Is The Samsung Galaxy S8 Still Worth It In 2024 Or Should I Just Get An Iphone 6 2

The year is 2024, and smartphones have evolved dramatically since the mid-2010s. The Samsung Galaxy S8 and iPhone 6s were flagship devices in their time—innovative, sleek, and powerful. But nearly a decade later, are they still viable options for everyday use? More importantly, if you're considering picking one up due to budget constraints or nostalgia, which makes more sense: the Galaxy S8 or the iPhone 6s?

This isn't just about raw specs or nostalgic appeal. It's about practicality, software support, security, app compatibility, and whether either device can handle modern digital life without constant frustration.

Performance and Hardware: A Reality Check

The Galaxy S8 launched in 2017 with a Snapdragon 835 (or Exynos 9810 depending on region), 4GB of RAM, and a 3000mAh battery. At the time, it was top-tier hardware. The iPhone 6s, released two years earlier in 2015, featured Apple’s A9 chip and 2GB of RAM—impressive then, but significantly weaker by today’s standards.

In 2024, neither phone can run modern apps smoothly. Heavy applications like Google Maps, Instagram, or Chrome will lag, especially on the iPhone 6s. The S8 handles multitasking better thanks to its extra RAM, but both struggle with background processes and app reloads.

Tip: If you must use an older phone, disable animations, limit background apps, and avoid resource-heavy browsers like Chrome.

The S8’s Infinity Display remains a standout feature—a near-bezel-less 5.8-inch Quad HD AMOLED screen that still looks vibrant today. In contrast, the iPhone 6s has a 4.7-inch LCD with lower resolution and no HDR support. Visually, the S8 wins hands down.

Software and Security: The Hidden Dealbreaker

Software support is where both phones fail in 2024. The Galaxy S8 stopped receiving major Android updates after Android 9 Pie, and security patches ended in 2021. The iPhone 6s received iOS updates until iOS 15, discontinued in 2023. Neither device supports current operating systems—Android 14 or iOS 17.

Running outdated software means:

• No access to new app features or optimizations
• Increased vulnerability to malware and phishing attacks
• Many modern apps simply won’t install or function correctly

“Devices without regular security updates are low-hanging fruit for cyber threats. Using them for banking or email is increasingly risky.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Cybersecurity Analyst at MobileShield Labs

For example, WhatsApp dropped support for both devices in 2023. Google Play Protect may flag them as high-risk. Even basic tasks like online shopping or logging into social media could expose you to security flaws with no fixes available.

Real-World Usability: Can You Actually Use These Phones?

Let’s consider a realistic scenario. Meet James, a college student on a tight budget who picked up a used Galaxy S8 for $50. He wanted a secondary phone for music and notes. At first, it worked fine—until he tried downloading TikTok and Spotify. Both apps installed but crashed frequently. Chrome froze when loading multiple tabs. Battery life lasted only half a day with light use.

After two weeks, James switched to Firefox Lite and offline apps. He disabled all sync features and avoided public Wi-Fi. While functional, the experience was frustrating—apps reloaded constantly, GPS was slow, and video calls broke up. He eventually upgraded to a refurbished Pixel 4a for under $100, which ran Android 13 and supported current apps.

This illustrates a key point: even if a phone turns on, it doesn’t mean it works well in 2024. App ecosystems have moved on. Cloud services demand faster processors and updated APIs. Older phones can’t keep up.

Comparison Table: Galaxy S8 vs. iPhone 6s in 2024

Feature	Samsung Galaxy S8	iPhone 6s
Last OS Version	Android 9 (Pie)	iOS 15
Final Security Update	2021	2023
RAM	4GB	2GB
Display	5.8\" QHD+ AMOLED	4.7\" 750p LCD
Battery Life (Daily Use)	~6–8 hours	~4–5 hours
Current App Compatibility	Limited (no WhatsApp, Gmail unstable)	Limited (many App Store apps require iOS 16+)
Camera Quality (in good light)	Still decent for casual shots	Aged sensor, poor low-light
Best Use Case Today	Offline media player, smart remote	Backup phone, retro collector’s item

What Should You Do Instead?

If your goal is a functional smartphone in 2024—even on a tight budget—neither the Galaxy S8 nor the iPhone 6s is a wise choice. However, affordable alternatives exist that offer modern software, security, and performance.

Step-by-Step Guide: Upgrading Smart on a Budget

1. Assess your needs: Do you need internet access, camera quality, or long battery life? Prioritize based on actual usage.
2. Set a realistic budget: Even $80–$120 opens doors to capable devices.
3. Consider refurbished models: Look for certified refurbished Pixel 4a, iPhone SE (2nd gen), or Samsung Galaxy A14.
4. Verify software support: Ensure the device runs Android 12/iOS 15 or higher and receives updates.
5. Buy from reputable sellers: Amazon Renewed, Back Market, or carrier-certified refurbishers reduce risk.

Tip: Always check if the phone supports VoLTE and modern LTE bands—older devices may not work on updated carrier networks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Galaxy S8 as a daily driver in 2024?

Possibly, but with major limitations. Expect frequent app crashes, poor battery life, and no access to many modern apps. It might work as a secondary device for music or offline tasks, but not reliably for communication or browsing.

Is the iPhone 6s safer than the Galaxy S8 in 2024?

Slightly. Apple provided security updates longer, so the 6s had protection until late 2023. However, both devices now lack critical patches. Neither is safe for sensitive activities like online banking.

Why do people still talk about these phones?

Nostalgia and design milestones. The S8 introduced bezel-less displays to the mainstream. The 6s was the last iPhone with a physical home button and headphone jack. They represent turning points in smartphone history—but not practical tools today.

Checklist: Before Buying an Old Phone, Ask Yourself

• Does it support current versions of WhatsApp, Gmail, and your bank’s app?
• Has it received security updates within the last 12 months?
• Can it connect to modern Wi-Fi standards (WPA3) and Bluetooth 5.0?
• Is the battery replaceable or already degraded?
• Will it work on your carrier’s network (especially 4G/5G VoLTE)?

Conclusion: Move Forward, Not Backward

The Samsung Galaxy S8 was a landmark device. The iPhone 6s defined a generation. But in 2024, clinging to either as a primary phone means accepting compromised security, sluggish performance, and limited functionality. Technology moves fast—and so should your choices.

You don’t need to spend $1,000 for a capable smartphone. For less than $100, you can own a device that runs modern apps, receives updates, and keeps your data safe. Let nostalgia stay in the past, and invest in a phone that works with today’s world—not against it.

💬 Have experience using older phones in 2024? Share your story or lessons learned in the comments below—your insight could help someone avoid a costly mistake.