Iphone 8 Over 7 Plus Is The Price Difference Worth It

When Apple released the iPhone 8 in 2017 alongside the iPhone X, it marked a quiet evolution of the classic iPhone design. For users still clinging to older models or considering an upgrade from the iPhone 7 Plus, the decision between sticking with the larger, dual-camera 7 Plus or moving to the newer but smaller iPhone 8 isn’t straightforward. The price gap at launch—and even today on the secondhand market—can make this choice feel like a trade-off between size, features, and future-proofing. But is the extra cost of the iPhone 8 truly justified?

Design and Build: Glass Backs and Wireless Charging

The most visible change in the iPhone 8 was its return to a glass back after years of aluminum enclosures. This wasn't just for aesthetics—it enabled wireless charging, a feature absent in the iPhone 7 Plus. While both phones share similar dimensions and weight (the 8 is slightly lighter), the materials used mark a significant shift.

The iPhone 8’s glass back gives it a more premium feel and allows compatibility with Qi chargers. However, it also makes the device more prone to cracking if dropped. The 7 Plus, with its durable aluminum body, remains more resilient in everyday use. That said, many users opt for cases anyway, which diminishes the aesthetic advantage of the glass back.

Tip: If you choose the iPhone 8, consider investing in a protective case that doesn’t interfere with wireless charging.

Performance: A Noticeable Leap in Speed

Under the hood, the iPhone 8 packs Apple’s A11 Bionic chip, a six-core processor that outperforms the A10 Fusion in the iPhone 7 Plus by nearly 25% in CPU tasks and up to 30% in GPU performance. Real-world usage confirms this: app launches are snappier, multitasking is smoother, and augmented reality apps run more reliably on the iPhone 8.

While the 7 Plus handles daily tasks well, the A11 ensures better longevity. iOS updates tend to optimize first for newer chips, meaning the iPhone 8 stayed compatible with newer versions of iOS longer than the 7 Plus. As of 2024, both devices support up to iOS 16, but the 8 may have had slightly better optimization during peak update cycles.

“Even small improvements in chipset architecture can extend a phone’s useful life by a year or more, especially as apps become more demanding.” — Mark Reynolds, Mobile Technology Analyst

Camera Comparison: Size vs. Smart Features

The iPhone 7 Plus has a dual-lens rear camera system: wide-angle and telephoto, enabling 2x optical zoom and Portrait Mode. The iPhone 8, despite being a newer model, only has a single 12MP wide-angle lens. On paper, this makes the 7 Plus superior for photography enthusiasts who want zoom flexibility.

However, the iPhone 8 improves on image signal processing thanks to the A11 chip. It supports better noise reduction, improved color accuracy, and enhanced video stabilization. Its camera excels in low-light conditions and offers 4K video recording at 60fps—features also present in the 7 Plus, but processed more efficiently on the 8.

For casual photographers, the difference may not be dramatic. But if you frequently use zoom or enjoy portrait-style shots, the 7 Plus still holds relevance.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Feature	iPhone 8	iPhone 7 Plus
Release Year	2017	2016
Chipset	A11 Bionic	A10 Fusion
Rear Camera	12MP (Single)	12MP + 12MP (Dual)
Front Camera	7MP	7MP
Display Size	4.7 inches	5.5 inches
Battery Life	Moderate (up to 13h talk time)	Better (up to 21h talk time)
Wireless Charging	Yes	No
Water Resistance	IP67	IP67
Storage Options	64GB, 128GB, 256GB	32GB, 128GB, 256GB
Starting Price (Launch)	$699	$769

Note: While the iPhone 8 launched at $699 and the 7 Plus at $769, the 7 Plus initially offered only 32GB and 128GB options. When Apple refreshed the lineup in 2017, the 7 Plus dropped to $649 with added 32GB base storage, making it competitively priced against the new 8.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah had been using her iPhone 7 Plus since late 2016. By 2020, she noticed apps taking longer to load and occasional lag when switching between social media platforms. She considered upgrading but found refurbished iPhone 8 models selling for about $50 more than comparable 7 Plus units.

She opted for the iPhone 8, citing faster performance and the convenience of wireless charging. Over the next two years, she reported noticeably quicker Face ID-like unlock responsiveness (via Touch ID, which both phones share), smoother Safari browsing, and better battery efficiency during mixed use. Though she missed the larger screen for watching videos, she appreciated the compact size for one-handed use.

Her experience highlights a key insight: while raw specs matter, real-world usability and subtle improvements in speed and charging can tip the balance—even without flashy new features.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Decide Which Phone Suits You

1. Evaluate your priorities: Do you prefer a larger screen and better zoom camera (7 Plus), or faster performance and wireless charging (8)?
2. Check current pricing: On resale markets, compare condition, storage, and battery health. Sometimes a well-maintained 7 Plus costs less than a worn 8.
3. Consider long-term use: If you plan to keep the phone for two or more years, the A11 chip in the 8 provides better software support longevity.
4. Test ergonomics: Hold both devices. The 7 Plus is significantly larger; if pocketability matters, the 8 wins.
5. Assess accessories: Do you own wireless chargers? If yes, the 8 gains value. Do you rely on headphone adapters? Both lack a headphone jack, so no difference here.

Tip: Always verify battery health before purchasing a used iPhone. Anything below 80% capacity will likely need replacement soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the iPhone 8 faster than the iPhone 7 Plus?

Yes. The iPhone 8 uses the A11 Bionic chip, which delivers up to 30% better performance in both CPU and graphics tasks compared to the A10 Fusion in the 7 Plus. This translates to faster app launches, smoother gaming, and better handling of intensive tasks.

Does the iPhone 8 have a better camera?

In daylight, photo quality is very similar. However, the iPhone 8 processes images faster and with improved dynamic range due to the A11's image signal processor. The 7 Plus retains an edge in zoom and portrait photography thanks to its dual-camera setup. So, while the 8 improves behind-the-scenes processing, the 7 Plus offers more versatility.

Is wireless charging worth the extra cost?

That depends on your lifestyle. If you often forget to plug in your phone, having a charging pad on your nightstand or desk can make charging effortless. But if you’re disciplined with cables, this feature may not justify the price difference. Also, note that wireless charging is slower than wired unless using fast chargers (which require separate purchase).

Final Verdict: Is the Price Difference Worth It?

The answer hinges on what you value most. If you prioritize camera versatility, screen size, and battery life, the iPhone 7 Plus remains a strong contender—even at a slightly lower price point in later years. But if you care about future-proofing, faster performance, and modern conveniences like wireless charging, the iPhone 8 justifies its premium.

On the secondary market today, prices between the two are often within $30–$50. In that context, spending a little more for the newer chipset and glass-back functionality makes sense for most buyers. The A11 Bionic ensures smoother operation with modern apps and better compatibility with iOS updates during their overlapping support window.

Ultimately, the iPhone 8 isn’t a revolutionary upgrade—but it is a meaningful one. It represents Apple’s pivot toward smarter integration of hardware and software, setting the stage for future innovations. For users seeking reliability, moderate improvement, and a touch of modernity, the incremental cost is indeed worth it.

💬 Have you upgraded from the 7 Plus to the 8—or stayed put? Share your experience and help others decide!