For millions of iPhone users clinging to their 6s Plus models in 2023 and beyond, the question isn't just about hardware—it's about value. Is upgrading to the iPhone 7 Plus still relevant, even years after both devices have been discontinued? While neither phone supports the latest iOS versions fully, many people continue to use them daily. Understanding the tangible differences between the iPhone 7 Plus and 6s Plus can help you decide whether making the switch—whether through resale, trade-in, or secondhand purchase—is truly worthwhile.
Performance and Hardware: What Changed Under the Hood?
The most immediate difference between the iPhone 7 Plus and 6s Plus lies in their processors. The 6s Plus runs on the Apple A9 chip with 2GB of RAM, while the 7 Plus upgrades to the A10 Fusion chip and retains the same 2GB RAM. On paper, this might not seem like a dramatic leap, but in real-world usage, the impact is noticeable.
The A10 Fusion is roughly 40% faster in CPU performance and 50% faster in GPU tasks than the A9. This means smoother multitasking, quicker app launches, and better performance in graphics-intensive games. Users upgrading from the 6s Plus often report that the 7 Plus feels more responsive, especially when switching between apps or using augmented reality features.
Camera Comparison: Dual Lenses Make a Difference
One of the headline features of the iPhone 7 Plus was its dual-camera system—a first for Apple. The device includes a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 12MP telephoto lens, enabling 2x optical zoom and Portrait Mode (introduced in a later software update). In contrast, the 6s Plus only has a single 12MP rear camera with digital zoom and no depth-sensing capability.
In practical terms, this means the 7 Plus delivers sharper zoomed photos and the ability to create professional-looking portraits with blurred backgrounds. Low-light performance is also improved thanks to larger pixels and better image signal processing.
| Feature | iPhone 6s Plus | iPhone 7 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Cameras | Single 12MP | Dual 12MP (wide + telephoto) |
| Optical Zoom | No | 2x |
| Portrait Mode | Not supported | Yes (via software update) |
| Aperture (Wide) | f/2.2 | f/1.8 |
| Front Camera | 5MP | 7MP |
The front-facing camera upgrade—from 5MP to 7MP—also benefits selfie quality and FaceTime clarity, though the improvement is subtle unless viewed on large screens.
“Even without AI-powered computational photography, the 7 Plus’s dual-lens system laid the foundation for modern smartphone imaging. It was a turning point in mobile photography.” — David Lin, Mobile Tech Analyst at GadgetScope
Battery Life and Efficiency: Real-World Endurance
Battery life is where the iPhone 7 Plus pulls ahead significantly. Despite having nearly identical battery capacities (6s Plus: 2915 mAh, 7 Plus: 2900 mAh), the A10 chip’s power efficiency translates into longer usage times. Apple advertised up to two additional hours of battery life on the 7 Plus compared to the 6s Plus.
In user testing, the 7 Plus consistently lasts through a full day of moderate use—around 10–12 hours—while the 6s Plus often requires midday charging under similar conditions. This is particularly important for users who rely on GPS navigation, streaming audio, or social media throughout the day.
Moreover, the 7 Plus introduced water and dust resistance (IP67 rating), meaning it can survive submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The 6s Plus has no official rating, making it far more vulnerable to accidental spills or rain exposure.
User Experience Upgrades: Home Button and Audio
The iPhone 7 Plus replaced the mechanical home button with a solid-state, force-sensitive version powered by Apple’s Taptic Engine. While it doesn’t physically depress, it simulates a click through haptic feedback. This change improves durability—no moving parts to wear out—and allows for customizable press sensitivity.
Another major shift was the removal of the 3.5mm headphone jack. Apple argued this freed up internal space and pushed users toward wireless audio. However, this decision divided users. Those attached to wired headphones faced the inconvenience of using a Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter, which could interfere with simultaneous charging and listening.
On the upside, the 7 Plus features stereo speakers—upgraded from the 6s Plus’s single bottom-firing speaker. The dual-speaker setup delivers richer sound, especially when watching videos or playing games with landscape orientation.
Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma
Sarah had used her iPhone 6s Plus since 2016. By 2022, she noticed frequent app crashes, slow camera startup, and battery drain that left her phone dead by early afternoon. She considered buying a newer model but found a lightly used iPhone 7 Plus for $120 online.
After switching, she immediately noticed faster app loading, clearer low-light photos, and extended battery life. The lack of a headphone jack was annoying at first, but she adapted by using Bluetooth earbuds she already owned. For less than the cost of a new case, she gained two extra years of reliable service before eventually upgrading to an iPhone XR.
Her experience highlights a key truth: sometimes, a modest upgrade can extend usability significantly—especially when moving from aging hardware.
Is the Upgrade Worth It? A Practical Checklist
If you’re still debating whether to make the move from 6s Plus to 7 Plus, ask yourself the following:
- Is your current phone struggling with basic tasks like opening messages or taking photos?
- Do you frequently run out of battery before the end of the day?
- Are you interested in better photo quality, especially portraits or zoomed shots?
- Do you value water resistance for everyday protection?
- Are you okay with using wireless headphones or adapters instead of a headphone jack?
If you answered “yes” to three or more of these, the upgrade likely makes sense—especially if you can acquire the 7 Plus at a low cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the iPhone 7 Plus still run modern apps in 2024?
The iPhone 7 Plus supports up to iOS 15, which means many newer apps may no longer be compatible. Major services like banking apps, social platforms, and streaming services are gradually dropping support for devices unable to run iOS 16 or later. While the phone still functions, expect limited app availability over time.
Is the camera on the 6s Plus bad by today’s standards?
No, the 6s Plus camera was excellent in its time and still produces decent photos in good lighting. However, it lacks features now considered standard—optical zoom, portrait mode, and advanced noise reduction. For casual snapshots, it’s usable, but for creative photography, it falls short.
Should I upgrade from 6s Plus to 7 Plus in 2024?
Only if you’re on a tight budget and need a temporary solution. The 7 Plus offers tangible improvements, but both phones are obsolete in terms of software support. If possible, consider jumping to an iPhone 8 or later for better longevity, security updates, and app compatibility.
Final Verdict: Incremental Improvements, But Still a Step Forward
The iPhone 7 Plus wasn’t a revolutionary upgrade over the 6s Plus, but it was a meaningful one. From the dual-camera system and water resistance to improved battery efficiency and stereo sound, the enhancements add up in daily use. For someone still relying on a 6s Plus, the 7 Plus represents a noticeable boost in reliability and functionality.
However, context matters. In 2024, neither device should be anyone’s first choice for a primary smartphone. But if you're in a pinch, managing costs, or supporting a family member with limited tech needs, the 7 Plus remains the better option between the two.
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