Oneplus 7t Vs Galaxy S8 Plus In 2025 Is Upgrading Really Worth It

In 2025, smartphones from even a few years ago face increasing challenges. App demands grow, operating systems evolve, and user expectations shift toward faster performance, longer support, and better cameras. For users still holding onto the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus—a flagship from 2017—the question arises: is upgrading to a OnePlus 7T (released in 2019) actually worthwhile today?

This isn’t just about newer hardware. It’s about whether the upgrade delivers meaningful improvements in daily use, longevity, and value—especially when both devices are now well beyond their prime support cycles.

Performance & Hardware: A Generational Leap

The Galaxy S8 Plus launched with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835, a powerful chip for its time. In 2025, however, that processor struggles with modern multitasking, heavy apps, and games. The OnePlus 7T, by contrast, features the Snapdragon 855—a full generation ahead. This difference translates into tangible improvements:

• App launch speed: The 7T opens Instagram, Chrome, and WhatsApp noticeably faster.
• Gaming performance: Titles like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile run at medium settings on the 7T but stutter or refuse to launch on the S8 Plus.
• Multitasking: Switching between five or more open tabs feels sluggish on the S8 Plus; the 7T handles it with ease.

RAM also plays a role. The S8 Plus came with 4GB, while the 7T shipped with 8GB. More memory means fewer background app reloads and smoother navigation.

Tip: If your current phone takes more than two seconds to open frequently used apps, it's likely time to consider an upgrade.

Software & Longevity in 2025

Software support is where the gap widens dramatically. The Galaxy S8 Plus received four major Android updates (up to Android 10), with security patches ending in 2022. By 2025, it runs outdated software vulnerable to exploits and incompatible with many new app features.

The OnePlus 7T fared slightly better, receiving updates up to Android 12 and OxygenOS 12. While it no longer receives official updates, the active developer community has kept it alive with custom ROMs like LineageOS and Pixel Experience, enabling Android 13 and even early Android 14 builds.

“Even without official support, phones with strong developer communities can remain functional and secure far longer than expected.” — David Lin, Mobile Security Analyst

For users who rely on banking apps, messaging platforms, or productivity tools, staying on outdated Android versions poses real risks. Many apps now require Android 10 or higher, and some demand Android 11+ for full functionality.

Camera Comparison: Night and Day

Photography has evolved rapidly since 2017. The Galaxy S8 Plus featured a solid 12MP rear sensor with Dual Pixel autofocus, producing good daylight shots. But low-light performance was mediocre, and video topped out at 4K/30fps.

The OnePlus 7T introduced a triple-camera system: a 48MP main sensor (Sony IMX586), a 12MP telephoto lens, and a 16MP ultra-wide. This setup offers greater versatility:

• Sharper detail in daylight photos
• Night mode with improved brightness and reduced noise
• Ultra-wide shots for landscapes and group photos
• Stabilized 4K/60fps video recording

In side-by-side tests, the 7T captures more dynamic range, better color accuracy, and significantly better low-light results. For social media users or those who value photo quality, this alone may justify the switch.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Feature	Galaxy S8 Plus	OnePlus 7T
Release Year	2017	2019
Processor	Snapdragon 835	Snapdragon 855
RAM	4GB	8GB
Storage	64GB (expandable)	128/256GB (non-expandable)
Rear Camera	12MP (f/1.7)	48MP + 12MP + 16MP
Front Camera	8MP	16MP
Battery	3500mAh	3800mAh
Charging	Fast charging (15W), Wireless	Warp Charge 30T (30W), No wireless
Display	6.2” Quad HD+ AMOLED (1440p)	6.55” Full HD+ Fluid AMOLED (90Hz)
Software (2025)	Android 10 (no updates)	Android 12 (custom ROMs available)
Fingerprint Sensor	Rear (less accurate)	Optical in-display

Note: While the S8 Plus has expandable storage and wireless charging—features the 7T lacks—the overall package favors the newer device in nearly every other category.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah had been using her Galaxy S8 Plus since 2018. By early 2024, she noticed her phone freezing during Zoom calls, failing to load Google Maps quickly, and no longer supporting the latest version of her banking app. She considered buying a new flagship but found prices too high.

Instead, she bought a used OnePlus 7T for $120. After flashing a custom ROM with Android 13, she regained smooth performance, installed all her essential apps, and started using WhatsApp’s new Communities feature—previously unavailable on her old OS version.

“It wasn’t a perfect replacement for a new phone,” she said, “but it felt like getting two extra years of usable life for less than $150.”

Is Upgrading Worth It in 2025? A Step-by-Step Evaluation

Before making any decision, follow this practical evaluation process:

1. Assess current pain points: Does your S8 Plus crash often, take minutes to boot, or fail to run essential apps?
2. Check app compatibility: Open your most-used apps. Do they still install and function properly?
3. Test battery health: If charging takes over two hours or the battery drains in three hours of light use, replacement may be needed.
4. Research availability: Can you find a OnePlus 7T in good condition at a fair price (under $150)?
5. Consider alternatives: Compare with other budget options like the Pixel 4a, iPhone SE (2nd gen), or refurbished mid-range phones.

Tip: Always factory reset a second-hand phone and verify IMEI status to avoid blacklisted devices.

Upgrade Checklist: What You Need Before Switching

• ✅ Backup contacts, messages, and photos from your S8 Plus
• ✅ Unlock the bootloader (if installing custom ROMs on the 7T)
• ✅ Download necessary drivers and firmware for data transfer
• ✅ Install a reputable antivirus app after setup
• ✅ Transfer authentication apps (Google Authenticator, etc.) carefully

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Galaxy S8 Plus still be used safely in 2025?

Only with caution. Without security updates, it's vulnerable to malware, especially if downloading apps from third-party sources. Use only trusted apps from the Google Play Store, avoid suspicious links, and consider it a secondary or offline device.

Does the OnePlus 7T support 5G?

No. The 7T uses the Snapdragon 855, which supports only 4G LTE. If future-proofing for network speeds is important, look at newer models.

Is rooting or installing custom ROMs safe?

It carries risks—bricking, warranty void, and potential security flaws—but many users do it successfully. Stick to well-documented guides from XDA Developers and back up data first.

Final Verdict: Yes, But With Caveats

Upgrading from the Galaxy S8 Plus to the OnePlus 7T in 2025 is absolutely worth it—if your expectations are realistic. You’re not getting a cutting-edge smartphone, but you are gaining:

• Two additional generations of processing power
• A more capable camera system
• Better display with 90Hz refresh rate
• Extended software lifespan via custom ROMs
• Noticeably faster day-to-day performance

The trade-offs—lack of wireless charging, non-expandable storage, and no official updates—are minor compared to the overall leap in usability.

For under $150, the OnePlus 7T breathes new life into a mobile experience held back by obsolete hardware. It won’t replace a 2025 flagship, but it bridges the gap effectively for users who need reliability without breaking the bank.

🚀 Ready to extend your smartphone’s life? Evaluate your current device, explore affordable upgrades, and share your experience—your insight could help others make smarter tech choices in 2025 and beyond.