For the first time in its history, Apple now has two flagship smartphones on the market. While Apple did offer the iPhone 5c last year, that device was intended more as a midrange device.
Here are a number of differences between the two devices and why you might need one over the other.
Size and Display
The most obvious difference between the iPhone 6 and the iPhone 6 Plus is the display. The iPhone 6 has a 4.7-inch display, with the iPhone 6 Plus boasting a 5.5-inch display.
It is important to remember that even the smaller iPhone 6 is larger than last year's iPhone 5S, so for those who like the size of the iPhone 5S, the standard iPhone 6 will probably be the best choice.
The iPhone 6 has a resolution of 1334x740, while the iPhone 6 Plus' resolution sits at 1920x1080. This is quite a difference, and puts the iPhone 6 Plus with other flagship devices on the market, while the iPhone 6 has a rather disappointing display.
Camera
Both the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus have an improved camera, now including 8-megapixel iSight sensors. Apple also says that both devices now have "Focus Pixels," allowing the cameras to focus much faster on the subject.
The iPhone 6 Plus, however, goes a step further and offers optical image stabilization, essentially allowing the camera to physically move within the phone to compensate for being shaken a little while a photo is being taken. Human movement is inevitable when taking a photo, so this feature is a very nice addition. For those who are into photography and want more than the occasional photo with friends at a party, the iPhone 6 Plus may be the better option.
Battery Life
In addition to the features mentioned, the iPhone 6 Plus will also get a better battery life. According to the specs that Apple has posted on its website, the iPhone 6 Plus will have a standby time of up to 16 days on a single charge, while the iPhone 6 will "only" last 10 days. The iPhone 6 Plus can also play audio for up to 80 hours, with the iPhone 6 coming in at 60.
While both devices have a rather good battery life, it is still a feature that will put the iPhone 6 Plus ahead of the iPhone 6 for many users.
Cost
Just because the iPhone 6 Plus has the features to make many want to buy it over its little brother, that does not mean that everyone can afford it.
The iPhone 6, with 16 GB of storage, will start at $199 with a two-year contract. In comparison, the iPhone 6 Plus will come in at $299 with a two-year contract.
Other Features
Both devices will get a number of other upgrades. They will both take advantage of Apple's new A8 processor and will features Near-Field Communication technology, allowing users to try Apple's new Apple Pay mobile payment system. In addition, they will both include Apple's new iOS 8, which brings a number of software upgrades.
Conclusions
As far as specifications go, the iPhone 6 Plus is a clear winner. However that does not necessarily justify spending the extra money, especially for those that do not need the better features. Not only that, but the size alone is enough to repel many from the iPhone 6 Plus.
Whichever device is chosen, Apple is on to a winner with both the iPhone 6 and the iPhone 6 Plus.
