Is The Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus Really Worth The Upgrade From The S7 Edge

For many long-time Samsung users, the Galaxy S7 Edge was a benchmark in smartphone excellence—offering a perfect blend of design, performance, and camera quality. When the Galaxy S8 Plus arrived, it promised evolution: slimmer bezels, improved software, and a more futuristic look. But for owners still satisfied with their S7 Edge, the question remains—does the S8 Plus deliver enough meaningful improvements to justify the upgrade?

This article examines the key differences between these two flagships—not just on paper, but in real-world usage. From display quality and battery life to software longevity and resale value, we’ll help you determine whether stepping up to the S8 Plus is a smart move or simply chasing marginal gains.

Design and Build: A Leap Toward the Future

The most noticeable change between the S7 Edge and S8 Plus is design language. The S7 Edge, while elegant, adhered to a more traditional flagship formula with pronounced bezels and a physical home button. In contrast, the S8 Plus introduced Samsung’s “Infinity Display”—a nearly bezel-less, curved 6.2-inch Quad HD+ screen that stretches edge-to-edge.

The S8 Plus is taller and narrower than the S7 Edge, making one-handed use slightly less comfortable despite its larger screen. However, the glass-and-metal construction feels more premium, and the device carries an IP68 rating just like its predecessor, ensuring equal dust and water resistance.

Tip: If you already use a protective case and screen protector on your S7 Edge, factor in the cost of new accessories—the S8 Plus requires differently shaped ones due to its elongated form.

Display Quality: Brighter, Sharper, More Immersive

The S8 Plus features a Dynamic AMOLED panel with a resolution of 2960 x 1440 (529 PPI), compared to the S7 Edge’s 2560 x 1440 (534 PPI). While pixel density is marginally lower, the newer display offers better color accuracy, higher peak brightness, and support for HDR10 video playback—making it ideal for streaming high-quality content.

For media enthusiasts, the upgrade is immediately apparent. Movies appear more cinematic, and the reduced bezels enhance immersion. Additionally, the S8 Plus introduced Always-On Display refinements and customizable clock styles, giving users more personalization options.

Performance and Software: Subtle Gains, Long-Term Benefits

Under the hood, both phones were powered by either the Snapdragon 820 (S7 Edge) or 835 (S8 Plus), depending on region. The jump from 820 to 835 brought modest improvements—around 10–15% better CPU efficiency and slightly superior GPU performance. In daily tasks like browsing, messaging, and app switching, the difference is barely perceptible.

However, the S8 Plus launched with Android 7.0 Nougat and received updates up to Android 9 Pie with One UI. The S7 Edge, while also updated to Pie, saw official support end earlier. This means S8 Plus users enjoyed longer software maintenance, which matters for security patches and app compatibility.

“Hardware longevity isn’t just about raw power—it’s sustained software support. The S8 series benefited from Samsung’s renewed commitment to timely updates.” — David Kim, Mobile Analyst at TechInsight Asia

Camera Comparison: Incremental Improvements

On paper, both devices share a 12MP rear sensor with Dual Pixel autofocus and f/1.7 aperture. Image quality remains remarkably consistent between them in daylight. However, the S8 Plus includes subtle algorithmic enhancements that improve dynamic range and low-light processing.

In practice, photos from the S8 Plus exhibit slightly better shadow detail and color balance, particularly in challenging lighting. The front-facing 8MP camera also sees a boost with autofocus and improved skin tone rendering, making selfies sharper and more natural.

Video recording remains capped at 4K@30fps on both models, so no advantage there. If photography is your top priority, the upgrade won’t revolutionize your experience—but it does offer minor refinements.

Battery Life and Charging: Trade-offs to Consider

The S7 Edge packs a 3,600mAh battery, while the S8 Plus uses a slightly smaller 3,500mAh unit. Despite this, both deliver similar endurance due to the more power-efficient Snapdragon 835 and optimized software. Expect around 6–7 hours of screen-on time with mixed usage.

Both support fast charging (wired) and wireless charging. However, the S8 Plus added compatibility with newer fast wireless chargers (up to Qi 15W), whereas the S7 Edge maxes out at 10W. If you invest in modern charging gear, this becomes a small but tangible benefit.

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Galaxy S7 Edge	Galaxy S8 Plus
Release Year	2016	2017
Display Size & Type	5.5\", Super AMOLED	6.2\", Dynamic AMOLED (Infinity Display)
Resolution	2560 x 1440	2960 x 1440
Processor	Snapdragon 820 / Exynos 8890	Snapdragon 835 / Exynos 8895
Rear Camera	12MP, f/1.7, OIS	12MP, f/1.7, OIS (improved processing)
Battery Capacity	3,600 mAh	3,500 mAh
Water Resistance	IP68	IP68
Software Support	Up to Android 9 (ended)	Up to Android 9 + longer patch cycle
Fingerprint Sensor Placement	Below camera	Next to camera (awkward placement)

Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Dilemma

Maria had used her S7 Edge since launch and loved its compact size and reliable performance. By early 2018, she noticed occasional lag in newer apps and wanted a better screen for watching videos during her commute. She considered the S8 Plus but hesitated due to the price.

After testing both devices side-by-side, she appreciated the S8 Plus’s immersive display and smoother multitasking but disliked the fingerprint sensor placement and found the phone harder to handle. Ultimately, she waited another year and upgraded directly to the S9 Plus, skipping the S8 entirely.

Her story reflects a common sentiment: for users happy with the S7 Edge, the S8 Plus offered refinement, not revolution.

Upgrade Checklist: Is It Right for You?

Before making the switch, ask yourself the following:

• Do I value a modern, bezel-less display for media consumption?
• Am I experiencing performance issues with current apps or games?
• Do I want access to longer software and security updates?
• Is wireless fast charging important in my daily routine?
• Can I comfortably adapt to a taller, heavier phone?
• Have I maximized trade-in value from my S7 Edge?

If four or more apply, the upgrade makes sense. Otherwise, consider extending your S7 Edge’s life with a battery replacement or holding out for a more significant leap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the S8 Plus still run modern apps smoothly in 2024?

Light to moderate tasks like social media, email, and video streaming are still feasible. However, newer apps and games may struggle due to outdated hardware and lack of OS updates beyond Android 9.

Is the fingerprint sensor really worse on the S8 Plus?

Yes. Positioned awkwardly next to the camera, it often leads to smudging the lens when unlocking. Many users preferred the S7 Edge’s intuitive placement below the camera.

Should I upgrade if my S7 Edge battery is degrading?

A more cost-effective solution is replacing the battery, which can restore near-original performance. Upgrading only makes financial sense if you desire the larger screen and newer aesthetics.

Final Verdict: Worth It Only for Specific Needs

The Galaxy S8 Plus is undeniably a beautiful phone—a design milestone for Samsung. But as an upgrade path from the S7 Edge, it delivers incremental improvements rather than transformative changes. If you prioritize screen immersion, future-ready software, and a sleeker profile, the step up is justified.

However, if you're satisfied with your S7 Edge’s performance, camera, and size, the practical benefits of upgrading are limited. The S8 Plus shines brightest for those who value aesthetics and cutting-edge design over raw functionality.

🚀 Ready to make a decision? Evaluate your current pain points, test the S8 Plus in person if possible, and consider whether the upgrade aligns with how you actually use your phone—not just how it looks on paper.