When Apple released the iPhone X and iPhone 8 in 2017, they represented two distinct philosophies: evolution and revolution. The iPhone 8 was the last of Apple’s home-button era, built on a familiar foundation with incremental upgrades. The iPhone X, meanwhile, was a bold leap forward—face recognition, an edge-to-edge OLED display, and a radically new design. Three years later, both devices are no longer sold by Apple, yet many users still rely on them daily. So, is the iPhone X still worth choosing over the iPhone 8 in 2024? The answer depends on what you value most: longevity, software support, usability, or cost.
Design and Display: A Clear Generational Shift
The most immediate difference between the iPhone X and iPhone 8 is their design language. The iPhone X introduced a stainless steel frame with glass backs and front, featuring a nearly bezel-less 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED display. This screen delivers deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios, and better color accuracy than the iPhone 8’s 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD. For media consumption, reading, or dark mode browsing, the X’s display remains superior even today.
In contrast, the iPhone 8 retains the classic iPhone form factor with thick top and bottom bezels and a physical Home button. While some users appreciate the tactile feedback of Touch ID, others find the smaller screen limiting. The glass back also makes both phones prone to cracking, but the X’s larger footprint increases drop risk.
Performance and Longevity: How Do They Hold Up?
Both phones launched with Apple’s A11 Bionic chip, but the iPhone X includes slightly more RAM (3GB vs. 2GB), which gives it an edge in multitasking and sustained performance. By 2024, this difference becomes more apparent. Users report that the iPhone X handles iOS 16 and early iOS 17 betas with fewer stutters than the iPhone 8, especially when switching between apps or using camera-intensive features.
Battery life is another area where the X pulls ahead. Its larger battery supports up to two additional hours of mixed usage compared to the iPhone 8. However, after three years, battery degradation affects both models equally unless replaced. Many original units now suffer from reduced capacity, leading to frequent charging needs.
“Even with aging hardware, iPhones tend to outlive Android counterparts due to consistent software updates. But the extra RAM in the X gives it breathing room the 8 simply lacks.” — David Lin, Mobile Device Analyst at TechPulse Insights
Software Support and Future-Proofing
As of 2024, neither device receives official iOS version updates from Apple. The final supported OS for both is iOS 16, with security patches having ended in late 2023. This means no access to iOS 17 features like StandBy mode, improved autocorrect, or enhanced privacy tools.
However, the iPhone X’s hardware was designed with future capabilities in mind. Face ID, while occasionally glitchy in low light, laid the groundwork for secure biometric authentication across Apple’s ecosystem. The TrueDepth camera system enabled Animoji, Memoji, and advanced portrait effects—features absent on the iPhone 8.
For developers and power users, the X’s gesture-based navigation and full-screen interface remain more aligned with modern app design patterns. The iPhone 8’s reliance on the Home button feels increasingly outdated, particularly as newer apps optimize for edge-to-edge screens.
Detailed Comparison: iPhone X vs iPhone 8 After Three Years
| Feature | iPhone X | iPhone 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 5.8\" OLED (Super Retina) | 4.7\" LCD (Retina HD) |
| Biometrics | Face ID | Touch ID |
| Rear Camera | Dual 12MP (wide + telephoto) | Single 12MP (wide) |
| Front Camera | 7MP TrueDepth | 7MP |
| RAM | 3GB | 2GB |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 13 hours | Up to 12 hours |
| iOS 16 Support | Yes | Yes |
| iOS 17 Support | No | No |
| Current Resale Value (Used, Good Condition) | $80–$120 | $60–$90 |
Real-World Example: Daily Use in 2024
Consider Sarah, a freelance writer who has used her iPhone X since 2018. She upgraded her battery in 2021 and uses a protective case. In 2024, she reports that the phone still handles email, Safari, Word, and Zoom calls smoothly. She appreciates the larger screen for editing documents and watching tutorials. However, she notices delays when opening multiple tabs or using AR apps. Her main complaint is slower app launches compared to newer iPhones, but she finds the device “perfectly usable” for her needs.
Meanwhile, John, a high school teacher, relies on his iPhone 8 for messaging, calendar, and grading apps. He prefers Touch ID for quick unlocking and likes the compact size. But he struggles with the small screen during video meetings and finds portrait mode photos less refined due to the single rear lens. He plans to upgrade soon because app load times have increased noticeably since iOS 16.
This contrast highlights a key insight: the iPhone X offers better long-term usability for those who engage with multimedia, multitask, or value screen real estate. The iPhone 8 works well for basic tasks but shows its age more quickly under moderate loads.
Checklist: Is Your iPhone X or 8 Still Right for You?
- ✅ Can it run your essential apps without freezing or crashing?
- ✅ Has the battery been replaced if capacity is below 80%?
- ✅ Are you comfortable with no future iOS updates?
- ✅ Does the camera meet your current needs (e.g., remote work, social media)?
- ✅ Is storage sufficient, or are you constantly deleting files?
- ✅ Do you rely on accessories compatible with Lightning port and design?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the iPhone X last until 2025?
Yes, but with caveats. If the battery has been replaced and storage isn’t full, the iPhone X can remain functional for light to moderate use. However, expect declining performance with newer app versions and no security updates beyond 2023.
Is Face ID on the iPhone X still reliable?
Generally yes, though it may struggle in dim lighting or if wearing masks. Some users report calibration issues over time, but resetting Face ID in settings often resolves them. It remains more secure than Touch ID in most scenarios.
Should I upgrade from iPhone 8 to iPhone X in 2024?
Only if buying secondhand at a very low price ($70 or less). Given both lack iOS 17 support, investing in either is short-term. Better value exists in iPhone XR, iPhone 11, or newer budget models with longer software support.
Final Verdict: Is the iPhone X Still Worth It?
Three years later, the iPhone X maintains a slight advantage over the iPhone 8 in terms of design, display quality, and real-world performance. Its OLED screen, dual cameras, and Face ID system reflect a more modern smartphone experience. For someone holding onto an iPhone 8, upgrading to a used iPhone X could feel like a meaningful improvement—especially if found at a bargain price.
But objectively, neither phone is a wise long-term investment in 2024. Both are past their software lifecycle, lack repairability, and can’t run the latest apps efficiently. The iPhone X was groundbreaking in 2017, and its influence persists in every iPhone since. Yet today, it serves best as a secondary device, emergency backup, or temporary solution until a newer model becomes affordable.
If you're still using either phone, give yourself credit—it speaks volumes about Apple’s build quality and optimization. But if you’re considering purchasing one now, think carefully. The modest gains of the X over the 8 aren’t enough to justify bypassing newer options with five more years of updates.
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