Iphone 7 Vs Iphone 5s Is The Upgrade Really Worth It

The iPhone 5s, released in 2013, was a landmark device—introducing Touch ID and a 64-bit processor to the mainstream. Fast forward to 2016, and the iPhone 7 arrived with bold changes: water resistance, a refined camera system, and the controversial removal of the headphone jack. For users still clinging to an iPhone 5s, the question isn’t just about specs—it’s whether upgrading to the iPhone 7 delivers meaningful improvements in daily use.

This isn’t a decision to make lightly. While both phones are now considered legacy devices, many people still rely on the 5s for basic tasks. If you're one of them, understanding the tangible benefits—and trade-offs—of moving to the iPhone 7 can help determine if the switch makes sense for your lifestyle, budget, and usage habits.

Performance and Hardware: A Generational Leap

The most immediate difference between the iPhone 5s and iPhone 7 lies under the hood. The 5s runs on Apple’s A7 chip with 1GB of RAM, which was revolutionary at launch but struggles today with multitasking and modern app demands. In contrast, the iPhone 7 features the A10 Fusion chip and 2GB of RAM—a significant leap in processing power.

Benchmarks tell part of the story: the A10 is roughly 2.5 times faster in CPU performance and over three times faster in graphics than the A7. But real-world impact matters more. On the iPhone 5s, opening apps like Instagram or Chrome can feel sluggish, especially when switching between multiple apps. The iPhone 7 handles these transitions smoothly, even with several apps running in the background.

Tip: If you frequently use GPS navigation, messaging, and music simultaneously, the iPhone 7’s improved multitasking will reduce crashes and reloads.

iOS updates also play a role. The iPhone 5s supports up to iOS 12, while the iPhone 7 can run iOS 16—the final version supported on that model. This means better security, access to newer app features, and longer software relevance with the iPhone 7.

Camera Comparison: From Decent to Competitive

The camera is where the iPhone 7 pulls far ahead. The iPhone 5s has an 8MP rear sensor with no optical image stabilization (OIS), f/2.4 aperture, and 1080p video recording. It captures acceptable photos in daylight but performs poorly in low light, often producing grainy, blurry images.

The iPhone 7, by contrast, features a 12MP sensor with OIS, an f/1.8 aperture, and 4K video recording. These upgrades translate to sharper, brighter photos—even in dim environments. Portrait mode isn’t available (that came with the 7 Plus), but the dynamic range and color accuracy are noticeably better.

Front-facing cameras also differ. The 5s uses a 1.2MP FaceTime camera, adequate only for basic calls. The iPhone 7 bumps this to 7MP with Retina Flash, making selfies and video chats significantly clearer.

“Even among older iPhones, the jump from 5s to 7 represents one of the most noticeable camera improvements in Apple’s history.” — Mark Rivera, Mobile Tech Analyst

Battery Life and Daily Usability

Battery life is a critical factor, especially for users who spend long hours away from chargers. The iPhone 5s packs a 1,560mAh battery, offering around 8–10 hours of mixed use. By today’s standards, that’s marginal. Heavy users often need to charge midday.

The iPhone 7 improves on this with a 1,960mAh battery and much more efficient hardware. Real-world usage shows 12–14 hours of screen-on time, depending on settings. That extra endurance makes a practical difference—especially for commuting, travel, or extended workdays.

Additionally, the iPhone 7 introduces IP67 water and dust resistance. While not a substitute for caution, this feature provides peace of mind against spills, rain, or accidental drops in sinks. The 5s has no such protection, making it more vulnerable to everyday hazards.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Feature	iPhone 5s	iPhone 7
Release Year	2013	2016
Processor	A7 (64-bit)	A10 Fusion
RAM	1GB	2GB
Rear Camera	8MP, f/2.4, no OIS	12MP, f/1.8, OIS
Front Camera	1.2MP	7MP with Retina Flash
Video Recording	1080p at 30fps	4K at 30fps
Battery Capacity	1,560mAh	1,960mAh
Water Resistance	No	IP67 (up to 1m for 30 mins)
Storage Options	16GB, 32GB, 64GB	32GB, 128GB, 256GB
Headphone Jack	Yes	No (Lightning or Bluetooth only)
Last Supported iOS	iOS 12	iOS 16

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Journey

Sarah had used her iPhone 5s since 2014. She appreciated its compact size and reliability but grew frustrated as apps became slower and newer versions stopped supporting her device. Messaging apps would crash, maps took ages to load, and taking photos indoors was nearly useless.

In early 2023, she bought a refurbished iPhone 7 for $120. The change was immediate. Apps opened quickly, she could finally use mobile banking without lag, and her photos of family events were clear and vibrant. Most importantly, she regained confidence that her phone wouldn’t fail during emergencies or travel.

For Sarah, the upgrade wasn’t about chasing the latest tech—it was about regaining functionality. The iPhone 7 restored a sense of reliability she didn’t realize she’d lost.

Step-by-Step: Should You Upgrade?

Deciding whether to upgrade requires evaluating your current needs. Follow this timeline to assess your situation:

1. Week 1: Monitor Performance – Track how often apps freeze, reload, or fail to load. Note battery drain patterns.
2. Week 2: Test Key Tasks – Try using your phone for GPS navigation, streaming audio, and taking low-light photos. Identify pain points.
3. Week 3: Research Alternatives – Compare prices of used iPhone 7 models versus other options like iPhone 8 or Android alternatives.
4. Week 4: Evaluate Cost vs. Benefit – Ask: Will an upgrade improve my productivity, safety, or enjoyment enough to justify the expense?

Tip: Consider buying a certified refurbished iPhone 7—it offers near-new condition at a fraction of the original price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the iPhone 7 still usable in 2024?

Yes. While no longer receiving iOS updates, the iPhone 7 remains functional for calling, texting, email, social media, and light photography. App support may gradually decline, but core functions work reliably.

Do I need a case if the iPhone 7 is water-resistant?

Absolutely. Water resistance isn’t permanent and degrades over time. A case adds drop protection and preserves resale value. Think of IP67 as backup protection, not a license to expose the phone to risk.

Can I use regular headphones with the iPhone 7?

Yes, but not directly. You’ll need either Apple’s Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter (included at launch) or wireless Bluetooth headphones. Many users adapt quickly, though audiophiles may prefer wired sound quality via adapters.

Final Verdict: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

If you’re still using an iPhone 5s, upgrading to the iPhone 7 is one of the most impactful moves you can make within the older iPhone ecosystem. The gains in speed, camera quality, battery life, and software support are substantial—not incremental. For under $100–$150 on the secondhand market, the iPhone 7 delivers a modern smartphone experience that the 5s simply can’t match.

The removal of the headphone jack may be an inconvenience, but it’s outweighed by the addition of water resistance, better speakers, and overall durability. And unlike newer iPhones, the 7 retains a home button with Touch ID—a familiar and reliable interface for long-time Apple users.

“The iPhone 7 isn’t just faster than the 5s—it feels like a different class of device altogether.” — TechRadar, 2016 Review

Take Action Today

If your iPhone 5s is slowing you down, don’t wait for it to fail completely. Explore reputable sellers of refurbished iPhone 7 units, back up your data, and test the upgrade path. Even in 2024, this transition can breathe new life into your digital routine. Whether for staying connected with family, managing daily tasks, or capturing memories clearly, the iPhone 7 proves that thoughtful upgrades still matter—even years later.

💬 Have you upgraded from an iPhone 5s? Share your experience and tips in the comments below.