iPhone iPhone 7 Plus: Is It Still Worth Buying in 2025?
Introduction
The iPhone iPhone 7 Plus, released in 2016, remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers and Apple enthusiasts. But is it still a viable option in 2025? In this article, we’ll explore the specifications, performance, camera quality, and overall usability of the iPhone 7 Plus to determine if it’s worth purchasing today.
iPhone iPhone 7 Plus: Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 5.5-inch Retina HD |
| Processor | A10 Fusion Chip |
| RAM | 3GB |
| Storage Options | 32GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Camera | Dual 12MP (Wide & Telephoto) |
| Front Camera | 7MP FaceTime HD |
| Battery Life | Up to 21 hours talk time |
| Operating System | Upgradable to iOS 15 |
| Water Resistance | IP67 rating |
| Headphone Jack | No |
| Connectivity | LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2 |
Performance in 2025
Despite being nearly a decade old, the iPhone 7 Plus still offers a decent performance level for everyday tasks. The A10 Fusion chip, though outdated compared to newer models, handles basic operations like web browsing, social media, and video streaming smoothly. However, gaming and intensive apps may struggle due to its aging hardware.
Pros of iPhone 7 Plus Performance:
- Handles basic tasks efficiently
- Smooth iOS experience
- Still receives security updates
Cons of iPhone 7 Plus Performance:
- Outdated processor for high-end apps
- Limited iOS update support beyond 2025
Camera Quality: Still Competitive?
The iPhone 7 Plus was the first Apple phone to introduce a dual-lens camera system, featuring a 12MP wide and telephoto lens. While it doesn’t compare to modern iPhone 15 Pro models, it still delivers good quality photos in daylight.
Camera Strengths:
- Portrait Mode with depth effect
- Optical zoom (2x) and digital zoom (up to 10x)
- Decent low-light performance
Camera Weaknesses:
- No Night Mode
- Limited AI image processing compared to newer models
Battery Life and Charging
The battery life on the iPhone 7 Plus is reasonable, providing up to 21 hours of talk time. However, its battery capacity has likely degraded over time, requiring a battery replacement for optimal use.
Battery Performance:
- Pros: Lasts a full day with light use
- Cons: No fast charging, no wireless charging
iOS and Software Support
One major concern with the iPhone 7 Plus in 2025 is its limited iOS support. Apple generally provides updates for 5-6 years, and the iPhone 7 Plus stopped at iOS 15. This means it lacks newer features and security patches.
Is the iPhone 7 Plus Still Worth Buying?
Who Should Consider It?
- Budget-conscious users looking for an affordable iPhone
- Kids and seniors needing a simple, reliable phone
- Backup phone users who need a secondary device
Who Should Skip It?
- Gamers and power users who need the latest performance
- Users wanting the latest iOS features
- Professionals relying on top-tier camera quality
Alternative Options in 2025
If you’re considering an iPhone upgrade, here are some better alternatives:
| Model | Key Upgrade |
| iPhone 8 Plus | Wireless charging, A11 Bionic chip |
| iPhone XR | Better battery, Face ID, A12 Bionic chip |
| iPhone 11 | Night Mode, improved battery, A13 Bionic chip |
| iPhone SE (2022) | A15 Bionic chip, compact design |
FAQ Section
1. Can I still buy a new iPhone 7 Plus in 2025?
No, Apple discontinued new sales. However, refurbished and second-hand models are available on Amazon, eBay, and Swappa.
2. Will the iPhone 7 Plus still receive updates?
No, the last iOS version for the iPhone 7 Plus was iOS 15. It will not receive further updates beyond security patches.
3. Is the iPhone 7 Plus good for gaming?
Not really. The A10 Fusion chip is outdated, and newer games may lag.
4. How much does a refurbished iPhone 7 Plus cost in 2025?
Prices vary, but expect $100 – $200, depending on condition and storage size.
5. Does the iPhone 7 Plus have wireless charging?
No, wireless charging was introduced with the iPhone 8.
6. Can I use 5G on the iPhone 7 Plus?
No, the iPhone 7 Plus only supports 4G LTE.
Conclusion
The iPhone iPhone 7 Plus is still a functional device in 2025 but has significant limitations compared to newer models. If you’re on a tight budget or need a secondary device, it can be a decent choice. However, for long-term use, consider newer iPhones with better performance, battery life, and software support.
