports iOS 15, allowing access to a broader range of apps updated through 2022–2023.
• It has slightly better battery efficiency under gaming loads.
• Its larger screen improves visibility and touch targeting in games.
• Used units are often priced within $20–$40, making it a low-risk trial.

Checklist: Is the iPhone 6 Worth It for You?

1. Are you currently using an iPhone 5s with constant app crashes?
2. Do you play mostly offline or older games (pre-2018)?
3. Is your budget under $50 for a temporary device?
4. Can you accept limited app store functionality and no future updates?
5. Are you planning to upgrade to a newer iPhone within 12 months?

If you answered “yes” to most of these, the iPhone 6 serves as a functional stopgap. If you need reliable multiplayer, cloud saves, or modern titles, even the iPhone 6 won’t suffice.

What About Alternatives?

For less than the cost of a new pair of headphones, refurbished iPhone SE (2020) models offer A13 chips, 3GB RAM, and support for iOS 17—with full compatibility into 2025 and beyond. At around $100, they represent far better value for anyone serious about mobile gaming.

Android alternatives like the Samsung Galaxy A14 or Google Pixel 6a (refurbished) provide similar longevity at competitive prices. These run modern operating systems, support Vulkan graphics, and handle contemporary game engines with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still download games on iPhone 5s in 2024?

Yes, but only those compatible with iOS 12. Many popular games have dropped support, and the App Store may not show newer titles. Some older versions can be re-downloaded if previously purchased.

Does the iPhone 6 run games better than the 5s?

Objectively, yes. Frame rates are more stable, loading is faster, and multitasking is less disruptive. However, “better” doesn’t mean “good”—both struggle with anything moderately demanding by today’s standards.

Should I upgrade from iPhone 5s to iPhone 6 solely for gaming?

Only if you’re on a tight budget and need a minimal improvement for light gaming. If you plan to keep the device beyond a year, skip to a model with current iOS support.

Final Verdict: Incremental Gain, Not Transformation

The jump from iPhone 5s to iPhone 6 was significant in 2014. In 2024, it’s marginal. The upgrade offers smoother performance and access to a few more years of app updates, but it doesn’t solve the fundamental issue: both devices are obsolete.

For pure gaming utility, the iPhone 6 reduces frustration and extends usability by perhaps six to twelve months. It’s a sensible move if you already own one or can acquire it cheaply. But don’t mistake this upgrade for a long-term solution.

🚀 Ready to level up? Even a modest investment in a newer device opens doors to thousands of games and years of updates. Start exploring refurbished options today—your next great mobile gaming experience is closer than you think.