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

iPhone Q&A

Update Published October 11, 2022

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

Please note the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus models have been discontinued. However, this Q&A has been updated with the latest on iOS support details and more. It is quite useful to anyone buying or selling one of these models on the used market.

Only you can decide if an iPhone 6s or iPhone 6s Plus is right for you, but the below objective pros and cons can help.

EveryiPhone.com also provides a detailed iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s 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 ideal:

iPhone 6s

Pros:

Relatively large, high-quality 4.7" (1334x750) display in a pocketable size.
High quality cameras.
Less costly upfront than the iPhone 6s Plus.
Designed for convenient one-handed use for most people.

iPhone 6s Plus

Pros:

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

Pros (Both Models):

Thin, substantial feeling 7000 series aluminum case design for durability.
Rubber gasket improves waterproofing compared to previous iPhone models.
Ion-strengthened glass cover makes the display harder to break than earlier iPhone models.
Fast second generation "Touch ID" biometric fingerprint authentication functionality.
Fast performance and 2 GB of RAM.
3D touch for enhanced functionality and ease-of-use.
Essentially global 4G/LTE support.
Generally solid battery life.
4K video support and fun "Live Photos" functionality.
Relatively inexpensive upfront if tied to an often expensive contract, but lease options also were available for the first time.
Compatible with iOS 15, although significant features are not supported (it is not compatible with iOS 16 or later versions of the iOS, including the current version).

iPhone 6s

Cons:

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

iPhone 6s Plus

Cons:

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

Cons (Both Models):

Rounded edges make these models easy to drop, although the finish is less slick than the earlier iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.
Cameras lack optical zoom.
Battery life can be inferior to the previous iPhone models in some tasks.
Smallest 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. On the used market, these models now are quite inexpensive.
No longer compatible with the current version of the iOS.

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

Unless you prefer a smaller physical size, the iPhone 6s or iPhone 6s Plus were the best iPhone models that money could buy at the time of their release (now later iPhone models like the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus and even newer models are better still).

Compared just to one another, EveryiPhone.com would suggest getting the iPhone 6s as it is more suitable for carrying around and one-handed use. However, if you mostly read text, watch video, and play games -- and you don't mind typically carrying your mobile in a bag or purse -- the iPhone 6s Plus might be preferable for your needs. If you find either size acceptable, the iPhone 6s Plus most notably provides a better camera and longer battery life, and longer battery life never is a bad thing. The iPhone 6s Plus is more expensive, though.

These days, the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus still are worth considering on the used market for those on a very tight budget. However, because they no longer support the current version of the iOS, app support will start to quickly wane from here on out.

iPhone Purchase & Sale Options

There are many places to buy a used iPhone 6s or iPhone 6s Plus. 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 sponsor Other World Computing sells 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.

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