Iphone X Vs 6s Is Upgrading From A 6s Actually Worth It

For millions of users still holding onto their iPhone 6s, the question isn’t just about desire—it’s about practicality. Is upgrading to the iPhone X truly worthwhile after so many years with a reliable device? The iPhone 6s launched in 2015 and became one of Apple’s longest-serving models, thanks to its solid build, iOS support, and responsive performance at the time. But technology has moved fast. The iPhone X, released in 2017 as Apple’s 10th-anniversary flagship, represented a dramatic shift in design and functionality.

This article compares both devices across key categories—design, performance, camera, software support, and real-world usability—to determine whether making the leap from the 6s to the X is justified today, especially if you're considering a used or refurbished upgrade path.

Design and Build: A Leap Forward

The most immediate difference between the iPhone 6s and iPhone X is design language. The 6s follows Apple’s traditional approach: physical Home button, thick bezels, aluminum body, and Touch ID front and center. It's compact (4.7 inches), lightweight, and fits comfortably in one hand. While durable, the design feels dated by modern standards.

In contrast, the iPhone X introduced what would become Apple’s new design blueprint: an edge-to-edge OLED display, stainless steel frame, glass back for wireless charging, and Face ID replacing Touch ID. At 5.8 inches, the screen is significantly larger despite a similar overall footprint due to minimized bezels. The shift removes the Home button entirely, relying on gestures for navigation.

Tip: If you rely heavily on Touch ID, consider how much you’ll adapt to Face ID in low-light conditions or while wearing masks.

The glass back makes the X more prone to cracks but enables features like Qi wireless charging—a feature absent on the 6s. For users who value aesthetics and modern ergonomics, the X delivers a premium feel that the 6s simply can't match.

Performance and Hardware Comparison

Under the hood, the gap widens considerably. The iPhone 6s runs on the A9 chip with 2GB of RAM. In 2015, this was powerful, but today it struggles with multitasking, heavy apps, and newer iOS versions. While iOS 15 was the last to support the 6s, even basic tasks like switching between apps or loading photos can feel sluggish over time.

The iPhone X, powered by the A11 Bionic chip and 3GB of RAM, brought significant improvements in CPU and GPU performance. More importantly, it supports up to iOS 17, ensuring longer security updates and compatibility with current apps. This extended software lifespan alone adds tangible value for users looking to avoid another upgrade soon.

“Moving from an A9 to an A11 isn’t just a generational jump—it’s a complete overhaul in responsiveness and future-proofing.” — Mark Tran, Mobile Tech Analyst at TechPulse Weekly

Key Performance Differences

Feature	iPhone 6s	iPhone X
Chipset	A9	A11 Bionic
RAM	2GB	3GB
Storage Options	16/32/64/128GB	64/256GB
Max Supported iOS	iOS 15	iOS 17
Wireless Charging	No	Yes (Qi compatible)

Camera Quality: Night and Day Difference

If photography matters to you, the upgrade becomes far more compelling. The iPhone 6s features a single 12MP rear camera without optical image stabilization (OIS) and a basic 5MP front shooter. Low-light performance is poor, and video maxes out at 4K@30fps—but only with limited editing flexibility.

The iPhone X brings dual 12MP cameras (wide and telephoto), OIS on the main sensor, Portrait Mode, improved dynamic range, and better noise reduction. The TrueDepth front camera enables Portrait Mode selfies and Animoji, which may seem gimmicky now but showcased Apple’s AR ambitions. Video recording supports 4K@60fps, offering noticeably smoother footage.

In real-world use, the X produces sharper images, faster autofocus, and superior color accuracy. Low-light shots are brighter and cleaner. For social media users or anyone who takes regular photos, this improvement is transformative.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Experience

Sarah had been using her iPhone 6s since 2016. By 2023, she noticed constant app crashes, slow Safari loads, and inability to use newer features like Live Text or enhanced Maps navigation. After purchasing a refurbished iPhone X for $220, her experience changed overnight.

\"I didn’t realize how much I was missing until I got the X,\" she said. \"Face ID works faster than my old fingerprint scanner ever did. My Instagram uploads don’t freeze anymore. And taking pictures at my niece’s birthday party—no blur, no dark spots. It felt like getting a new brain.\"

She also appreciated wireless charging and the ability to run iOS 16 smoothly, extending her expected device lifespan by several years.

Should You Upgrade? A Practical Checklist

Before deciding, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do apps frequently crash or load slowly on your 6s?
• Have you stopped receiving major iOS updates?
• Are you unable to use features like AR apps, Animoji, or advanced camera modes?
• Is battery life below 80% health?
• Would you benefit from Face ID, wireless charging, or a better display?
• Are you planning to keep your phone for 2+ more years?

If three or more apply, upgrading to the iPhone X—or a similar-tier device—is likely worthwhile.

Step-by-Step: How to Make the Transition Smoothly

1. Back up your iPhone 6s via iCloud or iTunes to preserve data.
2. Check battery health in Settings > Battery. If below 80%, consider a replacement before selling or trading in.
3. Evaluate budget options: Refurbished iPhone X units start around $200–$250; compare with newer SE models.
4. Prepare for gesture navigation: Practice swipe-up actions instead of pressing Home.
5. Set up Face ID in good lighting and retrain it if needed.
6. Restore from backup and allow time for apps to reinstall and optimize.
7. Test core functions: Camera, messaging, banking apps, and Face ID reliability.

Tip: Reset all settings after restoring to clear any legacy configurations that might slow down performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone X still receive software updates?

Yes. The iPhone X supports up to iOS 17, released in 2023. While it won’t get new major OS versions indefinitely, it continues to receive critical security patches and feature updates, unlike the 6s which topped out at iOS 15.

Is the iPhone X fragile compared to the 6s?

The X has a glass back and curved edges, making it more susceptible to drops than the aluminum-bodied 6s. However, many users protect it with cases and tempered glass. With proper care, durability is manageable despite the materials.

Will my accessories work with the iPhone X?

Most Lightning cables and headphones will work, but wireless charging opens new possibilities. Docks designed for the 6s may not align perfectly due to the X’s taller screen and glass back. AirPods and other Bluetooth devices remain fully compatible.

Final Verdict: Yes, the Upgrade Is Worth It

Upgrading from the iPhone 6s to the iPhone X is more than a cosmetic change—it’s a meaningful technological leap. You gain a faster processor, better cameras, modern design, Face ID, wireless charging, and crucially, years of additional software support. These aren’t minor conveniences; they affect daily usability, security, and long-term satisfaction.

The iPhone X revitalizes the smartphone experience for former 6s owners. It bridges the gap between classic iPhones and today’s standards, offering a taste of modern iOS without jumping straight into Pro models or ultra-high prices.

If you’re clinging to your 6s out of loyalty or hesitation, know this: the upgrade pays dividends in speed, capability, and peace of mind. Whether buying new, refurbished, or secondhand, moving to the iPhone X ensures you stay connected, secure, and equipped for the next phase of mobile computing.

🚀 Ready to upgrade? Check certified refurbished listings, back up your 6s today, and take the step toward a faster, more capable iPhone experience. Your future self will thank you.