Thinking Of Upgrading From Iphone 5 To Iphone 6 Is It Even Worth It In Current Year

If you're still using an iPhone 5 and considering a move to the iPhone 6, you're not alone. Many long-time Apple users cling to older devices out of loyalty, familiarity, or budget constraints. But in today’s mobile landscape—where apps demand more processing power, security updates are critical, and cellular networks are evolving—the question isn’t just about desire; it’s about practicality. Is stepping up from the iPhone 5 to the iPhone 6 a meaningful upgrade in 2024, or is it merely a stopgap before a necessary leap to something newer?

The short answer: yes, the iPhone 6 is objectively better than the iPhone 5—but with significant caveats. While the upgrade brings tangible improvements, the iPhone 6 itself is now over a decade old, discontinued, and no longer supported by modern iOS versions or app developers. Understanding the real-world implications of this transition is essential before investing time and money into such a move.

Performance and Hardware: A Noticeable Leap

The jump from the iPhone 5 to the iPhone 6 represents one of Apple’s most impactful hardware transitions of the early 2010s. Released in 2012, the iPhone 5 featured a 32-bit Apple A6 chip, 1GB of RAM, and a 4-inch Retina display. Just one year later, the iPhone 6 arrived with a 64-bit Apple A8 chip, an improved GPU, and a larger 4.7-inch Retina HD display. These changes weren't cosmetic—they fundamentally changed how smoothly the device operated.

Users upgrading from the iPhone 5 would immediately notice faster app launches, smoother scrolling, and better multitasking. The iPhone 6 also introduced support for LTE Advanced, offering faster download speeds where available. Additionally, its larger battery capacity provided better endurance, especially under the demands of iOS 8 and beyond.

Tip: If your iPhone 5 frequently freezes or fails to update apps, upgrading to iPhone 6 will provide immediate relief—even if only temporarily.

Software Support: The Critical Limitation

While the hardware improvements are clear, software support tells a different story. The iPhone 6 launched with iOS 8 and received updates through iOS 12. However, it was excluded from iOS 13 and all subsequent versions due to hardware limitations. As of 2024, that means the iPhone 6 hasn’t received a major OS update in over five years.

This lack of updates has serious consequences:

• No access to newer features like Dark Mode, App Library, or advanced privacy controls.
• Security vulnerabilities remain unpatched, increasing risk when browsing or logging into accounts.
• Many modern apps—including banking, social media, and productivity tools—no longer support iOS 12 or earlier.

“The moment a device stops receiving OS updates, its useful lifespan begins to shrink rapidly—not because it breaks, but because the digital world moves on.” — David Lin, Mobile Security Analyst at TechShield Labs

iPhone 5 vs iPhone 6: Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	iPhone 5	iPhone 6
Release Year	2012	2014
Display Size	4.0 inches	4.7 inches
Processor	A6 (32-bit)	A8 (64-bit)
RAM	1GB	1GB
Rear Camera	8MP, f/2.4	8MP, f/2.2 with Focus Pixels
Latest iOS Version	iOS 10.3.4	iOS 12.5.7
Security Updates (as of 2024)	No	Limited (last patch: Jan 2023)
App Compatibility	Poor (many apps no longer install)	Fair (some newer apps unsupported)

A Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Dilemma

Maria, a retired teacher in Portland, had been using her iPhone 5 since 2013. She loved its compact size and never saw a reason to change—until her bank app stopped working in early 2023. Attempts to log in failed, and customer support informed her that the app required iOS 13 or later. After researching options, she bought a used iPhone 6 for $75, hoping it would solve her problem.

It did—for a while. Her bank app installed successfully, and she could use WhatsApp and basic web services. But within months, she found that Instagram wouldn’t load properly, Google Maps crashed frequently, and she couldn’t download the latest version of Kindle. By late 2023, she realized she’d only delayed the inevitable. In early 2024, she upgraded to an iPhone SE (2020), which supports iOS 17 and remains compatible with current apps.

Maria’s experience reflects a common pattern: upgrading to the iPhone 6 may extend usability briefly, but it doesn’t future-proof your device.

Is It Worth It in 2024? A Practical Checklist

Before deciding whether to upgrade from iPhone 5 to iPhone 6, consider the following checklist. Answer “yes” to at least four to justify the move:

1. Do you primarily use basic functions (calls, texts, simple web browsing)?
2. Are you on a very tight budget and cannot afford a newer model?
3. Do you need temporary functionality while saving for a better phone?
4. Can you accept that many popular apps may not work or perform poorly?
5. Are you aware that no further iOS updates will be released for the iPhone 6?
6. Will this device be used by a child or secondary user with limited app needs?

If you answered “no” to most of these, the upgrade likely isn’t worth it. The iPhone 6 offers marginal gains over the iPhone 5 in today’s context, and both devices fall far behind current standards.

Better Alternatives in Today’s Market

Instead of moving from iPhone 5 to iPhone 6, consider more sustainable options that offer real longevity:

• iPhone SE (2020 or 2022): Maintains a compact form factor similar to older iPhones while running the latest iOS versions. Starts around $250–$350 used.
• Refurbished iPhone XR or iPhone 11: Offer full-screen design, Face ID, excellent cameras, and support through at least 2027. Often available for under $200.
• Carrier trade-in programs: Many carriers offer discounts on newer models when trading in any functional iPhone, even outdated ones.

For less than the cost of two iPhone 6 units in poor condition, you can acquire a device that will serve you reliably for several years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 6 still receive security updates?

Apple issued a final security patch for the iPhone 6 (iOS 12.5.7) in January 2023 to address critical vulnerabilities. No further updates are expected. This means the device is increasingly exposed to online threats.

Will WhatsApp work on iPhone 6?

As of 2024, WhatsApp requires iOS 12.0 or later, so it technically runs on iPhone 6. However, performance is often sluggish, and future updates may drop support entirely. Users report frequent crashes and sync issues.

Is the iPhone 6 waterproof?

No. The iPhone 6 has no official water resistance rating. Unlike modern iPhones, it lacks seals and coatings to protect against moisture. Even minor exposure can cause permanent damage.

Final Verdict: Upgrade Smart, Not Just Slightly

Upgrading from iPhone 5 to iPhone 6 in 2024 is like replacing worn-out sneakers with a slightly less worn pair. Yes, there’s improvement, but you’re still walking on compromised soles. The iPhone 6 was a great phone in its time, but it’s now obsolete by modern standards. If your goal is reliable communication, app access, and security, this upgrade won’t deliver long-term value.

Instead, treat your iPhone 5 as a reminder that technology evolves—and sometimes, skipping a generation or two is smarter than making incremental moves. Invest in a device that supports current software, receives regular updates, and integrates with today’s digital ecosystem. Whether it’s a recent iPhone SE or a certified refurbished model, choose longevity over nostalgia.

🚀 Ready to make a meaningful upgrade? Explore certified refurbished iPhones from Apple or trusted retailers—many come with warranties and full iOS support. Don’t just step forward; leap into a device that works for today’s world.