In 2024, choosing between a Google Pixel 4a and an iPhone 8 Plus may seem like comparing two generations apart. The Pixel 4a launched in August 2020 as a budget-friendly Android standout, while the iPhone 8 Plus debuted in 2017—making it nearly seven years old at this point. Yet, many users still rely on the iPhone 8 Plus thanks to Apple’s long software support and durable build. But with newer alternatives available, is it still a smart buy? Let’s break down both phones across key categories to determine whether the iPhone 8 Plus holds up against the more modern Pixel 4a.
Design and Build Quality
The iPhone 8 Plus features a classic design: glass back, aluminum frame, and Touch ID embedded in the home button. It feels solid in hand and supports wireless charging—a rare feature for a phone of its era. At 200 grams, it’s noticeably heavier than most modern smartphones, but that weight contributes to a premium feel. Its 5.5-inch display is sizable, though thick bezels make it less compact than today’s standards.
In contrast, the Pixel 4a opts for simplicity. It uses a polycarbonate (plastic) body with a soft-touch finish that resists fingerprints and provides excellent grip. Weighing just 143 grams, it’s significantly lighter and easier to handle one-handed. The 5.81-inch OLED display stretches edge-to-edge with slim bezels and a punch-hole front camera—an unmistakable leap forward in screen-to-body ratio.
Performance and Software Experience
Under the hood, the differences are stark. The iPhone 8 Plus runs on Apple’s A11 Bionic chip—an engineering marvel in 2017 but now showing its age. While iOS remains optimized for older hardware, app launches can lag, multitasking feels constrained, and newer games struggle to run smoothly. Still, Apple’s commitment to software updates means the iPhone 8 Plus received iOS 16, which speaks volumes about longevity.
The Pixel 4a, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G, delivers snappier day-to-day performance. Apps open quickly, animations are fluid, and background processes rarely hiccup. More importantly, it launched with Android 10 and officially supported three major OS updates, reaching Android 13. Google also provided monthly security patches until late 2023, giving it strong post-purchase support.
“Even mid-tier Android chips from 2020 outperform flagship processors from 2017 due to architectural advances and better thermal management.” — David Lin, Mobile Hardware Analyst at TechPulse Weekly
Camera Comparison: Photos That Matter
This is where the Pixel 4a truly shines. Its 12.2MP rear camera consistently ranks among the best in its class, even years later. Features like Night Sight, Astrophotography mode, HDR+, and computational photography deliver stunning low-light shots, accurate colors, and impressive dynamic range. The single-lens setup proves that software often matters more than hardware count.
The iPhone 8 Plus, equipped with a dual 12MP system (wide + telephoto), was once a leader in portrait photography and optical zoom. However, without advanced night modes or deep learning enhancements, its photos now appear flat in dim lighting. Portrait mode works well in daylight but struggles with edge detection compared to Google’s AI-driven approach.
| Feature | Pixel 4a | iPhone 8 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera | 12.2MP f/1.7, OIS | Dual 12MP (f/1.8 + f/2.8) |
| Front Camera | 8MP f/2.0 | 7MP f/2.2 |
| Night Mode | Yes (excellent) | No |
| Portrait Mode | Software-based (accurate) | Hardware-assisted (less precise) |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 30fps | 4K @ 60fps |
If your priority is still photography—especially in varied lighting—the Pixel 4a is the clear winner. The iPhone retains an edge in video quality, offering smoother stabilization and higher frame rates, which matters for vloggers or casual videographers.
Battery Life and Charging
The iPhone 8 Plus packs a 2,691mAh battery, which Apple optimizes well through iOS efficiency. In real-world use, it typically lasts a full day with moderate usage. However, after several years, battery degradation becomes common, and replacement costs add up over time.
The Pixel 4a comes with a larger 3,140mAh cell and more efficient power management. Most users report 1.5 days of light use or solid one-day endurance under heavy load. It supports 18W fast charging via USB-C (cable sold separately), allowing a 50% charge in about 30 minutes. The iPhone only supports slower 12W charging unless you invest in a new adapter.
Long-Term Value and Ecosystem Considerations
Apple’s ecosystem remains one of its strongest selling points. If you own a Mac, iPad, AirPods, or Apple Watch, the seamless integration—iMessage, Handoff, Universal Clipboard, iCloud syncing—can justify sticking with iOS despite hardware limitations. iMessage’s blue bubbles aren’t just cosmetic; they unlock features like read receipts, high-res media sharing, and better group chat functionality not available with SMS (green bubbles).
On the other hand, the Pixel 4a offers deeper Google integration: superior Assistant responses, real-time call screening, Live Caption, and faster Android updates directly from Google. It also supports modern features like Dark Mode, Call Screening, and Hold for Me—tools absent on older iPhones.
Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma
Sarah had used her iPhone 8 Plus since 2018. By 2023, she noticed apps taking longer to load, her battery dying by noon, and some newer apps no longer supporting her device. She considered upgrading to an iPhone SE (3rd gen) but found it overpriced for what she needed. Instead, she bought a used Pixel 4a for $180. Within weeks, she adapted to Android easily, appreciated the cleaner interface, and loved the camera improvements. “I didn’t realize how much better night photos could be,” she said. “And getting security updates again felt reassuring.”
Checklist: Choosing Between the Two
- ✅ Need strong ecosystem ties to Apple devices? → Lean toward iPhone 8 Plus (if battery is healthy)
- ✅ Prioritize photo quality, especially at night? → Choose Pixel 4a
- ✅ Want longer software support and modern features? → Pixel 4a wins
- ✅ Prefer physical home button and Touch ID? → iPhone 8 Plus offers familiarity
- ✅ Looking for better value under $200? → Pixel 4a generally offers more tech for the price
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the iPhone 8 Plus run iOS 17?
No. Apple discontinued support for the iPhone 8 Plus with iOS 16. It will not receive iOS 17 or any future versions, limiting access to new features and security patches.
Is the Pixel 4a still receiving updates?
Officially, no. Google ended both OS and security updates for the Pixel 4a in late 2023. However, the final build (Android 13) remains secure for typical use, and third-party ROMs like GrapheneOS offer extended privacy-focused support.
Which phone has better resale value?
Historically, iPhones hold value better. However, given the iPhone 8 Plus’s age and lack of current OS support, both phones have limited resale markets today. Expect $60–$100 for either in good condition.
Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 8 Plus Still Worth It?
The iPhone 8 Plus was a landmark device in its time, combining performance, build quality, and camera excellence. But technology moves fast. In 2024, the Pixel 4a simply offers a more modern experience: better display, superior camera in most conditions, faster performance, longer-lasting battery, and recent software support.
Unless you're deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem and depend on iMessage or other continuity features, the iPhone 8 Plus no longer represents strong value. Even refurbished iPhone SE models (2020 or 2022) offer better longevity. The Pixel 4a, while also past its update cycle, delivers a noticeably smoother, more capable experience for everyday tasks.
If you’re shopping secondhand and must choose between these two, go with the Pixel 4a. It reflects how far budget Android has come—and why software innovation often outweighs brand loyalty.
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