In 2024, the iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone 7 Plus are no longer cutting-edge devices. Both have been discontinued and lack support for the latest iOS versions beyond certain updates. Yet, they remain in circulation—often sold secondhand or used as budget-friendly options. For users clinging to an iPhone 7 Plus or considering a low-cost upgrade, the question persists: Is moving from the 7 Plus to the 8 Plus still worthwhile nearly a decade after their release?
The answer isn’t straightforward. While the differences between these models may seem minor on paper, real-world usage, software longevity, and hardware durability play critical roles in determining value today.
Performance and Hardware: A Noticeable Leap?
The most significant upgrade from the iPhone 7 Plus to the 8 Plus lies in its internal hardware. Apple equipped the 8 Plus with the A11 Bionic chip—a 64-bit hexa-core processor that brought machine learning capabilities and improved efficiency over the A10 Fusion chip in the 7 Plus.
In practical terms, this meant faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and better performance in graphics-intensive games and augmented reality applications at the time of release. In 2024, however, both chips struggle with newer iOS features and modern apps optimized for current-generation processors.
Still, the A11 holds up slightly better. It supports iOS 16 (with limitations), while the A10 maxes out at iOS 15. This one additional major OS update gives the 8 Plus a marginal edge in security patches, app compatibility, and feature access—such as enhanced Siri intelligence and some privacy tools introduced in later iOS versions.
Camera Comparison: Subtle but Meaningful Improvements
Both phones feature dual 12MP rear cameras: a wide-angle and a telephoto lens, enabling 2x optical zoom and Portrait Mode. However, the 8 Plus introduces several behind-the-scenes upgrades that improve photo quality.
- Larger and faster sensors allow for better low-light performance.
- Improved image signal processing results in more natural color reproduction and reduced noise.
- Smart HDR (in later iOS updates) enhances dynamic range, though not as robustly as in newer iPhones.
In side-by-side comparisons, photos from the 8 Plus typically show finer detail, especially in shadows and highlights. Video recording also benefits from better stabilization and noise reduction, making it slightly more reliable for casual vlogging or social media clips.
“Even small sensor improvements can make a difference in everyday photography, especially when lighting isn’t ideal.” — David Lin, Mobile Photography Analyst
Battery Life and Charging: One Clear Winner
Battery degradation affects all aging smartphones, but original specs offer insight into long-term potential. The iPhone 8 Plus has a marginally larger battery (2691 mAh) compared to the 7 Plus (2900 mAh), yet manages power more efficiently thanks to the A11’s advanced architecture.
More importantly, the 8 Plus supports **Qi wireless charging**—a feature absent on the 7 Plus. While this doesn’t extend battery life directly, it adds convenience and reduces wear on the Lightning port, which is prone to damage over time.
For users who keep phones for years without replacing batteries, this flexibility matters. You can place your phone on a charging pad overnight instead of plugging it in daily, reducing cable strain and port lint buildup.
Durability and Design: Glass Makes a Comeback
The iPhone 8 Plus marked Apple’s return to a glass-backed design, enabling wireless charging and giving the device a more premium feel. In contrast, the 7 Plus uses aluminum construction, which resists cracking but cannot support wireless charging.
However, glass is more fragile. Drop tests from the era showed the 8 Plus was more likely to shatter upon impact unless protected. Today, finding replacement parts or repair services for either model is difficult, so durability becomes a bigger concern.
Both phones are rated IP67 for water and dust resistance, meaning they can survive submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. But after years of use, seals degrade, and neither should be exposed to moisture intentionally.
Is the Upgrade Worth It in 2024? A Realistic Breakdown
To assess whether upgrading from the 7 Plus to the 8 Plus makes sense now, consider three factors: cost, software support, and intended usage.
If you already own a 7 Plus in good condition, spending money to upgrade may not yield noticeable benefits. Apps load quickly enough on the A10, and the camera performs admirably in daylight. Unless you frequently shoot in dim environments or want wireless charging, the gains are minimal.
But if you’re buying secondhand and choosing between the two models at similar prices, the 8 Plus is the smarter pick. Its extra year of iOS support, better camera processing, and wireless charging provide tangible advantages—even if modest.
| Feature | iPhone 7 Plus | iPhone 8 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | A10 Fusion | A11 Bionic |
| Max iOS Support | iOS 15 | iOS 16 |
| Rear Cameras | Dual 12MP (f/1.8 + f/2.8) | Dual 12MP (f/1.8 + f/2.8), improved sensors |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 7MP |
| Wireless Charging | No | Yes (Qi-compatible) |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP67 |
| Storage Options | 32GB, 128GB | 64GB, 256GB |
| Release Year | 2016 | 2017 |
Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma
Sarah had used her iPhone 7 Plus since 2017. By 2023, she noticed apps like Instagram and WhatsApp taking longer to open, and her battery drained by mid-afternoon. She considered upgrading but didn’t want to spend $800+ on a new phone.
She found a refurbished iPhone 8 Plus for $120 online, advertised as “like new” with 80% battery health. After switching, she reported faster app responses, improved night-time photos, and appreciated being able to charge wirelessly on her car dock. Though not revolutionary, the change extended her smartphone usability by another 18 months—at a fraction of the cost.
Checklist: Should You Upgrade in 2024?
Use this checklist to determine if moving from iPhone 7 Plus to 8 Plus makes sense for you:
- ✅ Are you still on iOS 15 or earlier with no plans to update?
- ✅ Do you value wireless charging for convenience or port preservation?
- ✅ Is your current battery health below 80% and not worth replacing?
- ✅ Are you paying less than $130 for a tested, functional 8 Plus?
- ✅ Do you plan to keep the phone for under two years?
If you answered yes to most of these, the upgrade offers reasonable value. Otherwise, consider saving for a newer model like the iPhone SE (2022 or later) or an Android alternative with longer software support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the iPhone 8 Plus run iOS 17?
No. The iPhone 8 Plus supports up to iOS 16.7. It does not meet the requirements for iOS 17, which demands at least an iPhone XS or iPhone XR.
Is the camera significantly better on the 8 Plus?
Not dramatically, but yes—it captures sharper images in low light and handles high-contrast scenes better due to improved processing. For casual photographers, the difference may go unnoticed unless comparing side by side.
Should I replace my 7 Plus battery instead of upgrading?
If your 7 Plus functions well otherwise, replacing the battery (~$60–$80 at Apple or authorized shops) could extend its life another 2–3 years. This is often more cost-effective than any upgrade between legacy models.
Final Verdict: Smart Move or Outdated Logic?
Upgrading from the iPhone 7 Plus to the 8 Plus in 2024 isn’t about chasing performance—it’s about maximizing limited resources. The improvements are incremental, but strategically valuable if you’re operating on a tight budget and need another year or two of reliable service.
The 8 Plus offers slightly better future-proofing through iOS 16 support, superior build materials for repairability, and the underrated convenience of wireless charging. However, neither phone should be considered a long-term solution.
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