When Apple released the iPhone 7 series in 2016, one major upgrade stood out: the iPhone 7 Plus introduced a dual-camera system while the standard iPhone 7 stuck with a single lens. For photography enthusiasts and casual users alike, this sparked a critical question—was the extra cost of the Plus model justified by its camera capabilities? Over time, user feedback, expert reviews, and real-world testing have provided clear answers. The decision isn't just about megapixels or zoom—it's about how the camera enhances everyday moments.
The Core Camera Differences
The most significant distinction between the two models lies in their rear camera setups. The iPhone 7 features a single 12-megapixel wide-angle camera with an f/1.8 aperture, optical image stabilization (OIS), and advanced autofocus. It was already a strong performer in its class, producing sharp, vibrant images with good dynamic range.
In contrast, the iPhone 7 Plus includes two 12-megapixel cameras on the back: a wide-angle lens (same as the iPhone 7) and a telephoto lens with a 50mm equivalent focal length and f/2.8 aperture. This second lens enables 2x optical zoom and powers Portrait Mode—a software-driven depth effect that simulates DSLR-like background blur.
“Dual cameras opened a new era in smartphone photography. The iPhone 7 Plus wasn’t just taking pictures; it was starting to understand depth.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at DXOMark
While both phones share the same front-facing 7MP FaceTime camera and similar image processing algorithms, the hardware divergence leads to tangible differences in functionality and photo quality under specific conditions.
Optical Zoom and Portrait Mode: Game-Changing Features?
The telephoto lens on the iPhone 7 Plus allows true 2x optical zoom, meaning you can get closer to your subject without digital cropping degrading image quality. This is particularly useful for candid shots, wildlife, or events where you can't physically move closer. Beyond 2x, the phone uses digital zoom, but starting from an optically zoomed base improves overall clarity.
Portrait Mode, introduced with iOS 10.1, leverages both lenses and machine learning to separate the subject from the background and apply bokeh (background blur). While early versions were inconsistent—especially around hair or edges—the feature improved significantly over time. Still, it’s absent on the iPhone 7 due to lack of hardware support.
For users who frequently take portraits or want more creative control, Portrait Mode adds value. However, if your primary use case is landscapes, group photos, or general snapshots, the advantage diminishes.
Image Quality Comparison: Real-World Scenarios
In daylight, both phones produce nearly identical results when using the wide-angle lens. Colors are natural, details are crisp, and dynamic range handles high-contrast scenes well. The faster f/1.8 aperture on the wide lens gives the iPhone 7 a slight edge in low-light performance per pixel, but the 7 Plus compensates with computational photography techniques.
Low-light performance becomes more nuanced. The telephoto lens on the 7 Plus has a smaller f/2.8 aperture and lacks OIS, making it less effective in dim environments. As a result, zoomed or Portrait Mode shots in poor lighting often appear noisier and softer than those from the wide lens. Meanwhile, the iPhone 7 consistently delivers reliable low-light shots thanks to OIS across all captures.
Sample Use Case: Family Gathering Indoors
Imagine photographing a child blowing out birthday candles in a softly lit room. With the iPhone 7, you’d get a bright, stable image using the wide lens and OIS. On the iPhone 7 Plus, attempting a zoomed-in shot would likely result in a darker preview and potential motion blur unless perfectly steady. However, if you step back and use Portrait Mode in adequate light, the 7 Plus could deliver a more artistic, focused portrait with pleasing background separation.
This illustrates a key trade-off: versatility versus consistency. The 7 Plus offers more tools, but they come with usage constraints.
Detailed Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | iPhone 7 | iPhone 7 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Cameras | Single 12MP wide (f/1.8) | Dual 12MP: wide (f/1.8) + telephoto (f/2.8) |
| Optical Image Stabilization | Yes (on wide lens) | Wide lens only |
| Optical Zoom | No | 2x optical zoom |
| Digital Zoom | Up to 5x | Up to 10x (with optical base) |
| Portrait Mode | Not supported | Yes (iOS 10.1+) |
| Low-Light Performance | Excellent for single lens | Good on wide, weaker on telephoto |
| Size & Handling | Compact, easier one-hand use | Larger, heavier, protruding dual lens |
Practical Tips for Getting the Most From Either Camera
Regardless of which model you own, maximizing photo quality involves technique as much as hardware. Here’s a checklist to help you capture better images:
- Tap to focus and expose: Always tap your subject on-screen to set focus and adjust brightness.
- Use volume buttons or headphones as shutter: Reduces shake when pressing the on-screen button.
- Keep lenses clean: Smudges significantly affect clarity, especially in backlight.
- Avoid digital zoom on iPhone 7: Crop later instead of zooming in-camera.
- Shoot in Portrait Mode with even lighting: Harsh shadows reduce depth detection accuracy.
- Enable HDR automatically: Found in Settings > Camera, improves detail in bright scenes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the iPhone 7 take good portraits without Portrait Mode?
Yes—while it lacks simulated bokeh, the iPhone 7’s wide lens produces excellent portrait-quality images. You can enhance them in editing apps like Snapseed or Lightroom by manually blurring backgrounds or adjusting depth effects post-capture.
Is the iPhone 7 Plus camera still usable in 2024?
Absolutely. Though newer iPhones offer Night Mode, Deep Fusion, and better sensors, the iPhone 7 Plus remains capable for social media, family albums, and casual photography. Its dual-camera system still supports basic zoom and Portrait Mode, and iOS updates ensure compatibility with modern editing tools.
Does the extra lens make the iPhone 7 Plus slower to focus?
Not noticeably. The camera app intelligently switches between lenses based on zoom level. At 1x, it uses the wide lens; at 2x, it seamlessly shifts to the telephoto. Focus speed is comparable to the iPhone 7, though low-light focusing on the telephoto lens may be slightly slower due to the narrower aperture.
Final Verdict: Is the Plus Really Worth It for Photos?
The answer depends on your priorities. If you value creative flexibility—optical zoom, portrait effects, and the ability to frame subjects differently without moving—then yes, the iPhone 7 Plus offers meaningful advantages. Photographers who enjoy experimenting with composition or capturing distant subjects will find the second lens invaluable.
However, if you prefer simplicity, consistent performance in varied lighting, and a more compact device, the iPhone 7 delivers outstanding photo quality for its class. The absence of Portrait Mode and optical zoom is a limitation, but not a dealbreaker for everyday use.
Ultimately, the “worth” of the Plus model hinges on whether you’ll actively use its unique features. For many, the difference justified the higher price at launch. Today, both models are legacy devices, but the 7 Plus retains a niche appeal for those who prioritize photographic versatility over size and battery efficiency.
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