Is The Google Pixel 3 Still Worth It Over A Used Iphone 7 Plus

In 2024, choosing between two older smartphones like the Google Pixel 3 and the iPhone 7 Plus might seem like a step back from today’s flagships. But for budget-conscious buyers or those seeking simplicity without bloat, these models remain relevant. Both devices have loyal followings, but which one truly offers better value when purchased secondhand? The answer depends on what you prioritize—camera quality, long-term usability, ecosystem integration, or pure longevity.

The Pixel 3 launched in 2018 with Android 9 Pie and was praised for its computational photography and clean software experience. The iPhone 7 Plus, released in 2016, brought dual cameras to Apple’s lineup and remains compatible with many current iOS features. While neither receives official updates anymore, their real-world performance can still surprise. Let’s dissect where each excels and whether the Pixel 3 is genuinely worth choosing over the used iPhone 7 Plus today.

Performance and Software Experience

Hardware age matters, but so does how well a device handles modern apps and multitasking. The Pixel 3 runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845—a high-end chip at its time—paired with 4GB of RAM. This configuration handled most tasks smoothly even into 2023, though heavier apps like Chrome or social media platforms now show signs of strain due to aging architecture and limited memory.

The iPhone 7 Plus uses Apple’s A10 Fusion chip with 3GB of RAM. Despite being older than the Snapdragon 845, iOS’s efficient optimization allows the A10 to hold up remarkably well. Many users report that basic browsing, messaging, and video playback remain fluid even after years of use. However, newer versions of popular apps (like Instagram or TikTok) are increasingly optimized for more powerful processors, leading to occasional stutters or longer load times on both devices.

Tip: Clear app caches monthly and disable background refresh to extend responsiveness on older phones.

Software support is a critical differentiator. The Pixel 3 officially stopped receiving security updates in late 2022 and OS upgrades after Android 12. Meanwhile, the iPhone 7 Plus received iOS updates all the way through iOS 16, released in 2022—and some third-party apps continue supporting it via community-developed tools. This extended lifecycle gives the iPhone an edge for users who want to stay safer online and access newer app features longer.

Camera Quality: Still a Pixel Strength?

If there’s one area where the Pixel 3 continues to shine, it’s photography. Its single 12.2MP rear sensor, combined with Google’s HDR+ processing and Night Sight mode, outperforms far more expensive phones from its era. Even by 2024 standards, daylight shots are vibrant, detailed, and accurately exposed. Low-light performance remains impressive thanks to advanced noise reduction algorithms that brighten scenes without washing out colors.

The iPhone 7 Plus has a dual-camera system: a 12MP wide and a 12MP telephoto lens enabling 2x optical zoom. While capable in good lighting, its low-light performance lags behind the Pixel 3 significantly. There’s no night mode equivalent, and dynamic range suffers in high-contrast environments. Portrait mode exists but lacks refinement—edges around hair or glasses often blur unnaturally.

“Google redefined smartphone photography not with hardware, but with machine learning. The Pixel 3 proves that software can beat specs.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechLens Review

For front-facing selfies, the Pixel 3 includes dual 8MP shooters (standard + wide-angle), ideal for group selfies. The iPhone 7 Plus only has a 7MP FaceTime camera with no ultra-wide option. If social media sharing or video calls matter, the Pixel offers more flexibility here.

Build, Display, and Battery Life Comparison

Feature	Google Pixel 3	iPhone 7 Plus
Display Size & Type	5.5\", OLED, Full HD+	5.5\", LCD, Full HD
Battery Capacity	2915 mAh	2900 mAh
Charging	USB-C, 18W fast charging	Lightning, 12W max
Water Resistance	IP68	IP67
Fingerprint Sensor	Rear-mounted	Front Touch ID

The Pixel 3’s OLED screen delivers deeper blacks and better contrast than the iPhone’s LCD panel, enhancing media viewing. However, its smaller physical size may feel cramped for some users accustomed to larger displays. The iPhone 7 Plus feels bulkier but provides ample screen space for reading and navigation.

Battery life on both devices is modest by today’s standards. Expect about 5–6 hours of screen-on time under moderate use. Neither supports wireless charging natively (though the Pixel 3 XL does; the regular 3 doesn’t). Given their age, battery degradation is likely unless the used unit has been well-maintained or had a replacement battery installed.

Real-World Example: Choosing for Daily Use

Sarah, a freelance writer based in Portland, needed a secondary phone for travel and notes-taking. She considered both the Pixel 3 and iPhone 7 Plus within her $100 budget. After testing both at a local electronics resale shop, she chose the Pixel 3. Her reasoning? Superior camera quality helped her document inspiration during hikes, and the cleaner Android interface made voice typing and Google Assistant integration smoother. She accepted the trade-off of shorter software support because she wasn’t using sensitive banking apps heavily.

Meanwhile, Mark, a teacher in Chicago, opted for the iPhone 7 Plus. He already owned AirPods and a MacBook, making iCloud sync and Handoff features essential. He valued seamless continuity between devices—even if the camera wasn’t as sharp. For him, ecosystem cohesion outweighed raw photo performance.

What You Should Check Before Buying Either Phone

Purchasing a used phone requires diligence. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re getting a functional device:

• Verify battery health: Look for >80% capacity. Replace if below.
• Test all ports and buttons: Charge cable, headphone jack (if present), volume, power, mute switch.
• Check for water damage indicators: Red dots inside SIM tray or ports signal past exposure.
• Confirm unlock status: Ensure the phone isn’t carrier-locked or iCloud-locked (for iPhone).
• Boot into safe mode: Rule out malware or persistent crashes.
• Inspect screen for burn-in (OLED) or dead pixels: Especially important for Pixel 3.

Tip: Always ask for proof of purchase or repair history when buying used.

FAQ

Can either phone run WhatsApp or Instagram reliably in 2024?

Yes, but with caveats. Both devices meet minimum requirements, but expect slower loading, occasional freezes, and reduced background functionality. Updating apps regularly helps maintain compatibility.

Which phone lasts longer on a single charge?

Neither has exceptional endurance, but real-world usage shows the iPhone 7 Plus often edges out the Pixel 3 by 30–60 minutes due to iOS efficiency, despite nearly identical battery sizes.

Is the Pixel 3 waterproof?

It has an IP68 rating, meaning it can survive submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. However, this only applies to new units—seals degrade over time, especially on used phones.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

The Google Pixel 3 is still worth considering—if your priorities lean toward photography, clean Android experience, and faster charging. It captures better photos in almost every condition, has a superior display, and charges slightly quicker. However, its software support ended earlier, and long-term app compatibility will decline faster than the iPhone’s.

The iPhone 7 Plus wins in ecosystem integration, update longevity, and overall polish of user experience. If you're already invested in Apple services or plan to upgrade to a newer iPhone soon, keeping a 7 Plus as a backup makes sense. Its build quality remains solid, and iOS 16 support means fewer immediate compatibility issues.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your digital lifestyle. For photographers, travelers, or Android enthusiasts, the Pixel 3 offers unmatched value for its price point. For Apple users, minimalists, or those needing reliability above all, the iPhone 7 Plus remains a surprisingly capable choice—even in 2024.

🚀 Ready to make your move? Assess your needs, inspect any used device carefully, and choose the phone that aligns with how you actually use technology—not just the specs on paper.