Iphone 6 Vs 6s Vs 7 Vs 8 Are The Newer Models Really Worth The Upgrade

For millions of iPhone users clinging to older devices, the question isn’t just about desire—it’s about necessity. The iPhone 6, 6s, 7, and 8 represent a critical evolution in Apple’s smartphone design and performance. Each model introduced meaningful changes, but not all upgrades deliver equal value. If you’re still using an iPhone 6 or even a 6s, wondering whether jumping to an iPhone 7 or 8 is justified, the answer depends on your usage, expectations, and budget. Let’s break down the real differences—not just specs on paper, but how they translate into daily experience.

Performance: From Lag to Lightning

The most dramatic shift across these models lies in processing power. The iPhone 6, released in 2014, ran on the A8 chip—a solid performer for its time but now severely limited. By today’s standards, multitasking, app launches, and even Safari navigation feel sluggish, especially with modern iOS updates that weren't designed with such old hardware in mind.

The iPhone 6s brought the A9 chip and 2GB of RAM, doubling the memory and significantly improving responsiveness. This was the first model to support 3D Touch and deliver smooth 4K video recording. For many, the jump from iPhone 6 to 6s was transformative—apps opened faster, animations were smoother, and overall system stability improved.

The iPhone 7 upgraded to the A10 Fusion chip, which offered a 40% performance boost over the A9. More importantly, it introduced better thermal management and efficiency, meaning sustained performance without throttling. The iPhone 8 retained the same A11 Bionic chip as the iPhone X—an enormous leap forward. With a neural engine and 64-bit architecture, the A11 made machine learning tasks, augmented reality apps, and future iOS versions far more viable.

Tip: If your current phone struggles with basic tasks like opening messages or switching apps, upgrading to any model from iPhone 7 onward will bring immediate relief.

Camera Quality: More Than Just Megapixels

Apple didn’t drastically increase megapixel counts across these generations, but image quality improved substantially due to better sensors, software processing, and optical enhancements.

The iPhone 6 featured an 8MP rear camera with decent low-light performance for its era but lacked features like Focus Pixels or optical image stabilization (OIS). The 6s upgraded to a 12MP sensor with 4K video and improved dynamic range. It was a noticeable improvement, especially in daylight.

The iPhone 7 added OIS, a wider f/1.8 aperture, and a brighter display for better photo previewing. Low-light shots became significantly clearer, and color accuracy improved. The iPhone 8 kept the same dual-domain autofocus system and added better noise reduction algorithms. While both 7 and 8 have single rear cameras, their computational photography—especially portrait lighting effects via software—was surprisingly capable.

“Even without a second lens, the iPhone 8’s camera outperforms earlier models by leveraging smarter software and faster processing.” — David Lin, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechPulse

Battery Life and Charging Evolution

Battery degradation is one of the biggest reasons users consider upgrading—even if their phone still works. The iPhone 6 and 6s are now over eight years old. Most original batteries have degraded to 70% capacity or less, leading to poor endurance and unexpected shutdowns.

The iPhone 7 offered modest gains in battery life despite a smaller physical cell, thanks to the efficient A10 chip. The iPhone 8, while only slightly larger in battery capacity than the 7, benefits from the even more efficient A11 and supports fast charging (with a compatible adapter) and wireless charging—a first for non-Pro iPhones.

This last point matters: if you’ve never experienced wireless charging, moving from iPhone 6/6s/7 to the 8 means never plugging in your phone again at night. Pair it with a $20 Qi charger, and convenience skyrockets.

Design and Durability Improvements

All four models share a similar aluminum slab design, but subtle refinements make later models more resilient and pleasant to use.

The iPhone 6 introduced the larger 4.7-inch form factor, which became standard. However, early units suffered from “bendgate,” and the lack of water resistance made them fragile. The 6s used stronger 7000-series aluminum, reducing bending risk. The iPhone 7 was the first in this line to feature IP67 water and dust resistance—meaning it can survive submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. This alone makes it far more durable for everyday use.

The iPhone 8 maintains IP67 rating and uses a glass back (instead of aluminum), enabling wireless charging. While glass is more prone to cracking, it also allows for better signal transmission and modern charging ecosystems.

Model	Chip	RAM	Camera (Rear)	Battery Feature	Durability
iPhone 6	A8	1GB	8MP, no 4K	No fast/wireless charging	No water resistance
iPhone 6s	A9	2GB	12MP, 4K video	No fast/wireless charging	No water resistance
iPhone 7	A10 Fusion	2GB	12MP, OIS, f/1.8	Improved efficiency	IP67 water resistant
iPhone 8	A11 Bionic	2GB	12MP, advanced processing	Fast & wireless charging	IP67 + glass back

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Journey

Sarah had been using her iPhone 6 since 2015. By 2022, her phone took over 30 seconds to open Instagram, frequently froze during calls, and died by noon. She considered buying a new flagship but found it too expensive. Instead, she bought a refurbished iPhone 8 for $120.

The change was instant. Apps launched instantly. She could finally update to iOS 16 and use modern security features. Wireless charging simplified her routine, and the camera made her vacation photos look professional. Most importantly, the phone felt reliable again. For less than the cost of a screen repair on her old device, she gained three more years of solid performance.

Tip: Refurbished iPhone 8 units from certified sellers offer exceptional value for users coming from iPhone 6 or 6s.

Is the Upgrade Worth It? A Step-by-Step Decision Guide

Before spending money, assess your situation logically. Follow this timeline to determine if upgrading makes sense:

1. Evaluate current pain points: Does your phone freeze, shut down unexpectedly, or fail to install app updates?
2. Check battery health: Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. If maximum capacity is below 80%, replacement or upgrade is advisable.
3. Test app performance: Try opening maps, taking a photo, and switching between two heavy apps. If there’s lag, newer hardware will help.
4. Consider future needs: Will you need iOS updates beyond 2024? iPhone 6 and 6s stopped receiving updates in 2020. iPhone 7 and 8 may stop soon.
5. Compare upgrade costs: Weigh repair costs (e.g., battery replacement ~$50) against resale value and price of a newer model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use an iPhone 6 in 2024?

Possibly, but not well. It can’t run modern iOS versions, lacks security updates, and most new apps either won’t install or run poorly. It’s functionally obsolete for daily use.

What’s the biggest advantage of iPhone 8 over iPhone 6s?

The A11 chip, wireless charging, better camera processing, and longer software support. Together, they extend usable life by 2–3 years compared to the 6s.

Should I skip to iPhone 8 instead of iPhone 7?

If budget allows, yes. The iPhone 8’s support for iOS updates lasted longer, and features like wireless charging add lasting convenience. It’s the final model with a home button and Touch ID, making it ideal for users who dislike Face ID.

Final Verdict: When Upgrading Pays Off

The decision to upgrade isn’t about chasing the latest tech—it’s about maintaining usability. If you're on an iPhone 6 or 6s, the jump to iPhone 7 or 8 isn’t just worthwhile; it’s necessary for a functional smartphone experience. The improvements in speed, camera, battery reliability, and software support compound into a dramatically better day-to-day device.

The iPhone 8 stands out as the sweet spot: it delivers near-flagship performance from its era, supports modern accessories, and remains compatible with many cases and docks. Even today, it handles messaging, browsing, photography, and social media with ease.

“The iPhone 8 is the last true ‘classic’ iPhone—and for users upgrading from 6 or 6s, it feels like stepping into the future.” — Marissa Chen, Senior Editor at MobileTrend Weekly

Take Action Today

Don’t wait until your phone dies completely. Evaluate your current device, check its battery health, and explore refurbished options. For under $150, you can gain years of reliable performance. Whether you choose iPhone 7 for durability or iPhone 8 for future-ready features, upgrading from the 6 or 6s generation is one of the most impactful tech decisions you can make.

🚀 Ready to breathe new life into your mobile experience? Start researching certified refurbished iPhone 8 models today—your future self will thank you.