Iphone 11 Vs Galaxy S8 Plus Is Upgrading From An S8 Even Worth It Anymore

If you're still using a Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus—once a flagship powerhouse—you might be wondering whether it’s finally time to upgrade. The iPhone 11, released in 2019, isn’t the newest model, but it remains a popular choice for Android users considering a switch to iOS. But does jumping from a five-year-old Android device to a five-year-old iPhone make sense in 2024? The answer depends on what you value: raw performance, ecosystem integration, long-term software support, or camera quality.

The Galaxy S8 Plus was groundbreaking in its time, introducing edge-to-edge displays and refined design language. However, technology has advanced significantly since 2017. Meanwhile, the iPhone 11 brought Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, improved cameras, and longer battery life over its predecessor. While both devices are now considered legacy models, comparing them reveals important insights about longevity, user experience, and whether an upgrade delivers meaningful improvements.

Performance and Real-World Speed

At the heart of any smartphone decision is performance. The Galaxy S8 Plus launched with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 835 (or Exynos 9810 in some regions), which was top-tier in 2017. By today’s standards, it struggles with multitasking, app loading times, and newer games. Many users report noticeable lag when switching between apps or opening social media platforms that have grown more resource-intensive over time.

In contrast, the iPhone 11 features Apple’s A13 Bionic chip—an architecture so efficient that it still handles modern iOS updates smoothly. Even in 2024, the A13 runs iOS 17 without major hiccups. Apps launch quickly, background processes are managed efficiently, and overall system responsiveness feels snappier than most mid-range Android phones released in the same window.

Tip: If your current phone takes more than two seconds to open frequently used apps, it's likely holding back your daily productivity.

Apple’s tight hardware-software integration gives the iPhone 11 a lasting edge. While the S8 Plus originally had more RAM than early iPhones, iOS optimizes memory usage differently, often delivering smoother day-to-day performance despite lower specs on paper.

Camera Comparison: Evolution Over Revolution

The camera is where the iPhone 11 shines brightest compared to the S8 Plus. Samsung’s 2017 flagship featured a single 12MP rear sensor with dual-pixel autofocus and optical image stabilization—a strong performer for its era. Low-light photos were decent, and the front-facing camera captured sharp selfies. However, by 2024 standards, dynamic range is limited, HDR processing is basic, and night mode doesn’t exist.

The iPhone 11 introduced a dual-camera system: a 12MP wide and ultra-wide lens. This allows for greater compositional flexibility and better landscape shots. More importantly, computational photography—like Smart HDR, Deep Fusion, and Night Mode—dramatically improves photo quality in challenging lighting. Even in daylight, the iPhone produces more balanced exposures, richer colors, and better detail retention.

“Smartphone photography isn’t just about megapixels anymore—it’s about how software enhances every shot. That’s where Apple pulled ahead starting with the iPhone 11.” — David Lin, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechVision Weekly

For video, the difference is even starker. The iPhone 11 records 4K video at 60fps with excellent stabilization, while the S8 Plus maxes out at 4K/30fps and lacks advanced electronic stabilization. Vloggers or casual videographers will notice a significant jump in smoothness and clarity.

Battery Life and Charging Experience

Battery degradation is inevitable after five years. Most Galaxy S8 Plus units today have batteries that hold less than 70% of their original capacity, leading to frequent charging and poor endurance. Even when new, the S8 Plus offered around 10–12 hours of screen-on time under moderate use.

The iPhone 11, equipped with a larger battery and power-efficient A13 chip, delivers up to 17 hours of video playback. In real-world mixed usage, most users get through a full day easily. It also benefits from optimized background app refresh and lower standby drain—common pain points on aging Android devices.

Feature	Galaxy S8 Plus	iPhone 11
Battery Capacity	3,500 mAh	3,110 mAh (but more efficient)
Charging Speed	Fast charging (15W)	Fast charging capable (18W adapter not included)
Wireless Charging	Yes (Qi standard)	Yes (Qi standard)
Actual Daily Use (2024)	5–7 hours screen time	8–10 hours screen time

While neither phone supports ultra-fast charging by modern standards, the iPhone 11’s consistent power management gives it a practical advantage, especially as batteries age.

Ecosystem and Software Support

This may be the deciding factor. The Galaxy S8 Plus stopped receiving major OS updates after Android 9 Pie, with security patches ending entirely in 2020. Running an outdated operating system increases vulnerability to malware and limits compatibility with modern apps. Many banking, fitness, and communication apps no longer support such old Android versions.

Conversely, the iPhone 11 launched with iOS 13 and is compatible with iOS 17—four major OS upgrades and ongoing security patches. Apple typically supports iPhones for 5–6 years, meaning the iPhone 11 could receive one final update to iOS 18 in 2024. This extended lifecycle ensures access to new features, app compatibility, and security fixes.

Switching to iPhone also means entering Apple’s ecosystem: iMessage, FaceTime, iCloud, AirPods integration, Handoff, and Continuity features like Universal Clipboard. For users heavily invested in Google services, this transition requires adjustment. But if you use a Mac, iPad, or Apple Watch, the seamless integration offers tangible daily benefits.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Journey

Sarah, a freelance graphic designer, used her Galaxy S8 Plus for six years. She delayed upgrading due to cost concerns and familiarity with Android. But by late 2023, she noticed her phone struggled to run design apps like Procreate Pocket and Adobe Fresco. Exporting files took minutes, and crashes became common during client calls.

She purchased a used iPhone 11 for $220 and migrated her data via iCloud. Within days, she noticed faster app launches, smoother zooming in design tools, and reliable performance during video conferences. The improved camera also helped her document sketches and share high-quality visuals with clients. After three months, she said, “It feels like getting a new brain. Everything just works now.”

Her experience reflects a broader trend: users clinging to aging flagships often don’t realize how much friction their old devices add until they upgrade—even to a previous-generation iPhone.

Checklist: Is Upgrading Worth It for You?

• ✅ Does your S8 Plus take more than 10 seconds to boot up?
• ✅ Have you experienced app crashes or freezes in the last month?
• ✅ Are you unable to install the latest version of WhatsApp, Instagram, or Google Maps?
• ✅ Do you charge your phone more than twice a day?
• ✅ Do you want better photo quality without carrying a separate camera?
• ✅ Are you open to learning a new operating system (iOS)?

If you answered yes to three or more, upgrading to an iPhone 11—or a similar-tier device—will likely improve your daily digital experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my data from Galaxy S8 Plus to iPhone 11 easily?

Yes. Apple provides the “Move to iOS” app on the Google Play Store, which securely transfers contacts, messages, photos, calendars, and free apps during initial setup. Paid apps must be repurchased, but your purchases are tied to your Apple ID afterward.

Is the iPhone 11 waterproof like the S8 Plus?

The iPhone 11 has an IP68 rating (up to 6 meters for 30 minutes), slightly better than the S8 Plus (IP68 up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes). Both resist splashes and brief submersion, but neither should be used underwater intentionally.

Will apps run slower on the iPhone 11 because it’s older?

No. Due to superior chip efficiency and iOS optimization, the iPhone 11 runs modern apps faster than many Android phones from 2019–2020. Only the latest AAA mobile games may require settings adjustments.

Final Verdict: Yes, It’s Still Worth It

Upgrading from a Galaxy S8 Plus to an iPhone 11 in 2024 isn’t about chasing the latest tech—it’s about reclaiming reliability, speed, and peace of mind. The iPhone 11 offers dramatically better performance, vastly superior cameras, longer software support, and stronger ecosystem integration. Even as a five-year-old model, it outperforms the S8 Plus in nearly every measurable category.

You don’t need to buy new; certified refurbished or lightly used iPhone 11 models are available for under $250. When weighed against the frustration of a sluggish, insecure, and outdated device, the investment pays for itself in reduced stress and increased productivity.

💬 Have you made the switch from Galaxy to iPhone? Share your experience below and help others decide if it’s time to let go of their S8.