A
Apple

Apple iPhone 5

September 21, 2012 4/10 Rating
In brief: The Apple iPhone 5, released in 2012, marked a significant evolution for Apple's smartphone line, introducing a taller 4-inch Retina display and a thinner, lighter aluminum design. Powered by the new A6 chip, it offered improved performance and was the first iPhone to support LTE connectivity. This model was a pivotal step in iPhone design and technology.
Display4.0-inch IPS LCD Retina display (640x1136 pixels)
ChipsetApple A6
Main Camera8 MP, f/2.4, 1080p video
Battery1440 mAh Li-Po
Starting from $39 in International

💰 Pricing

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Iconic, slim, and lightweight design
  • Still usable for basic tasks and retro apps
  • Compact size for one-handed use
  • Good build quality for its era
  • Historical significance as a classic iPhone model

Cons

  • Outdated operating system (max iOS 10.3.4) limits app compatibility
  • Small screen size by modern standards
  • Limited battery life compared to newer phones
  • No longer receives security updates
  • Performance is slow for modern applications
★ Our Verdict

While historically significant, the iPhone 5 is severely outdated for modern smartphone use due to its limited software support, small screen, and slow performance, making it suitable primarily for collectors or very basic, niche applications.

The Apple iPhone 5 is no longer a viable option for a primary smartphone in today's market due to its outdated software, lack of security updates, and inability to run many current applications. If you're considering purchasing one, it should be for its historical value, as a collector's item, or for very specific, retro-app usage. Expect significant limitations in performance, battery life, and compatibility with modern services. For daily use, even budget Android phones offer a far superior and more secure experience. Its compact size might appeal to those seeking a small device, but newer options like the iPhone SE (1st Gen) offer a similar form factor with better software support.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • iPhone 5 handset
  • Apple EarPods with Remote and Mic
  • Lightning to USB Cable
  • USB Power Adapter
  • Documentation

Typically came with a one-year limited hardware warranty from Apple.

❓ Questions & Answers

When was the Apple iPhone 5 released?

The Apple iPhone 5 was officially released on September 21, 2012.

What operating system does the iPhone 5 run?

The iPhone 5 originally launched with iOS 6 and can be upgraded to a maximum of iOS 10.3.4.

Does the iPhone 5 support 4G LTE?

Yes, the iPhone 5 was the first iPhone model to introduce support for 4G LTE connectivity.

What are the camera specifications of the iPhone 5?

The iPhone 5 features an 8 MP main camera with an f/2.4 aperture capable of 1080p video recording, and a 1.2 MP front-facing camera for 720p video.

Is the iPhone 5 still a good phone to buy in 2026?

No, the iPhone 5 is not recommended as a primary smartphone in 2026 due to its outdated software, lack of security updates, and limited app compatibility. It is primarily suitable for collectors or very basic, niche uses.

What kind of charging port does the iPhone 5 have?

The iPhone 5 introduced the Lightning connector, which was a new, smaller, and reversible charging and data port for Apple devices at the time.