For millions of iPhone users still relying on the iPhone 7 Plus, the question isn’t whether the device works—it does—but whether upgrading to the iPhone 8 Plus brings meaningful improvements. Released just one year apart, these two phones share striking similarities in design, camera setup, and overall functionality. Yet subtle but significant upgrades in hardware, software support, and long-term usability make the decision more nuanced than it first appears. This article dives into real-world experiences, technical differences, and practical considerations to answer one critical question: Is switching from the iPhone 7 Plus to the 8 Plus actually worth it?
Design and Build: Subtle Changes, Big Implications
At a glance, the iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone 7 Plus look nearly identical. Both feature a 5.5-inch display, aluminum frame with glass back (on the 8 Plus), physical Home button with Touch ID, and vertical dual-camera layout. However, Apple made key material changes that affect durability and future-proofing.
The iPhone 8 Plus introduced a glass back—replacing the aluminum rear of the 7 Plus—enabling wireless charging, a feature absent in its predecessor. While this adds convenience, it also increases fragility. Multiple user reports confirm that the 8 Plus is more prone to cracking when dropped, especially on hard surfaces.
Despite the sleeker finish, the weight distribution feels similar. The 8 Plus is slightly heavier (200g vs. 188g), but most users report no noticeable difference during daily use. The improved glass also allows better signal transmission, which some users say results in stronger Wi-Fi and cellular reception.
Performance Comparison: A Noticeable Leap?
Under the hood, the iPhone 8 Plus runs on Apple’s A11 Bionic chip, while the 7 Plus uses the older A10 Fusion. On paper, this represents a generational leap in processing power, GPU performance, and energy efficiency. In practice, how much does it matter?
Real-world usage shows that both phones handle everyday tasks—messaging, browsing, social media, and video streaming—without lag. However, under heavy load, such as gaming, multitasking with multiple apps, or editing 4K video, the A11 pulls ahead noticeably. Users upgrading from the 7 Plus report smoother animations, faster app launches, and reduced overheating during extended use.
“The A11 Bionic wasn’t just an incremental bump—it laid the foundation for AR and machine learning features we now take for granted.” — David Lin, Mobile Hardware Analyst at TechPulse Insights
Another critical factor is iOS support. As of 2024, the iPhone 7 Plus stopped receiving major iOS updates after iOS 16, while the iPhone 8 Plus continues to support iOS 17 and is expected to receive iOS 18. This extra longevity means better security patches, newer app compatibility, and access to modern features like StandBy mode and enhanced privacy tools.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | iPhone 7 Plus | iPhone 8 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | A10 Fusion | A11 Bionic |
| Rear Material | Aluminum | Glass (supports wireless charging) |
| Wireless Charging | No | Yes (Qi-compatible) |
| Camera Sensor | 12MP + 12MP (f/1.8 & f/2.8) | 12MP + 12MP (f/1.8 & f/2.8) – Improved sensor |
| Portrait Mode | Yes (software-based) | Yes (hardware + software optimized) |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 13 hours | Up to 14 hours |
| iOS Support (as of 2024) | Up to iOS 16 | Supports iOS 17, likely iOS 18 |
| Storage Options | 32GB, 128GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB |
The table highlights that while core specs are similar, the 8 Plus offers tangible benefits: longer software support, faster processor, and modern conveniences like wireless charging. These may not seem urgent today, but they compound over time—especially if you plan to keep your phone beyond two years.
Camera and User Experience: Are Photos Really Better?
Both phones feature dual 12MP rear cameras—one wide, one telephoto—capable of 2x optical zoom and Portrait Mode. However, the iPhone 8 Plus includes an improved sensor and image signal processor, resulting in better low-light performance, more accurate color reproduction, and reduced noise in challenging lighting.
Users who frequently shoot in dim environments—restaurants, evening walks, indoor events—report clearer shots and faster autofocus on the 8 Plus. One photographer noted: “The difference isn’t dramatic in daylight, but at night, the 8 Plus holds detail better and handles highlights without blowing them out.”
Front-facing cameras remain unchanged (7MP, f/2.2), so selfies and FaceTime quality are comparable. Video recording supports 4K at 60fps on both, though the 8 Plus benefits from improved stabilization thanks to the A11 chip.
Real-World Upgrade Case: Sarah’s Experience
Sarah, a freelance graphic designer from Austin, used her iPhone 7 Plus for four years before upgrading to the 8 Plus in late 2022. Her workflow relies heavily on mobile editing apps like Procreate and Lightroom. Initially skeptical about the upgrade, she noticed immediate improvements.
“Apps launched faster, and I could work on larger PSD files without crashes,” she said. “I also started using wireless charging at my desk, which sounds small but eliminated the daily hassle of plugging in. The extra battery life meant I didn’t need a power bank during client meetings.”
However, she did face one setback: dropping the phone once resulted in a cracked back. “I never broke my 7 Plus, even with cases. The glass feels premium but fragile. Lesson learned—I now use a rugged case.”
Sarah’s experience reflects a common theme among upgraders: performance gains and modern features improve daily usability, but physical durability demands extra caution.
Upgrade Checklist: Is the iPhone 8 Plus Right for You?
Before making the switch, consider these factors:
- Are you still on iOS 15 or earlier? If yes, upgrading extends your software lifespan by 1–2 years.
- Do you use resource-heavy apps? Gamers, editors, or multitaskers benefit from the A11 chip.
- Is wireless charging appealing? If you use Qi chargers at home or in the car, this is a genuine convenience.
- Can you protect a glass-backed phone? Be prepared to use a case and avoid drops.
- Is storage sufficient? The 8 Plus starts at 64GB (vs. 32GB on 7 Plus), which helps with photos and apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the iPhone 8 Plus still run modern apps smoothly in 2024?
Yes. While not as fast as newer iPhones, the A11 Bionic handles most current apps efficiently. Social media, banking, navigation, and productivity tools run without issues. Some graphically intensive games may require lowering settings.
Is the camera upgrade worth it for casual users?
If you mostly take photos in good lighting and don’t edit extensively, the improvement may be subtle. But if you value consistent low-light performance and sharper details, the 8 Plus delivers noticeable gains.
Should I wait for a newer model instead?
If budget allows, newer models like the iPhone SE (3rd gen) or iPhone 11 offer significantly better performance, longer support, and advanced features like Night mode and True Tone. But if you’re choosing strictly between the 7 Plus and 8 Plus, the latter is the smarter investment.
Final Verdict: To Upgrade or Not?
The iPhone 8 Plus isn’t a revolutionary upgrade over the 7 Plus, but it’s a thoughtful evolution. For users whose 7 Plus is slowing down, facing app incompatibility, or lacking battery endurance, stepping up to the 8 Plus brings real, lasting benefits. The combination of longer iOS support, wireless charging, improved camera processing, and a more powerful chip makes it a worthwhile transition—especially if you plan to hold onto your phone for another two years.
That said, if your 7 Plus still performs well and you don’t need the latest features, holding off might make financial sense. But if you’re ready for a modest yet meaningful upgrade, the iPhone 8 Plus delivers where it counts: reliability, future readiness, and day-to-day refinement.
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