Apple iPhone 5C
Apple

Apple iPhone 5C

September 20, 2013 6/10 Rating
In brief: The Apple iPhone 5C, released in September 2013, was a more colorful and affordable alternative to the flagship iPhone 5S. It featured a polycarbonate plastic casing and largely inherited the internal specifications of the iPhone 5, aiming to bring the iOS experience to a broader audience.
Display4.0-inch IPS LCD Retina display (640x1136 pixels)
ChipsetApple A6
Main Camera8 MP with 1080p video recording
Battery1510 mAh Li-Po
Starting from $30 in International

💰 Pricing

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Colorful and durable polycarbonate body
  • Familiar and user-friendly iOS experience
  • Compact and easy for one-handed use
  • Good camera for its time
  • LTE connectivity

Cons

  • Plastic build felt less premium than iPhone 5/5S
  • Same internal specs as the older iPhone 5
  • No Touch ID (unlike the 5S)
  • Limited storage options, no expandable memory
  • Outdated by modern standards, limited software updates
★ Our Verdict

While innovative for its colorful design and offering a more accessible iPhone, its internal hardware was already a year old at launch, and it lacks modern features and software support.

The Apple iPhone 5C is now a vintage device, primarily suitable for collectors or as a very basic secondary phone. Its operating system, iOS 10.3.3, is no longer supported by many modern apps, limiting its functionality for daily use. Performance will be slow compared to contemporary smartphones, and battery life on an old unit will likely be poor. If considering one, ensure it's unlocked and in good physical condition, but be aware of its significant limitations for current smartphone needs. For practical use, newer budget Android phones or even a more recent, used iPhone would offer a far superior experience and better app compatibility.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • iPhone 5C handset
  • Apple EarPods with Remote and Mic
  • Lightning to USB Cable
  • USB Power Adapter
  • Documentation (manuals)
  • SIM ejector tool

Apple provides a one (1) year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for its branded products, including the iPhone 5C.

❓ Questions & Answers

What is the 'C' in iPhone 5C stand for?

The 'C' in iPhone 5C stands for 'color,' referring to its vibrant polycarbonate casing available in multiple hues like blue, green, yellow, pink, and white.

What operating system does the iPhone 5C run?

The iPhone 5C launched with iOS 7 and can be updated to iOS 10.3.3. It does not support newer iOS versions.

Does the iPhone 5C have Touch ID?

No, the iPhone 5C does not feature Touch ID fingerprint recognition. This feature was introduced with its higher-end counterpart, the iPhone 5S.

Is the iPhone 5C still supported by Apple?

While Apple no longer provides major software updates for the iPhone 5C, it may still receive critical security updates for a period. Hardware service and parts are available for a minimum of 5 years from when Apple last distributed the product for sale.

What are the main differences between the iPhone 5C and iPhone 5S?

The iPhone 5C features a plastic body and the older A6 chip, while the iPhone 5S has a premium aluminum body, the newer A7 chip, and introduces Touch ID fingerprint sensor.

Can I still use modern apps on an iPhone 5C?

Many modern applications require newer iOS versions than the iPhone 5C supports (iOS 10.3.3). While some older versions of apps might still function, compatibility will be very limited, and many popular apps will not work.