IPhone XS Vs IPhone 6 In 2024 Is Upgrading From The 6 Even Worth It

For years, the iPhone 6 was a symbol of modern smartphone design—sleek, reliable, and revolutionary for its time. Released in 2014, it became one of Apple’s best-selling models. But we’re now over a decade into the future, and the tech landscape has evolved dramatically. If you're still using an iPhone 6 in 2024, you're likely wondering whether upgrading to something like the iPhone XS makes sense—or if the leap is even necessary.

The iPhone XS, released in 2018, may no longer be Apple’s flagship, but it remains a capable device by today’s standards. It supports the latest iOS versions, handles modern apps smoothly, and offers significant improvements across the board. So, is moving from the iPhone 6 to the iPhone XS in 2024 a worthwhile upgrade? The short answer is yes—but with important caveats.

Performance and Software Support: A Night-and-Day Difference

The most critical gap between the iPhone 6 and iPhone XS lies in processing power and long-term software support. The iPhone 6 runs on the A8 chip, which was impressive in 2014 but struggles severely with today’s multitasking demands. Even basic operations like switching between apps or loading web pages can feel sluggish. More importantly, the iPhone 6 stopped receiving iOS updates after iOS 12, meaning it hasn’t had security patches or feature upgrades since 2019.

In contrast, the iPhone XS uses the A12 Bionic chip—one of the first 7nm processors in smartphones. This chip delivers up to 50% faster CPU performance and twice the graphics power compared to the A8. It also includes a neural engine that enables advanced machine learning tasks, such as improved photo processing and Face ID recognition.

As of 2024, the iPhone XS continues to receive iOS updates (currently supported through iOS 17), ensuring access to new features, app compatibility, and crucial security fixes.

Tip: Devices without current OS support are vulnerable to security threats and incompatible with newer banking, messaging, and social media apps.

Camera Quality: From Functional to Flagship-Tier

If photography matters to you, the jump from the iPhone 6 to the iPhone XS is nothing short of transformative.

The iPhone 6 features an 8MP rear camera with basic autofocus and no optical image stabilization (OIS). Low-light performance is poor, and video maxes out at 1080p at 30fps. There's no portrait mode, depth control, or smart HDR.

The iPhone XS, however, boasts a 12MP dual-camera system with OIS, Smart HDR, Depth Control, and 4K video recording at up to 60fps. Its front-facing TrueDepth camera enables Portrait Mode selfies and Animoji—features absent on the iPhone 6. The computational photography enhancements alone make a dramatic difference in dynamic range, color accuracy, and low-light clarity.

In real-world use, this means clearer family photos, sharper text when scanning documents, and vastly better video calls—even on platforms like Zoom or FaceTime, which now optimize for newer hardware.

“Camera quality isn’t just about aesthetics—it affects how you communicate, document life events, and interact with digital services.” — Sarah Lin, Mobile Photography Analyst at TechLens Weekly

Display and Design: Modern Usability vs. Outdated Form

The iPhone 6 introduced the larger 4.7-inch display that defined Apple’s mid-tier phones for years. While comfortable in hand, its LCD screen has a resolution of just 1334x750 pixels and lacks true blacks, deep contrast, or wide color gamut.

The iPhone XS steps up with a 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED display, offering higher pixel density (458 PPI), HDR10/Dolby Vision support, and significantly better outdoor visibility. The edge-to-edge design with minimal bezels provides more screen real estate in a compact form factor, despite the larger display.

Additionally, the iPhone XS features glass back construction with IP68 water resistance—meaning it can survive submersion in up to 2 meters of water for 30 minutes. The iPhone 6, by comparison, has no official water resistance rating and is prone to damage from spills or rain exposure.

Feature	iPhone 6	iPhone XS
Display	4.7\" LCD (1334x750)	5.8\" OLED (2436x1125)
Water Resistance	None	IP68 (up to 2m for 30 min)
Fingerprint/Authentication	Touch ID (Home Button)	Face ID (No Home Button)
Storage Options	16GB, 64GB, 128GB	64GB, 256GB, 512GB
Battery Life (Video Playback)	Up to 11 hours	Up to 14 hours

Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Journey

Maria, a freelance graphic designer from Portland, used her iPhone 6 for nearly nine years. She resisted upgrading due to cost and familiarity. But by early 2023, she noticed increasing issues: apps crashing, slow email sync, inability to edit client proofs on mobile, and frequent overheating during video calls.

She purchased a refurbished iPhone XS for $220. Within days, she reported smoother workflow, faster cloud syncing, and the ability to preview high-res mockups directly on her phone. “I didn’t realize how much time I was wasting waiting for things to load,” she said. “Now I can actually work remotely without frustration.”

Her experience underscores a broader trend: older devices don’t just slow down—they limit your productivity and digital independence.

Is the Upgrade Worth It? A Step-by-Step Decision Guide

Before making any decision, assess your current needs and usage patterns. Follow this timeline to determine if upgrading from the iPhone 6 to the iPhone XS (or similar) is right for you:

1. Week 1: Monitor Performance – Track how often apps freeze, crash, or fail to update. Note delays in opening messages, browsers, or maps.
2. Week 2: Test App Compatibility – Try installing essential apps like Google Maps, WhatsApp, or your bank’s app. If they won’t install or run poorly, your device is obsolete.
3. Week 3: Evaluate Security & Backup – Check if your phone supports two-factor authentication properly and whether iCloud backups complete successfully.
4. Week 4: Research Alternatives – Compare the iPhone XS with other budget-friendly options like the iPhone XR, iPhone 11, or even certified refurbished newer models.
5. Decision Point – If you experienced consistent lag, failed installations, or security concerns, upgrading is not just beneficial—it’s necessary.

Upgrade Checklist: What to Do Before Switching

• Back up your iPhone 6 via iCloud or iTunes
• Ensure Find My iPhone is turned off before selling or recycling
• Transfer data using Quick Start or iCloud restore on your new device
• Update Apple ID password and re-enable two-factor authentication
• Remove old device from your Apple ID account list
• Recycle responsibly through Apple’s Trade In program or certified e-waste centers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 6 still be used safely in 2024?

Limited use is possible, but not recommended for daily drivers. Without iOS updates, it lacks critical security patches. Many modern apps either won’t install or function poorly. Using it for banking, shopping, or messaging exposes you to potential risks.

Is the iPhone XS still a good phone in 2024?

Yes, especially for moderate users. It runs iOS 17 efficiently, handles most apps well, and offers excellent camera quality. While battery degradation may affect older units, replacing the battery ($49–$69 at Apple) can extend its life another 2–3 years.

Are there cheaper alternatives to the iPhone XS?

Absolutely. Consider the iPhone XR (similar performance, larger battery), iPhone 11 (better camera, longer support), or even Android options like the Google Pixel 6a or Samsung Galaxy A54. Refurbished marketplaces like Swappa or Apple Certified Refurbished offer reliable deals under $300.

Final Verdict: Yes, Upgrade—But Think Beyond Just the XS

Upgrading from the iPhone 6 in 2024 isn't just worth it—it's overdue. The iPhone XS represents a massive leap forward in every category: speed, security, camera, display, and longevity. However, while the XS is a solid choice, don’t limit yourself to it. The market for affordable, high-performance used iPhones has never been better.

If you’ve held onto your iPhone 6 out of loyalty or hesitation, now is the time to move forward. Technology should empower you, not hold you back. Whether you choose the iPhone XS or another modern device, the upgrade will bring noticeable improvements in reliability, safety, and everyday convenience.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? Back up your data today and explore refurbished iPhone options—you might be surprised how affordable a modern smartphone experience can be.