Iphone Xr Vs Iphone 6 Plus Is The Upgrade Really Worth It In Current Year

For long-time iPhone users clinging to the iPhone 6 Plus, the idea of upgrading may feel overdue — or unnecessary. After all, Apple’s ecosystem is designed for longevity, and iOS updates have historically supported older devices well. But as we move further into 2024, the gap between legacy models like the iPhone 6 Plus and newer entries such as the iPhone XR has widened dramatically. The question isn’t just about hardware specs; it’s about whether the daily experience justifies the switch.

The iPhone 6 Plus launched in 2014 with a then-impressive 5.5-inch display and optical image stabilization. A decade later, that device struggles with modern apps, lacks support for recent iOS versions, and can’t keep up with basic multitasking. Meanwhile, the iPhone XR, released in 2018, was built for the era of fluid app interactions, Face ID, and advanced computational photography. So, if you're still on the 6 Plus, is making the leap to the XR — or even holding out for something newer — truly worthwhile?

Performance and Software Compatibility

The most immediate difference between the iPhone 6 Plus and iPhone XR lies in processing power and software support. The 6 Plus runs on Apple’s A8 chip, a 64-bit processor that was groundbreaking in its time but now falters under the weight of modern iOS demands. Even simple tasks like switching between apps or loading web pages can feel sluggish. Worse, the 6 Plus stopped receiving official iOS updates after iOS 12, cutting it off from critical security patches, new features, and app compatibility.

In contrast, the iPhone XR is powered by the A12 Bionic chip — Apple’s first 7nm processor, which brought machine learning capabilities and significantly faster CPU and GPU performance. It supports iOS 17 (and likely iOS 18), meaning users continue to benefit from up-to-date security, Siri improvements, privacy tools, and access to the latest App Store releases.

Tip: Apps like TikTok, Instagram, and banking services are increasingly optimized for newer iOS versions. Older devices risk losing functionality or being blocked entirely.

Real-World Speed Comparison

• App Launching: The XR opens apps nearly twice as fast as the 6 Plus.
• Multitasking: The 6 Plus often reloads background apps; the XR keeps them active longer.
• Web Browsing: Complex websites load smoothly on the XR but stutter on the 6 Plus.

“By 2024, any iPhone older than the iPhone 8 is effectively obsolete for daily use.” — David Chen, Mobile Analyst at TechPulse Insights

Display and Design Evolution

The design language between these two phones reflects a major shift in Apple’s philosophy. The iPhone 6 Plus features a traditional home button, thick bezels, and a 1080p LCD screen with decent color accuracy for its time. While functional, the display feels cramped compared to today’s standards, especially when viewing videos, maps, or reading articles.

The iPhone XR introduced a more modern form factor: edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display, slimmer bezels, and Face ID. Despite having a slightly smaller 6.1-inch screen, the XR offers a vastly more immersive experience thanks to higher pixel density and better brightness. Its single-lens front camera is tucked into a notch, maximizing screen real estate without sacrificing essential sensors.

Though both phones use aluminum frames and glass backs, the XR feels more durable due to improved water resistance (IP67 rating), which the 6 Plus lacks entirely. Dropping either phone carries risk, but the XR has a better chance of surviving minor impacts.

Camera Capabilities: Night and Day Difference

If photography matters to you, the upgrade from the 6 Plus to the XR is nothing short of transformative.

The 6 Plus sports an 8MP rear camera with basic autofocus and LED flash. It captures usable daylight photos but struggles in low light, producing grainy, poorly exposed images. Video recording maxes out at 1080p at 60fps, and there’s no image stabilization for video beyond basic digital cropping.

The iPhone XR steps up with a 12MP sensor featuring optical image stabilization, Smart HDR, Portrait Mode, and advanced noise reduction. More importantly, it introduces Deep Fusion and Night Mode (via software update), allowing for dramatically better performance in dim environments. Selfies also improve thanks to the 7MP TrueDepth front camera with Portrait Mode and better dynamic range.

Feature	iPhone 6 Plus	iPhone XR
Rear Camera	8MP, f/2.2	12MP, f/1.8, OIS
Front Camera	1.2MP	7MP, TrueDepth
Video Recording	1080p @ 60fps	4K @ 60fps
Night Mode	No	Yes (added via update)
Portrait Mode	No	Yes (rear & front)

Battery Life and Charging Experience

Battery degradation is inevitable, especially on a device used since 2014. Even with a replacement battery, the 6 Plus typically lasts around 8–10 hours of mixed usage — less if running modern apps. It charges via Lightning cable only, with no support for fast charging or wireless power.

The iPhone XR delivers up to 16 hours of video playback and handles full-day use with ease. It supports fast charging (up to 50% in 30 minutes with an 18W adapter) and Qi wireless charging, offering greater flexibility. For users tired of scrambling for outlets, this alone makes the XR a compelling upgrade.

Tip: Pair your XR with a $20 magnetic wireless charger for effortless desk or nightstand charging.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Journey

Sarah, a freelance photographer and long-time 6 Plus user, held onto her phone for sentimental reasons. Her device worked — barely. Instagram crashed constantly, her portfolio website loaded slowly, and editing photos in Lightroom was nearly impossible. She finally upgraded to a used iPhone XR for $220.

Within days, she noticed dramatic changes: apps stayed open, cloud backups completed without timeouts, and she could shoot and edit high-res photos directly on her phone. “I didn’t realize how much I was missing until I had a phone that didn’t fight me,” she said. “The camera alone paid for the upgrade when I landed a gig requiring quick turnaround edits.”

Is the Upgrade Worth It in 2024?

Objectively, yes — especially if you rely on your phone for communication, productivity, or creativity. The iPhone XR brings four generations of technological advancement over the 6 Plus. You’re not just getting a newer phone; you’re gaining access to:

• Security updates that protect against emerging threats
• Compatibility with modern apps and services
• Dramatically improved camera systems
• Faster internet browsing and app responsiveness
• Better battery life and modern charging options

While the XR is no longer Apple’s newest model, it remains a capable device in 2024. Refurbished units are widely available under $250, making it one of the most cost-effective upgrades from the 6 Plus.

Upgrade Checklist: What to Do Before Switching

1. Back up your iPhone 6 Plus via iCloud or iTunes.
2. Ensure your Apple ID is updated and two-factor authentication is enabled.
3. Transfer data using Quick Start or restore from backup on the XR.
4. Update to the latest iOS version immediately after setup.
5. Recycle your old device through Apple’s trade-in program for credit.

FAQ

Can the iPhone 6 Plus still be used in 2024?

Technically, yes — but with significant limitations. It doesn’t support iOS 13 or later, so many apps either won’t install or will perform poorly. Security risks increase without regular updates.

Is the iPhone XR too old to buy now?

No. While discontinued, the XR remains supported through at least 2025. It runs iOS 17 smoothly and handles everyday tasks with ease. For budget-conscious users, it’s still a smart choice.

Will my accessories work with the iPhone XR?

Most Lightning cables and headphones will work, but cases won’t fit due to different dimensions and the absence of a home button. Wireless chargers and Bluetooth accessories remain compatible.

Final Verdict

Upgrading from the iPhone 6 Plus to the iPhone XR isn’t just about new features — it’s about reclaiming reliability, speed, and peace of mind. In 2024, staying on a decade-old smartphone means accepting constant compromises: slow performance, poor photo quality, and growing vulnerability to security flaws. The XR eliminates most of those issues at a fraction of the cost of flagship models.

If you’ve been hesitating, consider this the sign you needed. The iPhone XR delivers a genuinely modern iOS experience, and for anyone still tethered to the 6 Plus, the improvement will feel revolutionary.

🚀 Ready to make the leap? Check certified refurbished iPhone XR listings today — your future self will thank you for the smoother photos, faster apps, and longer battery life.