Iphone 14 Plus Vs 8 Plus Is The Upgrade Really Worth It In Current Year

For years, the iPhone 8 Plus has been a reliable companion for millions. Its sturdy build, solid camera, and dependable iOS support made it a standout in its era. But as we move further into 2024, many long-time users are questioning whether holding onto this aging device still makes sense. With Apple’s iPhone 14 Plus offering modern features and extended longevity, the decision to upgrade isn’t just about desire—it’s about practicality, future-proofing, and daily usability.

This isn’t simply a spec sheet showdown. It’s a real-world evaluation of how these phones perform today, how they fit into modern app ecosystems, and whether the jump from an iPhone 8 Plus to a 14 Plus delivers tangible benefits that justify the cost.

Performance: A Generational Leap

The most immediate difference between the iPhone 8 Plus and the iPhone 14 Plus lies under the hood. The 8 Plus runs on Apple’s A11 Bionic chip, released in 2017. While once powerful, this processor now struggles with multitasking, modern games, and even some everyday apps optimized for newer hardware.

In contrast, the iPhone 14 Plus features the A15 Bionic chip—same as the high-end iPhone 13 Pro models—with significantly improved CPU and GPU performance. Benchmarks show the A15 delivering over 3x the CPU performance and nearly 5x the graphics power of the A11. Real-world impact? Apps launch faster, scrolling is smoother, and demanding tasks like photo editing or video rendering happen in seconds, not minutes.

Tip: If your current phone takes more than two seconds to open frequently used apps, you’re likely losing productivity—upgrading could save hours per year.

iOS updates also play a critical role. As of 2024, the iPhone 8 Plus supports up to iOS 16, but no longer receives feature updates. The iPhone 14 Plus supports iOS 17 and will likely receive updates through at least 2027. This means better security, new features, and compatibility with future apps that may drop support for older devices.

Camera Comparison: Night Mode, Computational Photography, and More

The camera gap between these two phones is staggering. The iPhone 8 Plus featured a dual 12MP rear system (wide and telephoto) and was excellent for its time. But it lacks Night mode, Deep Fusion, Smart HDR 4, and advanced portrait lighting effects—all standard on the 14 Plus.

The iPhone 14 Plus brings a larger sensor, improved low-light performance, and a main camera capable of capturing photos with far greater dynamic range and detail. It also supports Photographic Styles, cinematic mode in 4K, and dramatically better front-facing video for FaceTime and social media.

Consider night photography: the 8 Plus produces grainy, blurry images in dim light without flash. The 14 Plus automatically activates Night mode, producing bright, clear, color-accurate photos—even in near darkness.

“Smartphone photography today is less about the lens and more about computational processing. The A15 chip enables real-time image stacking, noise reduction, and depth mapping that simply weren’t possible five years ago.” — David Lin, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechSight

Battery Life and Charging: From Frustration to Freedom

Battery degradation is inevitable, especially on devices as old as the iPhone 8 Plus. Even with a replaced battery, its 2,691mAh cell can barely last a full day of moderate use in 2024. In contrast, the iPhone 14 Plus packs a 4,323mAh battery—the largest in any standard iPhone model—which easily lasts 1.5 to 2 days depending on usage.

Charging technology has also evolved. The 8 Plus only supports 5W charging via Lightning, meaning a full charge can take over three hours. The 14 Plus supports 20W fast charging (charger sold separately), cutting that time in half. It also supports MagSafe and Qi wireless charging, adding convenience.

Feature	iPhone 8 Plus	iPhone 14 Plus
Chipset	A11 Bionic (2017)	A15 Bionic (2022)
RAM	3GB	6GB
Rear Cameras	Dual 12MP (Wide, Telephoto)	Dual 12MP (Wide, Ultra-Wide)
Front Camera	7MP	12MP (supports 4K video)
Battery Capacity	~2,691 mAh	~4,323 mAh
Fast Charging	No (5W max)	Yes (20W supported)
Wireless Charging	Yes (Qi only)	Yes (Qi + MagSafe)
iOS Support (2024)	Up to iOS 16	iOS 17+, supported through ~2027
Display	4.7\" LCD Retina HD	6.7\" Super Retina XDR OLED
Water Resistance	IP67 (1m for 30 min)	IP68 (6m for 30 min)

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Journey

Sarah had been using her iPhone 8 Plus since 2018. By 2023, she noticed constant app crashes, slow Safari loading, and her battery dying by noon. She relied on her phone for work emails, mobile banking, and capturing moments with her toddler. After replacing the battery, she still felt constrained.

In early 2024, she upgraded to the iPhone 14 Plus. The change was immediate: videos loaded instantly on YouTube Kids, FaceTime calls stayed stable, and she could record 4K birthday videos without overheating. Most importantly, she didn’t need to carry a charger during school pickups anymore.

“It wasn’t just about having a newer phone,” she said. “It was about not worrying. My phone finally keeps up with my life instead of slowing me down.”

Is the Upgrade Worth It in 2024? A Practical Checklist

Before making the leap, consider these factors. Use this checklist to evaluate your own needs:

• Does your iPhone 8 Plus struggle with basic tasks? (e.g., opening messages, switching apps)
• Have you experienced frequent app crashes or freezes?
• Do you rely on your phone for work, parenting, or travel?
• Are you unable to update to the latest iOS version?
• Is your battery life under 50% health? (Check in Settings > Battery > Battery Health)
• Do you want better photo quality, especially in low light?
• Are you tired of carrying a portable charger daily?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, the upgrade is likely justified—not as a luxury, but as a productivity and lifestyle improvement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 8 Plus still be used in 2024?

Yes, but with limitations. Basic calling, texting, and light browsing still work. However, app compatibility is declining, and newer versions of Instagram, TikTok, and banking apps may run slowly or stop supporting the device entirely in the next year or two.

How much does it cost to upgrade from iPhone 8 Plus to 14 Plus?

The iPhone 14 Plus starts at $799 (new), though carriers often offer trade-in deals. The iPhone 8 Plus typically trades in for $20–$50, depending on condition. Consider refurbished or certified pre-owned models to reduce cost while still gaining major benefits.

Is the screen size a big adjustment?

Going from a 4.7-inch display to a 6.7-inch one is significant. Some users initially find the 14 Plus too large, but most adapt within a few days. The larger screen improves readability, video watching, and multitasking—especially useful for reading emails or managing calendars.

Final Verdict: Future-Proofing Your Digital Life

The iPhone 8 Plus was a milestone device. But technology moves quickly, and what was cutting-edge in 2017 is now functionally obsolete in key areas. The iPhone 14 Plus isn’t just a newer phone—it’s a fundamentally different experience. Faster performance, superior cameras, all-day battery, and years of software support make it a worthwhile investment in 2024.

If you're still holding onto an 8 Plus, ask yourself: Is your phone serving you, or are you constantly working around its limitations? Upgrading isn’t about keeping up with trends—it’s about reclaiming time, reliability, and peace of mind.

💬 Thinking about upgrading? Share your experience below—what’s holding you back, or what surprised you after switching?