The comparison between the iPhone 7 Plus and the iPhone 8 Plus remains relevant for shoppers looking for significant savings on Apple’s proven hardware. While both devices represent previous generations, they deliver a remarkably similar core experience that highlights Apple’s commitment to longevity. Understanding the subtle but meaningful upgrades in the iPhone 8 Plus helps determine if the extra investment is justified for your specific needs.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the iPhone 7 Plus and iPhone 8 Plus are nearly identical, sharing the same iconic aluminum frame and glass back design. The iPhone 7 Plus introduced a bold new aesthetic that moved away from the stainless steel of earlier models, and this look carried over seamlessly to its successor. The most noticeable difference lies in the glass back of the iPhone 8 Plus, which enables wireless charging, a feature entirely absent from the 7 Plus.
The iPhone 8 Plus is slightly heavier to accommodate the new internal components and glass construction, though the difference is minimal in daily use. Both devices feature the same durable front glass and display, meaning your choice will largely depend on whether you value the convenience of wireless charging. The physical buttons, ports, and overall layout are consistent, ensuring a familiar grip and operation for users switching between the two models.
Display and Visual Experience
Both phones utilize a 5.5-inch Retina HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, resulting in sharp text and vibrant colors that are indistinguishable to the naked eye. Apple’s True Tone technology, which adjusts the white balance based on ambient lighting, is present on the iPhone 8 Plus but not on the 7 Plus. This subtle enhancement can reduce eye strain in varied lighting conditions, making the 8 Plus a slightly more comfortable device for extended reading sessions.
The 3D Touch feature, which allows for pressure-sensitive interactions, is available on both models, providing a deeper layer of control within the iOS ecosystem. While the visual fidelity is essentially the same, the incremental display improvements on the iPhone 8 Plus contribute to a more refined experience. For users who prioritize the latest display technology, even minor adjustments can be a meaningful upgrade.
Performance and Internal Hardware
The heart of the distinction between these devices lies in their processors. The iPhone 7 Plus is powered by the A10 Fusion chip, which delivered excellent performance for its time. In contrast, the iPhone 8 Plus uses the newer A11 Bionic chip, which is significantly faster and more efficient. This difference becomes apparent in demanding applications, complex games, and overall system fluidity, where the A11 provides a noticeable advantage.
The A11 Bionic also introduced advanced machine learning capabilities, which enhance features like Portrait Mode and augmented reality experiences. While both devices handle everyday tasks like messaging, browsing, and video streaming with ease, the iPhone 8 Plus offers a longer functional lifespan due to its superior processing power. For users who plan to use their device for several years, the A11 Bionic is a compelling reason to choose the iPhone 8 Plus.
Camera Systems
Photography is a key strength of the Plus models, and both devices feature a dual 12-megapixel rear camera system with wide-angle and telephoto lenses. The iPhone 8 Plus improves upon the 7 Plus with a larger and faster sensor that captures more light and produces better low‑light images. The introduction of optical image stabilization on the telephoto lens in the 8 Plus further reduces blur in challenging lighting conditions.
Both models excel in portrait photography, thanks to the advanced computational imaging that creates a natural bokeh effect. The iPhone 8 Plus, however, offers more refined image processing and slightly better color accuracy. For photography enthusiasts, the camera upgrades in the 8 Plus represent a genuine step forward in mobile imaging capabilities.
