IPhone 7 Plus Vs. 8 Plus: Which One Should You Choose?
So, you're trying to decide between the iPhone 7 Plus and the iPhone 8 Plus, huh? It's a classic dilemma! Both are solid phones, but they have some key differences that might sway you one way or the other. Let's break it down in a way that's easy to understand, without all the confusing tech jargon. We will dive deep into what makes each of these iPhones tick, comparing their features, performance, and overall value to help you make the right decision. Choosing between the iPhone 7 Plus and iPhone 8 Plus can feel like navigating a maze, but don't worry, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a gaming addict, or simply looking for a reliable smartphone, understanding the nuances of each model is crucial. We'll explore everything from camera capabilities and processing power to design aesthetics and battery life, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed choice. By the end of this article, you'll not only know the strengths and weaknesses of both iPhones but also understand which one aligns best with your personal needs and preferences. So, let's get started and unravel the mysteries of these two iconic Apple devices, helping you find the perfect fit for your digital lifestyle. Remember, the best iPhone for you is the one that seamlessly integrates into your daily routine and enhances your overall experience, and we're here to help you discover just that.
Design and Build: A Familiar Feel
When it comes to design, the iPhone 7 Plus and iPhone 8 Plus share a very similar overall look. You might even mistake them at first glance! Both feature a classic iPhone design with a large display, a home button with Touch ID, and a dual-camera setup on the rear. However, there's one major difference: the back material. The iPhone 7 Plus has an aluminum back, while the iPhone 8 Plus boasts a glass back. This glass back isn't just for show; it's necessary for enabling wireless charging, a feature absent in the 7 Plus. The choice between aluminum and glass comes down to personal preference. Aluminum is generally more durable and less prone to shattering if dropped, whereas glass offers a more premium feel and allows for wireless charging convenience. Some users prefer the matte finish of aluminum for its grip and resistance to fingerprints, while others are drawn to the sleek, glossy appearance of glass. Ultimately, the decision depends on what you prioritize in terms of aesthetics, durability, and functionality. Consider how you typically use your phone and whether the added benefit of wireless charging outweighs the potential risk of a cracked glass back. Both phones are well-built and feel solid in hand, but the material difference is a key factor in distinguishing their designs. Think about your lifestyle and usage habits to determine which design best suits your needs. Do you often find yourself needing to charge on the go, or are you more concerned about the phone's ability to withstand everyday wear and tear? Answering these questions will help you make the right choice.
Display: Similar, But Not Identical
Both the iPhone 7 Plus and iPhone 8 Plus feature a 5.5-inch Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. So, on paper, they seem identical. However, the iPhone 8 Plus has a few tricks up its sleeve. It supports True Tone technology, which adjusts the display's color temperature to match the ambient lighting in your environment. This makes the screen easier on your eyes and provides a more natural viewing experience, especially in different lighting conditions. Additionally, the iPhone 8 Plus has a wider color gamut, allowing it to display more vibrant and accurate colors. While the difference might not be immediately noticeable to the casual user, those with a keen eye for detail will appreciate the improved color accuracy and overall visual quality of the iPhone 8 Plus display. The True Tone feature is particularly beneficial for users who spend long hours looking at their phone, as it reduces eye strain and enhances readability. Whether you're browsing the web, watching videos, or reading articles, the adaptive color temperature ensures that the display always looks its best, regardless of the surrounding environment. Furthermore, the wider color gamut of the iPhone 8 Plus results in richer and more lifelike images, making photos and videos appear more stunning. For photographers and graphic designers, this enhanced color accuracy is a significant advantage, allowing them to view and edit their work with greater precision. While both displays are excellent, the iPhone 8 Plus offers a slightly more refined and visually pleasing experience, thanks to its True Tone technology and wider color gamut.
Performance: A Leap in Power
This is where the iPhone 8 Plus really shines. It's powered by Apple's A11 Bionic chip, which is significantly faster and more efficient than the A10 Fusion chip in the iPhone 7 Plus. We're talking a noticeable difference in speed and responsiveness. The A11 Bionic chip features a six-core CPU, compared to the A10 Fusion's four-core CPU, and a three-core GPU, which delivers up to 30% faster graphics performance. This means that the iPhone 8 Plus can handle demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and augmented reality applications with ease. Apps launch faster, multitasking is smoother, and overall performance is noticeably snappier. While the iPhone 7 Plus is still a capable device, it simply can't match the raw power of the iPhone 8 Plus. The A11 Bionic chip also includes a neural engine, which enhances machine learning capabilities and enables features like improved facial recognition and more accurate Siri responses. This advanced processing power not only improves the performance of existing apps but also paves the way for new and innovative applications that leverage artificial intelligence. For users who demand the best possible performance from their smartphones, the iPhone 8 Plus is the clear winner. Whether you're a gamer, a content creator, or simply someone who wants a phone that can keep up with your fast-paced lifestyle, the A11 Bionic chip delivers a significant performance boost that you'll appreciate every day. From launching apps to editing videos, the iPhone 8 Plus handles everything with speed and efficiency, making it a true powerhouse in the palm of your hand.
Camera: Incremental Improvements
Both the iPhone 7 Plus and iPhone 8 Plus have a dual 12MP camera system, with a wide-angle lens and a telephoto lens. So, what's the difference? The iPhone 8 Plus has a larger sensor and a more advanced image signal processor (ISP), which results in improved image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The iPhone 8 Plus also supports Portrait Lighting, a feature that allows you to add studio-quality lighting effects to your portrait photos. These effects can dramatically enhance the look of your photos, giving them a more professional and polished appearance. Additionally, the iPhone 8 Plus can record 4K video at 60fps, while the iPhone 7 Plus is limited to 30fps. This higher frame rate results in smoother and more fluid video footage, especially when capturing fast-moving subjects. While both phones take excellent photos, the iPhone 8 Plus offers a slight edge in terms of image quality and features. The larger sensor captures more light, resulting in brighter and more detailed photos in low-light environments. The advanced ISP optimizes image processing, reducing noise and improving color accuracy. And the Portrait Lighting feature allows you to get creative with your portrait shots, adding unique and artistic effects. For photographers and videographers, the iPhone 8 Plus is the better choice. Its improved camera system and enhanced features make it a versatile tool for capturing stunning photos and videos in a variety of situations. Whether you're shooting landscapes, portraits, or action shots, the iPhone 8 Plus delivers exceptional results. The ability to record 4K video at 60fps is also a significant advantage, allowing you to capture smooth and detailed footage that looks great on any screen.
Battery Life: Pretty Comparable
In terms of battery life, the iPhone 7 Plus and iPhone 8 Plus are pretty similar. You'll likely get through a full day of moderate use with either phone. However, the iPhone 8 Plus has a slight advantage due to the A11 Bionic chip's improved power efficiency. The A11 Bionic chip is designed to be more energy-efficient than the A10 Fusion chip, which means that it consumes less power when performing the same tasks. This can result in slightly longer battery life, especially when using demanding apps or playing games. Additionally, the iPhone 8 Plus supports fast charging, which allows you to quickly recharge the battery when it's running low. With a compatible fast charger, you can get up to 50% charge in just 30 minutes. This can be a lifesaver when you're in a hurry and need to quickly top up your battery. While both phones offer decent battery life, the iPhone 8 Plus has a slight edge due to its more efficient processor and fast charging capabilities. If you're a heavy user who spends a lot of time on your phone, the iPhone 8 Plus might be the better choice. Its longer battery life and fast charging support will help you stay connected and productive throughout the day. For users who primarily use their phones for basic tasks like making calls, sending texts, and browsing the web, both phones will provide adequate battery life. However, if you're a gamer, a content creator, or someone who relies heavily on their phone for work, the iPhone 8 Plus offers a noticeable advantage in terms of battery performance.
Other Features: Wireless Charging and More
Beyond the key differences, the iPhone 8 Plus has a few other advantages. As mentioned earlier, it supports wireless charging, allowing you to charge your phone on any Qi-compatible charging pad. This is a super convenient feature that the iPhone 7 Plus lacks. Additionally, the iPhone 8 Plus has Bluetooth 5.0, which offers faster data transfer speeds and improved range compared to the Bluetooth 4.2 on the iPhone 7 Plus. The iPhone 8 Plus also has a more durable glass back, which is reinforced with a steel internal structure. This makes it more resistant to scratches and cracks, although it's still not as durable as the aluminum back of the iPhone 7 Plus. Furthermore, the iPhone 8 Plus comes with a newer version of iOS out of the box, which includes the latest features and security updates. While the iPhone 7 Plus can be updated to the latest version of iOS, the iPhone 8 Plus is guaranteed to receive software updates for a longer period. These additional features and improvements make the iPhone 8 Plus a more modern and future-proof device. Wireless charging is particularly convenient for users who want to simplify their charging setup and eliminate the need for cables. Bluetooth 5.0 offers faster and more reliable wireless connections, which is especially useful for streaming music and using wireless headphones. And the more durable glass back provides added protection against everyday wear and tear. For users who want the latest technology and features, the iPhone 8 Plus is the better choice. Its wireless charging, Bluetooth 5.0, and more durable glass back make it a more advanced and versatile device.
Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot
Of course, price is a major factor. Generally, the iPhone 7 Plus is going to be more affordable than the iPhone 8 Plus, especially if you're buying used or refurbished. But is the extra cost of the 8 Plus worth it? It depends on your needs and budget. If you're on a tight budget and just need a reliable phone for basic tasks, the iPhone 7 Plus is still a great option. It's a capable device that can handle most everyday tasks with ease. However, if you're willing to spend a bit more, the iPhone 8 Plus offers significant improvements in performance, camera quality, and features. Its faster processor, better camera, and wireless charging support make it a more future-proof and versatile device. When considering the price, it's also important to factor in the long-term value of the phone. The iPhone 8 Plus is likely to receive software updates for a longer period, which means that it will remain compatible with the latest apps and features for a longer time. This can save you money in the long run, as you won't need to upgrade your phone as frequently. Ultimately, the decision comes down to finding the sweet spot between price and value. If you can afford the iPhone 8 Plus, it's definitely worth the extra investment. Its improved performance and features will enhance your overall experience and make it a more enjoyable device to use. However, if you're on a tight budget, the iPhone 7 Plus is still a solid choice that will serve you well.
Conclusion: Which iPhone Wins?
So, which one should you choose? If you prioritize performance, camera quality, and wireless charging, and don't mind spending a bit more, the iPhone 8 Plus is the clear winner. It's a more modern and powerful device that will serve you well for years to come. However, if you're on a budget and just need a reliable phone for basic tasks, the iPhone 7 Plus is still a great option. It's a capable device that can handle most everyday tasks with ease, and it's significantly more affordable. Ultimately, the best iPhone for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider how you plan to use your phone, what features are most important to you, and how much you're willing to spend. By carefully weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the iPhone that's right for you. Whether you opt for the iPhone 7 Plus or the iPhone 8 Plus, you'll be getting a great smartphone that will provide you with years of reliable service. Just remember to choose the one that best fits your lifestyle and budget, and you'll be happy with your decision. And hey, no matter which one you pick, you're still part of the iPhone family! Enjoy!
