What's our thoughts on the Apple iPhone 5?
Review of iPhone 5: The iPhone 5 was a game-changer when it launched, offering a sleek aluminium design, a Retina display, and solid overall performance. While it still holds up for basic tasks, it does struggle with modern apps and battery longevity. The camera is decent in good lighting, but it lacks detail in low light. For those who need a budget-friendly Apple device, it remains a viable option.
Overall Score:
3.6/5
Price
5.0/5
The iPhone 5 was premium at launch but is now a budget option. It is affordable for those seeking an entry-level iOS device, but it lacks modern features like Face ID and wireless charging. The second-hand market offers reasonable prices, though battery replacements are often needed. It is best suited for light users who want a simple, classic iPhone experience.
Cameras
3.5/5
The iPhone 5 camera was impressive at the time, but by today’s standards, it struggles. In good lighting, it takes detailed shots, but it lacks dynamic range. Low-light performance is weak due to the absence of optical image stabilisation. Video recording is smooth at 1080p, but with no 4K support, it falls behind newer devices. The front camera is basic for video calls.
Power
3.8/5
Powered by the A6 chip, the iPhone 5 performs well for simple tasks such as calls, messaging, and web browsing. However, modern apps push its limits, leading to slowdowns. iOS updates stopped at iOS 10, so app support is limited. Multitasking is sluggish, and demanding apps cause performance dips, but for users who need basic functionality, it still works.
Battery Life
3.2/5
The iPhone 5 battery is one of its biggest drawbacks. With a small 1440mAh capacity, it struggles to last a full day under moderate use. Battery health declines over time, and most second-hand units need a replacement. Power users will need frequent charging, but light users might manage with power-saving tricks. A portable charger is highly recommended.
Monthly Price History
Below is our tracked data on how much it costs to buy this phone refurbished,
and how much you can sell it for if you want quick cash. You can also
compare selling options on our site.
| Month |
Buy Refurbished (GBP) |
Sell for Cash (GBP) |
| April 2024 |
£350 |
£170 |
| May 2024 |
£340 |
£165 |
| June 2024 |
£330 |
£160 |
| July 2024 |
£320 |
£158 |
| August 2024 |
£310 |
£155 |
| September 2024 |
£305 |
£152 |
| October 2024 |
£300 |
£150 |
| November 2024 |
£295 |
£148 |
| December 2024 |
£290 |
£145 |
| January 2025 |
£285 |
£140 |
| February 2025 |
£280 |
£138 |
| March 2025 |
£275 |
£135 |
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