Should I Get iPhone 6s or 6s Plus? The Honest Truth
Honestly, I still remember the first time I held an iPhone 6s. It was the Rose Gold version, and at the time, it felt like holding the future. But the real question, the one that plagued me when I was standing in the Apple store, was: should I get iPhone 6s or 6s Plus? It’s a choice that still matters, even years later, because you might be considering a used one or find yourself with the same dilemma as I had.
I made the wrong choice, initially. I went with the 6s and regretted it almost immediately. The screen felt cramped, especially after coming from a larger Android phone. I thought I would get used to it, but I never did. What I learned the hard way is that the decision isn’t just about size; it’s about how you *use* your phone.
The iPhone 6s and 6s Plus are still viable options for anyone on a budget, or simply looking for a reliable phone. They may not have all the bells and whistles of the latest models, but they still get the job done. That’s why figuring out if you should get iPhone 6s or 6s Plus is so important.
The Big Screen vs. The Small Screen: What Really Matters?
The most obvious difference between the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus is the screen size. The 6s has a 4.7-inch display, while the 6s Plus boasts a 5.5-inch screen. This seems straightforward, but it’s where the real complexity begins. I’ve heard so many people say screen size is all that matters, but I disagree. The screen size does matter, but it’s not the only factor and it is definitely not the only thing you should consider.
Think about how you primarily use your phone. Do you consume a lot of video content? Are you a mobile gamer? Texting is also something to consider. The larger screen of the 6s Plus provides a more immersive experience for these activities. The extra screen real estate makes a huge difference. For reading, browsing, and even typing, the Plus wins hands down. And believe me, the difference is very obvious.
That said, bigger isn’t always better. The iPhone 6s is more pocketable and easier to use with one hand. I once witnessed a friend struggle to use his Plus while trying to pay for something at a crowded coffee shop. He was fumbling and dropping it, and it just looked awkward. The ergonomics, the feel in your hand, are important. The smaller size can be a real advantage if you’re always on the move.
The difference, like choosing between a compact car and an SUV, comes down to your personal needs. Consider whether you want portability or immersive viewing. Consider how you actually *use* your phone. The ‘best’ choice is the one that fits your lifestyle. Ask yourself: does the size fit your lifestyle?
I can also personally say that the smaller size of the 6s is more comfortable to hold for extended periods. The bigger Plus can feel like holding a small tablet, whereas the 6s is easier to maneuver when I’m walking around or just relaxing. Ultimately, the question of ‘should i get iphone 6s or 6s plus’ comes down to a matter of use, but also personal preference. (See Also: Can I Photoshop On Iphone )
The Camera: More Than Just Megapixels
Beyond screen size, the camera is a critical consideration. Both the 6s and 6s Plus have a 12-megapixel rear camera, a significant upgrade over previous models. The image quality from both phones is quite good for their age, but there’s a difference: the 6s Plus has optical image stabilization (OIS). OIS helps reduce blur caused by hand shake, especially in low-light conditions or when taking videos.
I vividly remember when I first tried the camera on the 6s Plus. I was at a concert, and I was shocked at how well the video came out. The image was much steadier than what I had gotten on other phones without OIS. The 6s also takes good photos and videos, but the Plus is a step up, especially in challenging lighting scenarios. The difference is immediately apparent.
The 6s Plus can also take better photos. This is because the OIS helps prevent blur, but it also helps the camera gather more light. This can result in photos with richer colors and more detail. Consumer Reports has frequently highlighted the benefits of OIS, especially in testing phones’ low-light capabilities.
The 6s Plus camera also has a slightly different lens system, which can result in images that are better optimized. For many people, the camera is the most important feature of a smartphone. If you take a lot of photos or videos, especially in environments where there’s not a lot of light, the 6s Plus is definitely worth the consideration.
Here is what the image quality in the 6s looks like. The images can look fine, but they simply do not look as crisp as the Plus’ photos. The video quality is a bit shaky, which can be frustrating. So, if the camera is important to you, the Plus gives you more.
Battery Life: A Marathon, Not a Sprint
Battery life is another major point of distinction. The iPhone 6s Plus has a larger battery than the 6s, and it makes a noticeable difference. I was once on a cross-country road trip, and my friend’s 6s Plus consistently lasted a full day of heavy use, while my 6s would often need a top-up by mid-afternoon. That was after only about a year of using both phones.
The increased battery capacity in the 6s Plus means you can spend more time doing the things you want without worrying about finding an outlet. This is especially helpful if you travel frequently or use your phone for work. You can feel the relief of not having to constantly monitor your battery percentage. It’s a huge stress reduction. (See Also: Can I Hard Reset My Iphone )
The iPhone 6s, on the other hand, might require more careful management. You may need to adjust your usage patterns or carry a portable charger. I found myself obsessively closing apps and turning off features to preserve battery life, which detracted from the experience of actually using the phone. The difference in battery performance can dramatically affect your daily life.
The average user might get about 10-12 hours of use on the 6s, while the 6s Plus can easily stretch to 16 hours or more, depending on your usage. It is the kind of detail that is not obvious, but it can make or break your day. Battery life is something you should consider when you ask yourself ‘should i get iphone 6s or 6s plus’.
Consider this: on a long flight, you can watch several movies on the 6s Plus without a problem. The 6s is likely to run out of juice halfway through the second movie. That is a tangible difference that will matter to people.
Performance: Speed and Smoothness
Both phones are powered by the A9 chip, which was a significant upgrade at the time of release. However, the 6s Plus often feels a bit smoother, because the larger screen and the higher resolution require more processing power. When I used both phones side-by-side, I noticed that switching between apps and loading graphics-intensive games was slightly faster on the Plus.
The difference isn’t enormous, but it is noticeable. If you are a gamer or you use a lot of demanding apps, the Plus might give you a slightly better experience. I remember playing ‘Asphalt 8’ on both phones. The frame rates were a bit better on the Plus, and it was a more enjoyable experience overall.
That said, both phones are still capable of handling most everyday tasks with ease. Web browsing, social media, and email are all smooth on both devices. Also, keep in mind that the software is something you should definitely consider. Apple stopped providing updates in 2022. This means that both phones will not have any new features or security updates. This is a potential risk to the user’s data and privacy.
It is worth noting that both phones are still useful for the basics. So you should ask yourself if you need the latest and greatest features. If not, the processing speed difference may not be significant. Both the 6s and the 6s Plus are still responsive and usable, but the lack of updates will eventually be an issue. (See Also: Who Makes Iphone X Screen )
Pricing: The Cost of a Classic
The price is a crucial factor, especially if you’re buying used or refurbished. Since these phones are older, they’re significantly more affordable than the latest models. I recall seeing them listed for around $150-$250, depending on the condition and storage capacity. The price difference between the 6s and 6s Plus is often minimal, usually a few bucks.
The actual price varies a lot, depending on the seller and the condition of the phone. You may be able to find deals, so it is worthwhile to check out a few different places. You can compare the phone’s condition, battery health, and storage capacity to choose the best option. It is worth it to pay a little more for a phone in better condition.
With a limited budget, you can probably only afford one or the other. You may also want to purchase a case and screen protector. Given the age of the phones, you may want to buy these accessories to protect them. This all factors into the decision.
However, the lack of software support is a drawback to be aware of. You are essentially buying a phone that is no longer supported by its manufacturer. This means no security updates and no new features. You have to consider this when weighing the cost against the benefits.
iPhone 6s vs. 6s Plus: A Comparison Table
| Feature | iPhone 6s | iPhone 6s Plus | My Opinion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 4.7 inches | 5.5 inches | If you consume a lot of content, the Plus is better. |
| Camera (Rear) | 12MP | 12MP with OIS | The OIS in the Plus makes a significant difference for photos and videos. |
| Battery Life | Moderate | Excellent | The Plus offers much better battery life. |
| Performance | A9 chip | A9 chip | Both are good, but the Plus is slightly smoother. |
| Price | Generally cheaper | Slightly more expensive (but often negligible) | Consider the overall value. |
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice of whether you should get iphone 6s or 6s plus depends on your priorities. Do you value portability and ease of use above all else? Then the 6s might be the right fit. Do you need a better camera and longer battery life? Then the 6s Plus is probably the better choice.
There’s no single ‘right’ answer. Both phones are still useful and can be an excellent choice if you’re on a budget. You have to decide which one fits your specific needs the best. Think about how you’ll use the phone, the features that matter most to you, and, of course, your personal preferences.
I’ve made my choice. If you are still asking, ‘should i get iphone 6s or 6s plus,’ consider your usage and budget. The 6s Plus is the better option for most people.
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