Iphone 6s Over Iphone 5 Is The Upgrade Really Worth It

For users still clinging to an iPhone 5, the idea of upgrading to an iPhone 6s might feel like a leap into modernity. Released just two years apart—2011 for the iPhone 5 and 2015 for the 6s—the gap in technology is surprisingly wide. But is that difference substantial enough to justify the cost, effort, and potential data migration hassles? The answer depends on how you use your phone, what you expect from daily performance, and whether longevity matters in your device choices.

The iPhone 5 was a landmark device in Apple’s history, introducing a taller display and LTE connectivity. But by today’s standards, its hardware struggles with even basic multitasking. The iPhone 6s, while no longer cutting-edge, brought features that defined the next generation of iPhones—3D Touch, a vastly improved camera, and a processor powerful enough to run iOS efficiently for years.

Performance: A Quantum Leap in Speed

The most immediate difference between the iPhone 5 and the 6s lies in processing power. The iPhone 5 runs on the dual-core Apple A6 chip with 1GB of RAM. In contrast, the iPhone 6s uses the 64-bit Apple A9 chip with 2GB of RAM. This may sound like technical jargon, but the real-world impact is dramatic.

Apps launch faster. Multitasking feels seamless. Safari scrolls without lag, and newer versions of iOS run smoothly. While the iPhone 5 topped out at iOS 10, the 6s supports updates up to iOS 15—meaning five additional years of security patches, app compatibility, and feature improvements.

Tip: If your current phone takes more than three seconds to open common apps like Messages or Camera, you're already losing time every day—an upgrade could save you hours per year.

Camera Quality: From Acceptable to Impressive

The iPhone 5's 8-megapixel rear camera was solid for its time, but lacks features now considered standard. No autofocus priority, poor low-light performance, and no slow-motion video. The front-facing camera is a mere 1.2MP, making FaceTime calls grainy and dim.

The iPhone 6s improves on all fronts: a 12MP rear sensor captures significantly more detail, supports 4K video recording (a first for iPhones), and includes better noise reduction. The front camera jumps to 5MP and supports Retina Flash—a clever trick where the screen brightens to illuminate selfies.

Feature	iPhone 5	iPhone 6s
Rear Camera	8MP, 1080p video	12MP, 4K video
Front Camera	1.2MP	5MP + Retina Flash
Slow-Motion Video	No	1080p at 120fps
Low-Light Performance	Poor	Improved with software tuning

“Camera quality isn’t just about megapixels—it’s about usability in real conditions. The 6s made photography accessible even in dim environments.” — David Lin, Mobile Photography Instructor

Battery Life and Daily Usability

Battery degradation is inevitable, especially on older devices. Even if your iPhone 5 has a replaced battery, its efficiency pales next to the 6s. Apple rated the iPhone 6s for up to 14 hours of talk time and 10 days of standby—roughly 25% more endurance than the iPhone 5 under similar conditions.

In practice, this means fewer midday charges, greater reliability during travel, and consistent performance throughout the day. Users upgrading from the iPhone 5 often report being able to go a full day with moderate usage, something nearly impossible on the older model without carrying a portable charger.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Journey

Sarah, a freelance writer in Chicago, used her iPhone 5 for six years before switching to a used iPhone 6s. She described her old phone as “barely functional”: apps crashed when she switched between them, photos took seconds to load, and iMessage notifications were delayed by minutes.

After upgrading, she noticed immediate improvements. Her writing apps opened instantly, cloud sync became reliable, and she started using mobile editing tools for client photos—something she avoided before due to poor camera quality. “It felt like going from dial-up to broadband,” she said. “I didn’t realize how much friction I’d accepted until it was gone.”

Durability and Design: Subtle but Meaningful Changes

Both phones share a glass-and-aluminum design language, but the materials differ. The iPhone 6s uses aerospace-grade 7000 series aluminum, which Apple introduced after the “bendgate” concerns around the iPhone 6. It’s slightly heavier, but notably more resistant to warping.

The display on the 6s also benefits from Ion-strengthened glass and improved oleophobic coating, reducing smudges and minor scratches. More importantly, the 6s supports 3D Touch—a pressure-sensitive interface that lets you peek at messages, access shortcuts, and preview links with a firm press. While not essential, it adds a layer of interaction that makes navigation quicker once learned.

Checklist: Is the iPhone 6s Right for You?

• ✅ Do you frequently experience app crashes or freezes?
• ✅ Are you unable to update to the latest iOS version?
• ✅ Does your battery die before the end of the day?
• ✅ Do you take photos regularly and want better quality?
• ✅ Are you still using iCloud or third-party apps that require newer hardware?

If you answered yes to two or more of these, the upgrade is likely worthwhile—even if you opt for a refurbished or secondhand 6s.

Long-Term Value and Software Support

While neither phone receives official iOS updates today, the iPhone 6s enjoyed nearly six years of support—from iOS 9 to iOS 15. That extended lifecycle meant continued access to new features, security fixes, and compatibility with evolving apps like banking platforms, health trackers, and communication tools.

In contrast, the iPhone 5 stopped receiving updates in 2017. Many modern apps no longer support iOS 10 or earlier, rendering the iPhone 5 functionally obsolete for services requiring updated APIs. For example, newer versions of Google Maps, Zoom, and even Apple’s own Wallet app either don’t install or operate poorly on the older OS.

Tip: Before upgrading, back up your iPhone 5 via iCloud or iTunes. This ensures all data transfers smoothly to the new device, including messages, contacts, and app settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 6s still run modern apps effectively?

Yes, most lightweight to mid-tier apps run well on the iPhone 6s. While demanding games or professional photo editors may lag, everyday apps like WhatsApp, Gmail, Safari, and Spotify perform reliably. Its 2GB RAM allows smoother background app retention than the iPhone 5.

Is it worth buying an iPhone 6s today?

If you're looking for a budget-friendly iOS device and can find one in good condition, yes. However, consider the iPhone SE (2nd or 3rd gen) for better performance, longer support, and lower price in the used market. The 6s is best suited as a temporary upgrade or backup phone.

Will my accessories work with the iPhone 6s?

Most Lightning cables, cases designed for iPhone 6/6s, and headphones are compatible. However, the 6s is slightly thicker and heavier, so older cases may fit loosely. Also, the louder speaker grille may be obstructed by tight-fitting enclosures.

Conclusion: A Worthy Step Forward

Upgrading from the iPhone 5 to the 6s isn’t just about newer specs—it’s about reclaiming time, reliability, and functionality. What seems like a modest generational shift delivers tangible improvements in speed, photography, battery life, and software longevity. For anyone still relying on a device over a decade old, the 6s represents a meaningful bridge to modern smartphone expectations.

Technology should serve you, not slow you down. If your current phone interrupts your flow more than helps it, the upgrade isn’t just worth it—it’s overdue.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? Check certified refurbished listings or trade-in programs to get an iPhone 6s at minimal cost—and rediscover what your phone can do.