iPhone 8 Plus vs Xr: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
Stuck between two fantastic iPhones? Choosing the right smartphone can be a tough decision, especially when comparing models with similar features but different price points and release dates. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of Apple devices to help you make the perfect choice.
We’re putting the iPhone 8 Plus head-to-head against the iPhone XR, two popular options that still hold their own in the current market. Both offer a great user experience, but they have distinct strengths that cater to different needs and preferences. Let’s see how they stack up.
From performance to camera quality and design, we’ll break down everything you need to know. Whether you’re upgrading from an older model or simply looking for a reliable and stylish smartphone, this comparison of the iPhone 8 Plus vs XR will provide you with valuable insights.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 8 Plus | iPhone XR |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 5.5 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Display Technology | Retina HD | Liquid Retina HD |
| Processor | A11 Bionic | A12 Bionic |
| RAM | 3GB | 3GB |
| Main Camera | Dual 12MP | 12MP |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 7MP |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps | 4K @ 60fps |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP67 |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Storage Options | 64/128/256GB | 64/128/256GB |
| Headphone Jack | No | No |
| Face ID | No | No |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Build
- iPhone 8 Plus: Features a classic design with glass front and back, surrounded by an aluminum frame. It’s a familiar design but can feel dated. The glass back enables wireless charging.
- Xr: Boasts a more modern design with an edge-to-edge Liquid Retina LCD display and an aluminum frame. It has a single-lens camera and comes in a variety of vibrant colors.
- Winner: xr
Display
- iPhone 8 Plus: Has a 5.5-inch Retina HD display with a 1920×1080 resolution. Offers good color accuracy and brightness, but lacks the modern edge-to-edge design.
- Xr: Features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display with a 1792×828 resolution. While the resolution is lower than the 8 Plus, the larger screen size and modern design provide a more immersive experience.
- Winner: xr
Processor
- iPhone 8 Plus: Powered by the A11 Bionic chip. It is still a capable processor for everyday tasks and gaming, though it is older compared to the xr.
- Xr: Equipped with the A12 Bionic chip, which offers significantly improved performance and efficiency over the A11. This leads to smoother multitasking and better gaming performance.
- Winner: xr
Camera
- iPhone 8 Plus: Features a dual 12MP camera system with wide-angle and telephoto lenses. Offers Portrait Mode with background blurring and optical zoom.
- Xr: Has a single 12MP wide-angle lens. While it lacks a telephoto lens, it still offers Portrait Mode with advanced features, using software to create depth effects.
- Winner: iphone 8 plus
Battery Life
- iPhone 8 Plus: Provides decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate usage. However, it can struggle with heavy tasks and gaming.
- Xr: Boasts excellent battery life, often lasting well beyond a full day of use. This is a significant advantage for users who prioritize longevity.
- Winner: xr
Price
- iPhone 8 Plus: Generally available at a lower price point, especially in the used market. This makes it a more budget-friendly option.
- Xr: Typically priced higher than the 8 Plus, reflecting its newer technology and features.
- Winner: iphone 8 plus
Storage Options
- iPhone 8 Plus: Available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options.
- Xr: Available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options.
- Winner: Tie
Water Resistance
- iPhone 8 Plus: Rated IP67 for water and dust resistance, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
- Xr: Rated IP67 for water and dust resistance, offering the same level of protection as the 8 Plus.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display | iPhone XR |
| Performance | iPhone XR |
| Battery Life | iPhone XR |
| Camera (Overall) | Tie |
| Design | iPhone XR |
What They Have in Common
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, providing convenient ways to power up without needing to plug in cables.
- Water Resistance: Both models offer IP67 water resistance, protecting them from splashes and brief submersion in water.
- Storage Options: Both the iPhone 8 Plus and the iPhone XR come in multiple storage configurations, including 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB.
- Front Camera: Both phones feature a 7MP front-facing camera for taking selfies and video calls.
- No Headphone Jack: Neither phone includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, requiring users to use wireless headphones or a Lightning adapter.
iPhone 8 Plus vs. XR Buying Guide
Performance
The iPhone XR boasts a significant performance advantage over the iPhone 8 Plus, thanks to its A12 Bionic chip. This newer chip provides faster processing speeds and improved graphics performance, leading to smoother multitasking and a more responsive overall user experience. The A12 Bionic also handles demanding tasks like gaming and video editing with greater ease. The iPhone 8 Plus, with its A11 Bionic chip, is still capable but shows its age when compared side-by-side with the XR. Consider your performance needs; if you prioritize speed, the XR is the clear winner.
Display
The iPhone XR features a larger 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display, offering a more immersive viewing experience compared to the 8 Plus’s 5.5-inch Retina HD display. While both are LCD panels, the XR’s display is slightly sharper and offers better color accuracy. The bezels on the XR are also thinner, contributing to a more modern design. Ultimately, both displays are suitable for daily use, but the XR’s is a notch above in terms of size and visual quality. The XR delivers a more modern design and viewing experience.
Camera
The iPhone XR features a single 12MP wide-angle lens, while the iPhone 8 Plus has a dual-camera system with wide-angle and telephoto lenses. The 8 Plus offers the ability to zoom optically and portrait mode with different lighting effects. The XR, however, excels in software processing, offering impressive results with its single lens. Both phones can capture beautiful photos and videos in good lighting conditions. The XR’s Smart HDR is a significant advantage. Consider your desired photography features when making your decision.
Battery Life
The iPhone XR boasts superior battery life compared to the iPhone 8 Plus. The XR’s larger battery and more efficient processor allow it to last significantly longer on a single charge, often providing a full day of heavy use. The iPhone 8 Plus, while still decent, requires more frequent charging, especially with demanding tasks. If battery life is a priority, the XR is the clear choice. You can expect significantly better endurance with the XR, reducing the need to constantly seek a power outlet.
Design and Build Quality
Both phones feature premium build qualities, with glass backs and aluminum frames. The iPhone XR sports a more modern design with a notch and thinner bezels, while the 8 Plus retains the classic design with thicker bezels and a physical home button. Both phones are water-resistant. The XR’s design is generally considered more contemporary. The build quality on both is excellent, but the XR offers a more modern aesthetic that many users prefer, along with a wider array of color options.
Price and Value
The price of these phones varies depending on the condition and storage capacity. Generally, the iPhone 8 Plus is now available at a lower price point than the XR. However, considering the performance, display, and battery life upgrades, the XR offers better overall value, especially if you plan to use the phone for several years. The XR’s longer software support lifespan also contributes to its value proposition. Carefully consider your budget and needs, but the XR represents a better value in many cases.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 8 Plus If…
- You prefer a physical home button.
- You want a dual-camera system with telephoto lens.
- You like the familiar design of older iPhones.
- You are looking for a more affordable option.
Buy iPhone XR If…
- You want a larger display.
- You prefer a newer design with a notch.
- You want a faster processor.
- You prioritize a longer battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in performance?
The iPhone XR boasts a much more powerful A12 Bionic chip, providing significantly faster processing speeds and smoother multitasking compared to the iPhone 8 Plus’s A11 Bionic. This means faster app loading, better gaming performance, and a more responsive overall user experience. The A12 also handles more demanding tasks with ease, making the XR the superior performer.
Which phone has a better display?
The iPhone XR features a larger 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display with thinner bezels, offering a more immersive and modern viewing experience. The iPhone 8 Plus has a 5.5-inch Retina HD display. While both are LCD panels, the XR’s display is slightly sharper and offers better color accuracy, making it the better display overall.
Does the XR have a better camera?
The iPhone XR utilizes a single-lens 12MP camera with advanced software processing, offering excellent image quality. The iPhone 8 Plus features a dual-camera system with a telephoto lens, allowing for optical zoom and Portrait mode with different lighting effects. Both take great photos in most scenarios, but the XR excels with its Smart HDR and computational photography.
Which phone has better battery life?
The iPhone XR has significantly better battery life than the iPhone 8 Plus. The XR’s larger battery and more efficient A12 Bionic chip allow it to last much longer on a single charge, often providing a full day of heavy use. The iPhone 8 Plus, while still decent, requires more frequent charging, especially with demanding tasks.
What about the design?
The iPhone XR has a more modern design with a notch and thinner bezels, while the iPhone 8 Plus retains the classic design with thicker bezels and a physical home button. The XR offers a more contemporary look. Both phones feature premium build qualities with glass backs and aluminum frames, ensuring a solid feel.
Is the XR worth the extra cost?
Considering the performance, display, and battery life upgrades, the iPhone XR typically offers better overall value, especially if you plan to use the phone for several years. While the iPhone 8 Plus might be cheaper initially, the XR’s superior features and longer software support contribute to its better value proposition in the long run.
Which phone has Face ID?
Neither phone has Face ID. Face ID was introduced with the iPhone X. Both phones, however, feature Touch ID, allowing for secure unlocking of the phone and other authentication processes. The iPhone 8 Plus features a physical home button that also acts as the Touch ID sensor.
Final Verdict
The iPhone XR emerges as the superior choice due to its faster performance, larger and better display, superior battery life, and more modern design. While the iPhone 8 Plus remains a capable device, the XR offers a more compelling overall experience, especially for users who value a modern design and enhanced performance. The XR’s single-lens camera also delivers excellent results.
Winner: iPhone XR