The Apple iPhone 6 was launched in September 2014, marking a significant shift in Apple’s smartphone design philosophy. It introduced a larger display, sleeker build, and improved hardware over its predecessor, the iPhone 5s. As one of Apple’s best-selling smartphones, the iPhone 6 remains a budget-friendly option for those seeking an iOS device at an affordable price.
Who Should Buy the iPhone 6?
- Casual users who need a reliable phone for calls, messaging, and social media.
- Apple ecosystem enthusiasts looking for a secondary device.
- Parents buying a first phone for their kids.
- Seniors who prefer a simple and easy-to-use smartphone.
Design & Display
Design
The iPhone 6 features a premium aluminum unibody with rounded edges, making it feel smooth and comfortable in hand. The device is incredibly thin at 6.9mm, lighter than many modern smartphones. However, its protruding camera lens was a controversial design choice.
Display
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 4.7 inches |
| Resolution | 1334 x 750 pixels |
| Pixel Density | 326 PPI |
| Display Technology | IPS LCD (Retina HD) |
| Protection | Ion-strengthened glass with an oleophobic coating |
Despite lacking modern AMOLED technology, the Retina HD display delivers natural colors, good brightness, and clear text. However, compared to newer iPhones, contrast and vibrancy are lower.
Performance & Hardware
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Apple A8 (20 nm) |
| CPU | Dual-core 1.4 GHz Typhoon |
| GPU | PowerVR GX6450 |
| RAM | 1GB LPDDR3 |
| Storage Options | 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB (No microSD expansion) |
While Apple’s A8 chip was powerful in 2014, it struggles with modern, demanding apps. Basic tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming run smoothly, but performance drops with multitasking or high-end games like PUBG Mobile.
Camera Performance
Rear Camera
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 8 MP |
| Aperture | f/2.2 |
| Autofocus | Phase Detection (PDAF) |
| Flash | Dual-LED, Dual-tone |
| Video | 1080p @ 60fps, 720p @ 240fps (slow motion) |
The 8MP iSight camera offers decent quality in daylight, producing sharp and color-accurate photos. However, low-light performance is weak, with noticeable noise and reduced detail.
Front Camera
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 1.2 MP |
| Aperture | f/2.2 |
| Video | 720p @ 30fps |
Selfie quality is basic, enough for FaceTime but not for serious photography.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 1810 mAh |
| Screen-On Time | ~4-5 hours |
| Charging Port | Lightning |
| Fast Charging | No |
| Wireless Charging | No |
Battery life is mediocre by today’s standards, lasting a full day with light use but struggling with heavy usage. Charging time is slow, taking over 2 hours to reach 100%.
Software & Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating System | iOS 12.5.7 (No further updates) |
| Security | Touch ID (Fingerprint sensor) |
| Face ID | No |
| Water Resistance | No |
The iPhone 6 runs iOS 12, meaning it no longer receives updates, making some apps incompatible. Touch ID remains a fast and secure way to unlock the phone, but Face ID is absent.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Premium build quality
- Compact and lightweight
- Reliable Touch ID
- Good camera for daylight photography
- Still supports key iOS apps (social media, web browsing, music streaming)
Cons
- Outdated hardware (struggles with demanding tasks)
- Limited RAM (1GB leads to app reloads frequently)
- No iOS updates beyond iOS 12
- Weak low-light camera performance
- Poor battery life compared to modern phones
Competitor Comparison
| Feature | iPhone 6 | iPhone SE (2016) | Samsung Galaxy A10 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 4.7” Retina HD | 4.0” Retina HD | 6.2” PLS LCD |
| Chipset | Apple A8 | Apple A9 | Exynos 7884 |
| RAM | 1GB | 2GB | 2GB |
| Rear Camera | 8MP | 12MP | 13MP |
| Battery | 1810mAh | 1624mAh | 3400mAh |
| OS | iOS 12 | iOS 15 | Android 9 |
| Price (Used) | ~$50-80 | ~$80-120 | ~$100-130 |
If you prefer an iPhone with longer support, the iPhone SE (2016) is a better choice. For an Android alternative with better battery life, the Samsung Galaxy A10 is a solid pick.
Conclusion – Should You Buy the iPhone 6?
If you are looking for an affordable iPhone for basic tasks, the iPhone 6 is still a reasonable choice. However, if you need long-term support, better performance, and an improved camera, consider newer models like the iPhone SE (2016) or iPhone 7.
Who Should Buy the iPhone 6?
- First-time iPhone users on a tight budget.
- Light users who only need basic functions (calls, messaging, web browsing).
- Collectors or Apple fans looking for a nostalgic piece.
Who Should Avoid It?
- Gamers or heavy users who require strong performance.
- Users who want the latest iOS features.
- Those who need long battery life.
Would you still consider buying an iPhone 6 today? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
