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iPhone 5 vs iPhone 4s comparison

Compare price, camera hardware, battery, display, performance, software support, protection, weight, and MobileBurn verdicts on the same page.

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iPhone 5 official product image

Apple

iPhone 5 in this comparison

Reviewed2 reviews checked
Open iPhone 5 review →
iPhone 4s official product image

Apple

iPhone 4s in this comparison

Reviewed2 reviews checked
Open iPhone 4s review →
Price$199$199
Display4.0-inch Retina LCD, 60Hz3.5-inch Retina LCD, 60Hz
ProcessorApple A6Apple A5
MemoryNot officially stated by AppleNot officially stated by Apple
Storage16GB–64GB8GB–64GB
Rear cameras8MP main8MP main
BatteryUp to 10 hours video playbackUp to 10 hours video playback
Charging5W wired5W wired
Software supportCheck current iOS compatibilityCheck current iOS compatibility
ProtectionNo official IP ratingNo official IP rating
Weight112g140g

Which is the better fit: iPhone 5 or iPhone 4s?

Use three checks before choosing

  1. Fit: compare size, weight, display, and how each phone feels in daily use.
  2. Function: compare cameras, battery, charging, storage, and support.
  3. Value: decide whether the $0 launch-price gap pays for features you will use.

MobileBurn does not turn outside test results into a made-up score winner. Compare the concrete hardware, the written verdicts, and the price gap, then decide which trade-off matters in your daily use.

The iPhone 5 pairs a 4.0-inch Retina LCD, 60Hz display with Up to 10 hours video playback and 5W wired charging. The iPhone 4s uses a 3.5-inch Retina LCD, 60Hz display, Up to 10 hours video playback, and 5W wired charging. Compare these with size, weight, and the way you charge during a normal day.

Camera hardware also needs context. The iPhone 5 lists 8MP main, while the iPhone 4s lists 8MP main. Lens variety does not guarantee better photos, so open the iPhone 5 review and iPhone 4s review for reported strengths and weaknesses.

Software support: iPhone 5 vs iPhone 4s

Count the secure years, not only the launch price

iPhone 5 support is listed as check current ios compatibility. iPhone 4s support is listed as check current ios compatibility. A longer useful life can outweigh a lower launch price because it spreads the purchase over more secure years.

Before buying, confirm storage, carrier bands, warranty, repair availability, and regional charging accessories. You can also return to the phone directory or use the phone finder to build a wider shortlist.

Quick answers

Questions about iPhone 5 vs iPhone 4s

Are the prices live store prices?

No. MobileBurn shows recorded United States launch prices so different generations have a stable reference point. Check a retailer or carrier for today's price, tax, trade-in terms, and regional availability.

Does a larger battery always last longer?

No. Capacity is one clue. Display efficiency, software, signal, heat, battery age, and the tasks you run can change real endurance.

Does the camera with more megapixels win?

Not by itself. Sensor size, lens quality, processing, focus, motion handling, zoom options, and video needs matter too. Read each phone record for the reported behavior behind the hardware list.

Why does MobileBurn not name an automatic winner?

A winner depends on the buyer's budget, hand comfort, camera needs, support needs, and region. The tool keeps facts side by side and leaves subjective trade-offs visible.