iPhone X vs 8: Which iPhone Reigns Supreme? – Comparison
Struggling to decide between the iPhone X and the iPhone 8? You’re not alone! These two smartphones, released just a year apart, both boast impressive features and performance, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. Choosing the right one can feel like a tough call.
This in-depth comparison of the iPhone X vs 8 will help you navigate the key differences and similarities. We’ll delve into the design, display, camera capabilities, performance, and battery life, providing you with a clear understanding of what each phone offers. This will help you to make the best decision possible.
Whether you’re prioritizing cutting-edge technology or a more familiar design, this guide will provide the insights you need. Get ready to explore the nuances of the iPhone X and iPhone 8 and discover which device aligns perfectly with your mobile lifestyle and budget. Let’s find your ideal iPhone!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone X | iPhone 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 5.8-inch | 4.7-inch |
| Display Technology | Super Retina OLED | Retina HD LCD |
| Processor | A11 Bionic | A11 Bionic |
| RAM | 3GB | 2GB |
| Rear Camera | Dual 12MP | 12MP |
| Front Camera | 7MP TrueDepth | 7MP |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps | 4K @ 60fps |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP67 |
| Face ID | Yes | No |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB |
| Headphone Jack | No | No |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Display
- iPhone X: Features a nearly bezel-less design with a 5.8-inch Super Retina display, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. The all-screen design eliminates the home button, relying on gestures. A major pro is its modern aesthetic, but the notch at the top can be distracting for some.
- 8: Sports a more traditional design with a 4.7-inch Retina HD display (or 5.5-inch on the 8 Plus) surrounded by noticeable bezels. It retains the familiar home button. A pro is the comfortable familiarity, but the design feels dated compared to the X.
- Winner: X
Processor
- iPhone X: Powered by the A11 Bionic chip, the X delivers exceptional performance for all tasks, including gaming and video editing. It handles multitasking smoothly and efficiently. The chip is powerful, but older than the latest models.
- 8: Also uses the A11 Bionic chip, providing similar performance to the X. It’s fast and responsive for everyday use. Performance is very similar to the X.
- Winner: Tie
Camera
- iPhone X: Boasts a dual 12MP rear camera system with optical image stabilization (OIS) on both lenses, enabling improved low-light performance and portrait mode with advanced features. It’s a versatile camera system. However, software updates could improve further.
- 8: Features a single 12MP rear camera (dual 12MP on the 8 Plus) with OIS. It produces excellent photos in good lighting conditions and offers portrait mode (on the Plus). The single lens limits some features.
- Winner: X
Face ID vs. Touch ID
- iPhone X: Introduces Face ID, a facial recognition system for secure unlocking and authentication. It’s a convenient and secure method, but can be less reliable in certain lighting conditions.
- 8: Relies on Touch ID, the fingerprint sensor integrated into the home button. It’s a fast and reliable method of authentication, but lacks the visual flair of Face ID.
- Winner: X
Battery Life
- iPhone X: Offers decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use. It supports wireless charging. Battery life is good, but not exceptional.
- 8: Provides similar battery life to the X, also supporting wireless charging. It also generally lasts a full day with moderate usage.
- Winner: Tie
Size and Weight
- iPhone X: Is slightly larger overall due to the larger screen, but it still fits comfortably in hand. It offers a more immersive experience. The larger size might not be preferred by all.
- 8: Is more compact and easier to manage with one hand, especially the standard 8. The smaller size is a definite advantage for portability.
- Winner: 8
Storage Options
- iPhone X: Offered in 64GB and 256GB storage options. This provides ample space for most users.
- 8: Offered in 64GB and 256GB storage options. The same storage options as the X.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- iPhone X: Was initially more expensive due to its advanced features and design.
- 8: Was more affordable at launch.
- Winner: 8
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display | iPhone X |
| Performance | Tie |
| Camera | iPhone X |
| Design | iPhone X |
| Value | iPhone 8 |
| Features | iPhone X |
What They Have in Common
- Processor: Both phones utilize the A11 Bionic chip, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications. This means fast app loading and seamless multitasking.
- Wireless Charging: Both the iPhone X and iPhone 8 support wireless charging, providing convenient charging options with compatible charging pads. This eliminates the need for cables.
- Water Resistance: Both phones have an IP67 rating, offering protection against splashes, spills, and dust. This makes them more durable in various environments.
- 4K Video Recording: Both devices can record videos in 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, allowing users to capture high-quality footage. This ensures sharp and detailed videos.
- Operating System: Both phones run on iOS, providing access to the same app ecosystem and software updates. This ensures a consistent user experience.
iPhone X vs. iPhone 8 Buying Guide
Performance
The iPhone X boasts a significantly more powerful processor, the A11 Bionic chip, compared to the iPhone 8’s A11 Bionic. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and enhanced performance in graphically intensive games. While the iPhone 8 is still a capable device, the X’s performance advantage is noticeable, especially for users who demand the best possible experience. The X’s Neural Engine also unlocks advanced machine learning capabilities.
Display
The iPhone X features a stunning 5.8-inch Super Retina display with a higher resolution and pixel density than the iPhone 8’s 4.7-inch Retina HD display. The X’s OLED technology provides richer colors, deeper blacks, and wider viewing angles. The bezel-less design of the X also offers a more immersive viewing experience. The iPhone 8’s display is still excellent, but the X offers a clear visual upgrade.
Camera
Both iPhones have excellent cameras, but the iPhone X takes the lead with its dual 12MP rear cameras and optical image stabilization on both lenses. This allows for improved low-light performance, portrait mode with advanced depth control, and better zoom capabilities. The iPhone 8 has a single 12MP rear camera. The X captures more detailed photos and offers more creative options.
Design and Build
The iPhone X features a premium design with a glass back and stainless steel frame, while the iPhone 8 has a glass back and aluminum frame. The X’s design is more modern, with its edge-to-edge display and removal of the home button. Both phones are water and dust resistant. The X is generally considered to be the more stylish option due to its more modern design.
Battery Life
Battery life is comparable between the iPhone X and iPhone 8, with both offering all-day use for most users. The iPhone X may have a slight edge in some usage scenarios, due to its efficiency of the OLED display. Both phones support wireless charging. The iPhone X’s battery life is adequate, but it’s not a significant improvement over the iPhone 8.
Price and Value
When they were initially released, the iPhone X was significantly more expensive than the iPhone 8. However, given that both devices are now a few years old, the price difference has narrowed considerably. Considering the enhanced features, the iPhone X offered a better value for the premium price. But the iPhone 8 is still a good option for those on a budget and still has a lot to offer.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone X If…
- You want a larger, more immersive display with a more modern design.
- You value the advanced features of Face ID for unlocking and authentication.
- You want a phone with a dual-camera system for enhanced photography capabilities.
- You prefer a more premium feel with a stainless steel frame.
Buy iPhone 8 If…
- You prefer a smaller, more compact phone size.
- You are looking for a more affordable option.
- You don’t need the advanced features of Face ID.
- You prioritize a physical home button.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the iPhone X and iPhone 8?
The most significant difference lies in the design and display. The iPhone X has a full-screen OLED display with a notch, while the iPhone 8 features a traditional Retina HD display with bezels. The X also has Face ID, and a more powerful processor. Both phones have capable cameras, but the X has a dual-camera system.
Does the iPhone X have a home button?
No, the iPhone X does not have a physical home button. It relies on gesture-based navigation, such as swiping up from the bottom of the screen to go to the home screen. Face ID is used for authentication. The iPhone 8 retains the classic home button.
Which phone has a better camera?
The iPhone X generally has a better camera system. It features a dual-camera setup with optical image stabilization on both lenses, allowing for improved low-light performance and enhanced portrait mode capabilities. While the iPhone 8 has a great camera, the X offers more features and flexibility for photography.
Does the iPhone X support wireless charging?
Yes, both the iPhone X and the iPhone 8 support wireless charging using the Qi standard. This allows users to charge their phones by simply placing them on a compatible charging mat. This feature is a convenient addition to both devices, adding to their usability.
What is Face ID?
Face ID is Apple’s facial recognition system, used for unlocking the iPhone X, authenticating purchases, and logging into apps. It uses a TrueDepth camera system to create a detailed 3D map of the user’s face, making it more secure than fingerprint-based authentication. Face ID replaces the home button’s Touch ID on the X.
Is the iPhone X more durable than the iPhone 8?
Both phones use glass and metal construction and are water and dust-resistant. However, the iPhone X’s glass back and stainless steel frame are more prone to damage than the iPhone 8’s aluminum frame. Both phones can be susceptible to damage from drops, so using a case is recommended for both devices.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The iPhone X generally provides a slightly better gaming experience due to its more powerful processor and enhanced graphics capabilities. The larger, higher-resolution display of the X also contributes to a more immersive gaming experience. However, the iPhone 8 is still more than capable of running most games smoothly.
Final Verdict
The iPhone X offers a more advanced experience with its superior display, powerful processor, and enhanced camera system. While the iPhone 8 remains a capable device, the iPhone X’s overall performance and features make it the better choice for most users, if the price difference isn’t a major factor. The X offers a more modern user experience.
Winner: iPhone X