Iphone 6s Vs 7 Plus Is Upgrading Really Worth It In 2024

For years, the iPhone 6s was a workhorse—reliable, fast for its time, and built to last. But as we move deeper into 2024, even the most loyal users are questioning whether holding onto this aging device still makes sense. The iPhone 7 Plus, released just one year later, offered meaningful upgrades. But does that gap still matter today? If you're still using an iPhone 6s and considering a jump to the 7 Plus—or wondering if either is viable now—the answer isn’t as simple as specs suggest.

This isn't just about megapixels or processor speed. It's about real-world usability: app compatibility, battery life, security updates, and whether your phone can keep up with daily tasks without frustration. Let’s take a detailed look at both devices through the lens of 2024 to determine if upgrading is truly worthwhile.

Performance & Software Support: Can These Phones Keep Up?

The iPhone 6s launched with Apple’s A9 chip and 2GB of RAM—impressive for 2015. The iPhone 7 Plus upgraded to the A10 Fusion chip and maintained the same 2GB of RAM, but with improved efficiency and graphics performance. In raw benchmarks, the 7 Plus outperforms the 6s by roughly 40% in CPU tasks and nearly double in GPU performance.

But performance isn’t just about numbers. It’s about how smoothly your phone runs modern apps. As of 2024, iOS 17 is the latest operating system, and neither the 6s nor the 7 Plus supports it. The iPhone 6s maxes out at iOS 15.7, while the 7 Plus received updates up to iOS 16.7. That means:

• The 6s hasn’t seen a major OS update since late 2022.
• The 7 Plus stopped receiving updates in late 2023.
• Both devices lack support for newer features like Live Voicemail, StandBy mode, and enhanced privacy tools.

Tip: Even if your phone feels \"fine,\" outdated software increases vulnerability to security threats and limits access to updated apps.

“Apple typically supports iPhones for five to six years. By 2024, both the 6s and 7 Plus are well beyond their intended lifecycle.” — David Lin, Mobile Analyst at TechPulse Insights

Camera Comparison: Does the Upgrade Still Matter?

The camera leap between these two models remains one of the most compelling reasons someone might consider upgrading—even in 2024. While both phones shoot 12MP photos, the differences in hardware and processing are significant.

Feature	iPhone 6s	iPhone 7 Plus
Rear Camera	Single 12MP, f/2.2 aperture	Dual 12MP (wide + telephoto), f/1.8 & f/2.8
Portrait Mode	Not available	Yes, via dual-camera system
Low-Light Performance	Moderate noise, slower focus	Better light capture, faster autofocus
Front Camera	5MP, f/2.2	7MP, f/2.2
Video Recording	4K at 30fps	4K at 60fps, optical image stabilization

The 7 Plus introduced optical zoom (2x) and Portrait Mode, which remain useful even today for casual photography. Its wider f/1.8 aperture on the main sensor captures more light, resulting in noticeably better low-light shots. For social media use, messaging, or capturing memories, the 7 Plus still holds up reasonably well in good lighting conditions.

However, don’t expect miracles. Neither phone handles HDR scenes well by modern standards, and dynamic range is limited compared to current budget Android devices. Face detection and night mode are absent, so dim indoor shots will likely be grainy.

Battery Life and Long-Term Usability

Battery degradation is inevitable after 7–8 years. Most original iPhone 6s and 7 Plus units have batteries with less than 70% capacity unless they’ve been replaced. Apple recommends service when capacity drops below 80%.

In practice, a worn 6s battery may last only 3–4 hours of screen-on time. The 7 Plus started with a larger battery (2900mAh vs. 1715mAh) and more efficient hardware, giving it up to 13 hours of video playback when new. Even with age, a healthy 7 Plus often delivers 6–8 hours of mixed usage—nearly double the 6s.

Tip: If you're holding onto either device, replacing the battery (~$49 at Apple or authorized shops) can significantly extend usability.

But longevity isn’t just about battery health. App load times on the 6s have become painfully slow. Instagram, Google Maps, and even Safari struggle with rendering complex pages. The 7 Plus handles these better, though multitasking between apps still causes occasional reloads due to limited RAM.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah, a teacher from Portland, has used her iPhone 6s since 2016. She relies on it for email, calendar, and taking photos of classroom projects. By early 2023, she noticed apps crashing, messages delaying, and her phone shutting down unexpectedly at 20% battery.

She considered upgrading to a newer model but found the cost prohibitive. Instead, she bought a used iPhone 7 Plus for $75. After transferring her data, she immediately noticed faster app launches, better photo quality for student work documentation, and longer battery life through her school day. While not future-proof, the upgrade gave her an extra two years of reliable use without breaking the bank.

Is the Upgrade Worth It in 2024? A Practical Checklist

If you're still on a 6s and thinking about moving to a 7 Plus, ask yourself the following questions. Check off what applies:

• ✅ Do you frequently experience app crashes or freezes?
• ✅ Is your battery dying before lunchtime?
• ✅ Have you stopped receiving app updates (e.g., banking, social media)?
• ✅ Are you unable to use iMessage or FaceTime due to compatibility issues?
• ✅ Do you want better photo quality for memories or remote work?

If you checked three or more, upgrading to the 7 Plus—even in 2024—can offer tangible improvements. It won’t replace a modern mid-tier smartphone, but it bridges the gap between obsolescence and functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 7 Plus still receive security updates?

No. Apple ended security updates for the iPhone 7 Plus with iOS 16.7 in late 2023. While no immediate risks exist, unpatched vulnerabilities could be exploited over time, especially if you download third-party apps or visit untrusted websites.

Is the iPhone 6s too old to use in 2024?

It depends on your needs. If you only make calls, send texts, and use basic apps like Notes or Calendar, it may still function. However, most major apps (including WhatsApp) are phasing out support for iOS 15 and earlier, so functionality will continue to decline.

Should I upgrade to a 7 Plus or save for a newer model?

If budget allows, skip both and aim for an iPhone XR, SE (2020 or 2022), or even a refurbished iPhone 11. These support iOS 17 and will receive updates through at least 2026. But if you need a low-cost stopgap, a 7 Plus with a new battery is a logical next step from the 6s.

Final Verdict: A Calculated Step Forward

Upgrading from an iPhone 6s to a 7 Plus in 2024 isn’t about getting a cutting-edge device—it’s about escaping technological stagnation. The 7 Plus offers measurable gains: better camera, longer battery, smoother performance, and slightly extended software support. It won’t dazzle, but it removes many pain points of the 6s.

That said, treat this upgrade as a transitional move, not a long-term solution. Expect 1–2 years of reliable use, especially if you replace the battery upon purchase. Beyond that, app incompatibility and performance limitations will catch up.

Technology evolves quickly, but smart, incremental upgrades let you stay functional without overspending. If your 6s is slowing you down, the 7 Plus remains a practical, affordable bridge to a more capable smartphone future.

💬 Still using an iPhone 6s or 7 Plus? Share your experience—what keeps you loyal, and what finally made you upgrade? Join the conversation below.