What Are the Differences Between the IPhone 3G and the IPhone 3GS?

The iPhone has become one of the most popular cell phones in recent years. It seems that no matter where you look, more and more people have one. However, when it comes time to make the purchase, many people are confused to find that Apple actually offers two different models: the iPhone 3G and the iPhone 3GS. The iPhone 3GS can cost 2 to 3 times as much, so many people wonder if the extra cost is justified. This article will help clear up some of the confusion.

1. Overall Performance

While the internet speed is the same, the 3GS processor is about twice as fast (the S stands for speed). Pages load twice as fast, and the overall responsiveness of the device is a bit better.

2. Talk Time

The 3GS will let you talk to your family and friends longer on a single charge. You can talk up to 12 hours on the 3GS, compared to 10 hours on the 3G.

3. Internet Use

Both devices will support around 5 hours of internet use on the cellular network, but if you switch to Wi-Fi, you can browse for 9 hours on the 3GS, compared to only 6 hours on the 3G.

4. Audio Playback

If you listen to a lot of music, the 3GS also sports a longer battery life. It will play music for 30 hours straight on a single charge, compared to only 4 hours on the 3G.

5. Video Playback

The iPhone 3GS trumps the 3G even more in this category. The more expensive model can play video for 10 hours, compared to only 7 hours on a 3G. 3 extra hours of video could be an extra movie or two, or 9 extra commercial-free television shows!

6. Camera

The iPhone 3GS has a superior camera. The 3G has a 2 megapixel camera, while the 3GS has a 3 megapixel camera which also has auto-focusing technology and is capable of recording videos. The 3GS also allows you to edit your videos directly on the device and upload them directly to your YouTube account. This is a must have feature for budding videographers.

7. Compass

Quite simply, the 3GS has it, and the 3G doesn't. If you are the type of person who often gets lost, this can be an invaluable tool.

8. Voice Control

This feature lets you make phone calls and play music with a simple command of your voice. Simply say the name of one of your contacts to call them. Say the name of an artist or song to begin playing their music. If you aren't sure which song is playing, as your iPhone and it will answer. You guessed it: this feature is only available on the 3GS.

Overall, there is a lot of extra value that comes from paying an extra hundred dollars or two for the higher end iPhone. Of course, if you don't think you'll need or use any of these features, then there's no reason to pay extra for them. Hopefully you're now a little more equipped to make an intelligent decision regarding your iPhone purchase.