When OnePlus launched the 6T in 2018, it was positioned as a flagship killer with top-tier specs at a competitive price. For users still loyal to the Samsung Galaxy S8—released a year earlier—the question wasn’t just about specs on paper. It was personal: Is upgrading from the S8 to the 6T actually beneficial for photography, or is the buzz mostly marketing?
The S8 set a high bar in 2017 with its polished camera software, reliable autofocus, and strong dynamic range. But the 6T brought dual cameras, improved low-light algorithms, and newer sensor technology. To cut through the noise, we need to look beyond megapixels and examine real-world photo quality, consistency, and user experience.
Camera Hardware: A Generational Leap
The hardware gap between these two phones reflects broader industry trends over one year of rapid innovation. The Samsung Galaxy S8 features a single 12MP rear sensor with an f/1.7 aperture, optical image stabilization (OIS), and Dual Pixel autofocus. At the time, it was among the best mobile cameras available.
In contrast, the OnePlus 6T introduced a dual-camera setup: a primary 16MP f/1.7 sensor (Sony IMX519) paired with a secondary 20MP f/1.7 depth sensor. While the secondary lens doesn’t offer optical zoom, it enables portrait mode with adjustable bokeh and better subject separation. More importantly, the newer sensor supports faster readout speeds and improved HDR processing.
“Sensor improvements over just 12–18 months can have a bigger impact than doubling megapixels.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at DXOMARK (2018)
The 6T also benefits from computational photography enhancements like Nightscape mode—a feature absent on the S8. This changes the game in dim environments where traditional auto modes fail.
Photo Quality in Real-World Conditions
Under daylight, both phones produce sharp, well-balanced images. The S8’s color science leans slightly warm, which many found pleasing straight out of the camera. Its OIS ensures stable shots even with slight hand movement. However, the OnePlus 6T captures more detail in highlights and shadows thanks to its improved HDR algorithm.
In mixed lighting—say, a shaded sidewalk with bright sky overhead—the 6T handles exposure transitions more smoothly. The S8 sometimes clips highlights or crushes shadows, while the 6T preserves more information for post-processing or viewing.
Low-Light Performance: Where the 6T Shines
This is where the upgrade becomes tangible. The S8 struggles in dim conditions without flash, producing noisy images with lost details and muted colors. Its single-frame processing lacks multi-frame stacking, so grain is often unavoidable below 50 lux.
The OnePlus 6T’s Nightscape mode uses AI-guided multi-frame capture to brighten scenes dramatically. In tests, it outperformed not only the S8 but several contemporaries in streetlight-lit environments. Shadows are lifted cleanly, color accuracy remains surprisingly intact, and noise is minimized—even without a tripod.
However, Nightscape requires a steady hand for 2–4 seconds. On the S8, users must rely on third-party apps or accept lower-quality results.
Portrait Mode & Depth Sensing: Beyond the Gimmick
The S8 never received official portrait mode support via software updates, relying instead on post-capture editing tools that lacked edge detection precision. The 6T, with its dedicated depth sensor, delivers far more convincing bokeh simulation.
Edges around hair, glasses, or complex shapes are generally well-preserved. While occasional errors occur—especially in backlit scenarios—the overall reliability makes portrait photography accessible without professional gear.
Front-facing cameras also show progress. The 6T’s 16MP selfie shooter includes portrait mode and improved skin tone rendering compared to the S8’s 8MP front cam, which often oversharpened facial textures.
Detailed Comparison Table
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S8 | OnePlus 6T |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera | 12MP, f/1.7, OIS, Dual Pixel AF | 16MP (main) + 20MP (depth), f/1.7, no OIS |
| Front Camera | 8MP, f/1.7 | 16MP, f/2.0, portrait mode |
| HDR Support | Auto HDR (single frame) | Multiframe HDR + Pro Mode |
| Low-Light Mode | No dedicated mode | Nightscape (AI-powered) |
| Portrait Mode | Limited (software-based) | Yes (dual-camera supported) |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 30fps, OIS | 4K @ 60fps, EIS only |
| Software Updates | Mainline support ended 2020 | Extended tuning via Open Camera APIs |
User Experience and Practical Workflow
Beyond technical specs, usability matters. The S8’s camera app is intuitive, fast to launch, and integrates seamlessly with Samsung’s ecosystem. However, its interface hasn’t evolved much since launch.
The OnePlus 6T offers a cleaner stock Android-like experience with gesture shortcuts and a Pro Mode that appeals to enthusiasts. The shutter lag is nearly imperceptible, and focus acquisition is snappy in most conditions. While it lacks OIS, the faster sensor and software stabilization compensate reasonably well in video.
One subtle advantage: the 6T supports RAW capture, giving photographers flexibility in post-processing. The S8 technically supports it too, but only through limited third-party apps with inconsistent results.
Mini Case Study: Travel Photography Upgrade
Jamal, a freelance blogger based in Lisbon, used his S8 for travel content throughout 2017–2018. He praised its color accuracy during golden hour shoots along the Tagus River. But when covering night markets in Porto, he found himself frustrated by dark, grainy images that required heavy editing.
After switching to the 6T, he noticed immediate improvements. “I could finally shoot alleys and food stalls after sunset without pulling out my mirrorless,” he said. “Nightscape isn’t perfect, but it’s usable. That changed how I plan shoots.”
He still prefers the S8’s natural skin tones in portraits, but now uses the 6T for 80% of his mobile photography due to its versatility.
Is the Upgrade Worth It? A Balanced Verdict
If you're still using an S8 primarily for photos, the upgrade to the 6T brings measurable gains—not just in hardware, but in functionality. The addition of Nightscape alone addresses a major limitation. Portrait mode adds creative options previously unavailable. And the faster, higher-resolution front camera improves vlogging and video calls.
That said, the S8 holds up remarkably well in daylight. If your usage is mostly social media snaps in good light, the difference may feel incremental rather than revolutionary. Also, the 6T lacks OIS, making it less ideal for action shots or shaky hands.
The real value lies in future-proofing. By 2024, the S8 no longer receives security patches or app optimizations. Many modern camera apps don’t support its older chipset efficiently. The 6T, while also outdated, had longer software support and better developer adoption.
Checklist: Should You Upgrade?
- ✅ Do you frequently take photos in low light?
- ✅ Are you interested in portrait mode effects?
- ✅ Do you want better front-facing camera quality?
- ✅ Is your S8 showing signs of wear or slowdown?
- ✅ Do you value RAW capture and manual controls?
If three or more apply, the upgrade is justified—not because of hype, but because of expanded creative freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the OnePlus 6T replace a dedicated camera?
Not entirely, but for casual and semi-professional use, especially with Nightscape and Pro Mode, it comes closer than the S8 ever did. It won’t match DSLR dynamic range or lens variety, but convenience and quality are significantly better.
Does the lack of OIS hurt the 6T’s camera?
In videos and long-exposure shots, yes. Handheld 4K footage may appear jittery. However, for stills, the fast sensor and EIS mitigate most blur. Using Nightscape on a stable surface yields excellent results.
Is the S8 camera still usable today?
Absolutely. For well-lit environments and basic photography, it performs admirably. But limitations in low light, lack of advanced modes, and aging software make it less versatile than modern mid-range phones, let alone the 6T.
Conclusion: Make the Move for Capability, Not Hype
The OnePlus 6T isn’t a miraculous leap over the S8, but it represents meaningful evolution. The camera improvements address real pain points—especially in low light and portrait photography—backed by better hardware and smarter software. This isn’t just marketing spin; it’s the result of focused iteration.
If your S8 is struggling to keep up with your photographic needs, the 6T offers a compelling step forward. It balances performance, value, and functionality in a way that still feels relevant years later. Don’t upgrade for the badge. Upgrade for the capability.
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