Iphone 12 Vs Iphone 8 Is Upgrading Worth It Or Is The 8 Still Good Enough

The iPhone 8, released in 2017, was a solid flagship with a classic design and reliable performance. Fast forward to 2024, and many users are still holding onto their iPhone 8s—some out of loyalty, others because they’re unsure whether upgrading brings real benefits. Meanwhile, the iPhone 12, launched in 2020, introduced major upgrades in design, speed, and connectivity. So, is making the jump from the iPhone 8 to the iPhone 12 actually worth it? Or can the older model still hold its own in today’s app-heavy, 5G-driven world?

This comparison dives into key areas like performance, camera quality, battery life, software support, and long-term value to help you decide if now is the right time to upgrade—or if your trusty iPhone 8 deserves a few more years of service.

Performance: A Generational Leap

The most noticeable difference between the iPhone 8 and iPhone 12 lies under the hood. The iPhone 8 runs on Apple’s A11 Bionic chip, which was impressive at launch but now struggles with demanding apps and multitasking. In contrast, the iPhone 12 features the A14 Bionic—the first 5nm chip in any smartphone—which delivers significantly faster processing, better graphics rendering, and improved energy efficiency.

Real-world impact? Opening apps is snappier, games load quicker, and iOS updates feel smoother. If you use augmented reality (AR) apps, video editing tools, or play high-end mobile games, the A14 makes a tangible difference. Even everyday tasks like switching between Safari tabs or using Face ID feel more responsive.

Tip: If you frequently experience app crashes or slow loading times on your iPhone 8, it's likely due to hardware limitations—not just software bloat.

Design and Display: From LCD to Super Retina

The iPhone 8 retains the traditional home-button design with thick bezels and an LCD screen. Its 4.7-inch Retina HD display is sharp for its size but lacks the vibrancy and contrast of modern OLED panels. It also doesn’t support True Tone or wide color (P3), which affects photo and video viewing accuracy.

The iPhone 12 marks a return to flat edges and a modernized look with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. This means deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and better outdoor visibility. The edge-to-edge design offers more screen real estate without drastically increasing the phone’s footprint.

For users who consume media, browse social media, or rely on visual clarity, the iPhone 12’s display is a significant upgrade. Additionally, its Ceramic Shield front cover provides better drop resistance than the iPhone 8’s glass front.

Camera Comparison: Night Mode and Computational Photography

Both phones have capable cameras, but the gap widens when conditions aren’t ideal. The iPhone 8 has a single 12MP rear camera with optical image stabilization and Portrait mode via software tricks. It performs well in daylight but falters in low light and lacks depth-sensing hardware.

The iPhone 12 introduces a dual-camera system: a 12MP wide and ultra-wide lens. More importantly, it includes Night mode on both rear cameras and the front-facing sensor. This allows for dramatically better photos in dim lighting—something the iPhone 8 simply cannot match.

Computational photography also plays a bigger role. Smart HDR 3, Deep Fusion, and better noise reduction mean richer textures, accurate colors, and finer detail retention across all lighting conditions.

“Even casual photographers benefit from Night mode. It turns poorly lit indoor shots into usable images without flash.” — David Lin, Mobile Photography Analyst

Battery Life and Charging: Efficiency Meets Modern Standards

The iPhone 8 has a relatively small battery by today’s standards. Apple rated it for up to 13 hours of video playback, but real-world usage often lands closer to 8–10 hours with moderate use. It supports 18W fast charging (with a compatible adapter) and Qi wireless charging, but comes boxed with only a 5W charger.

The iPhone 12, despite being thinner and lighter, offers slightly better battery life—up to 17 hours of video playback—thanks to the power-efficient A14 chip and optimized iOS 14+. It also supports MagSafe wireless charging, enabling faster and more convenient alignment for accessories.

If you're someone who regularly carries a portable charger or worries about battery by midday, the iPhone 12 will reduce that anxiety. And while neither phone has class-leading endurance, the newer model manages power far more intelligently.

Software Support and Future-Proofing

As of 2024, the iPhone 8 supports up to iOS 17, but future updates are uncertain. Apple typically supports devices for 5–6 years post-launch, meaning iOS 18 may be the last update the iPhone 8 receives—if it gets it at all.

In contrast, the iPhone 12 is expected to receive updates through at least 2027, possibly longer. This means continued access to new security patches, app compatibility, and features like enhanced privacy controls, AI integrations, and ecosystem improvements (e.g., Continuity, AirPlay, and Home integration).

App developers increasingly optimize for newer hardware. Over time, apps may stop supporting older chips or run poorly on them. Upgrading now ensures you won’t face sudden obsolescence in the next two years.

Tip: Check how often your current apps crash or fail to update. If several no longer support your device, it’s a sign the hardware is nearing end-of-life.

Is the iPhone 8 Still Good Enough?

Yes—but with caveats. If your usage is light (calls, texts, email, occasional web browsing), the iPhone 8 remains functional. It handles iOS 17 reasonably well and continues to receive critical security updates. However, limitations become apparent when doing more than basics:

• Slower app launches and frequent reloads
• Limited photo capabilities in low light
• No 5G or advanced Wi-Fi 6 support
• Smaller, lower-quality screen
• Diminishing third-party app support

For students, seniors, or secondary-device users, the iPhone 8 may suffice. But for anyone relying on their phone for productivity, content creation, or staying connected across platforms, it’s showing its age.

Upgrade Checklist: Are You Ready for the iPhone 12?

Ask yourself these questions before deciding:

1. Do apps frequently freeze or crash on my iPhone 8?
2. Am I unable to install the latest iOS updates?
3. Do I struggle with poor photo quality in evening or indoor settings?
4. Do I want faster internet with 5G capability?
5. Do I use multiple Apple devices and want better ecosystem integration?
6. Have I noticed significantly reduced battery life over the past year?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, upgrading is likely worthwhile.

Comparison Table: iPhone 12 vs iPhone 8 at a Glance

Feature	iPhone 8	iPhone 12
Release Year	2017	2020
Chipset	A11 Bionic	A14 Bionic
Display	4.7\" LCD (Retina HD)	6.1\" OLED (Super Retina XDR)
Rear Cameras	12MP Wide	12MP Wide + 12MP Ultra-Wide
Night Mode	No	Yes (all cameras)
Front Camera	7MP	12MP with Night Mode
5G Support	No	Yes (mmWave & Sub-6GHz)
Wi-Fi	Wi-Fi 5	Wi-Fi 6
MagSafe	No	Yes
Battery Life (Video)	Up to 13 hours	Up to 17 hours
Expected Software Support	Up to iOS 18 (likely final)	Through iOS 21+ (estimated)

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision

Sarah, a freelance graphic designer, used her iPhone 8 for work calls, client emails, and capturing quick design inspiration. By late 2023, she noticed delays in loading cloud files, Instagram crashing during uploads, and poor-quality portfolio photos taken indoors. After testing an iPhone 12 at a friend’s house, she was struck by how smoothly design apps ran and how much clearer her product mockups looked on the OLED screen. She upgraded in January 2024 and reported a 40% increase in workflow efficiency—especially when editing images directly on her phone during client meetings.

Her experience reflects a growing trend: professionals relying on smartphones as primary tools benefit significantly from newer hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 8 still get security updates?

Yes, but only for a limited time. As of 2024, it receives updates under iOS 17, but Apple may discontinue support with iOS 18. Once updates stop, the device becomes more vulnerable to emerging threats.

Is 5G really necessary on the iPhone 12?

It depends on your needs. If you frequently download large files, stream 4K video, or work remotely with cloud-based tools, 5G offers faster speeds and lower latency. However, coverage varies, and Wi-Fi 6 also improves connectivity even without 5G.

Should I wait for iPhone 15 instead?

If budget allows and you want the latest features (like Dynamic Island or USB-C), waiting might make sense. But the iPhone 12 remains a strong performer and is now available at discounted prices, making it a smart mid-tier upgrade from the iPhone 8.

Final Verdict: To Upgrade or Not?

The iPhone 8 was a milestone device, but it’s now seven years old. While it still works, its limitations in speed, camera, display, and future software support make it a liability for active users. The iPhone 12 isn’t just newer—it’s fundamentally more capable, offering better performance, modern design, superior photography, and longer support.

If you value reliability, longevity, and a seamless experience across Apple’s ecosystem, upgrading is absolutely worth it. And with trade-in programs and refurbished models widely available, the financial barrier is lower than ever.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? Evaluate your current usage, consider your long-term needs, and take advantage of carrier deals or Apple’s trade-in options. Your iPhone 8 served you well—now it’s time to step into the next generation.