iPhone 8 Plus vs. Newer Models: Is It Still a Good Choice?

Since its release in 2017, the iPhone 8 Plus has remained a popular choice for users who value performance, design, and reliability. Despite being a few years old, it’s still widely used today, thanks to its robust build, excellent camera, and powerful internals. However, with newer iPhone models continually entering the market, many consumers are asking: Is the iPhone 8 Plus still a good choice in 2024?

In this in-depth comparison, we’ll evaluate the iPhone 8 Plus against newer iPhone models, including the iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and iPhone 15, to help you determine whether this older device is still worth purchasing. We’ll dive into key aspects like performance, camera quality, battery life, design, and value for money, making it easier for Australian consumers to decide if the iPhone 8 Plus still holds up in today’s competitive smartphone market.

Additionally, we’ll discuss how Wise Market Australia can help you get the best deals on the iPhone 8 Plus, ensuring you make an informed and value-driven decision when buying your next iPhone.

iPhone 8 Plus Overview: A Look Back at Its Key Features

The iPhone 8 Plus was one of Apple’s most successful models, released alongside the iPhone X and iPhone 8. It was designed to appeal to users who preferred the traditional iPhone experience, with features like a physical home button and the familiar design of earlier iPhones. Here’s a quick overview of its key features:

• Display: 5.5-inch Retina HD display with True Tone.

• Performance: A11 Bionic chip, capable of handling most tasks with ease.

• Camera: Dual 12MP rear camera system with Portrait Mode and 4K video recording.

• Battery Life: Excellent battery life, lasting up to 13 hours of video playback.

• Design: Glass back and metal frame, offering wireless charging capabilities.

For Australian consumers, the iPhone 8 Plus provided a balance between performance and price, making it an attractive option for those who wanted a quality device without the premium cost of the iPhone X or iPhone XS.

Performance: How Does the iPhone 8 Plus Stack Up Against Newer Models?

Performance is one of the most important factors when choosing a smartphone. Despite being a few years old, the iPhone 8 Plus still holds up relatively well when compared to newer models. Equipped with the A11 Bionic chip, the iPhone 8 Plus can handle most everyday tasks, including web browsing, app usage, and light gaming, with ease.

However, newer iPhones, such as the iPhone 13, 14, and 15, feature more advanced chips (A15 and A16 Bionic) that offer improved processing power, making these devices faster and better at handling demanding tasks like high-end gaming and video editing. The performance gap between the iPhone 8 Plus and newer models is noticeable in resource-intensive applications, but for casual users, the iPhone 8 Plus still provides sufficient power.

For Australians, the iPhone 8 Plus remains a viable option for those who use their phones primarily for basic tasks. However, if you need more power for professional tasks or gaming, the newer models are worth considering.

Why the iPhone 8 Plus May Still Be Right for You:

• Excellent for day-to-day use: social media, messaging, and general browsing.

• Sufficient power for older apps and games.

• Ideal for budget-conscious consumers who don’t need the latest tech.

Camera Comparison: Is the iPhone 8 Plus Still a Great Choice for Photography?

The iPhone 8 Plus was one of the first iPhones to feature a dual-camera system. Its 12MP wide and telephoto lenses offer great photo quality, especially in well-lit environments. Portrait Mode, introduced with the iPhone 8 Plus, was a game-changer for mobile photography, allowing users to take professional-looking photos with a blurred background.

Despite being an older model, the iPhone 8 Plus still holds its own when it comes to photography. However, newer iPhones, such as the iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and 15, offer significant upgrades in camera technology, including improved low-light performance, better color accuracy, and advanced features like Night Mode and Deep Fusion. The iPhone 8 Plus lacks these enhancements, which can make a noticeable difference, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

For Australians who love mobile photography, the newer iPhone models provide superior camera performance. However, if you’re a casual photographer who doesn’t need all the latest features, the iPhone 8 Plus is still capable of taking stunning photos and videos.

Reasons to Stick with the iPhone 8 Plus:

• Great for everyday photography and casual users.

• Reliable camera for bright, outdoor settings.

• Perfect for those who don’t need advanced features like Night Mode or ProRAW.

Battery Life: How Does the iPhone 8 Plus Compare to Newer Models?

The iPhone 8 Plus is known for its solid battery life, offering up to 13 hours of video playback. While that’s still impressive for many users, it lags behind newer models. The iPhone 13, for instance, offers up to 19 hours of video playback, thanks to more efficient chips and larger battery capacities. The iPhone 14 and 15 models continue this trend, providing even longer-lasting batteries.

For Australian consumers who rely heavily on their phones for work, social media, and entertainment, battery life is a crucial factor to consider. While the iPhone 8 Plus can get you through the day under normal use, those who use their phones extensively may find themselves needing to charge the device earlier than they would with newer models.

Consider the iPhone 8 Plus If:

• You don’t need all-day battery life and can easily recharge during the day.

• You have moderate usage habits (checking email, texting, social media).

• You’re looking for a budget-friendly option with decent battery life.

Design: Is the iPhone 8 Plus Still Stylish in 2024?

The iPhone 8 Plus retains the classic iPhone design that many users still love. It features a 5.5-inch Retina display, glass back, and metal frame. While the design isn’t as modern as the edge-to-edge screens of newer models, it’s still sleek, premium, and comfortable to hold.

That said, the newer iPhones (iPhone 13, 14, and 15) feature more contemporary designs, with larger displays, thinner bezels, and improved durability. The iPhone 13 and later models also offer OLED displays, which provide better contrast and more vibrant colors compared to the LCD on the iPhone 8 Plus.

Software Updates: How Long Will the iPhone 8 Plus Be Supported?

One important consideration when purchasing any iPhone is the software support timeline. Apple is known for providing software updates for older devices for several years, and the iPhone 8 Plus is no exception. While it initially shipped with iOS 11, the iPhone 8 Plus has received several major iOS updates, and it’s expected to continue receiving updates for a few more years.

However, as the iPhone 8 Plus becomes older, it may not support the latest features and functionalities introduced in newer versions of iOS. Newer iPhones, such as the iPhone 13, 14, and 15, will be supported for a longer period and are likely to receive more years of software updates.

Value for Money: Is the iPhone 8 Plus Still a Great Deal in 2024?

One of the biggest selling points of the iPhone 8 Plus in 2024 is its affordability. Given that it’s a few years old, the iPhone 8 Plus is available at a significantly lower price than the latest iPhone models. If you’re in Australia and looking for a great deal on a reliable iPhone, the iPhone 8 Plus offers excellent value for money.

Why Buy the iPhone 8 Plus?

• Affordable compared to newer models, making it an excellent value for money.

• Suitable for users who don’t need the most advanced features.

• Great for budget-conscious buyers who want a quality device at a lower price point.

Where to Buy the iPhone 8 Plus in Australia: Wise Market Australia

If you're considering purchasing the iPhone 8 Plus, Wise Market Australia is a reliable platform for buying this model. Offering competitive pricing, excellent customer support, and a secure shopping experience, Wise Market Australia makes it easy to purchase your iPhone 8 Plus. You can also find refurbished units that come with warranties, ensuring you get a top-quality device at an even lower price.

Conclusion: Is the iPhone 8 Plus Still a Good Choice?

In conclusion, While newer models offer better performance, improved cameras, and longer battery life, the iPhone 8 Plus still holds its ground in terms of design, camera quality, and overall usability.

For those who need a basic iPhone for everyday tasks without breaking the bank, the iPhone 8 Plus is a great option. If you require more advanced features or longer software support, then you might want to consider one of the newer models. Regardless, Wise Market Australia offers the iPhone 8 Plus at competitive prices, so you can make an informed decision with confidence.