In today’s fast-evolving smartphone market, even devices released just a few years apart can feel worlds apart in functionality. The iPhone 7 Plus and iPhone 6s Plus, separated by only one generation, represent a pivotal transition in Apple’s mobile design and performance strategy. While both phones are now considered legacy models, many users still rely on them daily—especially those prioritizing durability, iOS support, or budget-friendly options. But if you're currently using an iPhone 6s Plus and considering a switch to the 7 Plus, is the upgrade truly worthwhile in the current year? The answer depends on your usage patterns, expectations, and how long you intend to keep the device.
Performance: A Noticeable Leap
The most significant difference between the two models lies under the hood. The iPhone 6s Plus runs on Apple’s A9 chip with 2GB of RAM, while the iPhone 7 Plus upgrades to the A10 Fusion chip and retains the same 3GB of RAM. This may sound like a modest improvement on paper, but in practice, it translates into tangible gains in speed, multitasking, and app responsiveness.
Applications launch faster on the 7 Plus, and demanding tasks like photo editing, gaming, and video rendering benefit noticeably from the improved processing power. Even in 2024, the A10 holds up better in modern apps than the A9, especially when running newer versions of iOS that demand more resources.
Camera Capabilities: Dual Lenses Make a Difference
One of the standout features introduced with the iPhone 7 Plus was its dual-camera system—a first for any iPhone. It includes a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 12MP telephoto lens, enabling 2x optical zoom and Portrait Mode (introduced via software update). In contrast, the iPhone 6s Plus has a single 12MP rear camera with no optical zoom and limited depth-sensing capabilities.
This difference remains relevant today, particularly for users who value photography. The ability to capture portraits with blurred backgrounds or zoom in without losing quality gives the 7 Plus a clear edge. Additionally, image signal processing improvements result in better low-light performance and reduced noise.
“Even among older iPhones, the 7 Plus stands out for its early adoption of computational photography. That dual-lens foundation laid the groundwork for future advancements.” — David Lin, Mobile Imaging Analyst
Battery Life and Efficiency
Battery longevity is often a deciding factor when evaluating older smartphones. Despite having similar-sized batteries (2915 mAh in the 6s Plus vs. 2900 mAh in the 7 Plus), the iPhone 7 Plus generally offers longer usage time. Why? Because the A10 chip is built on a more efficient 16nm process compared to the A9’s 20nm architecture, resulting in lower power consumption.
In real-world testing, users report an extra 1.5 to 2 hours of screen-on time with the 7 Plus, which matters significantly for heavy users. Standby efficiency is also improved due to better background task management in iOS versions optimized for the A10.
| Feature | iPhone 6s Plus | iPhone 7 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | A9 | A10 Fusion |
| Rear Camera | 12MP (Single) | 12MP + 12MP (Dual) |
| Zoom | Digital only | 2x Optical, 10x Digital |
| Water Resistance | No | IP67 Rated |
| Headphone Jack | Yes | No |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 14 hours | Up to 16 hours |
Design and Durability
Externally, both phones share a nearly identical aluminum unibody design. However, the iPhone 7 Plus introduced water and dust resistance rated at IP67—meaning it can survive submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. This feature alone adds a layer of practical protection absent in the 6s Plus, which lacks any official water resistance.
Another major change was the removal of the 3.5mm headphone jack in favor of Lightning-based audio or wireless solutions. While this may be inconvenient for users with existing wired headphones, it paved the way for slimmer designs and encouraged adoption of accessories like AirPods. For current-year usability, Bluetooth audio compatibility makes this less of an issue, especially given the widespread availability of affordable wireless earbuds.
Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision
Sarah had been using her iPhone 6s Plus since late 2015. By 2023, she noticed frequent app crashes, slow camera launches, and declining battery life—dropping below 70% health. She considered buying a new phone but found refurbished iPhone 7 Plus units available for under $150. After switching, she immediately noticed faster app loading, clearer portrait photos, and better battery endurance. Most importantly, iOS updates ran more smoothly, extending the phone’s usable lifespan into 2024.
For Sarah, the upgrade wasn’t about chasing the latest tech—it was about restoring reliability. Her experience reflects a common scenario: users clinging to aging devices until performance degrades to frustration levels. The 7 Plus offered a cost-effective bridge to continued iOS functionality without jumping to modern flagship prices.
Software Support and Longevity
As of 2024, neither the iPhone 6s Plus nor the 7 Plus receives official iOS updates beyond iOS 15.5. However, the 7 Plus generally handles this final supported version more fluidly due to its superior hardware. Apps continue to optimize for newer systems, and some newer versions require iOS 15 or later—putting both devices at the edge of compatibility.
If you plan to keep your phone beyond 2025, expect increasing friction: slower app launches, occasional crashes, and potential abandonment by developers. Still, for light use—calls, messaging, email, and basic browsing—both remain functional. The 7 Plus simply does so with greater headroom.
Checklist: Is the Upgrade Right for You?
- ✅ Are you experiencing frequent app slowdowns or crashes on your 6s Plus?
- ✅ Do you want better camera quality, especially for portraits or zoomed shots?
- ✅ Is water resistance a priority for daily use?
- ✅ Are you comfortable using wireless or Lightning-connected headphones?
- ✅ Can you find a 7 Plus at a price close to repair costs for your current device?
If you answered “yes” to three or more, the upgrade likely makes sense—even in the current year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the iPhone 7 Plus still run modern apps effectively?
Yes, but with limitations. Most mainstream apps (like WhatsApp, Instagram, Gmail) function well, though complex tasks such as video editing or high-end gaming may result in lag. Performance is noticeably better than the 6s Plus, especially after prolonged use.
Is the lack of headphone jack a dealbreaker?
Not necessarily. Affordable Lightning-to-3.5mm adapters are widely available, and Bluetooth earbuds have become standard. For users already using wireless audio, this change is seamless—or even beneficial.
Should I upgrade or save for a newer model?
If you need a reliable phone immediately and are on a tight budget, the 7 Plus is a solid stopgap. But if you can wait, investing in an iPhone XR, 11, or SE (2020/2022) offers far better long-term value, including current iOS support and 5G readiness.
Final Thoughts: Weighing Value Over Novelty
The decision to upgrade from the iPhone 6s Plus to the 7 Plus isn’t about cutting-edge innovation—it’s about reclaiming usability. In 2024, this upgrade won’t feel revolutionary, but it can restore confidence in a device that’s starting to show its age. The improvements in processor speed, camera versatility, battery efficiency, and environmental resilience add up to a more dependable daily driver.
However, consider this move as a short-to-mid-term solution. Neither phone will receive future iOS updates, and app demands will only increase. If your goal is to extend smartphone life affordably, the 7 Plus delivers. But if you’re seeking longevity beyond 2025, redirecting funds toward a newer model may be wiser.
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