Iphone 7 Vs 8 Plus Is The 8 Plus Still Worth It Or Should You Just Get The 7

In 2024, choosing between an iPhone 7 and an iPhone 8 Plus might seem like comparing relics from a bygone era. But for budget-conscious buyers, secondhand shoppers, or those needing a reliable backup device, both models still appear in marketplaces at tempting prices. The question isn’t just about specs—it’s about value, longevity, and whether the extra cost of the 8 Plus truly translates to better real-world performance. Let’s dissect these two devices beyond nostalgia and determine which one makes more sense today.

Design and Build Quality: A Noticeable Leap

The iPhone 7 and 8 Plus may look similar at first glance—both feature Apple’s classic aluminum and glass design language—but the differences in build are significant. The iPhone 7 uses aerospace-grade aluminum with a solid back, while the 8 Plus retains that same premium feel but adds a glass back to support wireless charging, a feature absent in the 7.

This glass back is more than cosmetic. It enables compatibility with Qi chargers, a convenience that remains relevant even now. However, it also makes the 8 Plus more prone to cracks if dropped. The iPhone 7, though lacking wireless charging, has a more durable rear shell.

Tip: If you frequently drop your phone, the iPhone 7’s aluminum back may hold up better over time than the 8 Plus’s glass.

Both phones are IP67-rated for water and dust resistance, meaning they can survive brief submersion in up to 1 meter of water. That said, any secondhand unit likely has degraded seals, so don’t rely on this protection too heavily.

Performance: Chipset Matters More Than You Think

Under the hood, the difference becomes stark. The iPhone 7 runs on the A10 Fusion chip, a capable processor in its time but now showing its age. The iPhone 8 Plus, released just a year later, features the A11 Bionic chip—Apple’s first neural engine-equipped SoC, designed for machine learning tasks and improved efficiency.

In practical terms, the A11 delivers roughly 25–30% better CPU performance and nearly 70% better GPU performance than the A10. This gap affects app launch times, multitasking, gaming smoothness, and long-term iOS update support.

As of 2024, neither phone supports the latest iOS versions. The iPhone 7 maxes out at iOS 15, while the 8 Plus received updates up to iOS 16. That extra year of software support gives the 8 Plus a meaningful edge in security patches and app compatibility.

“Even small improvements in chipset architecture can extend a phone’s usable life by years, especially as apps grow more demanding.” — David Lin, Mobile Hardware Analyst

Camera Comparison: Portrait Mode and Dual Lenses

The camera is where the iPhone 8 Plus clearly outshines its predecessor. Both have 12MP main sensors, but the 8 Plus features a dual-camera system with a second telephoto lens, enabling 2x optical zoom and true Portrait Mode with depth control. The iPhone 7 has only a single rear camera and simulates depth effects poorly, if at all.

Front-facing, both use a 7MP FaceTime camera, but the 8 Plus benefits from better image signal processing thanks to the A11 chip, resulting in cleaner low-light selfies and more natural skin tones.

Feature	iPhone 7	iPhone 8 Plus
Rear Cameras	Single 12MP (wide)	Dual 12MP (wide + telephoto)
Portrait Mode	No (only simulated in software)	Yes, with adjustable bokeh
Optical Zoom	No	2x optical zoom
Video Recording	4K at 30fps	4K at 60fps, slow-mo 1080p at 240fps
Low-Light Performance	Average	Better due to improved sensor & processing

If photography matters—even casually—the 8 Plus is the superior choice. Its ability to capture depth-aware portraits and smoother 4K video makes it feel significantly more modern.

Battery Life and Charging: Practical Differences

The iPhone 8 Plus has a larger battery (2,691 mAh) compared to the iPhone 7 (1,960 mAh), and combined with the more efficient A11 chip, it delivers noticeably longer battery life. In real-world usage, the 8 Plus typically lasts a full day with moderate to heavy use, while the iPhone 7 often requires a midday charge.

But the bigger advantage is charging flexibility. The 8 Plus supports fast charging (with a compatible adapter) and wireless charging. While Apple didn’t include a fast charger in the box, third-party options can take the 8 Plus from 0 to 50% in about 30 minutes. The iPhone 7 charges only via Lightning cable at standard speeds.

Tip: Pair your iPhone 8 Plus with a $20 Qi wireless charger for clutter-free daily charging on your nightstand or desk.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah, a college student, found both phones listed on a local marketplace: an iPhone 7 for $75 and an iPhone 8 Plus for $110. She needed a phone that could handle note-taking, social media, and occasional photography for her journalism class.

She initially leaned toward the cheaper iPhone 7 but tested both in person. The 8 Plus felt snappier when switching between apps, and she was impressed by the portrait mode during a quick photo test. After researching iOS support timelines, she realized the 8 Plus had received updates two years longer. For an extra $35, she gained better performance, camera capabilities, and future-proofing.

Six months later, Sarah hasn’t needed to recharge during school days, uses wireless charging nightly, and regularly submits portrait-mode photos for her assignments. Her decision paid off in usability and longevity.

Step-by-Step: How to Decide Which iPhone to Buy Used

1. Check the battery health: Anything below 80% means poor lifespan. Ask for a screenshot of Settings > Battery > Battery Health.
2. Verify iOS version: If it’s stuck on iOS 14 or earlier, it’s likely an iPhone 7. iOS 15/16 suggests an 8 Plus.
3. Test camera functionality: Try Portrait Mode—if it’s not available or looks fake, it’s probably a 7.
4. Inspect for physical damage: Look for cracks on the 8 Plus’s glass back, which are common and costly to repair.
5. Compare price difference: If the 8 Plus costs less than $40 more than the 7, it’s almost always the better value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can either phone run modern apps smoothly?

The iPhone 8 Plus handles most current apps reasonably well, though some newer games and AR applications may lag or be unsupported. The iPhone 7 struggles with heavier apps and often crashes under multitasking. Neither supports the latest iOS features.

Is the iPhone 7 too outdated to use in 2024?

It’s functional for basic tasks—calls, texts, light browsing, and older apps—but lacks support for new iOS updates and many modern app features. It’s best suited as a secondary phone or for users with minimal tech needs.

Does the 8 Plus support Face ID or Animoji?

No. Both features require the TrueDepth camera system introduced with the iPhone X. The 8 Plus uses Touch ID and does not support Animoji or Memoji.

Final Verdict: Is the 8 Plus Still Worth It?

Yes—the iPhone 8 Plus remains the smarter buy if you’re choosing between these two. The combination of better performance, dual cameras, longer software support, and modern charging options justifies the modest price increase over the iPhone 7.

The iPhone 7 isn’t useless, but it’s functionally obsolete for anyone who relies on their phone daily. It may suffice for a child, elderly relative, or emergency backup, but its limitations in speed, camera, and battery become frustrating quickly.

The 8 Plus, while no flagship by today’s standards, offers a surprisingly capable experience even in 2024. With proper care, a healthy battery, and mindful app usage, it can serve reliably for another 1–2 years, especially for light to moderate users.

🚀 Ready to make the smart upgrade? Hunt for a well-maintained iPhone 8 Plus with good battery health—it’s the last truly affordable iPhone that doesn’t compromise on core usability. Share your experience or questions below!