Apple iPhone 7 Plus Review: Is It Still a Worthy Choice in 2025?

The Apple iPhone 7 Plus, launched in September 2016, was a groundbreaking device that pushed the boundaries of smartphone technology. It introduced the dual-camera system, eliminated the headphone jack, and offered water resistance. As we enter 2025, is the iPhone 7 Plus still worth considering for budget-conscious buyers or tech enthusiasts? We will explore the full review of the iPhone 7 Plus’s design, performance, camera capabilities, and overall relevance in the current market.

iPhone 7 Plus Key Specifications

 CPUQuad-core 2.34 GHz (2x Hurricane + 2x Zephyr)
 RAM3GB (Apple A10 Fusion)
 Storage32/128/256 GB
 Camera5.5" (1080x1920 pixels)
 Display12MP 2160p (Dual) || 7MP (Single)
 Battery2900 mAh (Li-Ion)
See full specifications

Timeless Design: Aluminum and Durability

The iPhone 7 Plus features an elegant aluminum unibody that feels robust yet lightweight, weighing just 188g. It comes in 6 stunning color options, including the ever-popular Jet Black and Red Special Edition. While the design may feel slightly dated compared to modern edge-to-edge displays, it retains a charm that appeals to those who value durability and simplicity.

Key Design Features:

Here’s a list of some key features:

1. IP67 Water and Dust Resistance

• Certified to withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
• Ideal for accidental spills and light water exposure.

2. No Headphone Jack

• Pioneered the shift toward wireless audio with AirPods.
• Includes a Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter for traditional headphones.

3. Build and Dimensions

• Dimensions: 158.2 x 77.9 x 7.3 mm.
• Comfortable grip with a smooth, seamless finish.

Display: Retina IPS LCD Brilliance

The 5.5-inch Retina IPS LCD is designed to offer vibrant colors and sharp details. While it lacks the OLED panels found in newer iPhones, it still holds its own for everyday use.

• Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels (~401 PPI).
• Contrast Ratio: 1398:1 (nominal), ensuring deep blacks and vivid whites.
• Brightness: Reaches 625 nits, making it usable even under direct sunlight.

Best Display Features:

• 3D Touch: Enhances interactivity with pressure-sensitive gestures, enabling shortcuts for apps and features.
• True Tone Technology: Adjusts the display to ambient lighting conditions for better color accuracy (though limited compared to newer models).

All-New Home Button: A Subtle Evolution

The solid-state home button, introduced with the iPhone 7 Plus, uses haptic feedback to simulate a click, improving durability and functionality.

• Integrated Touch ID offers fast and secure unlocking.
• A more reliable alternative to mechanical buttons prone to wear and tear.

Performance: Powered by the A10 Fusion Chip

At the heart of the iPhone 7 Plus is the A10 Fusion chipset, which brought quad-core processing to iPhones for the first time. The CPU is divided into two high-performance cores and two energy-efficient cores, ensuring a balance between speed and battery life.

Specifications and Benchmark Score:

• RAM: 3GB ensures smooth multitasking.
• Storage Options: 32GB, 128GB, and 256GB, though limited by the lack of expandable storage.
• Benchmark Score: 3796 on Base mark OS II 2.0, outperforming the iPhone 6s Plus.

While the A10 Fusion is no longer cutting-edge, it remains capable of handling most apps and light gaming in 2025.

Camera: Dual-Lens Excellence

When introduced, the dual-camera system was a revolutionary feature, enabling users to capture stunning photos with a professional touch.

Rear Cameras:

1. Wide Lens:

• 12 MP, f/1.8 aperture with optical image stabilization (OIS).
• Ideal for low-light photography and fast motion.

1. Telephoto Lens:

• 12 MP, f/2.8 aperture with 2x optical zoom.
• Captures crisp portraits and distant subjects.

Camera Features:

• Portrait Mode: Creates beautiful bokeh effects for DSLR-like portraits.
• 4K Video Recording: Records at 30fps, with support for 1080p slow motion at 120fps and 720p at 240fps.

Front Camera:

• 7 MP with an f/2.2 aperture for sharp selfies and high-quality FaceTime calls.

Despite newer iPhones offering advanced computational photography, the iPhone 7 Plus still excels in casual photography.

Battery Life

The 2900mAh battery offers reliable performance for a device of its generation.

• Talk Time: Up to 21 hours on 3G.
• Standby Time: Up to 384 hours.

While heavy users might find it necessary to charge midway through the day, a battery replacement can breathe new life into the device for a minimal cost.

Software: iOS 10 to iOS 15

The iPhone 7 Plus shipped with iOS 10 and is upgradable to iOS 15.8.1.

• Supports most modern apps but may miss out on some features exclusive to iOS 16 and beyond.
• Regular security updates ensure safety, but a lack of further OS upgrades could limit its longevity.

Comp: iPhone 7 Plus vs 6s Plus vs Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus

Here’s a detailed comparison of the iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6s Plus, and Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus, highlighting their key specifications, features, and performance.

Which One is Better?

• Choose the iPhone 7 Plus for a refined iOS experience, dual cameras, and decent performance.
• opt for the iPhone 6s Plus if budget is a constraint but you still want iOS and a reliable device.
• The Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus is ideal for those seeking a modern design, vibrant display, and features like fast charging and Samsung Dex.

 Is the iPhone 7 Plus Worth Buying in 2025?

The iPhone 7 Plus is a reliable and affordable option for those seeking an entry-level iPhone with premium features like water resistance, dual cameras, and a durable build.

• Best For: Casual users, students, and those transitioning to iOS.
• Limitations: No 5G connectivity, limited software updates, and a dated design compared to newer models.

For buyers in 2025, the iPhone 7 Plus offers a balanced experience but may not be future-proof for heavy users.

Conclusion

The Apple iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6s Plus, and Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus each bring unique strengths to the table. If you’re an iOS enthusiast looking for a device with solid performance, a dual-camera setup, and robust water resistance, the iPhone 7 Plus offers great value in 2025.

On the other hand, the iPhone 6s Plus remains a reliable choice for those seeking a more budget-friendly option with a familiar iOS experience, despite lacking some of the newer features of its successors.

For those prioritizing cutting-edge display technology, enhanced performance, and a more modern design, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus stands out with its stunning Super AMOLED display, fast charging capabilities, and additional features like an iris scanner and Samsung Dex.

Ultimately, your choice depends on your preferences between iOS and Android, display quality, camera capabilities, and battery life. Each of these devices remains competitive, even in 2025, and offers a solid user experience.

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