The iPhone 7 Plus, released in 2016, was a landmark device for Apple—offering dual cameras, water resistance, and strong performance for its time. Many users still rely on it today, a testament to iOS optimization and build quality. But as we move further into 2024, the question arises: Is upgrading to the iPhone 11, released in 2019, actually worthwhile now?
While both phones are technically outdated compared to newer models like the iPhone 15 series, the jump from iPhone 7 Plus to iPhone 11 represents a generational leap in hardware, software support, and user experience. For long-time 7 Plus owners, this upgrade isn’t just about new features—it’s about future-proofing your device in an ecosystem that increasingly favors modern hardware.
Performance and Hardware: A Clear Leap Forward
The most significant difference between the two devices lies under the hood. The iPhone 7 Plus runs on the A10 Fusion chip, which, while impressive in its day, struggles with demanding apps and multitasking in 2024. In contrast, the iPhone 11 is powered by the A13 Bionic chip—a processor that still handles everyday tasks, gaming, and even some AR applications smoothly.
Beyond the CPU, the iPhone 11 offers double the base storage (64GB vs. 32GB), faster RAM management, and support for Wi-Fi 6 and Gigabit-class LTE. These improvements translate into quicker app launches, smoother background processing, and better connectivity—especially noticeable when streaming, downloading, or using cloud services.
Camera Improvements That Matter
The camera system is where the iPhone 11 truly outshines its predecessor. The 7 Plus featured a solid dual-camera setup with 12MP wide and telephoto lenses, enabling 2x optical zoom and basic Portrait mode. However, lighting performance, especially in low light, was limited.
The iPhone 11 introduces Night mode, significantly larger sensors, and computational photography powered by the A13 chip. Its ultra-wide lens adds creative flexibility, allowing you to capture landscapes or group shots that weren’t possible before. Front-facing video also improves dramatically—the 7 Plus maxes out at 1080p HD at 30fps, while the iPhone 11 supports 4K at 60fps and includes Slofies (slow-motion selfies).
“Smart HDR and Night mode on the iPhone 11 changed how average users take photos. You don’t need to be a photographer to get great results in dim lighting.” — David Kim, Mobile Photography Analyst at TechLens Review
Software Support and Longevity
Apple typically supports iPhones with iOS updates for 5–6 years after release. The iPhone 7 Plus received its last major update with iOS 16; it is not compatible with iOS 17. This means no new features, reduced app compatibility over time, and potential security risks as developers phase out support for older OS versions.
In contrast, the iPhone 11 launched with iOS 13 and is fully compatible with iOS 17—and likely to receive iOS 18 in 2024. This extended support window ensures access to new features like enhanced privacy controls, improved Focus modes, and continued compatibility with modern apps such as banking tools, fitness trackers, and productivity suites.
| Feature | iPhone 7 Plus | iPhone 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | A10 Fusion | A13 Bionic |
| Rear Cameras | Dual 12MP (Wide + Telephoto) | Dual 12MP (Wide + Ultra-Wide) |
| Front Camera | 7MP, 1080p video | 12MP, 4K@60fps, Slofie |
| Low-Light Performance | No Night mode | Night mode on all cameras |
| iOS Support (Latest) | iOS 16 (Final) | iOS 17+, expected iOS 18 |
| Water Resistance | IP67 (1m for 30 min) | IP68 (2m for 30 min) |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 14 hours | Up to 17 hours |
| Charging | Lightsaber or 5W adapter | Supports 18W fast charging (adapter sold separately) |
Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Experience
Sarah had been using her iPhone 7 Plus since 2017. By late 2023, she noticed her phone freezing during FaceTime calls, struggling to load maps in Google Maps, and failing to install the latest version of her bank’s app. She considered buying a used iPhone 11 for $250 instead of investing in a newer flagship.
After upgrading, she immediately noticed faster app loading, clearer video calls, and the ability to use Dark Mode consistently across apps—a feature introduced in iOS 13 but not impactful on her older device due to sluggish rendering. Most importantly, her phone stayed functional through daily commutes, grocery scanning, and remote work meetings without unexpected restarts.
“It felt like getting a new lease on digital life,” she said. “I didn’t realize how much I was compromising until I had something that kept up.”
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Upgrade Decision
- Evaluate Your Current Pain Points: Are you experiencing frequent crashes, slow performance, or inability to update apps?
- Check App Compatibility: Try installing essential apps (e.g., mobile banking, Zoom, Uber). If they won’t install or run poorly, your hardware may be obsolete.
- Assess Battery Health: Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. If maximum capacity is below 80%, replacement costs may rival upgrade savings.
- Research Secondhand Prices: Used iPhone 11 units range from $180–$280 depending on condition. Compare this to repair costs for your 7 Plus.
- Test iOS 17 Features: Visit an Apple Store or use a friend’s device to experience features like Live Text, improved Siri, and enhanced privacy tracking.
- Decide Based on Value: If your 7 Plus requires repairs or limits your daily functionality, even a modestly priced iPhone 11 offers substantial ROI.
Common Questions Answered
Will my accessories work with the iPhone 11?
Most Lightning cables, headphones, and cases designed for the iPhone 7 Plus will work with the iPhone 11. However, due to slight differences in dimensions and camera placement, older cases may not fit perfectly or block the wider lens.
Can the iPhone 11 last another 3–4 years?
Yes. Given Apple’s track record, the iPhone 11 is likely to receive iOS updates through at least 2025, possibly into 2026. With moderate usage and occasional battery replacements, it remains viable for daily tasks well into the late 2020s.
Is there a noticeable design change?
The iPhone 11 uses a glass-and-aluminum design similar to the 7 Plus, but swaps the home button for Face ID. The notch takes some getting used to, but gestures streamline navigation once learned. The back glass also enables wireless charging—a feature absent on the 7 Plus.
Final Checklist Before Upgrading
- ✅ Back up your iPhone 7 Plus via iCloud or iTunes
- ✅ Verify if your carrier supports iPhone 11 (all major carriers do)
- ✅ Disable Find My iPhone before selling or recycling
- ✅ Purchase from reputable sellers (Swappa, Amazon Renewed, Apple Certified Refurbished)
- ✅ Enable Two-Factor Authentication before transfer
- ✅ Reset your old device to factory settings after migration
Conclusion: Yes, It’s Worth It—If You Need Reliability
For users still clinging to the iPhone 7 Plus out of loyalty or frugality, the upgrade to iPhone 11 isn't about chasing novelty—it's about reclaiming reliability. In 2024, the 7 Plus exists on the edge of obsolescence. It can’t run the latest iOS, struggles with modern apps, and lacks critical features like Night mode and fast charging.
The iPhone 11 bridges the gap between affordability and functionality. At typical resale prices, it offers years of dependable service, better photos, longer software support, and a smoother overall experience. It won’t match the speed of an iPhone 15, but for someone coming from a six-year-old device, the difference feels transformative.
If your phone is slowing you down, limiting your access to essential tools, or holding you back from enjoying simple digital moments, then yes—upgrading from iPhone 7 Plus to iPhone 11 is absolutely worth it in the current year.
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