Iphone 6s Plus Vs 6 Plus Is The Upgrade Really Worth It 3

When Apple released the iPhone 6s Plus just a year after the iPhone 6 Plus, many users questioned whether the incremental changes justified an upgrade. Now, years later, with both devices considered legacy models, the question remains relevant—especially for budget-conscious buyers, collectors, or those relying on older hardware. This article breaks down the tangible differences between the iPhone 6s Plus and 6 Plus, evaluates real-world performance, and determines whether upgrading—or choosing one over the other—is still worthwhile today.

Performance and Hardware Upgrades

The most significant difference between the iPhone 6s Plus and its predecessor lies under the hood. While both phones share nearly identical designs, screen sizes, and overall aesthetics, the internal upgrades in the 6s Plus bring meaningful improvements.

The iPhone 6 Plus was powered by the Apple A8 chip with 1GB of RAM, while the 6s Plus introduced the A9 chip and doubled the RAM to 2GB. This may seem modest by modern standards, but in practical use, the difference is noticeable. Apps launch faster, multitasking is smoother, and iOS updates were supported longer on the 6s Plus due to improved processing power.

Tip: If you're using either device in 2024, close unused apps regularly to free up memory and maintain responsiveness.

One often-overlooked enhancement is the inclusion of 3D Touch on the 6s Plus—a pressure-sensitive display that allows for quick actions like previewing emails or accessing app shortcuts. While not essential, it adds a layer of convenience that the 6 Plus lacks entirely.

Camera Improvements That Matter

For photography enthusiasts, the camera upgrades between these two models are substantial. The iPhone 6 Plus featured an 8-megapixel rear camera with decent low-light performance for its time. The 6s Plus upgraded to a 12-megapixel sensor, enabling sharper images and better detail retention, especially when zooming or printing.

More importantly, the 6s Plus introduced 4K video recording—a feature absent in the 6 Plus, which maxes out at 1080p. For users who value high-resolution video capture, this alone can be a deciding factor.

“Even on older iPhones, camera quality impacts how people document daily life. The jump from 8MP to 12MP made photos feel more professional.” — David Lin, Mobile Photography Instructor

Front-facing cameras also saw a major leap: the 6 Plus had a 1.2MP FaceTime camera, while the 6s Plus brought a 5MP front shooter with Retina Flash (using the display as a flash). Selfies and video calls became significantly clearer and more usable in low light.

Detailed Comparison Table

Feature	iPhone 6 Plus	iPhone 6s Plus
Release Year	2014	2015
Processor	A8 chip	A9 chip
RAM	1GB	2GB
Rear Camera	8MP, 1080p video	12MP, 4K video
Front Camera	1.2MP	5MP with Retina Flash
Storage Options	16/64/128GB	16/64/128GB
Display Feature	No 3D Touch	3D Touch support
Battery Life (Video Playback)	Up to 14 hours	Up to 16 hours
iOS Support End	iOS 12	iOS 15

Real-World Longevity and Software Support

Software support is a critical consideration when evaluating whether an upgrade was \"worth it.\" The iPhone 6 Plus received updates up to iOS 12, while the 6s Plus was supported through iOS 15—three additional major versions. This means the 6s Plus had access to features like Dark Mode, improved privacy controls, and newer app compatibility for several more years.

In practice, this extended lifespan translates into better security, more app functionality, and greater usability in modern environments. As of 2024, apps such as banking services, messaging platforms, and even social media increasingly require newer iOS versions. The 6 Plus, limited to iOS 12, cannot install many current apps, severely limiting its utility.

Tip: Check App Store compatibility before purchasing any used iPhone. Many apps now require iOS 13 or later.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah had been using her iPhone 6 Plus since 2015. By late 2017, she noticed apps crashing, slow loading times, and inability to update key software. Her bank app stopped working after a security update required iOS 13. She considered buying a new phone but found a used iPhone 6s Plus for $80.

After switching, she immediately noticed faster performance, better camera quality, and—most importantly—the ability to install updated apps. The 6s Plus ran iOS 15, giving her three more years of reliable use before eventually moving to a newer model in 2022. For Sarah, the upgrade was absolutely worth it, both financially and functionally.

Step-by-Step Guide: Should You Upgrade?

If you're currently using an iPhone 6 Plus and considering a move to a 6s Plus—or choosing between them secondhand—follow this decision timeline:

1. Assess your current needs: Are you still able to run essential apps like email, messaging, and banking?
2. Check iOS version: Go to Settings > General > About > Software Version. If you’re on iOS 12 or lower, app support will be limited.
3. Evaluate performance: Does your phone lag frequently? Struggle with multitasking or photo loading?
4. Compare pricing: If a 6s Plus is available within $30–$50 of a 6 Plus, the upgrade makes financial sense.
5. Test camera and battery: Take sample photos and monitor battery drain. The 6s Plus typically holds battery better and captures higher-quality images.
6. Decide: If you need reliability beyond 2020, go for the 6s Plus. If it's for temporary use or nostalgia, the 6 Plus may suffice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 6s Plus still be used in 2024?

Yes, but with limitations. It runs up to iOS 15, so many modern apps won’t install. It works well for calls, messages, basic browsing, and offline tasks. However, lack of security updates and app compatibility make it unsuitable as a primary phone for most users.

Is there a battery life difference between the two models?

Apple rated the 6s Plus for slightly longer battery life—up to 16 hours of video playback compared to 14 on the 6 Plus. In real-world usage, the difference is modest, but the 6s Plus generally performs better under heavy loads due to processor efficiency.

Does the 6s Plus charge faster than the 6 Plus?

No. Neither model supports fast charging out of the box. Both use the same Lightning connector and standard 5W charger. Fast charging wasn’t introduced until the iPhone 8.

Final Verdict: Was the Upgrade Worth It?

Looking back, the upgrade from iPhone 6 Plus to 6s Plus was one of Apple’s most justified annual iterations. The combination of a faster processor, double the RAM, improved cameras, 4K video, 3D Touch, and extended software support made the 6s Plus a genuinely better device—not just incrementally, but in ways that impacted daily usability.

For users in 2015–2018, upgrading was clearly worth it. Today, if you're choosing between the two on the secondhand market, the 6s Plus remains the smarter buy—even at a slightly higher price—due to longer app compatibility and better performance.

While neither phone meets modern smartphone expectations, the 6s Plus offered a bridge to newer iOS features and app ecosystems that the 6 Plus simply couldn't match.

💬 Still using an old iPhone? Share your experience with the 6s Plus or 6 Plus in the comments below. Did the upgrade pay off for you?