If you're still using an iPhone 8 Plus in 2024, you’re not alone. Many users continue to rely on this durable, large-screen device long after its release. But with the iPhone 12 now several years old and still widely available at discounted prices, the question arises: is making the jump from the 8 Plus to the 12 actually worth it today? The answer depends on your priorities—whether it's performance, camera quality, battery life, or long-term software support.
The iPhone 8 Plus was a flagship in its time, offering solid build quality, a reliable A11 Bionic chip, and one of Apple’s last devices with a home button and Touch ID. Fast forward to 2024, and the iPhone 12 represents a major leap forward—featuring 5G, OLED display technology, Night mode photography, and a modern design language. But does that leap justify the upgrade for someone whose 8 Plus still powers through daily tasks?
Performance: A Generational Leap
The most immediate difference between the iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone 12 is raw performance. The 8 Plus runs on the A11 Bionic chip, which was powerful in 2017 but now struggles with heavier apps, multitasking, and newer iOS versions. In contrast, the iPhone 12 uses the A14 Bionic—the first 5-nanometer chip in any smartphone—which delivers significantly faster CPU and GPU performance.
In real-world use, this means smoother app launches, quicker photo editing, better gaming experiences, and more responsive overall navigation. Apps like Adobe Lightroom, Google Maps with live view, and augmented reality tools run far more efficiently on the A14 than they do on the aging A11.
Display and Design: From Retina LCD to Super Retina XDR
The iPhone 8 Plus features a 5.5-inch Retina HD LCD display with a resolution of 1920x1080. While perfectly usable, it lacks the vibrancy, contrast, and true blacks of OLED technology. The iPhone 12, by comparison, has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. This translates to deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and improved color accuracy—especially when watching HDR video on Netflix or YouTube.
Design-wise, the shift is even more dramatic. The 8 Plus has thick bezels and a home button, while the iPhone 12 adopts Apple’s modern flat-edge design with edge-to-edge glass and Face ID. Though some users miss the tactile feedback of Touch ID, Face ID offers seamless unlocking and secure authentication for payments and apps.
“Moving from the iPhone 8 Plus to the iPhone 12 feels like stepping into a new era—not just in speed, but in how you interact with the device.” — Mark Reynolds, Mobile Tech Analyst at GadgetInsight
Camera Comparison: Night Mode and Computational Photography
Photography is where the iPhone 12 pulls decisively ahead. Both phones have dual rear cameras, but the capabilities differ greatly. The 8 Plus has a 12MP wide and 12MP telephoto setup, capable of portrait mode and optical zoom. However, it lacks Night mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 3—all standard on the iPhone 12.
The iPhone 12 introduces Night mode across all lenses, allowing dramatically better low-light photos. Whether you're capturing a dimly lit dinner or a cityscape at dusk, the 12 produces clearer, brighter images with less noise. Its Smart HDR 3 enhances dynamic range, preserving details in shadows and highlights simultaneously.
Front-facing cameras also see a big upgrade. The 8 Plus has a 7MP TrueDepth camera, while the 12 bumps it to 12MP with support for 4K video recording and better low-light selfies.
Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision
Sarah had been using her iPhone 8 Plus since 2018. She loved the size and battery life but found herself frustrated when trying to take photos at her daughter’s evening soccer games. Her pictures were grainy, out of focus, and often too dark. After borrowing a friend’s iPhone 12, she was stunned by the clarity of the night shots—even without flash. Within a week, she traded in her 8 Plus and hasn’t looked back. “It’s not just about photos,” she said. “The whole phone feels faster, especially when uploading videos to Instagram.”
Battery Life and Charging: Efficiency vs. Capacity
Battery life is a nuanced topic. The iPhone 8 Plus has a larger physical battery and typically lasts longer on a single charge than the iPhone 12 under light usage. However, the A14 chip is far more power-efficient, and iOS optimizations help the 12 manage energy better during heavy tasks.
More importantly, the iPhone 12 supports faster charging (up to 50% in 30 minutes with a 20W adapter) and MagSafe wireless charging. The 8 Plus only supports slower Qi wireless charging and maxes out at 7.5W. If you value convenience and speed, the 12’s charging ecosystem is a clear advantage.
| Feature | iPhone 8 Plus | iPhone 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | A11 Bionic | A14 Bionic |
| Display | 5.5\" LCD (Retina HD) | 6.1\" OLED (Super Retina XDR) |
| Rear Cameras | 12MP + 12MP (no Night mode) | 12MP + 12MP (Night mode, Deep Fusion) |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 12MP (4K video) |
| Biometric Security | Touch ID | Face ID |
| Charging | Qi wireless (7.5W), 5W wired | MagSafe (15W), Qi (7.5W), 20W wired |
| Software Support (Est. End) | 2023–2024 (ended) | 2024–2027 (expected) |
| 5G Connectivity | No | Yes |
Software Support and Future-Proofing
This may be the most critical factor in 2024. Apple typically provides around five years of iOS updates. The iPhone 8 Plus received updates from iOS 11 through iOS 16, with iOS 16 being its final version. As of 2024, it no longer receives security patches or feature upgrades.
The iPhone 12 launched with iOS 14 and is expected to receive updates through iOS 19 or 20—likely until 2027. That means continued access to new features, enhanced privacy controls, App Store compatibility, and security updates. For users who rely on banking apps, health tracking, or work tools, staying up to date is essential.
Step-by-Step: Should You Upgrade?
- Assess your current pain points: Is your iPhone 8 Plus slow, crashing apps, or failing to update?
- Check camera needs: Do you regularly take photos in low light or share high-quality content?
- Evaluate battery and charging: Are you tired of carrying a power bank or waiting hours to charge?
- Review software status: Is your phone stuck on an older iOS version? Can it install current apps?
- Compare cost: Refurbished iPhone 12 models start around $250–$350. Weigh this against repair costs or trade-in value.
FAQ
Can the iPhone 8 Plus still be used in 2024?
Yes, for basic tasks like calls, texts, email, and light browsing. However, it no longer receives iOS updates or security patches, making it vulnerable over time. Some newer apps may not install or run properly.
Is the iPhone 12 waterproof?
The iPhone 12 has an IP68 rating, meaning it can survive submersion in up to 6 meters of water for 30 minutes. The 8 Plus is also splash-resistant but has a lower IP67 rating (1 meter for 30 minutes).
Will my accessories work with the iPhone 12?
Most Lightning cables and cases won’t transfer due to the different size and shape. However, headphones, AirPods, and wireless chargers remain compatible.
Final Verdict: Is Upgrading Worth It?
For most users still on the iPhone 8 Plus, upgrading to the iPhone 12 in 2024 is not just worthwhile—it’s practical. The improvements in performance, camera quality, display technology, and software longevity are substantial. While the 8 Plus was built to last, it’s now operating beyond its intended lifecycle.
The iPhone 12 offers a modern smartphone experience: faster connectivity with 5G, better photo capabilities, longer software support, and a design that aligns with current standards. At a time when digital interaction is central to work, communication, and entertainment, having a device that keeps up matters.
If your budget allows—even with a refurbished or lightly used model—the upgrade makes sense. You’re not just getting a newer phone; you’re gaining peace of mind, better functionality, and several more years of reliable use.
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