In 2024, flagship smartphones boast computational photography that rivals dedicated cameras. But what about devices from nearly a decade ago? The Samsung Galaxy S8 and Apple iPhone 7 Plus were groundbreaking in their time—especially for mobile photography. Today, both are considered vintage tech, yet many users still rely on them or consider buying used models. So, which of these two iconic phones has a camera that still performs well in modern conditions?
This isn’t just about nostalgia. For budget-conscious users, travelers seeking a backup device, or those exploring older hardware for retro photography aesthetics, understanding the real-world viability of these cameras matters. We’ll compare sensor quality, software support, low-light behavior, video capabilities, and user experience to determine which one truly holds up.
Camera Specifications: Then vs Now
When released, both phones represented peak mobile imaging technology. Let’s break down their original specs and assess how they align with today’s standards.
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S8 | iPhone 7 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera (Main) | 12 MP, f/1.7, Dual Pixel AF | 12 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Secondary Lens | None | 12 MP telephoto, f/2.8, 2x optical zoom |
| Front Camera | 8 MP, f/1.7 | 7 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video Recording | 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps | 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps |
| Image Processing | Exynos 8895 / Snapdragon 835 ISP | Apple A10 Fusion ISP |
| Software Updates (as of 2024) | No OS updates since 2020 | iOS 16 (final); no further updates |
The iPhone 7 Plus had a distinct advantage at launch with its dual-camera system, enabling true 2x optical zoom and early portrait mode effects. The Galaxy S8 countered with superior low-light sensitivity thanks to its wider f/1.7 aperture and Samsung’s aggressive noise reduction algorithms.
Low-Light Performance: Where Age Shows
In dim environments, both cameras struggle by today’s standards—but in different ways.
The Galaxy S8’s larger pixel size (1.4µm) and brighter lens allow it to capture more light than most phones of its era. In controlled indoor lighting, it produces warmer, more natural-looking shots. However, aggressive noise reduction often smears fine details, especially in shadows. Without Night Mode or multi-frame stacking, long exposures result in blur if hands aren’t perfectly steady.
The iPhone 7 Plus handles contrast better. Its OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) helps reduce motion blur, but the smaller aperture limits light intake. Colors remain accurate, but dynamic range suffers in mixed lighting. Shadows appear noisier than the S8’s processed output, though some photographers prefer this “grittier” look for artistic purposes.
“Phones from 2017 lacked the AI-driven exposure blending we take for granted today. Their raw sensor data is decent, but post-processing was limited.” — Mark Tran, Mobile Imaging Analyst at DXOMARK (2018–2022)
Daylight and Detail Retention
In good lighting, both phones deliver surprisingly usable results. The key difference lies in color science and edge processing.
- Galaxy S8: Applies strong saturation and contrast, making skies bluer and greens richer. This can look artificial but pleasing on social media thumbnails.
- iPhone 7 Plus: Adheres to a neutral profile. Skin tones are accurate, whites stay clean, and overexposure is rare—even under harsh sunlight.
The iPhone’s dual-lens system gives it an edge for framing flexibility. You can switch between wide and 2x zoom without digital interpolation, preserving detail. Meanwhile, the S8 relies entirely on cropping for zoom, leading to noticeable softness beyond 1.5x.
For social media posts, blog illustrations, or casual sharing, both produce acceptable 1080p-equivalent quality. Neither matches current mid-range phones like the Google Pixel 7a or iPhone SE (2022), but they’re far from unusable.
Video Capabilities in 2024
Both phones record 4K video at 30fps—a feature once reserved for high-end camcorders. But practical limitations emerge over time.
The Galaxy S8 exhibits occasional stutter during prolonged recording and lacks stereo audio capture on certain firmware versions. Wind noise suppression is minimal, making outdoor vlogs challenging without external mics.
The iPhone 7 Plus benefits from Apple’s consistent video tuning. Its footage maintains stable white balance and smoother autofocus transitions. Audio recording is clearer, with better channel separation. However, neither phone supports modern codecs like HEVC for efficient storage, meaning 4K clips consume significant space (~350MB per minute).
Real-World Example: Travel Photography Test
A freelance photographer, Lena Reyes, used both phones during a weekend trip to Lisbon in early 2024. Her goal: document street scenes, architecture, and night markets using only stock cameras.
During daytime shoots, she preferred the iPhone 7 Plus for architectural framing, citing the telephoto lens’s ability to isolate balconies and tilework without moving closer. At dusk, she switched to the Galaxy S8, noting its brighter preview and less blown-out highlights in golden-hour light.
Indoor at a restaurant, both failed to capture candlelit ambiance without heavy grain. She concluded: “If I had to pick one for 2024 use, it’d be the iPhone—not because it’s technically superior, but because iOS 16 still receives security patches, and the ecosystem makes photo editing easier.”
Maintenance Tips to Maximize Camera Longevity
Even the best camera degrades if neglected. Here’s how to keep either device performing optimally:
- Clean the lens regularly with a microfiber cloth; oil buildup causes haze and flare.
- Avoid extreme temperatures—heat accelerates sensor degradation.
- Use lightweight cases that don’t cover the lens ring.
- Disable auto-enhance features if you want unprocessed RAW-like JPEGs.
- Store the phone in airplane mode when not in use to prevent background app interference with camera startup speed.
Checklist: Is Your Old Phone Camera Still Viable?
- ✅ Can it focus quickly in daylight?
- ✅ Does the shutter respond instantly, or is there lag?
- ✅ Are photos saved in full resolution (check file size: should be 2–4MB for stills)?
- ✅ Can you transfer images wirelessly without compression?
- ✅ Is the screen free of cracks or discoloration that affect composition?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use either phone as a daily driver in 2024?
Possibly, but with caveats. Both lack modern security updates, app compatibility (especially banking and messaging apps), and fast charging. As a secondary or offline camera-only device, they work—but not as primary smartphones.
Which has better portrait mode?
The iPhone 7 Plus wins decisively. Its dual-lens setup creates more accurate depth maps, resulting in cleaner subject isolation. The Galaxy S8’s software-based bokeh often misidentifies edges, especially around hair or glasses.
Is it worth repairing the camera if it fails?
Only if repair costs are under $30 and the phone serves a niche role. Given parts scarcity and diminishing returns, investing in a newer budget phone (e.g., iPhone XR or Galaxy A34) offers better value.
Final Verdict: Which Camera Holds Up Better?
The iPhone 7 Plus emerges as the more resilient option in 2024—not because its hardware surpasses the Galaxy S8, but due to consistency, software stability, and superior lens versatility. The dual-camera system remains functional and relevant, while Apple’s color calibration ensures photos still look natural years later.
The Galaxy S8 impresses in low light and front-camera selfies, but its single rear lens limits compositional options. Combined with Android fragmentation and discontinued updates, it’s harder to maintain securely.
If your priority is simplicity, reliability, and timeless photo character, the iPhone 7 Plus is the better preserved artifact. For enthusiasts who enjoy tweaking settings and appreciate warmer tones, the S8 offers charm—but demands more technical upkeep.
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