iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus Pros and Cons: EveryiPhone.com

iPhone Q&A

Update Published September 9, 2020

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What are the "pros and cons" of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus? Which one should I buy?

Please note that the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus have been discontinued. However, this Q&A subsequently has been updated with current iOS details and more and can be quite helpul to anyone buying or selling one of these models on the used market.

Only you can choose to buy an iPhone 6 or an iPhone 6 Plus (or a newer or older model), but you can evaluate the following objective pros and cons to see if one best meets your needs.

EveryiPhone.com also provides a detailed iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus comparison that can be useful for those interested in a more in-depth evaluation. However, for those who prefer a quick summary rather than exhaustive details, the following can be quite helpful:

iPhone 6

Pros:

Relatively large, high-quality 4.7" (1334x750) display in a pocketable size.
High quality cameras.
Less expensive upfront than the iPhone 6 Plus.
Easy for most people to use with one-hand.

iPhone 6 Plus

Pros:

Comparatively huge, high-quality 5.5" (1920x1080) display.
High quality cameras, including optical image stabilization on the rear camera.
Longest battery life.

Pros (Both Models):

Thin, sleek, lightweight designs in attractive color options.
Embedded "Touch ID" biometric fingerprint authentication functionality.
Fast performance.
Basically global 4G/LTE support.
Solid battery life.
128 GB storage options for the first time in an iPhone.
Originally were inexpensive upfront if tied to an often expensive contract.

iPhone 6

Cons:

Rear camera lacks optical image stabilization like the iPhone 6 Plus.
Comparatively smaller display shows less info at one time than its larger counterpart.
Shorter battery life than iPhone 6 Plus.

iPhone 6 Plus

Cons:

Large size makes this model difficult for many to use, and easier to drop, with one-handed operation.

Cons (Both Models):

Does not support iOS 13 or later versions of the iOS, including the current version.
Slick finish and rounded edges make these models particularly easy to drop.
Easier to bend than both earlier and later iPhone models.
Slower than newer iPhone models.
Cameras lack optical zoom.
Least expensive 16 GB storage options likely are insufficient for many users.
Unlocked and contract-free models originally were considerably more expensive than contract encumbered models and the iPod touch line.

So, should I buy an iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus?

Unless you are on a very tight budget, an iPhone 6s or iPhone 6s Plus (or even newer model) would be a better choice. All newer models are less likely to bend, have stronger and more advanced displays, faster performance, better cameras, better connectivity, support newer versions of the iOS, and more.

Just compared to one another, in basic terms, the decision to get an iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus mostly comes down to size. The iPhone 6 is more suitable for one-handed use whereas the iPhone 6 Plus is better for someone who mostly carries the device in a bag or purse; mostly uses the device to read text, watch video, and play games; and likes to use the device in landscape (horizontal) mode with two hands most of the time.

If you find either size attractive, the iPhone 6 Plus does provide a better camera and longer battery life, which are the most notable advantages over its smaller counterpart.

These days, note that the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus models no longer support the current version of the iOS. Accordingly, although they remain quite usable, support for current apps will start to wane from here on out.

iPhone Purchase Options

There are many places to buy a new or used iPhone. However, buying your iPhone from a good company with an excellent reputation -- and quality after sales support -- will provide the ideal experience and save you money and time, too.

In the US, site sponsors Other World Computing and JemJem sell used and refurbished iPhone models with free shipping. On the other hand, if you need to sell an iPhone, A+ BBB-rated Cash for Your Mac and GoRoostr will buy your older iPhone with an instant quote and prompt payment.

In Australia, site sponsor Mac City likewise has a variety of used iPhone models sold at low prices and available with a free warranty and fast shipping across Australia.

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