Is The Samsung S8 Still Worth It In 2024 Or Is The A14 A Better Deal

The smartphone market moves fast. Devices that were flagship-grade just a few years ago can quickly become outdated. The Samsung Galaxy S8, once a revolutionary device in 2017, now sits far down the tech timeline. Meanwhile, budget-friendly options like the Galaxy A14 (2023) promise modern features at accessible prices. So, if you're considering a low-cost secondhand phone in 2024, is the S8 still viable — or does the newer A14 offer better value?

This isn’t just about price. It’s about longevity, security, app compatibility, and real-world usability. Let’s break down both phones across key categories to see which makes more sense today.

Design and Build: Flagship Elegance vs. Modern Practicality

The Galaxy S8 was a design milestone. Its edge-to-edge Infinity Display, slim profile, and glass-and-metal construction made it stand out in 2017. Even today, its sleek look holds up aesthetically. The curved AMOLED screen and minimal bezels give it a premium feel that many mid-range phones still struggle to match.

In contrast, the Galaxy A14 has a utilitarian design. It’s larger, thicker, and built with plastic, which keeps costs down but lacks the refinement of the S8. However, it does feature a more modern flat display and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, which some users prefer over the S8’s rear-mounted one.

While the S8 wins on elegance, it’s also more fragile. The glass back is prone to cracks, and replacement parts are harder to source. The A14, though less glamorous, is sturdier for everyday use and comes with a headphone jack — something the S8 dropped early.

Tip: If you prioritize aesthetics and don’t mind fragility, the S8’s design still impresses. But for durability and long-term use, the A14’s build is more practical.

Performance and Software: Outdated Power vs. Modern Efficiency

This is where the gap becomes clear. The S8 launched with the Snapdragon 835 (or Exynos 8895), which was powerful in its time. But by 2024 standards, it struggles with multitasking, modern apps, and even basic animations. Many users report lag when opening apps or switching between them.

Worse, software support ended years ago. The S8 received its final major Android update with Android 9 Pie and security patches ceased in 2021. That means no protection against recent vulnerabilities, making it risky for banking, shopping, or logging into sensitive accounts.

The Galaxy A14, while not a performance beast, runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 700 or Exynos 850 (depending on region) and ships with Android 13 (upgradable to Android 14). It receives regular monthly security updates, ensuring better protection and compatibility with current apps. It handles social media, video streaming, and light gaming without issue.

“Running an unsupported OS in 2024 is like driving a car without brakes — it might move, but it’s unsafe.” — Lena Patel, Mobile Security Analyst

Battery Life and Charging: Aging Cells vs. Reliable Endurance

The S8 came with a 3000mAh battery — modest even in 2017. After seven years, any remaining battery health is likely degraded. Most used S8 units today will struggle to last half a day with moderate use. Fast charging is supported, but only up to 15W, and wireless charging is present but slow.

The A14 packs a massive 5000mAh battery, easily lasting a full day or more, even with heavier usage. It supports 15W fast charging (though the charger may not be included), and the larger capacity compensates for less efficient hardware.

If you’re relying on your phone throughout the day, the A14 is clearly superior. The S8 might require midday charging, frequent reboots to manage background processes, or even a battery replacement — which adds cost and complexity.

Camera Comparison: Legacy Quality vs. Modern Versatility

The S8 featured a 12MP rear camera praised for its color accuracy and low-light performance at launch. For its era, it was excellent. Today, it still takes decent photos in good lighting, but lacks AI enhancements, night mode, and multiple lenses.

The A14 includes a triple-camera setup: 50MP main, 2MP macro, and 2MP depth sensor. While the high megapixel count doesn’t guarantee superior quality, the main sensor performs respectably in daylight and benefits from modern processing. The ultrawide and macro options add flexibility, even if their utility is limited.

Front cameras favor the A14 as well. The S8’s 8MP selfie cam is soft and struggles in low light. The A14’s 13MP front shooter delivers sharper images and better skin tone reproduction.

Feature	Samsung Galaxy S8	Samsung Galaxy A14
Release Year	2017	2023
OS Support	Ended (Android 9)	Active (Up to Android 14)
Battery Capacity	3000mAh	5000mAh
RAM	4GB	4GB / 6GB
Main Camera	12MP (single)	50MP (triple setup)
Display	5.8” AMOLED Curved	6.6” LCD Flat
Security Updates	No longer provided	Monthly (ongoing)
Headphone Jack	No	Yes

Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Dilemma

Maria inherited her brother’s old Galaxy S8 in early 2024. She wanted a cheap phone for calls, texts, and occasional YouTube. At first, it worked — until she tried using mobile banking. Apps crashed frequently, and her bank flagged her login attempts as “unusual activity” due to the outdated OS.

After two months of frustration, she switched to a refurbished Galaxy A14 for $120. The difference was immediate: faster app loading, stable WhatsApp usage, and peace of mind knowing her data was protected. Though the screen wasn’t as vibrant, the extra battery and updated software made daily use seamless.

Her experience reflects a broader trend: older flagships may seem like bargains, but hidden costs in usability and security often outweigh initial savings.

Step-by-Step Guide: Choosing Between S8 and A14 in 2024

1. Evaluate your primary needs: Are you using the phone for calls, messaging, and light browsing? Or do you need reliable app performance and security?
2. Check software status: Confirm whether the device receives updates. Avoid any phone without active security patches.
3. Assess battery health: On used devices like the S8, battery degradation is almost guaranteed. Factor in potential replacement costs (~$50–$80).
4. Test real-world performance: Try opening several apps, switching between them, and using the camera. Does it feel sluggish?
5. Compare total cost: Include accessories, repairs, and potential data risks. Sometimes spending slightly more upfront saves money long-term.
6. Decide based on future-proofing: Will this phone still work reliably in six months? A year?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use the Samsung S8 safely in 2024?

Possibly for basic tasks like calling or offline media, but not recommended for anything involving personal data. Without security updates, it’s vulnerable to malware and phishing attacks. Avoid logging into email, social media, or financial apps.

Is the Galaxy A14 worth $150?

Yes, especially if bought on sale or refurbished. For that price, you get a supported Android version, strong battery life, and hardware capable of handling everyday apps smoothly. It offers significantly better long-term value than the S8.

Does the S8 have any advantages over the A14?

Aesthetically, yes. The S8’s AMOLED display is richer and deeper than the A14’s LCD. It also supports wireless charging and has IP68 water resistance — features absent on the A14. However, these perks don’t compensate for outdated software and poor performance in 2024.

Tip: Always check a used phone’s update status before buying. Go to Settings > Software Update to verify if updates are available.

Final Verdict: The A14 Is the Smarter Choice

The Galaxy S8 was a landmark device, but its time has passed. In 2024, it’s technologically obsolete — underpowered, insecure, and increasingly incompatible with modern digital life. While nostalgic and stylish, it no longer meets the minimum standards for safe, functional smartphone use.

The Galaxy A14, despite its modest specs and plastic build, delivers what matters most today: current software, dependable battery life, and sufficient performance for daily tasks. It receives critical security patches, supports modern apps, and offers greater reliability.

If you’re on a tight budget, consider a certified refurbished A14 or wait for sales. Spending a little more ensures you’re not trading affordability for frustration. Technology should serve you — not hold you back.

🚀 Ready to make a smart upgrade? Share your thoughts on budget phones or leave a comment with your own experience choosing between old flagships and new budget models.