Hey there, tech enthusiasts! Ever found yourself staring at two sleek iPhones, pondering which finish to choose? Let's dive deep into the classic face-off: Jet Black vs. Matte Black on the iPhone 7 Plus. This was a monumental device, and the finish was a major decision for buyers. Both are undeniably stylish, but each offers a unique aesthetic and user experience. Let's break it down, examining everything from aesthetics and maintenance to resale value, to help you make the right choice if you're lucky enough to be choosing between them.

The Allure of the Jet Black Finish

Jet Black on the iPhone 7 Plus was a showstopper. It was a glossy, reflective finish that truly made the phone pop. The process to achieve this look was quite complex. It involved a nine-step anodization and polishing process, resulting in a deep, dark, mirror-like surface. This was a significant departure from previous iPhone finishes, and it immediately grabbed attention. When it first came out, people couldn't stop talking about it; it was the 'it' phone.

This finish felt luxurious in hand, and it gave the illusion of the screen melting seamlessly into the device's borders, creating a singular, unified look. The Jet Black iPhone 7 Plus was a conversation starter. Holding one felt like you were holding a premium piece of tech, a status symbol if you will. The sleek design exuded sophistication and modernity, making it a favorite among those who wanted to make a statement. However, its beauty came with a few caveats. The glossy surface was prone to fingerprints and smudges, meaning you were constantly wiping it down to maintain its pristine look. While beautiful, the Jet Black finish was high-maintenance, demanding more care and attention than its matte counterpart.

One of the other significant features of the Jet Black iPhone was its depth of color. The phone seemed to absorb light, creating a sense of mystery and elegance. The glossy finish gave it a premium feel and offered an appealing, high-end design. It was more than just a phone; it was a fashion accessory. It was a bold statement, and many users loved this look, but the upkeep was not easy, so you had to be prepared for the constant maintenance if you really wanted to keep the device looking its best.

The Practical Elegance of Matte Black

Now, let's turn our attention to the Matte Black version of the iPhone 7 Plus. This finish offered a more understated, yet equally stylish, appearance. The matte finish was achieved through a different anodization process that created a textured, non-reflective surface. This finish was less prone to fingerprints and smudges than the Jet Black version, making it a practical choice for everyday use. If you were someone who valued convenience and didn't want to constantly worry about wiping down your phone, Matte Black was a great choice. The matte surface provided a better grip, reducing the chance of accidental slips. This practical aspect made it popular among a wider audience.

While the Matte Black iPhone 7 Plus might not have had the same wow factor as the Jet Black, it still had a sleek, sophisticated look. The finish offered a more subtle, yet refined aesthetic. It was less likely to show scratches and wear, so it maintained its appearance for longer. The matte texture felt great in the hand, providing a comfortable and secure grip. This was a phone you could easily toss in your pocket or bag without a second thought.

For those who prefer a more low-key, discreet look, Matte Black was the perfect fit. It was a timeless design that appealed to a broader spectrum of users. It was easier to care for than the Jet Black because it didn't require constant cleaning. The finish was less prone to showing marks and smudges, so it maintained its clean appearance with minimal effort. This made it a great choice for those who were always on the go or didn't want to spend time constantly cleaning their phone.

Aesthetics: The Look and Feel

When it comes to aesthetics, the differences between these two finishes are quite apparent. The Jet Black is all about the 'wow' factor. It's the show-off, the head-turner. The glossy, reflective surface creates a deep, mesmerizing look. The Matte Black, on the other hand, is the epitome of understated elegance. It's sleek, sophisticated, and always looks good. It doesn't scream for attention but still exudes quality. The choice often comes down to personal preference. Do you want something flashy and eye-catching, or something more refined and subtle? If you crave attention, Jet Black is your jam. If you prefer a more subtle look, Matte Black wins.

The tactile experience differs significantly as well. The Jet Black is smooth, almost slippery, making it a bit more prone to slipping out of your hand. You'll likely find yourself using a case to provide extra grip. The Matte Black, with its textured surface, offers a more secure grip, giving you more confidence when handling your phone. This difference in feel can influence your daily use and overall satisfaction with the phone. The Matte Black often feels more practical, but Jet Black feels more luxurious and premium.

In essence, both finishes look stunning, but they cater to different tastes. Jet Black appeals to those who want a striking, high-end appearance, while Matte Black suits those who want a more low-profile yet still stylish design. Considering how you use your phone daily is also important. If you live a fast-paced life, the Matte Black may be better suited for you because it requires less care.

Maintenance and Durability: Keeping Your iPhone Looking Pristine

Let's talk about the practical side of things: maintenance and durability. This is where the Matte Black really shines. Because of its matte finish, it is much better at hiding fingerprints and smudges. If you're someone who doesn't want to constantly wipe down their phone, the Matte Black is your winner. It's also less prone to scratching. Small scratches are less noticeable, which helps keep the phone looking good over time. The Jet Black, however, is a fingerprint magnet, and any minor scratch is immediately visible. The glossiness enhances every imperfection.

If you're buying a used iPhone 7 Plus, the Matte Black is often a safer bet, as it is likely to have aged better. The Jet Black, being more prone to scratches, might show its age more prominently. This isn't to say that the Jet Black is a bad choice, but you need to be aware of the increased maintenance and the likelihood of scratches. You might want to invest in a screen protector and a case to keep it protected. On the other hand, the Matte Black requires far less effort to maintain. A quick wipe down is usually sufficient to keep it looking clean.

Ultimately, your lifestyle plays a huge role in the choice between these two. If you're meticulous about your phone and enjoy keeping it spotless, the Jet Black could work well. However, if you are more of a 'grab and go' type, the Matte Black is a far more practical option. Think about where you'll be using your phone and what you prioritize. Do you want ease of care or a high-end look? The answer will guide your choice.

Resale Value: What's Your iPhone Worth?

So, what about resale value? This is a crucial consideration if you plan to upgrade in the future. Generally speaking, the condition of your phone has the most impact on its resale value. However, the finish can play a role, too. The Jet Black, being a more sought-after color when it was new, might fetch a slightly higher price, provided it's in excellent condition. This is because the Jet Black finish was more exclusive and visually appealing to many users. However, if the Jet Black phone has visible scratches, its resale value will drop significantly.

The Matte Black holds its value well because it's less prone to showing wear and tear. A Matte Black iPhone 7 Plus in good condition is likely to be a reliable sale on the used market. It is also a very popular color, making it easier to sell. When you consider resale value, it is important to factor in the phone's overall condition and whether it has scratches or other damage. Regardless of the finish, taking good care of your iPhone is the best way to maintain its value.

To maximize resale value, it is always a good idea to keep the phone in excellent condition. Use a case and screen protector, and clean the device regularly. This will ensure your iPhone looks as good as possible and will appeal to potential buyers. Think long term and try to protect the phone from the day you purchase it to ensure you get the best return on your investment.

Which Finish Should You Choose?

So, which finish is the right choice for you? If you want a striking, head-turning phone and don't mind the extra care, Jet Black is a great option. If you value practicality, prefer a subtle, yet sleek look, and want something that's easy to maintain, Matte Black is the winner. Consider your lifestyle, how you'll use your phone, and how much time you're willing to spend keeping it clean. Both are stylish, but they offer different user experiences.

Here's a quick recap to help you decide:

• Jet Black: Glossy, eye-catching, high-maintenance, prone to scratches, good resale value if in excellent condition.
• Matte Black: Understated elegance, practical, easy to maintain, more durable, good resale value.

No matter which finish you choose, the iPhone 7 Plus is a fantastic phone. The final decision boils down to your personal preferences and how you want to use your device. Enjoy your iPhone experience!