Iphone 7 Vs 5s Is The Upgrade Really Worth It In Current Year

For many long-time iPhone users, the iPhone 5s represents a nostalgic milestone—the last compact flagship before Apple shifted toward larger screens. Meanwhile, the iPhone 7, released two generations later, brought tangible improvements in speed, water resistance, and camera quality. But now, in today’s mobile landscape where apps are heavier and iOS updates demand more from hardware, is moving from an iPhone 5s to a 7 truly worthwhile? The answer depends on your usage, expectations, and how much longer you plan to rely on older hardware.

Performance and Hardware: A Generational Leap

The gap between the iPhone 5s and iPhone 7 is more than just cosmetic—it's foundational. The 5s runs on Apple’s A7 chip, the first 64-bit processor in any smartphone at the time. While revolutionary in 2013, by today’s standards, it struggles with multitasking, modern app loading times, and even basic Safari navigation when multiple tabs are open.

In contrast, the iPhone 7 features the A10 Fusion chip, which delivers roughly four times the CPU performance and eight times the graphics power of the A7. This isn’t theoretical—real-world usage shows faster app launches, smoother scrolling, and better responsiveness in games and productivity tools.

Tip: If you frequently use GPS navigation, social media, or messaging apps simultaneously, the iPhone 7 will feel dramatically more fluid.

Camera Quality: Night and Day Difference

Photography has evolved significantly between these models. The iPhone 5s features an 8MP rear camera with no optical image stabilization (OIS) and a single LED flash. Low-light performance is poor, and video tops out at 1080p at 30fps.

The iPhone 7 steps up with a 12MP sensor, OIS, a six-element lens, and a True Tone flash that adjusts color temperature for more natural lighting. It supports 4K video recording—a major leap—and offers better dynamic range and noise reduction.

For someone capturing family moments or relying on their phone for everyday photography, the upgrade means clearer photos in dim settings, sharper zoom, and noticeably better video quality.

“Even under indoor lighting, the iPhone 7 captures richer detail and accurate colors compared to the 5s, which often produces grainy, washed-out results.” — David Lin, Mobile Photography Analyst

Battery Life and Daily Usability

Battery degradation is a common issue with aging iPhones, especially those used daily for several years. Even if your iPhone 5s battery health is above 80%, its smaller capacity (1,560 mAh) combined with inefficient software handling means it rarely lasts a full day with moderate use.

The iPhone 7 packs a 1,960 mAh battery—an improvement of over 25%. Combined with the energy-efficient A10 chip, this translates to around 2–3 hours more screen-on time. In practical terms, that could mean getting through a workday without needing a mid-afternoon charge.

Additionally, the iPhone 7 introduced IP67 water and dust resistance—a feature absent on the 5s. While not a replacement for careful handling, it adds peace of mind during rain, spills, or accidental drops near sinks.

Detailed Comparison: iPhone 7 vs iPhone 5s

Feature	iPhone 5s	iPhone 7
Release Year	2013	2016
Processor	A7 (64-bit)	A10 Fusion
RAM	1GB	2GB
Rear Camera	8MP, no OIS	12MP, with OIS
Front Camera	1.2MP	7MP
Video Recording	1080p @ 30fps	4K @ 30fps
Battery Capacity	1,560 mAh	1,960 mAh
Water Resistance	No	IP67 (up to 1m for 30 mins)
Storage Options	16/32/64GB	32/128/256GB
Headphone Jack	Yes	No (Lightning or wireless only)
iOS Support (Latest)	iOS 12 (final)	iOS 16 (final)

Software Support and Security Considerations

This is perhaps the most critical factor in 2024. The iPhone 5s stopped receiving iOS updates after iOS 12, meaning it hasn’t had security patches or compatibility with modern app versions for nearly six years. Many popular apps—including banking, ride-sharing, and social platforms—now require iOS 13 or higher.

The iPhone 7, while also discontinued from iOS updates (last supported version: iOS 16), remained compatible through 2023. That extra window means access to newer features like Dark Mode, improved Siri, and enhanced privacy controls. More importantly, it stayed secure against known exploits for three additional years.

If you rely on digital payments, email, or health tracking, running outdated software poses real risks. Apps may not function properly, or worse, become vulnerable to phishing and data leaks.

Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Journey

Maria had been using her iPhone 5s since 2014. By 2023, she noticed her phone freezing when opening WhatsApp, failing to load Google Maps, and shutting down unexpectedly at 30% battery. After replacing the battery, performance didn’t improve—apps were simply too demanding.

She upgraded to a used iPhone 7 for $80. Immediately, she noticed apps opened instantly, FaceTime calls were clearer, and her phone lasted until bedtime. Most importantly, she could finally install her bank’s updated app, which previously showed “unsupported device.”

For Maria, the upgrade wasn’t about luxury—it was about staying connected and functional in a world that moved on.

Is the Upgrade Worth It in 2024?

The short answer: yes, but with caveats.

If you're currently using an iPhone 5s and depend on your phone for communication, navigation, or accessing essential services, upgrading to an iPhone 7 will deliver a meaningful improvement. You’ll gain faster performance, better camera quality, longer battery life, and crucially, access to more recent iOS features and app compatibility.

However, consider this: both phones are now discontinued, and neither supports the latest iOS versions. The iPhone 7 may run iOS 16 apps, but future-proofing is limited. If you’re planning to keep your next phone for more than two years, even the iPhone 7 may fall short soon.

Tip: When buying a used iPhone 7, check battery health via Settings > Battery > Battery Health. Avoid units with less than 80% capacity.

Upgrade Checklist: What to Do Before Switching

• Back up your iPhone 5s using iCloud or iTunes to preserve contacts, messages, and photos.
• Verify carrier compatibility—some older iPhone models have limited LTE bands.
• Check storage needs—if you take lots of photos, opt for 128GB or higher.
• Inspect physical condition—look for signs of water damage or cracked screens.
• Reset the device after purchase to ensure no prior user data remains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 7 still receive app updates in 2024?

Some apps still support iOS 16, which the iPhone 7 can run. However, developers are increasingly dropping support for devices unable to run iOS 17 or later. Expect diminishing app availability over time.

Is the lack of headphone jack a dealbreaker?

It depends on your habits. If you use wired headphones daily, you’ll need Lightning adapters or wireless earbuds. Many users adapt quickly, but it’s an added cost and inconvenience.

Are there better alternatives than the iPhone 7?

Absolutely. For a similar price, consider the iPhone 8 or iPhone XR, which support iOS 17 and offer better processors, larger batteries, and modern features like wireless charging.

Final Thoughts: Making a Practical Decision

Upgrading from an iPhone 5s to a 7 isn't about chasing the latest tech—it's about reclaiming reliability. The 7 eliminates constant lag, expands photo capabilities, and bridges the gap to modern app ecosystems. For users clinging to a 5s out of habit or budget constraints, the 7 offers a realistic middle ground.

But remember: technology waits for no one. While the iPhone 7 is a significant step up from the 5s, it’s not a long-term solution. Use this upgrade as a transition, not a final destination. Evaluate your needs annually, and plan for a more future-ready device within the next 18–24 months.

💬 Have you made the jump from iPhone 5s to 7—or skipped straight to newer models? Share your experience and help others decide what’s right for their needs.