iPhone 7 Plus vs iPhone 8: Which iPhone Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a new iPhone can be a tough decision, especially when comparing models just a generation apart. Are you trying to decide between the iPhone 7 Plus and the iPhone 8? This comparison will help you navigate the key differences and determine which phone best suits your needs.
The iPhone 7 Plus, with its dual-camera system and larger display, was a powerhouse when it was released. Its successor, the iPhone 8, brought some significant upgrades to the table, including a faster processor and wireless charging. We’ll delve into the specifics to help you make an informed decision.
From performance and camera capabilities to design and battery life, we’ll break down everything you need to know. Discover which iPhone offers the best value and features for you. Get ready to find out which phone comes out on top in this iPhone 7 Plus vs iPhone 8 showdown!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | iPhone 7 Plus | iPhone 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | September 2016 | September 2017 |
| Display Size | 5.5 inches | 4.7 inches |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 pixels | 1334 x 750 pixels |
| Processor | A10 Fusion | A11 Bionic |
| RAM | 3GB | 2GB |
| Storage Options | 32/128/256GB | 64/256GB |
| Main Camera | Dual 12MP | 12MP |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 7MP |
| Video Recording | 4K at 30fps | 4K at 60fps |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP67 |
| Wireless Charging | No | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | No | No |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design
- iPhone 7 Plus: Features an aluminum unibody design with a prominent camera bump. It offered a sleek look for its time, but its design feels dated compared to newer iPhones. The bezels are also quite large.
- iPhone 8: Boasts a glass back and an aluminum frame, giving it a more premium feel and enabling wireless charging. While maintaining a similar overall shape to the 7 Plus, the glass back adds a touch of modernity.
- Winner: iphone 8
Display
- iPhone 7 Plus: Has a 5.5-inch Retina HD display with good color accuracy and brightness. The display is sharp enough for everyday use, but it lacks some of the advanced features of later models.
- iPhone 8: Also features a 5.5-inch Retina HD display, but it includes True Tone technology, which adjusts the display’s color temperature to match the ambient lighting for a more comfortable viewing experience.
- Winner: iphone 8
Processor
- iPhone 7 Plus: Powered by the A10 Fusion chip, which was powerful at the time of its release and still handles everyday tasks well. However, it’s starting to show its age with more demanding apps and games.
- iPhone 8: Equipped with the A11 Bionic chip, offering a significant performance boost over the A10 Fusion. This results in faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Winner: iphone 8
Camera
- iPhone 7 Plus: Features a dual 12MP camera system with wide-angle and telephoto lenses, enabling features like Portrait Mode and 2x optical zoom. Image quality is good, but it’s not as advanced as later models.
- iPhone 8: Also has a dual 12MP camera system, but with improved image processing thanks to the A11 Bionic chip. It offers better low-light performance, improved HDR, and more natural-looking portraits.
- Winner: iphone 8
Wireless Charging
- iPhone 7 Plus: Does not support wireless charging, relying solely on a Lightning port for charging.
- iPhone 8: Supports Qi wireless charging, providing a convenient way to charge the phone without plugging in a cable.
- Winner: iphone 8
Battery Life
- iPhone 7 Plus: Generally offers good battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use. However, battery health can degrade over time.
- iPhone 8: Battery life is comparable to the 7 Plus, but it may vary depending on usage and battery health.
- Winner: Tie
Storage Options
- iPhone 7 Plus: Available in 32GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options.
- iPhone 8: Available in 64GB and 256GB storage options.
- Winner: Tie
Price & Availability
- iPhone 7 Plus: Typically available at a lower price point, especially used or refurbished, as it is an older model.
- iPhone 8: Usually costs a bit more, although still relatively affordable, especially when purchased used or refurbished.
- Winner: iphone 7 plus
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone 8 |
| Display Size | iPhone 7 Plus |
| Camera (Overall) | iPhone 7 Plus |
| Battery Life | iPhone 7 Plus |
| Design | iPhone 8 |
| Features | iPhone 8 |
What They Have in Common:
- Water Resistance: Both the iPhone 7 Plus and iPhone 8 share an IP67 rating, offering protection against water and dust. This means they can withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
- Front Camera: Both phones feature a 7MP front-facing camera, suitable for taking selfies and video calls. The quality is consistent across both devices.
- No Headphone Jack: Neither the iPhone 7 Plus nor the iPhone 8 includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. Users need to rely on the Lightning port or Bluetooth for audio.
- iOS: Both phones run on the iOS operating system, providing a familiar user interface, access to the App Store, and regular software updates.
- Basic Connectivity: Both phones support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular connectivity, allowing for internet access, file sharing, and phone calls.
iPhone 7 Plus vs iPhone 8 Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The iPhone 8 boasts a significant performance upgrade thanks to its A11 Bionic chip, offering noticeably faster processing speeds and improved graphics compared to the iPhone 7 Plus’s A10 Fusion chip. This translates to smoother multitasking, quicker app loading times, and a more responsive overall user experience. The A11 Bionic’s neural engine also enhances machine learning capabilities, further improving performance in areas like facial recognition and augmented reality applications. This allows for superior gaming and video editing.
Camera Capabilities and Features
While both phones feature dual-lens cameras, the iPhone 8 benefits from software enhancements and a slightly improved image sensor. The iPhone 8 delivers better image quality, particularly in low-light conditions, with more vibrant colors and reduced noise. Portrait mode is also refined on the iPhone 8, producing more accurate edge detection and a more natural bokeh effect. The iPhone 8 also supports 4K video recording at 60fps, giving it an edge in video capabilities.
Design and Build Quality
The iPhone 8 introduces a glass back design, enabling wireless charging, a feature absent in the iPhone 7 Plus. This glass back offers a more premium feel and aesthetic. While both phones are splash, water, and dust-resistant, the iPhone 8’s glass construction is more susceptible to damage from drops compared to the iPhone 7 Plus’s aluminum back. The iPhone 8 also offers a slightly more compact design compared to the 7 Plus, making it easier to handle.
Display Technology and Quality
Both phones have Retina HD displays, but the iPhone 8 incorporates True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the screen’s color temperature to match the ambient lighting. This results in a more comfortable viewing experience, reducing eye strain, especially in varying light conditions. The display on the iPhone 8 is slightly brighter than the iPhone 7 Plus, making it easier to view content in direct sunlight. Both displays are sharp and vibrant, providing excellent image quality.
Battery Life and Charging
The iPhone 7 Plus generally offers slightly better battery life due to its larger battery capacity. However, the iPhone 8 supports wireless charging, offering a convenient way to top up your battery without cables. Both phones support fast charging, allowing for rapid charging with a compatible charger. The battery life difference isn’t substantial, and your usage patterns will influence the actual battery performance. Consider how important wireless charging is for your needs.
Storage Options and Pricing
Both phones were available with varying storage options. The availability of these models and their storage configurations will influence the price. The iPhone 8 might be priced higher, considering its newer technology and features. Check the current market prices to determine which phone represents better value for your needs. Consider the amount of storage you require for apps, photos, and videos to decide which storage option is best for you.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 7 Plus If…
- You prefer a larger screen for media consumption and gaming.
- You want a dual-camera system with optical zoom capabilities.
- You are on a tighter budget and want a more affordable option.
- You don’t prioritize the latest processor or wireless charging.
Buy iPhone 8 If…
- You want a faster processor for improved performance.
- You prefer a more compact and pocketable design.
- You value wireless charging for convenient charging options.
- You want improved video recording capabilities, including 4K at 60fps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has a better camera?
The iPhone 8 has a slightly better camera. While both feature dual-lens systems, the iPhone 8 benefits from software improvements and a better image sensor, leading to improved low-light performance, more vibrant colors, and refined Portrait mode capabilities. The iPhone 8 also offers 4K video recording at 60fps.
Does the iPhone 8 have wireless charging?
Yes, the iPhone 8 features wireless charging thanks to its glass back design. This allows you to charge the phone simply by placing it on a compatible charging mat. The iPhone 7 Plus does not have wireless charging capabilities, requiring a Lightning cable for charging.
Is the iPhone 8 faster than the iPhone 7 Plus?
Yes, the iPhone 8 is faster. It is equipped with the A11 Bionic chip, which offers significant performance improvements over the iPhone 7 Plus’s A10 Fusion chip. This translates to smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive user experience for the iPhone 8.
Which phone has better battery life?
The iPhone 7 Plus generally has slightly better battery life than the iPhone 8, primarily due to its larger battery capacity. However, the difference isn’t huge, and actual battery performance varies based on usage. The iPhone 8’s wireless charging capability provides an alternative charging method.
What is the build material of each phone?
The iPhone 7 Plus has an aluminum back, while the iPhone 8 features a glass back. The glass back on the iPhone 8 enables wireless charging and provides a more premium feel. However, glass is more susceptible to damage from drops compared to the aluminum back of the iPhone 7 Plus.
Does the iPhone 8 have a better display?
The iPhone 8 incorporates True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts the screen’s color temperature to match ambient lighting, resulting in a more comfortable viewing experience. While both have Retina HD displays, the iPhone 8’s display is slightly brighter. Both offer sharp and vibrant visuals.
Which phone is more expensive?
The pricing depends on the current market, storage configuration, and condition of each phone. Generally, due to being the newer model, the iPhone 8 is likely to be slightly more expensive, particularly if purchased new. However, availability and deals can influence the price. Check current market prices for both phones.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 8 edges out the iPhone 7 Plus due to its faster processor, improved camera, and wireless charging. While the iPhone 7 Plus offers better battery life and a slightly lower price, the enhancements in the iPhone 8 provide a more modern and versatile experience. The glass back design and True Tone display also add to the appeal.
Winner: iPhone 8