Samsung Note 8 Vs Note 5 Is The Upgrade Really Worth It What Do You Actually Gain 2

For long-time Samsung Galaxy Note users, upgrading from the Note 5 to the Note 8 isn’t just about newer hardware—it’s about whether the investment translates into meaningful improvements in daily use. Released four years apart, these devices represent two distinct eras of smartphone evolution. The Note 5 arrived in 2015 as a powerhouse with premium metal and glass construction, while the Note 8 launched in 2017 as a flagship redefining mobile photography and multitasking. But does the leap justify the cost, especially for someone still satisfied with their Note 5?

This comparison goes beyond specs. It examines real-world benefits—battery longevity, software support, camera quality, S Pen functionality, and overall user experience—to determine if the upgrade truly adds value or simply offers incremental changes.

Design and Build: From Curved Glass to Premium Refinement

The Note 5 introduced Samsung’s first dual-curved display in the Note series, but its design was constrained by older engineering standards. The back was glass, but only on the top and bottom, with a metal mid-frame. In contrast, the Note 8 embraced a full front-and-back glass body with an aluminum frame, supporting wireless charging—a feature absent on the Note 5.

The Note 8 also adopted a taller 6.3-inch Quad HD+ Super AMOLED display with an 18.5:9 aspect ratio, compared to the Note 5’s 5.7-inch 16:9 screen. This shift improved media consumption and split-screen multitasking, essential for Note users who rely on productivity features.

Tip: If you plan to use your phone for extended reading or note-taking, the taller display and reduced bezels on the Note 8 significantly improve comfort and usability.

Performance and Hardware: Generational Leap in Speed and Efficiency

Under the hood, the difference is stark. The Note 5 used Samsung’s Exynos 7420 or Snapdragon 808 (depending on region), both aging architectures by 2017 standards. The Note 8 upgraded to the Exynos 8895 or Snapdragon 835—chips built on a 10nm process that delivered better performance and lower power consumption.

RAM increased from 4GB to 6GB, enabling smoother multitasking, faster app switching, and more reliable background processing. For users running multiple apps, using DeX, or leveraging the expanded S Pen features, this extra memory makes a tangible difference.

Storage options also evolved. While both phones started at 32GB, the Note 8 offered expandable storage via microSD (up to 256GB), whereas the Note 5 did not support external cards—a major limitation today.

Key Performance Differences Summary

Feature	Samsung Note 5	Samsung Note 8
Processor	Exynos 7420 / Snapdragon 808	Exynos 8895 / Snapdragon 835
RAM	4GB	6GB
Storage Options	32GB / 64GB (No SD)	64GB / 128GB / 256GB + microSD
Battery Capacity	3000 mAh	3300 mAh
Wireless Charging	No	Yes (Qi/PMA)
Water Resistance	No	IP68 rated

Camera Capabilities: Dual Lenses vs Single Sensor

This is where the Note 8 pulls far ahead. The Note 5 featured a single 16MP rear camera with f/1.9 aperture—solid for its time but limited in low-light and zoom performance. The Note 8 introduced Samsung’s first dual-camera system: a 12MP wide-angle and a 12MP telephoto lens, both with optical image stabilization (OIS).

The dual setup enables 2x optical zoom and up to 10x digital zoom with surprisingly usable results. More importantly, the portrait mode (Live Focus) allows depth-of-field effects previously unavailable on Note devices. Low-light performance is also superior due to larger pixels and advanced noise reduction.

The front-facing camera improved from 5MP on the Note 5 to 8MP on the Note 8, with better autofocus and wider field of view—ideal for video calls and group selfies.

“Dual cameras changed the game for mobile photography. The Note 8 wasn’t just about megapixels; it was about giving users creative control over focus and lighting.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechPulse Asia

Battery Life and Charging: Incremental Gain, Major Features Added

The Note 8’s 3300 mAh battery is only 10% larger than the Note 5’s 3000 mAh unit, but thanks to more efficient hardware and software optimizations, real-world usage shows longer endurance—especially under mixed loads.

Critically, the Note 8 supports fast charging (wired and wireless), which the Note 5 lacks entirely. Wireless charging alone adds convenience, particularly for users with compatible desks, cars, or nightstands. The inclusion of IP68 water resistance also means greater durability against spills, rain, and accidental drops in water.

However, neither device supports USB Power Delivery, so charging speeds are capped compared to modern standards. Still, for 2017–2018 standards, the Note 8 offered a well-rounded power package.

Mini Case Study: Daily Use After Upgrade

Mark, a freelance architect using his Note 5 since 2016, upgraded to the Note 8 in late 2018. His workflow relies heavily on sketching, PDF markup, and site photo documentation. He found the larger display made reviewing blueprints easier, while the dual camera allowed him to capture site details with zoomed-in clarity. “I used to carry a compact camera,” he said. “Now I rarely need one—the Note 8 handles most shots, and Live Focus helps isolate structural elements.” He also appreciated wireless charging at his office dock and the peace of mind from IP68 rating during outdoor inspections.

Software Support and Longevity

One often overlooked factor is software lifespan. The Note 5 launched with Android 5.1 Lollipop and received updates up to Android 7.0 Nougat. By 2018, it no longer received security patches, leaving it vulnerable and incompatible with newer apps.

In contrast, the Note 8 shipped with Android 7.1 Nougat and was updated to Android 9 Pie, with monthly security patches until early 2021. This extended support meant access to newer features like improved Do Not Disturb, Digital Wellbeing, and enhanced biometrics.

If you're upgrading primarily for security, app compatibility, and future-proofing, the Note 8 wins decisively. Even in 2024, many banking and productivity apps struggle on Android 7, making the Note 5 increasingly impractical for daily use.

Checklist: Is Upgrading from Note 5 to Note 8 Right for You?

• ✅ Need wireless charging or water resistance? → Note 8
• ✅ Want better camera quality, especially zoom and portraits? → Note 8
• ✅ Use multitasking, DeX, or S Pen heavily? → Note 8 (larger screen, more RAM)
• ✅ Still satisfied with basic tasks and don’t mind outdated software? → Consider staying
• ✅ Looking for expandable storage? → Note 8 only
• ✅ Prefer smaller size and lighter weight? → Note 5 might feel more comfortable

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the S Pen significantly better on the Note 8?

While the core functionality remains similar, the Note 8 introduced Air Command upgrades and added pressure sensitivity to screen-off memos. You can now write instantly on the lock screen without unlocking the phone—a small but impactful improvement for quick note-takers.

Can the Note 8 still run modern apps smoothly in 2024?

Most everyday apps (messaging, email, social media, browsers) will run adequately, though some newer games or AR applications may lag. Performance is acceptable for light to moderate use, but it won’t match current flagships.

Why doesn’t the Note 5 have expandable storage?

Samsung likely prioritized internal design integrity and waterproofing potential, though this decision drew criticism. The absence of microSD became a key pain point for users storing large photo or document libraries.

Conclusion: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

For users still clinging to a Note 5 in 2024, the reality is clear: the device is obsolete. Security risks, app incompatibility, lack of modern features, and degraded battery performance make continued reliance impractical. The jump to the Note 8, even years later, delivers substantial gains—dual cameras, wireless charging, water resistance, more RAM, expandable storage, and critical software updates.

The upgrade isn't just about having a newer phone; it's about regaining reliability, versatility, and safety in a mobile world that has moved on. If you’re using a Note 5 for anything beyond casual calling or offline tasks, moving to the Note 8—or even a refurbished modern alternative—will immediately improve your experience.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? Evaluate your current needs and consider how much productivity, security, and peace of mind are worth. Whether you choose the Note 8 or explore newer models, taking the step forward ensures your device works for you—not against you.