Is The Iphone 5s Still Worth It In 2024 Or Should I Just Get A Galaxy J7 Pro

The iPhone 5s, once a flagship device, launched in 2013 with groundbreaking features like Touch ID and a 64-bit A7 chip. Over a decade later, some users still hold onto it for its compact size, iOS simplicity, or sentimental value. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy J7 Pro, released in 2017, offers modern Android capabilities at an affordable price. But in 2024, which makes more sense as a daily driver? The answer depends on your needs, expectations, and how much you value functionality over nostalgia.

Performance and Hardware: A Generational Divide

The iPhone 5s runs on Apple’s A7 chip with 1GB of RAM. In its time, this was revolutionary—faster than most smartphones and capable of smooth multitasking. Today, however, that same hardware struggles with basic operations. Safari is slow to load complex web pages, app switching is sluggish, and background processes are frequently terminated due to memory constraints.

In contrast, the Galaxy J7 Pro features an Exynos 7870 processor, 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of internal storage (expandable via microSD). While not a powerhouse by today’s standards, it handles modern apps like WhatsApp, YouTube, and even light gaming with reasonable fluidity. It supports newer connectivity standards like LTE and VoLTE, which the iPhone 5s lacks entirely—meaning no 4G calling or fast data on many carriers.

Tip: If you're still using an iPhone 5s, disable animations and background app refresh to slightly improve responsiveness.

Software Support and Security: Where the iPhone Falls Short

iOS 12 was the last version supported on the iPhone 5s, released in 2018. Since then, Apple has rolled out six major iOS updates, none of which are compatible with the device. This means no new features, no performance improvements from modern optimizations, and—critically—no security patches since late 2020.

Cybersecurity expert Dr. Lena Patel notes:

“Devices without ongoing security updates are vulnerable to known exploits. Using them for banking, messaging, or email significantly increases risk.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Cybersecurity Researcher, MIT

The Galaxy J7 Pro originally shipped with Android 7 Nougat but received updates up to Android 9 Pie. While also outdated, Samsung provided longer support cycles than Apple for mid-tier devices at the time. More importantly, Android 9 still receives limited security maintenance through third-party ROMs, offering a sliver of additional protection compared to a completely frozen iOS 12 system.

Camera and Multimedia Experience

The iPhone 5s features an 8MP rear camera with LED flash and 1080p video recording. For 2013, it was excellent—color accuracy and dynamic range were industry-leading. In 2024, it produces grainy photos in low light, lacks autofocus speed, and has no digital stabilization beyond basic software tweaks. Selfies require using the front 1.2MP camera, which delivers poor resolution and minimal detail.

The Galaxy J7 Pro boasts a 13MP rear sensor with f/1.7 aperture, phase-detection autofocus, and Full HD video. Its front-facing 13MP camera is vastly superior for selfies and video calls. While both phones lack AI enhancements or night modes, the J7 Pro’s larger sensor and wider aperture make a noticeable difference in real-world lighting conditions.

“Hardware matters, but so does software tuning. The J7 Pro may not be top-tier, but its camera pipeline is modern enough to handle everyday moments clearly.” — Amir Chen, Mobile Photographer & Tech Reviewer

Comparison Table: iPhone 5s vs Galaxy J7 Pro (2024 Reality Check)

Feature	iPhone 5s	Galaxy J7 Pro
Release Year	2013	2017
Processor	A7 (64-bit)	Exynos 7870 (Octa-core)
RAM	1GB	3GB
Storage (Max Usable)	64GB (non-expandable)	32GB + microSD (up to 256GB)
Operating System	iOS 12 (last update: 2020)	Android 9 (security patches until ~2021)
Network Support	3G / HSPA+ (No LTE)	LTE, VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac
Rear Camera	8MP, f/2.4, 1080p	13MP, f/1.7, PDAF, 1080p
Battery Life (Real-World Use)	~4–6 hours screen-on (degraded)	~8–10 hours screen-on
Current App Compatibility	Limited (many apps no longer support iOS 12)	Moderate (some newer apps work with limitations)

Real-World Example: Can Either Phone Handle Daily Tasks?

Consider Maria, a retiree who uses her phone mainly for calls, texts, checking weather, and occasional Facebook browsing. She’s had her iPhone 5s since 2014 and recently noticed that Facebook won’t open unless she deletes other apps first. After updating her router, she couldn’t reconnect because iOS 12 doesn’t properly support WPA3 encryption. Frustrated, she tried a used Galaxy J7 Pro bought for $60. Instantly, she could connect to Wi-Fi, use Messenger, watch videos without buffering, and even download a rideshare app to book taxis. Though the interface felt unfamiliar at first, within a week she preferred it for its reliability and faster response.

This scenario reflects a broader trend: legacy devices may “work” technically, but fail functionally when networks, apps, and services evolve beyond their capabilities.

Step-by-Step: How to Decide Which Device Fits Your Needs

1. Assess your primary usage: Are you mostly texting and calling? Or do you need maps, social media, streaming, or mobile banking?
2. Check app compatibility: Try installing essential apps (Google Maps, WhatsApp, Gmail) on the iPhone 5s. If they don’t install or crash, it’s not viable.
3. Evaluate network support: Contact your carrier to confirm if 3G networks are still active in your area. Many have shut down 3G, making the iPhone 5s unusable.
4. Test battery health: Even if the phone turns on, degraded batteries often die within hours or shut down unexpectedly.
5. Compare total cost: Factor in potential repair costs, accessories, and time spent troubleshooting. A $60 J7 Pro may save money long-term.

Checklist: Is Your iPhone 5s Still Practical?

• ✅ Does it power on consistently?
• ✅ Can it connect to modern Wi-Fi networks?
• ✅ Do essential apps (WhatsApp, Gmail, browser) install and run?
• ✅ Is the battery life usable for half a day?
• ✅ Is your carrier still supporting 3G?
• ❌ If two or more answers are “no,” consider upgrading.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use the iPhone 5s as a music player or offline device?

Yes, but with caveats. You can sync music via iTunes and use it as an iPod touch. However, Bluetooth audio may lag, and storage is limited. Consider a dedicated MP3 player or older iPad instead.

Is the Galaxy J7 Pro secure enough for basic use?

It hasn’t received official updates since 2021, so avoid storing sensitive data or using it for online banking. Install lightweight antivirus tools and avoid sideloading apps. For casual use, it's acceptable with precautions.

Are there better alternatives under $100?

Absolutely. Refurbished models like the Samsung Galaxy A14, Google Pixel 4a (used), or Nokia G22 offer modern Android versions, better cameras, and longer support. Even budget new phones outperform both these older models.

Final Verdict: Time to Move On

The iPhone 5s was a landmark device, but in 2024, it’s functionally obsolete. Its hardware limits productivity, its software poses security risks, and its connectivity options are incompatible with modern infrastructure. The Galaxy J7 Pro isn’t a perfect solution—it’s aging too—but it represents a meaningful step forward in usability, safety, and versatility.

If you’re clinging to the iPhone 5s for simplicity or sentiment, understand that technology has moved on. Upgrading doesn’t mean abandoning reliability; it means embracing accessibility, speed, and peace of mind. For less than the cost of a dinner out, you can gain years of dependable service from a more capable device.

🚀 Ready to upgrade? Explore certified refurbished phones or carrier trade-in deals. Share your experience below—have you made the switch from an old iPhone? What changed for the better?