We're told that the iPhone is getting faster year after year, but sometimes, seeing is believing. A new video offers a rare look at a series of tests of every iPhone ever made compared to the current top-of-the-line iPhone 5S.
The phones used in the tests included the original iPhone (also known as the iPhone 2G), as well as the 3G, 3GS, 4, 4S, 5, 5C and 5S models of the device. Each phone was freshly restored and not jail broken, thus ensuring that the device performed unhindered by any OS-level modifications or hiccups.
SEE ALSO: Apple iPhone 5S: A Great Phone Inches Toward Perfection
The tests, although unscientific, revealed some of the subtle but important differences in the various versions of the iPhone.
Given the processor upgrade in the iPhone 5S, it's no surprise it booted up the most quickly, followed by the 5C, the 5 and then the 4S. But the unexpected twist is that the original iPhone booted up more quickly than both the 4 and the 3GS models. Interestingly, the 3G had the slowest boot-up time of all devices tested.
Similarly, the iPhone 5S bested all models when it came to loading website pages on Safari. In fact, the load time on the 5S seemed almost instantaneous compared to the other models, which loaded the test page at cascading slower speeds matching their relative position in the upgrade line-up.
One of the biggest surprises came during the shut down test. Of all phones tested, the first iPhone to successfully shut down was the 3GS model, followed by the 3G, the 4 and then the original iPhone 2G. All devices using iOS 7 — which included the iPhone 4 and higher — showed the slowest shut down time and all turned off simultaneously.
For those iPhone fans who need more than just numbers and data, this visual test of the entire iPhone line-up offers a real look at some of the incremental improvements and unexpected differences in the iPhone over the years. Thankfully for Apple, the test also backs up its claim the iPhone 5S is indeed its best iPhone yet.
Perfect for anyone who wants to showcase the 5S' sleek design, Case-Mate's protective, two-piece case wont hide the looks of your new handset with its transparent finish and slimline design.
Cost: $35
Image: Case-Mate
The Outfit MATRIX echoes the 5S' design language, but adds a dash of Autumnal coloring and a brushed aluminum finish.
Cost: $26.99
Image: Elago
If you want to carry that luxurious gilded theme through to your choice of case, the Lanyard brings a classy touch of bling.
Cost: $24.99
Image: SwitchEasy
Adding more useful functionality than Apple's simple leather option, the Lugano Wallet gives you two card pockets.
Cost: $49.95
Image: Sena
If the iPhone 5S' naked looks don't do it for you and you're interested in a more fun and funky case design, check out M-Edge's collection of colorful covers that feature Trina Turk's terrific graphic prints.
Cost: $39.99
Image: M-Edge
This handmade eco option is created from highly sustainable bamboo.
Cost: $29.99
Image: The Snugg
If you've really bought into the gold and silver theme for the new 5S, you can max the sparkle with one of Case-Mate's glittery "Glam" covers.
Cost: $50
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The "Tones" case from SwitchEasy matches the 5S' two-tone design, but brings a much wider choice of color.
Cost: $24.99
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This fashion case has handy pockets as well as a built-in mirror. Its vibrant contrasting colors will add a touch of fun to your new iPhone.
Cost: $33.95
Image: Proporta
Finally, Otterbox is offering a range of protection for the new iPhone 5S. We're highlighting the "Defender Series" as it has been "designed specifically to accommodate the new Touch ID fingerprint identity sensor technology."
Cost: From $49.95
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Apple has announced a range of complimentary cow-hide cases to perfectly cover the new iPhone 5S. The contoured "premium" leather options come in a range of colors -- black, brown, beige, yellow, blue and (PRODUCT) RED.
Cost: $39
Image: Apple
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