The iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus were released in 2016, marking a pivotal moment in Apple’s smartphone evolution—introducing water resistance, removing the headphone jack, and upgrading the camera system significantly. Over seven years later, both models are long past their prime, yet they still appear in secondhand markets and budget-conscious buyer discussions. For someone considering a used device today, the question remains: does the iPhone 7 Plus offer meaningful advantages over the 7, or is it simply “bigger” without being better?
This isn’t just about screen size. It’s about longevity, usability, and whether that extra bulk delivers tangible benefits in everyday use—even now.
Design and Build: Subtle Differences, Big Feel
At first glance, the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus look nearly identical. Both feature aluminum unibody construction, an IP67 water and dust resistance rating, and the same home button with Taptic Engine feedback. The major difference is size: the 7 has a 4.7-inch display, while the 7 Plus stretches to 5.5 inches. That may not sound like much, but in hand, the difference is noticeable.
The 7 Plus weighs 188 grams compared to the 7’s 138 grams. For users with smaller hands, the 7 remains more comfortable for one-handed use. However, the larger frame of the Plus allows for a bigger battery and, crucially, space for a dual-camera system—a feature absent on the base model.
Camera: Where the Plus Truly Shines
This is where the iPhone 7 Plus pulls ahead—not just slightly, but meaningfully. While both phones share the same 12MP rear sensor and f/1.8 aperture, the 7 Plus adds a second 12MP telephoto lens. This enables 2x optical zoom and, more importantly, Portrait Mode—a software-powered depth effect that simulates DSLR-like background blur.
In practical terms, this means the 7 Plus can capture richer, more professional-looking photos in varied lighting conditions. Even by today’s standards, early implementations of Portrait Mode hold up surprisingly well for casual photography.
| Feature | iPhone 7 | iPhone 7 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Cameras | Single 12MP (wide) | Dual 12MP (wide + telephoto) |
| Zoom | Digital only | 2x optical, up to 10x digital |
| Portrait Mode | Not available | Supported (iOS 10.1+) |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 7MP |
For anyone who values photography—even casually—the dual-camera system makes the 7 Plus the clear winner. In low-light scenarios, the ability to switch lenses gives the Plus more flexibility, even if both sensors now struggle compared to modern computational photography.
“Even in 2016, the dual-camera setup on the 7 Plus wasn’t just a gimmick—it laid the foundation for how smartphones approach portrait photography.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechLens Review
Battery Life: Bigger Size, Longer Use
Battery capacity is another area where the Plus model holds a definitive edge. The iPhone 7 packs a 1,960 mAh battery, while the 7 Plus houses a 2,900 mAh unit—an increase of nearly 50%. In real-world usage, this translates to roughly 2–3 additional hours of screen time.
Apple’s official estimates from 2016 claimed up to 14 hours of video playback on the 7 and 16 hours on the 7 Plus. Today, with degraded batteries and heavier app demands, actual performance varies. But even with aging hardware, the Plus consistently outlasts the 7, especially when running iOS updates beyond what Apple originally intended.
If you’re using either phone as a backup or secondary device in 2024, battery endurance matters. Apps like WhatsApp, Maps, and even Safari are far more resource-intensive than they were in 2016. The larger battery in the Plus provides a buffer against constant charging.
Real-World Example: Daily Use in 2024
Sophia, a college student in Portland, bought a refurbished iPhone 7 Plus for $75 in early 2023 to use as a dedicated music and note-taking device during lectures. She didn’t need cellular service, so she relied on Wi-Fi and offline apps. After replacing the battery for $30, she found the Plus lasted through a full day of intermittent use—playing podcasts, recording voice memos, and browsing PDFs—without needing a recharge. Her friend, using an original-condition iPhone 7, had to charge twice during the same schedule.
Sophia’s experience highlights a key point: for light, focused tasks, a well-maintained 7 Plus remains functional—and the battery advantage makes it more reliable than its smaller sibling.
Performance and Software Support: Shared Limitations
Both devices run the same A10 Fusion chip and come in 32GB, 128GB, or 256GB storage options (no expandable storage). Performance-wise, they feel nearly identical in day-to-day tasks: launching apps, browsing the web, and playing older games. However, newer versions of iOS have slowed them down considerably.
Apple ended major iOS updates for both models with iOS 16 (released 2022). They no longer receive new features or security patches as frequently, making them increasingly vulnerable over time. Apps like Instagram, TikTok, and Google Maps now require more processing power and memory than the A10 was designed for, leading to stuttering and longer load times.
That said, if your needs are minimal—email, texts, basic web searches, and offline media—the A10 is still capable. But don’t expect smooth multitasking or future-proof performance.
Is the Plus Still Worth It? A Practical Checklist
If you're seriously considering either phone in 2024, ask yourself these questions before deciding:
- Do I need a phone for emergency use or as a backup? → Either model works.
- Will I use it for photography? → Choose the 7 Plus for dual cameras.
- Am I on a tight budget and buying used? → Prioritize battery health over cosmetic condition.
- Do I want to install modern apps regularly? → Neither is ideal; consider newer models.
- Is battery life critical? → The 7 Plus has a clear advantage.
- Do I prefer one-handed use? → The 7 is more compact and lighter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the iPhone 7 or 7 Plus run iOS 17?
No. Apple discontinued support for the iPhone 7 series with iOS 16. Devices cannot upgrade to iOS 17 or later, meaning they miss out on new features and long-term security updates.
Should I buy an iPhone 7 or 7 Plus in 2024?
Only under very specific circumstances: as a temporary device, for a child, or for a specialized task like a music player or dedicated GPS. Even then, ensure the battery has been recently replaced and that the device is free of iCloud lock.
Is the price difference between the 7 and 7 Plus justified today?
On the secondhand market, the 7 Plus often sells for $20–$40 more than the 7. Given its superior camera and battery, that premium is justified—if the device is in good condition. Otherwise, the base 7 may be a better value for ultra-light users.
Final Verdict: More Than Just Bigger
The iPhone 7 Plus was never just a larger version of the 7. From day one, it offered distinct advantages: a dual-camera system, longer battery life, and a display better suited for media consumption. Today, those differences still matter—even if both devices are technologically outdated.
For collectors, tinkerers, or those in need of a bare-bones smartphone, the 7 Plus remains the more capable device. It delivers a more complete experience, especially in photography and endurance. But “worth it” depends entirely on context. If you’re paying more than $100 for either phone in 2024, you’re likely overextending. There are Android alternatives at similar price points with better performance, modern OS support, and larger batteries.
Still, if you find a well-maintained iPhone 7 Plus with a new battery for under $80, it’s a smarter buy than the 7. Not because it’s bigger—but because it offers capabilities the smaller model never had.
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