Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

John9721

macrumors member
Original poster
Aug 20, 2012
37
13
Hey guys, its been a while since I've posted but I'm getting back into iOS devices after a long (and bad) run with Androids. Currently I have a Samsung Galaxy S III through US Cellular, however my contract ends on January 11th and I'm picking back up my Sprint/Virgin Mobile plan. My options for iPhones range from the 4 up to the 5s, however I'm only considering the 5, 5s, and 5c. The 5 comes in at $404.99, the 5c at $449.99 and the 5s at $549.99. I'm leaning toward the 5c because of the cost, and also I prefer the appearance of it to the S, but is the S worth the extra $100? It would be used mostly for texts and calls, social media, and occasional YouTube. I'm ready for any and all feedback! Thanks!
 
Buy the one you like, they're all good phones.

I prefer to have the newest tech, so I went with the 5s.
 
I'm leaning toward the 5c because of the cost, and also I prefer the appearance of it to the S, but is the S worth the extra $100?
Your call to make as worth is highly subjective regardless of topic. Features and specs are listed on Apple's site for you to compare. If you have specific questions then ask away.
 
Your call to make as worth is highly subjective regardless of topic. Features and specs are listed on Apple's site for you to compare. If you have specific questions then ask away.

Ok, my main question would be what am I gaining in the 5s over the 5c? I know the A7 vs A6 chip and the fingerprint sensor, but what is there beyond that?

----------

If you are already willing to spend that much money I'd go the extra $100 and get the 5s.

Willing? Kinda. Going to? Hell yes!
 
You aren't going to notice much of a difference software wise. And both will be crippled by the 1gb of ram before the A6 starts to struggle in my opinion. Just go with the 5c. The 5S does look a lot better though
 
The 5 and 5C are virtually identical aside from the housing. Personally if I wasn't partial toward plastic which it doesn't seem you are considering you are looking at the 5S I'd just get the 5 if it's cheaper.

So do you want the 5 or 5S? The 5S gets you a better camera, better flash, better processor, addition M7 processor, finger print scanner and although it varies a lot of people have reported better battery life.

If you plan on keeping it for any length of time I'd go with the 5S. But in either case you'll be getting a good phone that will do everything you are looking for just fine.
 
School 1: Always buy the latest, protect against premature obsolescence.

School 2: Buy what YOU like, you are the one who has to look at it everyday.

5s vs 5c = no appreciable PRESENT user experience difference except for fingerprint as mentioned. 5s advantage is geared toward the FUTURE.
 
I'm only considering the 5, 5s, and 5c. The 5 comes in at $404.99, the 5c at $449.99 and the 5s at $549.99. I'm leaning toward the 5c because of the cost, and also I prefer the appearance of it to the S, but is the S worth the extra $100?

If cost is a factor and you like the looks of the 5c then definitely go for that phone
 
Well, I had a chance to stop by Best Buy today and play around with both, and I think I'm set on the 5S. The C felt too much like my current GS3 (plastic back) which was what I'm trying to get rid of. The S just feels better built and its so freaking smooth. The C seemed a little glitchy already. Thanks to all of you for your help, I'll make sure I let you know what I get, just need to pick a color!
 
Well, I had a chance to stop by Best Buy today and play around with both, and I think I'm set on the 5S. The C felt too much like my current GS3 (plastic back) which was what I'm trying to get rid of. The S just feels better built and its so freaking smooth. The C seemed a little glitchy already. Thanks to all of you for your help, I'll make sure I let you know what I get, just need to pick a color!


I tested a friend 5c with my 5s.

-The 5s camera is better in low light.
-The fingerprint is very convenient. I know while playing with both, you do spend a lot of time putting in the passcode. Even when the 5s was laying upside-down I could use my fingerprint to access it.
-Speed test.. surfing is iffy. Sometimes the 5s is faster and sometimes the 5c. Gaming is definitely faster on the 5s.
-5c quality reminds me of the white Macbook but more solid. It's very nice imo. 5s very easy to scratch.

whatever you get, you will pop a case on it and no one will know which one you have :)
 
I'd either consider the 5 or the 5s = I went with a 5 on contract for a total of ~$60 with the yen rate vise ~$200 for the 5s on the same 24 month contract.

I had the cash to get either but didn't feel there was enough advantage to get the 5s now...in 2 yrs I'll probably be getting a newer phone like most do anyway:p
 
purchase the S at all cost soon all apps will be written for 64bit yes they will support the legacy apps for a while but for 100 dollars get the newest tech
 
Agreed. If it were me, I'd spend the extra money.

I've come to that conclusion. I went to the Apple Store at the mall today to play with both again and see all of the colors, and it made it seem like an easy decision. The 5c just doesn't feel right in the hand
 
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.