Is The Iphone 5 Still Worth It Or Is The Galaxy A6 A Better Buy In Current Year

In 2024, smartphones have evolved dramatically—offering AI-powered cameras, multi-day battery life, and seamless app ecosystems. Yet, some users still consider older devices like the iPhone 5 or even the mid-range Samsung Galaxy A6 due to budget constraints or sentimental attachment. But are either of these phones viable choices today? The short answer: not really—but there are nuances. This article breaks down hardware, software support, security, app compatibility, and real-world usage to help you make an informed decision.

Hardware Comparison: Outdated vs. Aging

The iPhone 5 was released in 2012—a full decade ago. It features an Apple A6 chip, 1GB of RAM, and a 4-inch Retina display with a resolution of 1136x640. By today’s standards, this hardware struggles to run even basic tasks smoothly. In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy A6, launched in 2018, runs on an Exynos 7870 or Snapdragon 450 (depending on region), with 3GB of RAM and a 5.6-inch HD+ Super AMOLED screen. While neither device meets modern expectations, the Galaxy A6 clearly outperforms the iPhone 5 in raw processing power, display quality, and multitasking capability.

Feature	iPhone 5	Samsung Galaxy A6
Release Year	2012	2018
Processor	Apple A6	Exynos 7870 / Snapdragon 450
RAM	1GB	3GB
Display	4.0\", 1136x640 LCD	5.6\", 1480x720 AMOLED
Rear Camera	8MP	16MP
Battery Capacity	1440 mAh	3000 mAh
Storage Options	16/32/64GB (non-expandable)	32/64GB (expandable via microSD)

Tip: If you're considering any phone over five years old, prioritize battery health and storage expandability—both critical for daily usability.

Software & Security: The Real Deal-Breaker

Software support is where both devices fall short, but in different ways. The iPhone 5 last received iOS 10.3.4 in 2019—meaning it hasn’t seen a major update in over five years. No newer versions of iOS are compatible, so apps that require iOS 11 or higher simply won’t install. This includes many banking apps, messaging platforms, and even Google services.

The Galaxy A6, meanwhile, shipped with Android 8.0 Oreo and received updates up to Android 10. While Samsung stopped official security patches in 2021, the phone at least ran a relatively recent OS version during its lifespan. Some third-party ROMs (like LineageOS) may extend usability, but they come with risks and aren't suitable for average users.

“Devices without security updates are vulnerable by default. In 2024, using an unsupported phone is like leaving your front door unlocked.” — David Lin, Cybersecurity Analyst at MobileShield Labs

App Compatibility & Daily Usability

Modern mobile apps demand more than what the iPhone 5 can deliver. Instagram, TikTok, Uber, and even Gmail now require background processes, high-resolution rendering, and constant connectivity—resources the A6 chip cannot reliably provide. Even if an app installs, performance is often sluggish or unstable.

The Galaxy A6 handles these apps far better. While not fast by today’s standards, it can run WhatsApp, YouTube, Spotify, and most social media apps without freezing. Its larger screen and improved speaker also enhance media consumption. However, newer versions of Chrome and Facebook have started dropping support for older Android versions, meaning even the A6 will face increasing limitations in 2024 and beyond.

Real-World Example: Maria’s Experience

Maria, a retiree on a fixed income, held onto her iPhone 5 for years because she liked the interface and didn’t want to learn a new system. By 2022, she could no longer access her bank’s app or receive two-factor authentication codes via SMS through modern services. After switching to a used Galaxy A6, she found herself able to use video calling with her grandchildren, order groceries online, and navigate maps—tasks previously impossible. “It felt like I finally joined the present,” she said.

Camera & Battery Performance Today

The iPhone 5’s 8MP camera was impressive in 2012, but today it lacks autofocus speed, low-light performance, and image stabilization. Photos appear grainy in dim lighting, and video caps at 1080p/30fps with noticeable lag. The Galaxy A6’s 16MP main sensor captures sharper images, has LED flash improvements, and supports HDR—though results are still mediocre compared to current budget phones.

Battery life is another critical factor. The iPhone 5’s 1440 mAh battery barely lasts half a day with light use and degrades significantly over time. Most replacement batteries are third-party and unreliable. The Galaxy A6’s 3000 mAh battery offers closer to a full day of moderate use and benefits from adaptive brightness and Doze mode in later Android versions.

Checklist: Is an Old Phone Right for You?

Before buying or continuing to use either device, ask yourself the following:

• Do I need secure access to banking or healthcare apps? → Both phones fail here.
• Will I use GPS navigation regularly? → iPhone 5 lacks modern location accuracy.
• Do I rely on social media or streaming? → Galaxy A6 performs adequately; iPhone 5 does not.
• Can I accept frequent crashes and slow loading times? → Likely with both devices.
• Am I technically savvy enough to sideload apps or flash ROMs? → Only relevant for Galaxy A6 with advanced tinkering.
• Is this phone for emergency use only? → Then either might suffice as a backup.

Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do If You’re Still Using One

1. Assess Your Needs: List essential apps and functions you use daily.
2. Test App Compatibility: Try installing your top 5 apps on the device. If they don’t install or crash, upgrade is necessary.
3. Check Security Status: Ensure the OS receives updates. If not, assume vulnerability to malware.
4. Evaluate Battery Health: Replace if below 70% capacity, but note replacements may be hard to source.
5. Consider Alternatives: Look at refurbished iPhones (SE 2nd gen) or budget Androids (Redmi, Moto G series) under $150.
6. Back Up Data: Transfer contacts, photos, and documents before moving to a new device.
7. Recycle Responsibly: Donate or recycle old devices through certified e-waste programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 5 still make calls and send texts?

Yes, as long as it connects to a supported cellular network. However, AT&T shut down its 3G network in 2022, rendering many iPhone 5 models unable to make calls or use data. Verizon and T-Mobile followed suit. So unless you’re on Wi-Fi with iMessage, the phone is largely non-functional for communication.

Is the Galaxy A6 safe to use in 2024?

It can function, but not safely. Without security patches, it's exposed to known vulnerabilities. Avoid storing sensitive data, logging into financial accounts, or downloading unknown apps. Use it only for offline tasks or as a media player.

What’s a good alternative under $100?

Consider the iPhone SE (2020 or 2022 model) for iOS users or the Samsung Galaxy A04/A14 for Android. Refurbished units from reputable sellers offer modern performance, app support, and multi-year updates.

Final Verdict: Neither Is Ideal, But One Is Less Obsolete

The iPhone 5 is effectively obsolete in 2024. It lacks network support, app compatibility, and security. Even as a backup phone, its usefulness is nearly zero. The Galaxy A6, while aging, remains marginally usable for basic tasks like messaging, music, and light browsing—especially if updated to a custom ROM or used offline.

However, neither phone should be considered a \"good buy\" today. For less than $100, you can purchase a newer entry-level smartphone with LTE, modern app support, and at least two years of updates. Investing in a slightly newer device pays off in reliability, safety, and user experience.

💬 Have experience using older phones in 2024? Share your story or tips in the comments—your insight could help someone avoid frustration and make a smarter choice.