The iPhone 6 was released by Apple in September 2014. Now in 2023, the iPhone 6 is 9 years old. With new iPhone models released every year, many people wonder if an old iPhone like the iPhone 6 still has any value in 2023.
Quick Answer
The short answer is yes, the iPhone 6 does still have some value in 2023, but not nearly as much value as a newer iPhone model. The iPhone 6 is quite outdated by today’s smartphone standards and doesn’t support many of the latest features and capabilities. However, the iPhone 6 can still be used for basic functions like calling, texting, email, web browsing, social media, and more. It also has some niche collectible value among Apple enthusiasts. Overall the iPhone 6 retains some practical value for budget-minded consumers or collectors, but its monetary value has declined substantially compared to its original launch price.
What are the current capabilities and limitations of the iPhone 6?
The iPhone 6 originally launched with Apple’s A8 chip and 1GB of RAM. It runs iOS 12, which was its last supported iOS version. Here are some of the iPhone 6’s current capabilities and limitations:
- Capabilities:
- Can run apps like iMessage, FaceTime, Email, Safari, Maps, Siri, social media, streaming music/video, light gaming, etc.
- Takes decent quality photos and video (8MP rear camera, 1.2MP front)
- Touch ID fingerprint sensor for quick unlocking
- Apple Pay support
- Decent built-in storage options up to 128GB
- Classic iPhone design with aluminum body
- Small and light form factor that some prefer
- Limitations:
- Lacks support for modern iOS features like Memoji, Screen Time, Dark Mode, etc.
- No longer receives software updates or security patches
- Only supports slower Wi-Fi standards like 802.11n
- Limited RAM and older processor result in laggy performance at times
- Low resolution screen by today’s standards (750p)
- Mediocre battery life compared to newer iPhones
- No water resistance rating
- No wireless charging support
- No dual camera system
Overall the iPhone 6 is still usable for basic functions, but definitely shows its age compared to modern iPhone models. It lacks many of the convenient features and performance gains of newer iPhones.
How much is an iPhone 6 worth in 2023?
The iPhone 6 is worth very little compared to its original launch price of $649 for the base 16GB model. As of 2023, used iPhone 6 models in good condition tend to sell for around:
- iPhone 6 16GB: $40 – $70
- iPhone 6 64GB: $60 – $100
- iPhone 6 128GB: $80 – $130
Prices vary based on condition, storage size, color, and whether it’s unlocked or tied to a carrier. Higher storage models tend to retain a bit more value. Special edition colors like gold may fetch slightly higher prices among collectors. But overall, expect to get less than $100 for a used iPhone 6 these days.
How do prices compare between older and newer iPhone models?
It’s clear that newer iPhones maintain their value much better than older models like the iPhone 6. Here’s a comparison of estimated used prices for some iPhone models in 2023:
| Model | Release Year | Starting Used Price |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 14 | 2022 | $700 |
| iPhone 13 | 2021 | $500 |
| iPhone 12 | 2020 | $350 |
| iPhone 11 | 2019 | $250 |
| iPhone XR | 2018 | $150 |
| iPhone 8 | 2017 | $130 |
| iPhone 6 | 2014 | $50 – $100 |
A few key reasons why newer iPhones retain value better:
- Supported with the latest iOS updates and features
- Faster processors and improved cameras
- Current design with features like Face ID, edge-to-edge displays, no home button, etc.
- Higher demand from consumers who want the latest tech
The iPhone 6 lacks all of these attributes, drastically reducing its appeal and value compared to modern iPhone models that are only a few years newer.
Does the iPhone 6 have any niche collector value?
While the iPhone 6 is obsolete by most modern measures, it does have some appeal among Apple collectors and enthusiasts:
- Nostalgia factor – It was an iconic device of its era and may remind people of fond memories.
- Vintage appeal – Its smaller aluminum design has a retro look that stands out today.
- Historical significance – As a revolutionary Apple product for its time.
- Special editions – Gold or customized models may interest collectors.
- Jailbreaking community – Enthusiasts who like modding retro Apple devices.
This niche collector appeal allows the iPhone 6 to fetch slightly higher resale prices than it otherwise would based on functionality alone. But overall, collector interest in the iPhone 6 is quite mild compared to very old models like the original iPhone or iPhone 3G.
What are the best uses for an iPhone 6 in 2023?
Here are some of the best ways to utilize an iPhone 6 in 2023:
- Basic spare phone – For children, elderly family members, or as a temporary backup device.
- iPod Touch alternative – Just use it for music, videos, games, etc. without activating cell service.
- Jailbreak experiments – Trying out jailbreak mods and tweaks not possible on newer iOS versions.
- Nostalgic gaming device – Play classic iOS games from the App Store’s early days.
- Trade-in to upgrade – Get some credit towards a newer iPhone model.
- Sell for parts – Parting it out can yield more money than selling the device whole.
The iPhone 6 can still serve some casual uses despite its age. But its residual value is predominantly nostalgic versus functional at this point.
Should you buy an iPhone 6 in 2023?
Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding if buying an iPhone 6 in 2023 is worthwhile:
Pros:
- Very inexpensive cost
- Good option for kids’ first phone
- Familiar and easy to use iOS interface
- Light and compact size
- Headphone jack
- Vintage appeal for collectors
Cons:
- Slow and outdated by today’s standards
- No longer supported with software updates
- Poor battery life
- Low resolution, small screen
- Mediocre cameras
- Missing many modern features and capabilities
Ultimately, the iPhone 6 makes sense for limited budgets or collectors, but it will provide a very underwhelming experience compared to newer affordable iPhone options. The nostalgia factor is a big part of any remaining appeal.
Conclusion
While the iPhone 6 has nearly zero remaining value for typical smartphone users, it can still serve some niche purposes in 2023 for budget buyers or Apple collectors. It has decent residual value for a 9 year old iPhone, but a tiny fraction of its original price. The iPhone 6 lacks almost any relevant modern capabilities compared to newer models. But for kids, older family members, or tinkerers, it can be a cheap diversion. For most consumers though, even a used model only a few years newer like the iPhone 8 provides a much better overall value.
