In 2024, flagship smartphones come with advanced AI, 5G connectivity, and multi-lens camera systems that were unimaginable just a few years ago. Yet, many consumers still consider older models like the Samsung Galaxy S10 and iPhone 8 Plus—devices released in 2019 and 2017 respectively. At first glance, they seem outdated, but their availability at bargain prices raises an important question: Are these phones still viable for everyday use? And could one of them actually outperform expectations in today’s mobile landscape?
The answer isn’t straightforward. While both devices are technically obsolete by modern standards, their real-world usability depends on your needs, software preferences, and tolerance for aging hardware. This article breaks down key aspects—performance, software support, camera quality, battery life, and ecosystem integration—to determine whether the Samsung S10 still holds value in 2024 or if the iPhone 8 Plus quietly delivers a better long-term experience.
Performance and Hardware: A Tale of Two Generations
The Samsung Galaxy S10 launched with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 (or Exynos 9820 in some regions), a high-end chipset that was top-tier in 2019. It came with 8GB of RAM and UFS 2.1 storage, enabling smooth multitasking and fast app launches even by mid-tier 2024 standards. In contrast, the iPhone 8 Plus runs on Apple’s A11 Bionic chip—an impressive processor for its time but now significantly behind current silicon.
Benchmarks tell part of the story. The S10 scores around 360,000 on AnTuTu v9 (when tested under optimal conditions), while the iPhone 8 Plus struggles to reach 200,000. However, raw numbers don’t always reflect daily usability. iOS is highly optimized, allowing older iPhones to run newer versions of the operating system more efficiently than similarly aged Android devices.
Still, the S10 benefits from having more memory bandwidth and faster storage, which translates into quicker app loading times and smoother background processing. For users who switch between social media, navigation, and streaming apps frequently, this difference becomes noticeable.
Software Support: Where Longevity Diverges
This is where the comparison takes a sharp turn. As of 2024, the iPhone 8 Plus officially supports iOS 17—the final update Apple will provide for the device. While it won't receive new features beyond security patches moving forward, it remains compatible with most modern apps. Apple’s App Store continues to support 64-bit devices, meaning critical services like banking, ride-sharing, and messaging platforms still function reliably.
On the other hand, the Samsung S10 reached its end-of-life for major OS updates after Android 12. Although it received three years of updates as promised, it no longer qualifies for new feature drops or monthly security patches through official channels. Some third-party ROMs can extend functionality, but they require technical know-how and void warranties.
“Apple’s five-year software support model gives older iPhones surprising staying power. Even a 2017 device can feel functional in 2024.” — David Kim, Mobile Analyst at TechLume Insights
If software longevity is a priority, the iPhone 8 Plus wins decisively. Its ability to run the latest iOS version means continued access to privacy improvements, accessibility tools, and compatibility with iCloud and HomeKit ecosystems.
Camera Comparison: Quality vs. Consistency
The Samsung S10 boasts a triple rear camera setup: 12MP main sensor, 12MP telephoto, and 16MP ultra-wide. This configuration allows flexibility—zooming without loss, capturing expansive landscapes, and achieving shallow depth effects. The front-facing 10MP shooter also supports wide-angle selfies, a feature absent on the iPhone 8 Plus.
The iPhone 8 Plus, despite having only dual 12MP rear cameras (wide and telephoto), excels in image processing. Apple’s computational photography algorithms produce natural color reproduction, excellent dynamic range, and reliable portrait mode results—even without a dedicated ultra-wide lens.
| Feature | Samsung S10 | iPhone 8 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Cameras | Triple: Wide, Telephoto, Ultra-Wide | Dual: Wide & Telephoto |
| Front Camera | 10MP, f/1.9, wide-angle option | 7MP, f/2.2 |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps | 4K @ 60fps |
| Low-Light Performance | Moderate; lacks Night Mode | Decent; Smart HDR helps |
| User Experience | More versatile framing options | Simpler, consistent output |
In practical terms, the S10 offers more creative control, especially for travel or architectural photography. But the iPhone produces more predictable results across lighting conditions, thanks to mature image signal processing. For casual photographers who want point-and-shoot reliability, the 8 Plus may be preferable.
Battery Life and Charging: Real-World Endurance
The iPhone 8 Plus packs a 2,691mAh battery—small by today’s standards—but benefits from efficient hardware-software integration. With moderate use, it typically lasts a full day. Fast charging is supported via adapter (not included), and wireless charging works seamlessly with Qi pads.
The S10 has a larger 3,400mAh cell and adaptive battery management powered by AI-driven software. However, after years of charge cycles, original units often suffer from reduced capacity. Replacement batteries are available, but degradation affects real-world endurance more noticeably than on iOS devices, which display accurate health metrics.
Charging Capabilities Compared
- Samsung S10: Supports 15W fast charging, 9W wireless charging, reverse wireless charging
- iPhone 8 Plus: Supports 7.5W wireless charging, 18W fast charging (with USB-C to Lightning cable and adapter)
While the S10 technically charges faster, the iPhone 8 Plus integrates better with Apple’s ecosystem, including MagSafe accessories (via adapters) and seamless syncing with Macs and iPads.
Real-World Decision Making: A Mini Case Study
Consider Maria, a freelance writer who travels frequently and needs a dependable phone for communication, note-taking, and occasional photography. She found both phones listed online for $120 used. After testing each for a week, she chose the iPhone 8 Plus—not because it had better specs, but because it ran iOS 17, synced effortlessly with her MacBook, and maintained strong FaceTime call quality even on weak networks.
Meanwhile, James, a college student on a tight budget, bought the S10. He rooted it, installed a lightweight custom ROM, and uses it primarily for gaming and streaming. The extra RAM and screen real estate gave him a better multimedia experience, even though he manually sideloads security fixes.
Their choices highlight a crucial truth: value depends on context. The “better” phone isn’t universal—it hinges on how you use it.
Checklist: Is This Phone Right for You?
Before buying either device in 2024, ask yourself the following:
- Do I need the latest apps and security updates? → Choose iPhone 8 Plus
- Am I comfortable managing an unsupported Android device? → S10 possible with caution
- Do I already own other Apple devices? → iPhone 8 Plus integrates better
- Do I want multiple camera lenses? → S10 offers ultra-wide flexibility
- Will I use the phone heavily for gaming or multitasking? → S10 handles load better
- Is future resale value important? → iPhones generally retain value longer
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Samsung S10 run WhatsApp in 2024?
Yes, but with caveats. WhatsApp requires Android 5.0 or higher, which the S10 meets. However, lack of ongoing security updates increases vulnerability. Ensure you download apps only from trusted sources.
Does the iPhone 8 Plus support 5G?
No. Neither the iPhone 8 Plus nor the Samsung S10 has 5G capability. Both are limited to LTE networks, which remain widely available but may phase out in rural areas over the next few years.
Which phone has a better screen?
The S10 features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with QHD+ resolution and HDR10+ support—superior in brightness, contrast, and clarity. The iPhone 8 Plus has a 5.5-inch Retina HD LCD, which looks good but lacks deep blacks and peak brightness of OLED panels.
Final Verdict: Value Over Specs
In 2024, neither the Samsung S10 nor the iPhone 8 Plus should be your first choice if you can afford a modern mid-range phone like the iPhone SE (2022 or later) or Samsung Galaxy A-series. But if you're on a strict budget and must choose between these two legacy devices, the iPhone 8 Plus emerges as the more practical option—for one reason above all: continued software support.
Its ability to run iOS 17 ensures access to modern app ecosystems, stronger security, and seamless integration with Apple services. The S10, while technically more powerful and visually striking, suffers from discontinued updates and growing compatibility risks.
That said, if you’re tech-savvy, prefer Android customization, or prioritize screen quality and camera versatility, the S10 remains a capable tool—provided you accept its limitations.
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