Iphone 12 Vs Iphone 8 Plus Is Upgrading Really Worth It

For many iPhone 8 Plus owners, the question isn’t whether they *can* upgrade—it’s whether they *should*. The iPhone 8 Plus was a flagship device in its time, known for its robust build, reliable performance, and excellent dual-camera system. But with newer models like the iPhone 12 offering modern features, better efficiency, and future-proof technology, the decision becomes more complex. Is trading in a still-functional iPhone 8 Plus for an iPhone 12 truly worth the investment? Let’s break it down across key categories to help you make an informed choice.

Design and Display: A Leap Forward

The most immediate difference between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 8 Plus is design language and screen technology. The iPhone 8 Plus features a traditional home button, thick bezels, and a 5.5-inch LCD display with a resolution of 1920x1080. While this screen was sharp for its era, it lacks the vibrancy and contrast of modern OLED panels.

In contrast, the iPhone 12 introduced Apple’s flat-edge aluminum design, reminiscent of the iPhone 4 but refined for 2020 standards. It has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with HDR support, delivering deeper blacks, brighter whites, and superior color accuracy. Though slightly smaller in diagonal measurement than the 8 Plus, the screen feels larger due to minimal bezels and edge-to-edge glass.

Tip: If you prioritize screen quality for streaming, photo editing, or outdoor visibility, the iPhone 12’s OLED panel is a significant upgrade.

Performance and Longevity: Beyond Raw Speed

Under the hood, the gap widens dramatically. The iPhone 8 Plus runs on the A11 Bionic chip—a capable processor in 2017 but now showing its age when multitasking or handling demanding apps. iOS updates are still supported, but optimization lags behind newer devices.

The iPhone 12, powered by the A14 Bionic chip, was the first 5nm processor in any smartphone. This translates to faster CPU and GPU performance, improved machine learning capabilities, and greater energy efficiency. Apps launch quicker, games run smoother, and AR experiences feel more responsive.

“Devices with A12 and later chips are optimized for iOS updates through at least 2026. The A14 gives users two extra years of peak software support.” — Mark Rivera, Senior Tech Analyst at MobileTrend Labs

More importantly, app developers are increasingly optimizing for newer hardware. Features like LiDAR scanning (on Pro models), advanced computational photography, and AR navigation rely on processing power that the A11 simply can't deliver efficiently.

Camera Comparison: Night Mode and Computational Photography

Both phones feature dual rear cameras, but their capabilities differ significantly. The iPhone 8 Plus has a 12MP wide and 12MP telephoto setup, allowing for 2x optical zoom and Portrait mode—impressive for its time. However, it lacks Night mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 3.

The iPhone 12 introduces Night mode on both wide and front-facing cameras, enabling dramatically better low-light photos. Its larger sensor captures more light, and the integration of Deep Fusion fine-tunes texture and detail in mid-to-low light conditions. Video recording jumps from 4K at 60fps to support for Dolby Vision HDR recording—something no Android phone matched at launch.

Feature	iPhone 8 Plus	iPhone 12
Front Camera	7MP, f/2.2	12MP, f/2.2, Night Mode, Smart HDR 3
Rear Cameras	12MP + 12MP (wide & telephoto)	12MP + 12MP (wide & ultra-wide)
Night Mode	No	Yes (wide & selfie)
Video Recording	4K @ 60fps	Dolby Vision HDR @ 4K 60fps
Smart HDR	HDR (basic)	Smart HDR 3

The addition of the ultra-wide lens on the iPhone 12 expands creative possibilities, letting you capture landscapes, architecture, or group shots without stepping back.

Battery Life and Charging: Efficiency vs Endurance

Battery life is where the iPhone 8 Plus still holds some ground. Despite its older battery technology, its 2691mAh cell provides solid endurance, often lasting a full day with moderate use. The iPhone 12, while equipped with a slightly smaller 2815mAh battery, benefits from the power-efficient A14 chip and iOS optimizations. In real-world testing, both phones deliver around 10–11 hours of screen-on time, though usage patterns matter greatly.

Where the iPhone 12 pulls ahead is in charging flexibility. It supports MagSafe wireless charging (up to 15W), Qi wireless charging, and faster wired charging with a 20W adapter (sold separately). The iPhone 8 Plus only supports up to 7.5W wireless charging and slower USB-A wired charging.

Tip: Pair your iPhone 12 with a MagSafe charger for faster, convenient wireless power-ups—especially useful overnight or during short breaks.

Network and Future-Proofing: Welcome to 5G

This may be the most critical factor in deciding whether to upgrade. The iPhone 8 Plus is limited to LTE networks. While 4G is still widely available and functional, carriers are phasing out older bands, and download/upload speeds pale in comparison to 5G.

The iPhone 12 supports 5G (mmWave and sub-6GHz depending on model), offering faster streaming, quicker downloads, and lower latency for video calls and cloud gaming. As more services optimize for 5G—such as Apple’s rumored cloud-based AR and VR features—having a compatible device ensures you’re not left behind.

Even if 5G coverage is spotty in your area today, owning a 5G-ready phone means you're prepared for infrastructure improvements over the next 3–5 years.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah had been using her iPhone 8 Plus since 2018. By 2023, she noticed apps like Instagram and TikTok were slower to load, and her phone struggled during video conferences. She also found herself missing photo opportunities in dim lighting. After researching, she upgraded to the iPhone 12 primarily for Night mode and 5G access. Within weeks, she reported smoother performance, crisper selfies, and faster file uploads for her freelance work. “It felt like going from analog to digital,” she said. “I didn’t realize how much I was missing until I upgraded.”

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is the Upgrade Justified?

The iPhone 12 launched at $799, while used iPhone 8 Plus units now sell for $150–$250. That’s a $550+ investment. So, what do you gain?

• Modern design with durable Ceramic Shield front cover
• OLED display with superior brightness and contrast
• 5G connectivity for future network readiness
• A14 chip with longer software support (iOS 18+, likely into 2027)
• Improved camera system with Night mode, Smart HDR 3, and Dolby Vision
• Faster charging and MagSafe ecosystem compatibility

If you plan to keep your phone for 3+ years, the iPhone 12 offers substantially better longevity. However, if you're on a tight budget and mostly use your phone for calls, texts, and light browsing, the iPhone 8 Plus remains functional.

Upgrade Checklist: Are You Ready?

1. ✅ Assess current pain points: slow performance, poor low-light photos, weak battery?
2. ✅ Check carrier 5G availability in your primary locations
3. ✅ Evaluate budget: Can you afford $600+ without strain?
4. ✅ Consider trade-in value of your iPhone 8 Plus
5. ✅ Think long-term: Will you keep the phone for 3+ years?

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the iPhone 12 last longer than my iPhone 8 Plus?

Yes, both in terms of hardware lifespan and software support. The A14 chip and optimized battery management mean the iPhone 12 will remain fast and secure longer. Expect iOS updates through at least 2027.

Can the iPhone 8 Plus still handle daily tasks?

Absolutely. For calling, texting, email, social media, and basic apps, the iPhone 8 Plus performs adequately. However, newer versions of apps may become sluggish over time.

Do I need 5G right now?

Not immediately—but having it ensures you’re ready for future apps, faster downloads, and evolving network standards. If you frequently travel or work remotely, 5G adds tangible value.

Final Verdict: To Upgrade or Not?

Upgrading from the iPhone 8 Plus to the iPhone 12 isn’t just about better specs—it’s about stepping into a new generation of mobile experience. The combination of 5G, superior camera technology, modern design, and extended software support makes the iPhone 12 a compelling upgrade for users who rely on their phones for productivity, creativity, and connectivity.

However, if your iPhone 8 Plus still meets your needs and you prefer to save money, there’s no urgent reason to replace it yet. But consider this: every year you delay, you miss out on advancements that enhance both functionality and enjoyment. For most users, especially those planning to keep their device for several years, the upgrade is not only worth it—it’s a smart long-term investment.

💬 Have you made the switch from iPhone 8 Plus to iPhone 12? Share your experience, tips, or regrets in the comments below—your insight could help others decide!