Still a Powerhouse in 2023: Is iPhone 7 Plus Still Worth It?

In the fast-paced world of smartphones, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest and greatest models. With new devices being released every year, it’s natural to wonder whether older models like the iPhone 7 Plus are still worth considering. After all, the iPhone 7 Plus was first released in 2016, which is ancient history in smartphone years. But despite its age, the iPhone 7 Plus remains a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable iPhone experience.

Design and Build Quality

One of the most significant advantages of the iPhone 7 Plus is its design and build quality. The device features a sleek and sturdy aluminum body that exudes premium quality. The phone’s rounded edges and smooth curves make it comfortable to hold and use, even with one hand. The iPhone 7 Plus also features IP67 water and dust resistance, which means it can withstand accidental splashes and drops.

Although the iPhone 7 Plus’s design may not be as cutting-edge as newer models, it still looks and feels like a high-end device. The phone’s 5.5-inch screen is still plenty large enough to enjoy movies, games, and browsing the web, and the display’s bright and vibrant colors hold up well even in direct sunlight.

Performance

When the iPhone 7 Plus was first released, its A10 Fusion chip was one of the fastest mobile processors on the market. While it may not be as blazingly fast as newer iPhones, the A10 Fusion still provides more than enough power to handle everyday tasks like browsing, emailing, and using social media.

In fact, the iPhone 7 Plus’s performance is still more than capable of running demanding apps and games smoothly. You may notice some occasional lag or stuttering, but overall, the phone’s performance remains snappy and responsive.

Benchmark Scores

To give you a better idea of the iPhone 7 Plus’s performance, here are some benchmark scores:

| Benchmark | Score |
| — | — |
| Geekbench 5 | 346 (Single-Core), 566 (Multi-Core) |
| 3DMark Sling Shot Extreme | 1,322 |

As you can see, the iPhone 7 Plus still holds its own against newer devices, especially when it comes to single-core performance.

One of the standout features of the iPhone 7 Plus is its dual-camera setup. The phone features a 12-megapixel telephoto lens and a 12-megapixel wide-angle lens, which work together to create stunning portraits with blurred backgrounds.

The iPhone 7 Plus’s camera app is still incredibly easy to use, with intuitive controls and features like optical zoom, Portrait mode, and Live Photos. The camera also excels in low-light conditions, capturing bright and detailed images even in dimly lit environments.

Camera Features

Here are some of the key camera features of the iPhone 7 Plus:

  • Optical zoom: up to 2x
  • Digital zoom: up to 10x
  • Portrait mode with Depth Effect
  • Live Photos with stabilization
  • 4K video recording at 30fps or 60fps
  • Slo-mo video recording in 1080p at 120fps

Battery Life

One of the biggest advantages of the iPhone 7 Plus is its battery life. With moderate use, the phone easily lasts a full day, often with around 20-30% battery life remaining by evening. Even with heavy use, the iPhone 7 Plus typically makes it through the day without needing a recharge.

Battery Life Comparison

Here’s a rough estimate of the iPhone 7 Plus’s battery life compared to newer iPhones:

iPhone ModelAverage Battery Life
iPhone 7 Plus12-14 hours
iPhone 1110-12 hours
iPhone 129-11 hours

As you can see, the iPhone 7 Plus’s battery life is still competitive with newer models, making it a great choice for those who need a phone that can last all day.

Software

The iPhone 7 Plus originally shipped with iOS 10, but it’s since been updated to iOS 15, which means it gets all the latest features and security patches. You’ll get access to features like Dark Mode, Sign in with Apple, and improved multitasking, as well as regular security updates to keep your phone safe from malware and other threats.

Value for Money

So, is the iPhone 7 Plus still worth it? The answer is a resounding yes. Considering its age, the iPhone 7 Plus is still a remarkably capable device that offers great performance, excellent cameras, and long battery life. And with its lower price point compared to newer iPhones, the iPhone 7 Plus is an excellent value for money.

In fact, the iPhone 7 Plus is often available for significantly cheaper than newer models, making it a great option for those on a budget or looking for a reliable backup phone.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the iPhone 7 Plus may not be the latest and greatest iPhone, but it’s still a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable iPhone experience. With its excellent design and build quality, snappy performance, and outstanding cameras, the iPhone 7 Plus remains a powerhouse in 2023.

So, if you’re in the market for a new iPhone but don’t want to break the bank, the iPhone 7 Plus is definitely worth considering. Just remember to check the phone’s storage capacity and condition before making a purchase, and you’ll be all set with a fantastic iPhone experience.

Does the iPhone 7 Plus still receive software updates?

The iPhone 7 Plus received its last major software update in 2020, with iOS 15. Since then, Apple has stopped releasing new software updates for the device. However, it still receives security updates and patches to fix vulnerabilities.

While it’s no longer getting new features, the iPhone 7 Plus is still secure and stable. Apple continues to support the device with security updates, which is essential for protecting your personal data and privacy. Although you won’t get the latest features, the iPhone 7 Plus remains a reliable choice for those who prioritize security.

How does the iPhone 7 Plus’s camera compare to newer models?

The iPhone 7 Plus has a dual-camera setup, which was a significant innovation when it was released in 2016. While it still takes excellent photos, especially in good lighting conditions, it lacks some features found in newer models. For example, it doesn’t have a telephoto lens with optical zoom, a feature introduced in the iPhone X.

If camera quality is a top priority, you might consider a newer iPhone model. However, if you’re satisfied with a high-quality camera that still produces excellent results, the iPhone 7 Plus is still a great choice. Additionally, the Portrait mode, which was introduced with the iPhone 7 Plus, is still a great feature that sets it apart from many other smartphones.

Is the iPhone 7 Plus still compatible with popular apps?

Yes, the iPhone 7 Plus is still compatible with most popular apps, including social media, productivity tools, and games. Although some apps might not be optimized for the device’s older hardware, they should still work smoothly. You might notice some minor differences in performance or features, but overall, the iPhone 7 Plus can still run most apps without issues.

That being said, some newer apps might not support the iPhone 7 Plus due to compatibility issues or the device’s older operating system. If you’re heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem and want to take advantage of the latest apps and features, a newer iPhone model might be a better fit.

How is the iPhone 7 Plus’s performance?

The iPhone 7 Plus’s performance is still decent, especially for everyday tasks like browsing, emailing, and social media. It has a powerful A10 Fusion chip, which provides a smooth and responsive experience. However, it’s not as fast as newer iPhone models, which have more advanced processors.

If you’re a heavy user who needs a device that can handle demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, or multitasking, you might find the iPhone 7 Plus’s performance lacking. On the other hand, if you use your phone primarily for casual tasks, the iPhone 7 Plus is still a great choice.

Can I still buy an iPhone 7 Plus from Apple?

No, Apple no longer sells the iPhone 7 Plus directly. The device was discontinued in 2019, and Apple has shifted its focus to newer models. You can still find refurbished or used iPhone 7 Plus devices from third-party sellers, but be sure to buy from a reputable source to ensure you’re getting a genuine device.

If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to newer iPhone models, consider purchasing a refurbished or used iPhone 7 Plus. Just make sure to inspect the device thoroughly and check the warranty before making a purchase.

Is the iPhone 7 Plus still a good choice for gaming?

The iPhone 7 Plus is still a decent gaming device, but it’s not ideal for demanding games that require advanced graphics and processing power. While it can handle casual games like puzzle games, strategy games, and 2D titles, it might struggle with more resource-intensive games.

If gaming is a top priority, consider a newer iPhone model with a more advanced processor and graphics capabilities. However, if you’re a casual gamer who plays less demanding titles, the iPhone 7 Plus is still a great choice.

Can I trade-in my iPhone 7 Plus for a newer model?

Yes, you can trade-in your iPhone 7 Plus for a newer model, but the trade-in value will depend on the device’s condition, storage capacity, and other factors. Check with Apple’s trade-in program or third-party trade-in services to estimate the value of your device.

Keep in mind that the trade-in value of an iPhone 7 Plus might not be as high as newer models, so you might not get a significant discount on a newer device. However, trading-in your iPhone 7 Plus can still help offset the cost of a new device.

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