Iphone 6 Plus Vs 8 Plus Still Worth Upgrading In 2025 Or Is It Time For A New Phone

For millions of iPhone users, the decision to upgrade isn’t just about new features—it’s about performance, security, and usability in an increasingly app-driven world. If you're still using an iPhone 6 Plus and considering a jump to the iPhone 8 Plus in 2025, the question isn't just whether it's possible, but whether it's practical. The tech landscape has evolved dramatically since both devices launched, and what once felt like a modest upgrade may now represent a shrinking window of relevance.

This comparison isn’t just about camera specs or battery life—it’s about longevity, software support, and whether either device can truly meet your needs today. Let’s break down the realities of moving from an iPhone 6 Plus to an 8 Plus in 2025, and when it might be smarter to skip ahead entirely.

Performance and Hardware: A Closer Look

The iPhone 6 Plus, released in 2014, was powered by the Apple A8 chip—a solid performer for its time. By contrast, the iPhone 8 Plus (2017) came with the A11 Bionic chip, which brought significant improvements in CPU speed, graphics performance, and machine learning capabilities. In raw benchmarks, the A11 is nearly three times faster than the A8.

In practical terms, this means apps launch quicker, multitasking is smoother, and modern iOS features run more reliably on the 8 Plus. The 8 Plus also includes better RAM management, supporting more background processes without lag. For anyone relying on productivity tools, social media, or navigation apps, that difference is immediately noticeable.

Tip: If your current iPhone 6 Plus struggles with basic tasks like loading Safari tabs or switching between apps, the 8 Plus will feel like a major leap—just don’t expect future-proof performance.

iOS Support and Security Updates

One of the most critical factors in 2025 is software support. Apple typically supports iPhones with iOS updates for around five to six years after release. The iPhone 6 Plus stopped receiving updates after iOS 12, meaning it hasn’t had security patches or feature upgrades since 2019. That makes it vulnerable to modern threats and incompatible with many current apps.

The iPhone 8 Plus, however, received updates up to iOS 17 and is likely near the end of its update cycle. While it may not get iOS 18, it has enjoyed four major OS upgrades post-launch—significantly extending its functional lifespan. This means better app compatibility, access to modern privacy tools, and improved performance optimizations over time.

“By 2025, any iPhone older than the iPhone 8 series will struggle to keep up with essential services like banking apps, messaging platforms, and even some web standards.” — David Lin, Mobile Security Analyst at TechShield Labs

Camera and Multimedia Capabilities

The camera gap between these two models is substantial. The iPhone 6 Plus features an 8MP rear camera without optical image stabilization (OIS), while the 8 Plus offers a 12MP dual-lens system with OIS and portrait mode—a first for non-Pro iPhones.

In real-world use, the 8 Plus delivers sharper photos in low light, better zoom capability, and far superior depth effects. Video recording jumps from 1080p at 30fps on the 6 Plus to 4K at 60fps on the 8 Plus, making a huge difference for anyone who records family moments or shares content online.

Feature	iPhone 6 Plus	iPhone 8 Plus
Processor	A8	A11 Bionic
Rear Camera	8MP, no OIS	12MP + 12MP dual, OIS
Video Recording	1080p @ 30fps	4K @ 60fps
Battery Life (Video Playback)	Up to 14 hours	Up to 14 hours
iOS Support End	iOS 12 (2019)	iOS 17 (2024–2025)
Water Resistance	None	IP67 (1m for 30 mins)

Despite similar battery ratings, the 8 Plus benefits from more efficient hardware and software optimization, often delivering longer real-world usage. Additionally, wireless charging—introduced with the 8 Plus—adds convenience absent in the 6 Plus.

Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Dilemma

Maria, a small business owner in Portland, used her iPhone 6 Plus for point-of-sale transactions, customer communication, and social media posting. By early 2024, she noticed her phone freezing during Instagram uploads and failing to process mobile payments reliably. Her banking app began rejecting logins due to outdated TLS protocols unsupported on iOS 12.

She considered buying a used iPhone 8 Plus for $180, nearly half the cost of a newer model. After switching, she regained stability in her daily workflow. Instagram Stories posted without crashing, and her Square reader worked consistently. However, by mid-2025, she found that some newer versions of scheduling apps were starting to slow down, and Apple Pay Cash wasn’t fully supported. While the upgrade helped, it only extended her timeline by two years—not indefinitely.

Maria’s case illustrates a key truth: upgrading from a 6 Plus to an 8 Plus in 2025 buys temporary relief, not long-term sustainability.

Is the 8 Plus Still Worth It in 2025?

The answer depends on your expectations. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly device that can handle email, calls, light browsing, and basic photography, the iPhone 8 Plus remains functional. But if you rely on modern apps, need strong security, or plan to keep your phone beyond 2026, the 8 Plus is already on borrowed time.

Apple’s ecosystem increasingly favors devices with Neural Engines, Face ID, and advanced cameras—all missing from the 8 Plus. Even third-party developers are beginning to optimize for A12 and later chips, meaning app performance will degrade gradually on older hardware.

Tip: Before buying any used iPhone, check its serial number on Apple’s Check Coverage page to verify activation status and remaining service eligibility.

Upgrade Checklist: What to Consider Before Moving Forward

• Assess your usage: Are you mainly texting and calling, or do you stream, shop, and use multiple apps daily?
• Check app compatibility: Try installing your most-used apps on an 8 Plus via a friend’s device or demo unit.
• Evaluate battery health: Used 8 Plus units often have degraded batteries; factor in potential replacement costs (~$80).
• Consider alternatives: Refurbished iPhone SE (3rd gen) or iPhone XR offer better long-term value.
• Think about resale: The 8 Plus has minimal future resale value compared to newer models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 8 Plus run iOS 18?

As of current indications, iOS 18 will likely require an A12 chip or later, meaning the iPhone 8 Plus (A11) will not be eligible. This marks the end of its official software support lifecycle.

Is it safe to use an iPhone 6 Plus in 2025?

It’s increasingly risky. Without security updates, the device is vulnerable to phishing, malware, and data breaches—especially when logging into financial or healthcare accounts.

Should I upgrade to the 8 Plus or skip to a newer model?

If your budget allows, skipping to an iPhone XR, iPhone 11, or even a refurbished iPhone 12 provides better longevity, 5G support, and at least three more years of updates.

Conclusion: Time to Move Beyond the 8 Plus

Upgrading from an iPhone 6 Plus to an 8 Plus was a smart move in 2018. In 2025, it’s a stopgap solution. While the 8 Plus outperforms its predecessor in every measurable way, it no longer represents a sustainable investment. Software support is ending, hardware limitations are becoming apparent, and even affordable newer models offer significantly better futures.

If you’re clinging to older hardware for cost reasons, consider certified refurbished iPhones from Apple or trusted retailers. Devices like the iPhone SE (2022) or iPhone 11 deliver modern performance at accessible prices—and come with years of updates ahead.

🚀 Your next phone doesn’t have to be expensive—but it should be secure, supported, and ready for the apps of today. Evaluate your real needs, not just nostalgia or short-term savings. Your digital life depends on it.