Due to a billing fiasco I had an unmatchable price for either phone a year ago. I chose the 7plus as I didn't fancy the glass back of the XS, which it needs for wireless charging, which I don't need. I plan to get 4 years out of the phone and preferred the robustness of the alloy body, even though either would go straight in a Spigen Tough Armour. Going from a 6, the larger screen is most welcome for these old eyes, and the battery lasts a lot longer, not twice as long but for my use I'd estimate 1.75x. After @ 15 months the battery is still at 97% "health".