Iphone 8 Vs Galaxy S8 Why Are People Still Debating This

It’s been years since the iPhone 8 and Galaxy S8 hit the market—2017, to be exact. Both were flagship devices in their time, representing the peak of mobile engineering for Apple and Samsung. Yet today, in tech forums, Reddit threads, and even casual conversations, comparisons between the two persist. At first glance, it seems odd. These aren’t current models. So why does the debate live on?

The answer lies not just in nostalgia, but in real-world usability. Despite their age, both phones continue to function reliably for everyday tasks. Some users still rely on them daily. Others compare them when advising friends on budget-friendly options. And a surprising number argue passionately about which device aged better—both physically and digitally.

This article explores the enduring appeal of the iPhone 8 and Galaxy S8, dissecting key factors like build quality, software longevity, ecosystem loyalty, and value retention that keep the conversation alive.

Design Philosophy: Two Approaches to Premium Build

The iPhone 8 and Galaxy S8 took dramatically different design paths. Apple stuck with its familiar form factor—a flat aluminum frame, glass back, and a thick bezel surrounding the 4.7-inch display. The home button remained central, complete with Touch ID. It was conservative by 2017 standards, especially compared to the iPhone X released the same year.

Samsung, on the other hand, embraced innovation. The Galaxy S8 introduced the “infinity display”—a curved 5.8-inch edge-to-edge OLED screen with minimal bezels. Its sleek, symmetrical look felt futuristic. The fingerprint sensor placement was awkward (mounted beside the camera), but the visual impact was undeniable.

Feature	iPhone 8	Galaxy S8
Display Size	4.7 inches (LCD)	5.8 inches (OLED)
Bezels	Pronounced top and bottom	Nearly bezel-less front
Build Material	Glass back, aluminum frame	Glass front and back, aluminum frame
Fingerprint Sensor	Front (Touch ID)	Rear (awkward placement)
Water Resistance	IP67	IP68

The contrast in design reflects deeper brand philosophies. Apple prioritized familiarity and durability; Samsung pushed boundaries. For users who value one-handed comfort and physical buttons, the iPhone 8 remains appealing. Those who appreciate immersive screens and modern aesthetics often lean toward the S8—even today.

Tip: If you're using either device now, consider a protective case with grip—especially for the S8, whose curved edges make it prone to slipping.

Performance and Longevity: How Well Have They Held Up?

Under the hood, both phones were powered by top-tier chips in 2017: the Apple A11 Bionic and Samsung’s Exynos 9810 (or Snapdragon 835 in some regions). While neither matches modern processors, they remain functional for basic use—email, web browsing, social media, and even light gaming.

However, real-world performance differs due to software optimization. iOS is tightly controlled, allowing Apple to extend support far beyond Android counterparts. The iPhone 8 received updates all the way to iOS 16—six major versions after launch. In contrast, the Galaxy S8 officially stopped at Android 9 (with security patches ending shortly after).

“Apple’s long-term software support gives older iPhones staying power that most Android phones simply can’t match.” — David Kim, Mobile Software Analyst at TechPulse Insights

This extended support means an iPhone 8 from 2017 can still run current apps relatively smoothly. The S8, while powerful in its day, struggles with newer Android versions and updated apps due to bloat and compatibility issues.

Battery Life and Charging Evolution

Both devices launched before fast charging became standard. The iPhone 8 supported 18W fast charging but shipped with a slow 5W charger. The S8 came with 15W Adaptive Fast Charging, giving it a slight edge out of the box.

Today, battery degradation affects both equally. After six+ years, few original batteries retain more than 70% capacity. But replacement availability differs. Apple offers official battery services even for discontinued models. Samsung has largely phased out S8 support, making repairs harder and pricier.

Ecosystem Loyalty Fuels the Debate

One reason the iPhone 8 vs Galaxy S8 discussion persists is user allegiance to ecosystems. People don’t just choose phones—they commit to platforms.

• iOS users appreciate seamless integration with Macs, iPads, AirPods, and iCloud.
• Android fans value customization, file management, and broader hardware choice.

For someone already invested in Apple’s ecosystem, the iPhone 8 makes sense as a low-cost entry point—even today. It supports AirDrop, iMessage, FaceTime, and Handoff. Meanwhile, the S8 connects well with Samsung DeX, SmartThings, and Google services.

This divide turns objective comparisons into subjective debates. Ask an Apple loyalist, and they’ll praise the iPhone 8’s build consistency and update reliability. Ask a Samsung advocate, and they’ll highlight the S8’s superior screen and earlier adoption of face recognition.

Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Dilemma

Maria, a freelance graphic designer, held onto her Galaxy S8 until 2022. She loved the vibrant display for color accuracy and used DeX mode to mirror her phone to a monitor. When her battery began failing, she considered switching to iPhone.

She tested an iPhone 8 through a friend. While she appreciated the smooth iOS updates and app stability, she missed the larger screen and multitasking features. Ultimately, she upgraded to a newer Galaxy model rather than cross over. Her experience illustrates how ecosystem fit outweighs raw specs in decision-making.

Value Retention and Secondhand Market Appeal

Another reason the debate continues: both phones maintain a presence in the secondhand market. On platforms like eBay, Swappa, and Facebook Marketplace, used iPhone 8 units sell for $40–$80. Galaxy S8 models go for $30–$60, depending on condition.

For budget-conscious buyers—teens, seniors, or those needing a backup phone—these prices are attractive. But choosing between them requires understanding trade-offs:

1. Software Support: iPhone 8 wins decisively. It runs modern iOS versions; the S8 does not.
2. Screen Quality: S8’s OLED delivers richer colors and deeper blacks.
3. Camera: Both have single rear cameras. The iPhone 8 handles HDR and video better; the S8 excels in low-light photos.
4. Durability: The iPhone 8’s flat design resists drops better. The S8’s curved glass is more fragile.

Tip: If buying used, always verify IMEI status, check for iCloud lock (for iPhones), and test touchscreen responsiveness—especially on the S8’s edges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 8 and Galaxy S8 still be used in 2024?

Yes, but with limitations. Both can handle calls, messaging, email, and basic apps. However, newer apps may run slowly or lack full functionality. Security risks increase as neither receives regular updates anymore.

Which phone had better camera quality?

The iPhone 8 edges ahead in consistency. Its 12MP sensor produces balanced daylight photos and excellent 4K video. The S8 captures wider dynamic range in landscapes but struggles with motion blur and inconsistent HDR processing.

Why did Apple keep the home button on the iPhone 8?

Apple viewed Face ID (introduced on the iPhone X) as unproven at scale. The iPhone 8 served as a lower-priced alternative for users hesitant to adopt facial recognition. It also appealed to enterprise customers who preferred biometric consistency.

Final Verdict: Why This Debate Still Matters

The iPhone 8 vs Galaxy S8 debate endures because it represents a turning point in smartphone evolution. The S8 showcased where Android was headed: immersive displays, AI assistants, and edge-driven design. The iPhone 8 represented the last of Apple’s classic era—compact, tactile, and dependable.

More importantly, this comparison teaches us something timeless: longevity isn’t just about hardware. It’s shaped by software support, ecosystem strength, repairability, and personal preference. The fact that people still discuss these phones says more about thoughtful design than marketing hype.

As newer models grow increasingly complex—and expensive—there’s value in revisiting simpler devices that got the basics right.

💬 Still using an iPhone 8 or Galaxy S8? Or remember upgrading from one to the other? Share your story in the comments—your experience might help someone deciding between legacy and upgrade.