Iphone 7 Vs Galaxy S5 In Current Year Is The Upgrade Really Worth It

Smartphones from a decade ago may still power on, but how well do they hold up today? The iPhone 7 and Galaxy S5 represent two iconic devices from Apple and Samsung’s golden era of innovation. Released just two years apart—2013 for the Galaxy S5 and 2016 for the iPhone 7—they once defined flagship standards. But in 2024, with AI-driven apps, 5G connectivity, and advanced multitasking, are either of these phones viable for daily use? More importantly, if you're currently using a Galaxy S5, is upgrading to an iPhone 7 truly worth it?

The answer isn't as straightforward as specs might suggest. While both devices are outdated by modern benchmarks, their real-world usability depends on your needs, ecosystem preferences, and tolerance for limitations.

Performance and Hardware: A Generational Divide

The Galaxy S5 launched with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 801 processor (or Exynos 5422 in some regions), paired with 2GB of RAM and Android 4.4 KitKat. In its time, it was a powerhouse—capable of smooth gaming and responsive browsing. The iPhone 7, arriving three years later, featured Apple’s A10 Fusion chip and 2GB of RAM, running iOS 10. Even at launch, the A10 outperformed the Snapdragon 801 in CPU tasks and efficiency.

Today, the gap is even more pronounced. The A10 Fusion’s architecture allows it to handle lightweight modern apps like WhatsApp, Gmail, and basic web browsing with minimal lag. iOS 16 was the last supported version for the iPhone 7, meaning it lacks many newer features but retains core functionality. In contrast, the Galaxy S5 maxed out at Android 6.0 Marshmallow and never received major security updates after 2017. Most modern apps either refuse to install or crash frequently on the S5 due to API incompatibility.

Tip: If you're holding onto an older device, check app compatibility in your region—many services now require minimum OS versions that legacy phones can’t meet.

Software and Security: The Hidden Cost of Staying Behind

Security is where the Galaxy S5 falls dramatically short. Without security patches since 2017, it's vulnerable to known exploits. Public Wi-Fi, online banking, and even standard web browsing pose risks. The iPhone 7, while no longer receiving updates beyond iOS 16.7 (released in 2023), benefits from Apple’s extended support cycle and sandboxed app environment, making it inherently more secure than an unpatched Android device.

iOS 16 still supports essential services like iMessage, FaceTime, iCloud, and the App Store. However, new iOS features such as Live Text, enhanced Focus modes, and improved Siri integrations are absent. Still, the operating system remains stable and intuitive—a stark contrast to the fragmented experience on aging Android devices.

“Devices without regular security updates become liability points in your digital life. It’s not just about performance—it’s about protection.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Cybersecurity Analyst at MobileTrust Labs

Camera Quality: From Functional to Decent

The Galaxy S5 came with a 16MP rear camera featuring an f/2.2 aperture and LED flash. At the time, it was praised for detail and color accuracy in daylight. Low-light performance was mediocre. The iPhone 7 introduced a 12MP sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS) and an f/1.8 aperture—significantly better in dim conditions. Its portrait mode simulation and True Tone flash also gave it an edge in natural-looking photos.

In 2024, neither camera meets modern expectations. Both lack Night Mode, computational HDR, or AI scene detection. However, the iPhone 7 produces consistently sharper, less noisy images, especially indoors. Video recording caps at 1080p on both, but the iPhone 7 offers better stabilization and audio clarity.

Feature	Galaxy S5	iPhone 7
Processor	Snapdragon 801 / Exynos 5422	Apple A10 Fusion
RAM	2GB	2GB
Latest OS	Android 6.0 (2017)	iOS 16.7 (2023)
Rear Camera	16MP, f/2.2	12MP, f/1.8, OIS
Battery Life (Real-World Use)	~6–8 hours (with light use)	~8–10 hours (light use)
Current App Compatibility	Poor (most apps fail or don’t install)	Fair (basic apps work, some limitations)

Real-World Usability: Can You Actually Use These Phones Daily?

Consider Maria, a small business owner in Austin who used her Galaxy S5 for five years after purchase. By 2022, she noticed increasing issues: her mobile banking app stopped working, Google Maps crashed during navigation, and WhatsApp refused to verify her number. She upgraded to a used iPhone 7 for $70, hoping for improvement.

Her experience shifted dramatically. Messages delivered reliably, email synced across devices, and Safari loaded most websites without freezing. While Instagram ran slowly and couldn’t upload HD video, core functions worked. “It’s not fast,” she said, “but I can actually get things done again.”

This scenario highlights a key truth: upgrading from a Galaxy S5 to an iPhone 7 isn’t about gaining cutting-edge tech—it’s about regaining basic digital access.

Is the Upgrade Worth It? A Step-by-Step Evaluation

Before deciding, assess your current situation with this practical guide:

1. Evaluate Your Current Phone’s Limitations: Does your Galaxy S5 struggle with calls, texts, or essential apps? If yes, change is overdue.
2. Check App Requirements: Try installing WhatsApp, Google Pay, or your bank’s app. If installation fails, the hardware is obsolete.
3. Assess Battery Health: Swollen batteries or sudden shutdowns indicate hardware fatigue. Replacements are hard to find for decade-old models.
4. Compare Costs: A used iPhone 7 can cost $50–$100. Weigh this against potential productivity loss or security risks from staying on the S5.
5. Consider Longevity: The iPhone 7 will likely remain functional through 2025 for light use. The Galaxy S5 may not make it through 2024.

Upgrade Checklist: Making the Switch Smoothly

• ✅ Back up Galaxy S5 contacts and messages via SIM or manual export
• ✅ Disable Samsung account locks (Find My Mobile)
• ✅ Set up Apple ID before transferring data
• ✅ Use Apple’s Move to iOS app for message and photo transfer
• ✅ Install essential apps one by one, checking compatibility
• ✅ Enable two-factor authentication for added security

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 7 still receive app updates in 2024?

Yes, but with limitations. Major apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Gmail still support iOS 12 and above, which includes the iPhone 7. However, newer features (e.g., WhatsApp Communities or high-resolution status uploads) may be disabled. Some apps have dropped support entirely—always check the App Store listing for minimum OS requirements.

Is the Galaxy S5 completely unusable now?

Not entirely, but only for very basic tasks. It can function as an offline music player, alarm clock, or emergency phone. However, any activity involving internet connectivity, app logins, or real-time services is unreliable or unsafe due to outdated software and security flaws.

Should I upgrade to an iPhone 7 or save for a newer model?

If budget allows, saving for an iPhone SE (2020 or later) or Android equivalent like the Pixel 6a makes more long-term sense. These support updates until at least 2027 and handle modern apps effortlessly. But if you need a functional smartphone immediately under $100, the iPhone 7 is a significant leap from the Galaxy S5.

Final Verdict: Yes, the Upgrade Is Worth It—With Caveats

Upgrading from a Galaxy S5 to an iPhone 7 in 2024 isn’t about luxury—it’s about necessity. The iPhone 7 restores reliable messaging, secure browsing, and access to essential services that the S5 can no longer provide. It represents a bridge between obsolescence and functionality.

That said, treat this upgrade as a temporary solution. The iPhone 7 is nearing the end of its lifecycle. While it performs adequately today, expect declining app support and slower performance over the next 12–18 months.

💬 Have you made the switch from an older Android to a used iPhone? Share your experience in the comments—your story could help someone decide their next move.