Iphone 11 Vs 8 Plus Is The Newer Model Really Worth The Upgrade Based On Size

For long-time iPhone users clinging to the iPhone 8 Plus, the decision to upgrade isn’t always straightforward. The iPhone 11 brought modern design, improved performance, and advanced camera systems—but at a different size and form factor than its predecessor. If you're still holding onto your 8 Plus because it fits just right in your hand or pocket, you might be wondering: is the jump to the iPhone 11 truly worth it? This article breaks down the key differences, with a focus on physical dimensions, usability, and real-world implications of size—so you can make an informed decision.

Physical Dimensions and Design Philosophy

The most immediate difference between the iPhone 11 and the iPhone 8 Plus lies in their physical footprint. While both are considered \"larger\" iPhones by Apple’s current standards, they represent two distinct eras of design thinking.

The iPhone 8 Plus measures 158.4 x 78.1 x 7.8 mm and weighs 200 grams. It features thick bezels on the top and bottom, a home button with Touch ID, and a classic rectangular shape that fills the palm. In contrast, the iPhone 11 is more compact despite housing a larger display: 150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3 mm and 194 grams. Its screen spans 6.1 inches compared to the 8 Plus’s 5.5 inches, yet it’s shorter and slightly narrower thanks to edge-to-edge LCD technology and the elimination of the home button.

Tip: If one-handed use matters to you, the iPhone 11’s taller but narrower body may actually offer better grip than the wider 8 Plus.

The shift from bezel-heavy designs to all-screen fronts means the iPhone 11 delivers more screen real estate in a smaller overall package. This evolution reflects Apple’s broader move toward maximizing display area while minimizing bulk—a trend that continues across newer models.

Screen Size and Usability Comparison

Despite having a smaller physical footprint, the iPhone 11 provides a significantly larger viewing area. The 8 Plus uses a 5.5-inch LCD with a resolution of 1920x1080, while the iPhone 11 features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 1792x828. Although the pixel density is slightly lower on the iPhone 11, the colors are more vibrant due to improved color calibration and True Tone technology.

Feature	iPhone 8 Plus	iPhone 11
Display Size	5.5 inches	6.1 inches
Display Type	LCD (Retina HD)	Liquid Retina HD (LCD)
Resolution	1920 × 1080	1792 × 828
Aspect Ratio	16:9	19.5:9
Bezels	Large top/bottom	Narrow, notch at top
Weight	200g	194g

The taller aspect ratio of the iPhone 11 allows for more vertical content visibility—especially useful when browsing social media, reading articles, or using productivity apps. However, the notch may take some getting used to if you’re coming from a clean top bezel design.

“The transition from the 8 Plus to the iPhone 11 feels like stepping into a new generation—not just because of speed, but because the screen dominates the experience.” — Mark Lin, Mobile Tech Analyst at GadgetPulse

Performance and Battery Life Implications

Size isn’t just about how the phone fits in your hand—it also influences thermal management, battery capacity, and sustained performance. The iPhone 11 runs on the A13 Bionic chip, a substantial leap over the A11 in the 8 Plus. Real-world benchmarks show up to 50% faster CPU performance and nearly double the graphics processing power.

Battery life tells an interesting story. Despite being smaller in volume, the iPhone 11 delivers longer usage time—up to 17 hours of video playback versus 13 hours on the 8 Plus. This improvement comes from more efficient hardware and software optimization, proving that newer doesn’t always mean bulkier to achieve endurance.

• iPhone 11 supports fast charging (up to 50% in 30 minutes with 18W adapter)
• Both phones lack MagSafe but support Qi wireless charging
• iOS updates are prioritized for A13 and newer chips, meaning longer software support for the iPhone 11

If your daily routine includes heavy app usage, multitasking, or gaming, the iPhone 11 offers smoother responsiveness even after years of ownership. The 8 Plus, while still functional, shows signs of strain with modern apps and background processes.

Real-World Upgrade Scenario: Sarah’s Experience

Sarah, a freelance photographer and longtime iPhone 8 Plus user, hesitated to upgrade for over two years. She loved the large screen for reviewing photos and the tactile feedback of the home button. But after dropping her 8 Plus for the third time—and facing mounting repair costs—she decided to switch to the iPhone 11.

At first, she missed the familiarity of the home button and found Face ID awkward in low-light situations. However, within two weeks, she adapted. She quickly appreciated the brighter display, better dynamic range in photos, and improved low-light performance on both cameras. Most surprisingly, she found the iPhone 11 easier to carry in her jacket pocket despite the larger screen, simply because it was shorter and less prone to snagging.

“I thought I needed the size of the 8 Plus,” Sarah said. “But the iPhone 11 gives me more screen without the heft. It’s smarter, not just newer.”

Upgrade Checklist: Are You Ready to Move On?

Before making the switch, consider these practical factors. Use this checklist to evaluate whether the iPhone 11 aligns with your needs:

1. ✅ Do you value a larger, more modern display in a potentially smaller frame?
2. ✅ Are you experiencing slowdowns or app crashes on your 8 Plus?
3. ✅ Do you take a lot of photos, especially in dim lighting?
4. ✅ Have you upgraded accessories (cases, chargers) recently?
5. ✅ Can you adapt to Face ID instead of Touch ID?
6. ✅ Is longer software support important to you?

If four or more apply, the iPhone 11 likely offers meaningful improvements—even if the size change seems minor on paper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the iPhone 11 harder to hold than the 8 Plus?

It depends on hand size and grip preference. The iPhone 11 is taller but narrower, which can make one-handed reach easier for some users. Others accustomed to the squarer shape of the 8 Plus may initially find the 11 less balanced. Using a case with texture or grip improves handling on either model.

Does the iPhone 11 fit in 8 Plus cases?

No. Due to different dimensions and camera placement, iPhone 11 cases are not compatible with the 8 Plus, and vice versa. You’ll need to purchase new accessories.

Can the iPhone 11 last as long as my 8 Plus did?

With proper care, yes. Battery health management, avoiding extreme temperatures, and enabling optimized charging can extend lifespan. Many iPhone 11 units from 2019 are still in daily use today.

Final Thoughts: Size Isn’t Everything—But It Matters

The iPhone 11 isn’t just a newer version of the 8 Plus; it’s a reimagining of what a mid-tier iPhone should be. By reducing physical size while increasing screen space and performance, Apple delivered a device that feels more modern and capable in everyday use. The compactness makes it easier to carry, the Face ID system integrates seamlessly once learned, and the dual-camera setup unlocks photography features the 8 Plus simply can’t match.

Upgrading isn’t only about raw specs—it’s about how the device fits into your life. If you’ve been holding out due to concerns about size, know this: the iPhone 11 manages to feel smaller in the pocket while offering more in every other way. For most 8 Plus users, the transition is not just worthwhile—it’s overdue.

🚀 Ready to make the leap? Evaluate your current usage patterns, try the iPhone 11 in person if possible, and consider how modern features could enhance your daily routine. The future of your mobile experience might be smaller, smarter, and already here.