Is The Galaxy Note 10 Lite Still Worth It In 2024 Or Is The Iphone 8 Plus A Better Deal

In 2024, choosing between older smartphones isn’t just about price—it’s about longevity, usability, and future-proofing. The Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Lite and the Apple iPhone 8 Plus represent two different philosophies: one offering modern Android features with a stylus, the other delivering long-term iOS support on aging hardware. Both are available at bargain prices today, but which one actually makes sense as a daily driver in 2024?

This isn't just a specs race. It's about real-world performance, software updates, app compatibility, and how each device holds up under current demands like social media, navigation, messaging, and even light productivity.

Performance and Hardware: How Do They Hold Up?

The Galaxy Note 10 Lite launched in early 2020 with the Exynos 9810 or Snapdragon 855 (depending on region), paired with 6GB or 8GB of RAM. Even by 2024 standards, this configuration remains surprisingly capable for everyday tasks. Apps open quickly, multitasking is smooth, and the 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks—still competitive with mid-range phones today.

In contrast, the iPhone 8 Plus runs Apple’s A11 Bionic chip, released in 2017. While historically powerful for its time, it now struggles with newer iOS versions and demanding apps. iOS 17 dropped support for the 8 Plus, capping it at iOS 16.4.1. This means no future security patches beyond late 2023 and limited access to new app features that require updated frameworks.

Tip: If you rely on banking, fitness, or productivity apps, check their minimum OS requirements—many now require iOS 15 or later, making the 8 Plus increasingly incompatible.

Software and Longevity: The Hidden Cost of Obsolescence

Samsung officially ended major Android updates for the Note 10 Lite after Android 12, though it received security patches until late 2023. While it runs One UI 6-based firmware in some regions, it lacks many AI-driven features found in newer models. Still, Android 12 is functional and supports all mainstream apps in 2024.

The iPhone 8 Plus, despite being discontinued from iOS updates, benefits from Apple’s legendary ecosystem. Apps tend to stay optimized longer, and iCloud integration remains seamless. However, the lack of iOS 17 means missing out on critical improvements like StandBy mode, improved autocorrect, and enhanced privacy tools.

“Even outdated iPhones often feel more cohesive than older Android devices because of tight software-hardware integration.” — David Lin, Mobile Analyst at TechPulse Weekly

Yet, fragmentation is less of an issue on Android now. Google Play Services keeps core functions updated independently of OS version, so the Note 10 Lite can still handle Chrome, Gmail, Maps, and YouTube efficiently—even without Android 13.

Camera Comparison: Quality vs. Consistency

The Galaxy Note 10 Lite features a triple rear setup: 12MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and 12MP telephoto with 2x optical zoom. It shoots decent photos in daylight and offers Pro mode, Live Focus, and HDR10+ video recording. Low-light performance is average but usable with Night Mode.

The iPhone 8 Plus has a dual 12MP system—one wide, one telephoto—with Portrait Mode and optical image stabilization. While only supporting up to 4K at 60fps, its image processing algorithms still produce natural skin tones and accurate colors. However, no ultra-wide lens limits versatility, and low-light shots show noticeable noise.

Feature	Note 10 Lite	iPhone 8 Plus
OS Support (2024)	Android 12 + Security Patches Ended	iOS 16 Only – No iOS 17
Processor	Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9810	A11 Bionic
RAM	6GB / 8GB	3GB
Rear Cameras	12MP+12MP+12MP (Triple)	12MP+12MP (Dual)
Battery	4,500 mAh	2,691 mAh
Display	6.7” FHD+ Super AMOLED	5.5” Retina HD LCD
S-Pen	Yes	No
Fingerprint Sensor	Side-mounted	Touch ID (Front)
Headphone Jack	Yes	Yes

Real-World Use Case: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah, a freelance graphic designer in her late 30s, needed a budget phone for sketching ideas and managing client emails. She considered both the Note 10 Lite and the iPhone 8 Plus, priced similarly at $180 used.

She chose the Note 10 Lite. Why? The S-Pen allowed her to jot down quick annotations on PDFs, draw wireframes, and mark up mockups directly on screen. The larger display made editing documents easier, and the bigger battery lasted through full workdays. Though she missed iOS app continuity, Android alternatives like Samsung Notes and Adobe Scan filled the gaps.

Had she prioritized call quality, speaker clarity, and seamless FaceTime meetings, the iPhone might have won. But for creative input and screen real estate, the Note 10 Lite was clearly superior.

Battery Life and Charging: A Clear Winner

The Note 10 Lite packs a 4,500 mAh battery—nearly double the 8 Plus’s 2,691 mAh. In practical use, this translates to 1.5–2 days of moderate usage versus barely a full day on the iPhone, especially with iOS 16’s inefficiencies on older silicon.

Fast charging at 25W gives the Note 10 Lite a significant edge. It reaches 50% in about 30 minutes. The 8 Plus maxes out at 18W with a compatible charger (not included), but most users stick to 5W, leading to slow top-ups.

Tip: For secondhand buyers, always check battery health. On iPhones, go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. Below 80%, replacement is recommended. On Android, third-party apps like AccuBattery help estimate wear level.

Checklist: Is This Phone Right for You?

Before buying either device in 2024, consider these factors:

• Do you need the S-Pen? If yes, the Note 10 Lite is the only option.
• Are you embedded in the Apple ecosystem? If you use Mac, iPad, AirPods, or iMessage heavily, the iPhone 8 Plus integrates better.
• Will you use resource-heavy apps? TikTok, Instagram Reels, and AR apps may lag on the A11 chip.
• How important is future app support? The 8 Plus will gradually lose compatibility; the Note 10 Lite is already there but more flexible.
• Do you want headphone jack and expandable storage? Both offer the jack, but only the Note 10 Lite supports microSD cards (up to 1TB).

FAQ

Can the iPhone 8 Plus run WhatsApp in 2024?

Yes, WhatsApp still supports iOS 12 and later. However, Meta has warned that very old devices may be phased out in future updates. As of mid-2024, it works—but monitor announcements closely.

Is the S-Pen on the Note 10 Lite Bluetooth-enabled?

No. Unlike the premium Note models, the Note 10 Lite’s S-Pen lacks air gestures or remote shutter control. It’s purely for writing and drawing, with no Bluetooth connectivity.

Which phone has better resale value?

Historically, iPhones retain value better. However, since neither phone receives updates, resale potential is minimal. Most buyers are seeking temporary replacements or backup devices.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy What?

The Galaxy Note 10 Lite is the better choice for most users in 2024. Its modern design, large high-quality display, strong performance, S-Pen functionality, and significantly better battery life make it far more usable as a primary device. Yes, it’s no longer receiving updates, but Android 12 remains stable and secure enough for non-sensitive tasks.

The iPhone 8 Plus shines only if you’re deeply invested in Apple’s ecosystem, prefer iOS over Android, or prioritize camera consistency in daylight. But its small screen, weak battery, outdated processor, and lack of iOS 17 severely limit its relevance.

If you're buying used or refurbished solely to save money, the Note 10 Lite offers substantially more utility. The iPhone 8 Plus feels like a relic—functional, nostalgic, but fundamentally constrained.

Conclusion

Technology doesn’t age evenly. The Galaxy Note 10 Lite, despite launching four years ago, still delivers a near-modern smartphone experience. The iPhone 8 Plus, while iconic, has crossed into obsolescence. For under $200, the Note 10 Lite brings features like a great display, expandable storage, and stylus support that even some current budget phones lack.

Unless you’re locked into Apple’s world or need a simple calls-and-texts device, the answer is clear: the Galaxy Note 10 Lite remains worth it in 2024. The iPhone 8 Plus does not.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? Evaluate your needs—creativity, battery, screen size—and choose the device that empowers your daily life. Share your thoughts below: have you used either phone recently? Let others know what worked (or didn’t).