Is The Ipod Touch 5 Still Worth It Next To An Iphone 6

In 2014, Apple released the iPhone 6, a landmark device that redefined smartphone design with its larger display and improved internals. Around the same time, the iPod Touch 5th generation—released in 2012—was still widely available and popular as a budget-friendly iOS media player. While both devices run iOS and share a similar aesthetic, their purposes and capabilities diverge significantly. Today, years after their release, the question remains: is the iPod Touch 5 still worth considering when compared to the iPhone 6?

The answer depends on your needs, budget, and expectations. Though neither device supports the latest versions of iOS or modern apps effectively, understanding their strengths and limitations can help determine which makes more sense for specific use cases—especially for collectors, parents, or users seeking a low-cost entry into the iOS ecosystem.

Hardware Comparison: Performance and Design

The iPod Touch 5 and iPhone 6 differ substantially in hardware. The iPod Touch 5 runs on Apple’s A5 chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 4S. It has 512MB of RAM and comes in storage options of 32GB or 64GB. In contrast, the iPhone 6 features the more powerful A8 chip with 1GB of RAM and storage configurations up to 128GB. This difference in processing power translates directly into app responsiveness and multitasking ability.

Feature	iPod Touch 5	iPhone 6
Processor	A5 (Dual-core)	A8 (Dual-core 64-bit)
RAM	512MB	1GB
Display Size	4.0 inches	4.7 inches
Resolution	1136 x 640	1334 x 750
Rear Camera	5MP (no flash)	8MP (with True Tone flash)
Front Camera	1.2MP	1.2MP
Connectivity	Wi-Fi only	Wi-Fi + LTE/Bluetooth/GPS
Battery Life	Up to 40 hours audio / 8 hours video	Up to 14 hours talk time / 10 days standby

The iPhone 6 clearly outperforms the iPod Touch 5 in nearly every technical category. Its 64-bit architecture allows smoother performance with newer apps, even if both devices are now limited by outdated operating systems. The larger screen, better camera, and cellular connectivity make the iPhone 6 far more versatile.

Tip: If you're buying either device secondhand, check battery health—both suffer from degraded batteries over time, which can severely impact usability.

Software and App Ecosystem Support

One of the most critical factors in evaluating older Apple devices is software support. The iPod Touch 5 launched with iOS 6 and was last updated to iOS 9.3.5. The iPhone 6 debuted with iOS 8 and received updates up to iOS 12.5.7, the final update released in 2023 for legacy devices.

This four-year gap in software support has real consequences. Many modern apps—including Instagram, TikTok, banking apps, and messaging platforms—require iOS 12 or higher. As a result, the iPod Touch 5 cannot install these applications at all. Even if sideloaded, they often fail to function due to missing API support or security restrictions.

The iPhone 6, while no longer receiving updates, can still run many essential apps thanks to its compatibility with iOS 12. This includes Safari with modern web standards, basic Google services, and some social media clients—though performance may be sluggish.

“Legacy iOS devices lose functionality not just from age, but from deliberate platform shifts. An app that worked in 2018 might vanish from the App Store by 2024.” — David Lin, Mobile Software Analyst

Use Case Scenarios: Who Should Consider Each Device?

The iPod Touch 5 excels as a dedicated media player or gaming device for younger users. Without cellular capability, it avoids distractions like calls and texts, making it ideal for children or as a portable music/video device. It supports iCloud, FaceTime over Wi-Fi, and thousands of classic games optimized for iOS 9.

However, its lack of GPS, cellular data, and modern app support limits practicality. You can’t use ride-sharing apps, navigation, or even two-factor authentication via SMS. For anyone needing internet access beyond home Wi-Fi, the iPod Touch 5 is impractical.

The iPhone 6, despite its age, functions as a minimalist smartphone. With a working SIM card and carrier support (though many networks have phased out 3G), it can still make calls, send texts, and access mobile data. It also has GPS, enabling offline maps and location-based services. This makes it viable as a backup phone, emergency device, or starter phone for teens.

Mini Case Study: The Student's Dilemma

Jamie, a college student on a tight budget, wanted an iOS device for note-taking, reading e-books, and listening to lectures. She considered the iPod Touch 5 because it was $30 cheaper than a used iPhone 6. After purchasing it, she discovered she couldn’t download her university’s learning management system app, which required iOS 11. She also couldn’t receive SMS verification codes for class portals. Within two weeks, she traded it in for an iPhone 6, which solved all compatibility issues despite slightly worse battery life.

Practical Checklist Before Buying Either Device

• Verify iOS version: Ensure the device can run the apps you need.
• Check battery health: Look for signs of swelling or rapid drain.
• Confirm storage capacity: 16GB models fill up quickly; aim for 32GB or higher.
• Test connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and (for iPhone) cellular signal.
• Inspect physical condition: Scratches, cracks, or unresponsive touchscreens reduce usability.
• Reset and set up as new: Avoid devices with activation locks or unknown ownership.

Longevity and Future Viability

Neither device is future-proof. Apple ended major updates for both years ago, and third-party developers continue dropping support for pre-iOS-10 hardware. Security patches are rare, leaving them vulnerable to known exploits. Public Wi-Fi usage carries higher risk.

That said, the iPhone 6 holds greater longevity. Its support for iOS 12 means it can still act as a functional communication tool, whereas the iPod Touch 5 is increasingly relegated to nostalgia or retro gaming. Emulators for classic consoles run well on the A5 chip, and jailbroken units can access alternative app stores—but these require technical effort and compromise security.

Tip: If using either device long-term, disable automatic app updates and stick to lightweight web browsers like iCab Mobile to extend usability.

FAQ

Can the iPod Touch 5 get iOS 10 or later?

No. The iPod Touch 5th generation maxes out at iOS 9.3.5. Apple did not provide iOS 10 or any later versions for this model.

Is the iPhone 6 still usable in 2024?

Limitedly. It works for basic tasks like calling, texting, light browsing, and running older apps. However, many modern apps won't install, and performance lags with complex websites or multitasking.

Can I use FaceTime on the iPod Touch 5?

Yes, but only over Wi-Fi. The front-facing camera supports 720p video, and FaceTime audio/video calls work between Apple IDs. Note: newer encryption standards may block some connections.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

The iPod Touch 5 was once a compelling alternative to the iPhone—a sleek, affordable way to enjoy iOS without a carrier contract. But today, its technological limitations render it obsolete for most practical uses. The iPhone 6, while aging, offers significantly better performance, broader app compatibility, and essential smartphone features like GPS and cellular connectivity.

If you’re choosing between the two in 2024, the iPhone 6 is almost always the better investment. The minimal price difference in the secondhand market doesn’t justify sacrificing functionality. The iPod Touch 5 may appeal to collectors or those seeking a distraction-free media player, but even then, newer alternatives like refurbished iPads or Android Go phones offer better value.

For anyone relying on digital tools for education, communication, or daily tasks, upgrading beyond these legacy devices—or opting for the more capable iPhone 6—is the smarter path forward.

🚀 Ready to upgrade wisely? Share your experience with older Apple devices or leave a comment with your thoughts on keeping vintage tech alive in a modern world.