As Apple’s smartphone lineup continues to evolve, many buyers are turning to older models for budget-friendly options. The iPhone XR and iPhone 8 Plus, both released within two years of each other, remain popular on the secondhand market. But which one offers better value today? While the XR launched after the 8 Plus, its modern design and features might not automatically make it the superior choice—especially when price, usability, and long-term support come into play.
This isn’t just about specs on paper. It’s about real-world experience: how the phone feels in your hand, how long the battery lasts, whether apps run smoothly, and if you’ll still be able to update the software in a year or two. Let’s break down every critical aspect to help you decide: Is the iPhone XR still worth it, or is the 8 Plus the smarter, more affordable pick?
Design and Display: Modern Minimalism vs Familiar Comfort
The most immediate difference between the iPhone XR and 8 Plus lies in their design philosophy. The XR represents Apple’s shift toward edge-to-edge displays. Its 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD screen fills the front with minimal bezels, offering immersive viewing despite using LCD instead of OLED. The absence of a home button means Face ID for unlocking, which works reliably in good lighting but can struggle in dark environments.
In contrast, the 8 Plus sticks to the traditional iPhone formula with thick top and bottom bezels and a physical Touch ID home button. Its 5.5-inch Retina HD display may feel smaller and less modern, but it’s sharp and color-accurate. For users who prefer fingerprint unlocking or find Face ID inconvenient, the 8 Plus remains appealing.
| Feature | iPhone XR | iPhone 8 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1 inches | 5.5 inches |
| Display Type | Liquid Retina LCD | Retina HD LCD |
| Bezels | Narrow (modern) | Thick (classic) |
| Biometric Unlock | Face ID | Touch ID |
| Water Resistance | IP67 (1m for 30 min) | IP67 (1m for 30 min) |
Performance and Software Longevity
Both phones run on Apple’s A-series chips—the XR uses the A12 Bionic, while the 8 Plus has the A11 Bionic. On paper, the A12 is faster, with better CPU and GPU performance, as well as improved machine learning capabilities. In daily use, this translates to smoother app launches, quicker photo processing, and better gaming performance.
More importantly, software support favors the iPhone XR. Released in 2018, the XR received iOS 17 updates, while the 8 Plus stopped at iOS 16. This gap matters. Future security patches, feature upgrades, and app compatibility will lean heavily toward devices that can run newer iOS versions. Apps increasingly optimize for current hardware, and older processors may struggle with future demands.
“Device longevity isn’t just about build quality—it’s about software support. The last OS update often marks the beginning of the end for functionality.” — David Lin, Mobile Technology Analyst
If you plan to keep your phone for two or more years, the XR’s extended update cycle gives it a clear advantage. Even with similar real-world speed today, the 8 Plus will age faster in terms of app compatibility and system responsiveness.
Camera Comparison: One Lens vs Two, But What Matters?
The iPhone 8 Plus has a dual-camera system: 12MP wide and 12MP telephoto lenses. This allows true 2x optical zoom and Portrait Mode with depth control—a feature absent on the base XR at launch. The telephoto lens adds versatility for tighter shots without digital cropping.
The iPhone XR, meanwhile, has a single 12MP wide lens. Apple compensates with advanced software: Smart HDR, improved Portrait Mode via machine learning, and better low-light performance thanks to the A12’s image signal processor. While it lacks optical zoom, the XR produces vibrant, well-balanced photos in most conditions.
In daylight, both cameras deliver excellent results. In low light, the XR often edges ahead due to computational photography enhancements introduced in later iOS updates. However, if you frequently take zoomed portraits or value optical zoom, the 8 Plus retains a niche advantage.
Real Example: Portrait Photography Needs
Consider Maria, a casual photographer who loves taking pictures of her family. She bought an 8 Plus in 2019 primarily for its Portrait Mode and zoom capability. By 2023, she noticed newer iPhones produced sharper background blur and better skin tones. When she switched to an XR, she initially missed the zoom—but found that cropping the XR’s higher-resolution images gave comparable framing, and the overall photo quality was noticeably better in dim lighting.
Battery Life and Charging: Bigger Doesn’t Always Mean Better
The 8 Plus has a larger battery (2,691 mAh) compared to the XR’s 2,942 mAh. Despite the numbers, real-world usage shows the XR often lasts longer. Why? The A12 chip is more power-efficient, and iOS optimizations favor newer devices. Apple rated the XR for up to 16 hours of video playback versus 13 hours for the 8 Plus.
Both support fast charging (with a compatible adapter) and wireless charging—an unexpected win for the 8 Plus, as it was the first non-Pro model to include it. Without fast charging enabled by default, however, both can take over two hours to fully charge using standard 5W adapters.
Step-by-Step Guide: Maximizing Battery Longevity
- Enable Optimized Battery Charging in Settings > Battery > Battery Health.
- Keep the phone between 20% and 80% charge when possible.
- Avoid leaving it in hot cars or direct sunlight.
- Use Auto-Brightness to reduce screen power consumption.
- Turn off Background App Refresh for non-essential apps.
Value Analysis: Is the 8 Plus a Steal or a Sunk Cost?
On the used market, the iPhone 8 Plus typically sells for $100–$150, while the XR ranges from $180–$230 depending on storage and condition. That $50–$80 difference raises a key question: Does the XR justify the premium?
- Choose the XR if: You want longer software support, a larger modern screen, better low-light photos, and a phone likely to remain functional through 2025.
- Choose the 8 Plus if: You prioritize Touch ID, physical home button, slightly better zoom, and absolute lowest cost—with the understanding it may become obsolete sooner.
The 8 Plus isn’t a bad phone. It’s durable, capable, and still runs most apps well. But “steal” implies lasting value. Given its discontinued software updates and aging processor, it’s more of a short-term solution. The XR, even years later, aligns more closely with current iPhone experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the iPhone XR last until 2025?
Yes. With iOS 17 support confirmed and typical Apple support cycles, the XR should receive at least one more major update. Most users report smooth performance with everyday tasks, though intensive apps may slow over time.
Is the iPhone 8 Plus waterproof?
It has an IP67 rating, meaning it can survive submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. However, water resistance degrades over time, especially with drops or exposure to liquids like saltwater or pool chemicals.
Does the iPhone XR have a headphone jack?
No. Like all iPhones since the 7, the XR uses a Lightning port for audio. You’ll need wireless earbuds or a Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter for wired headphones.
Final Verdict: Invest in Longevity, Not Just Price
The iPhone 8 Plus is undeniably cheaper. But value isn’t solely about upfront cost—it’s about how long the device serves you well. The XR offers a more modern interface, longer software support, better efficiency, and a display that feels current. These advantages compound over time.
For under $200, the XR remains a compelling entry point into the iOS ecosystem. Yes, it lacks a telephoto lens and physical home button. But its strengths align with how people actually use smartphones today: swiping, streaming, multitasking, and relying on consistent performance.
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