iPhone 8 Review: Is It Still a Worthy Choice in 2023?

The iPhone 8 holds a special place in Apple’s smartphone lineup. Released in September 2017, it marked the 10th-anniversary celebration of iPhones. With its iconic design, powerful performance, and reliable camera capabilities, the Apple iPhone 8 was a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the iPhone 7.

However, as newer iPhone models have hit the market since its release, the question arises: Is the iPhone 8 still a worthy choice in 2023?

This comprehensive review evaluates the iPhone 8’s design, display, camera performance, battery life, software support, and overall user experience.

By the end of this blog, you’ll better understand whether the iPhone 8 remains a viable option in 2023 and if it can meet your specific needs and preferences.

Design and Build:

The iPhone 8 Apple retains the classic iPhone design, featuring a glass back and an aluminium frame. Its 4.7-inch display size and compact form factor are favoured by users who appreciate one-handed usability.

Although its design has aged gracefully, it lacks some modern design elements in newer iPhone models. While the glass back adds a touch of elegance, it also makes the device susceptible to fingerprints and requires extra care to avoid accidental drops.

Display and Performance:

The 4.7-inch Retina display on the iPhone 8 still holds up well in 2023, offering good colour accuracy and brightness. However, with edge-to-edge displays and OLED technology in newer models, the iPhone 8’s screen may appear less impressive to some users.

On the performance front, the A11 Bionic chip still packs a punch and handles most tasks smoothly, including gaming and multitasking. While it may not match the raw power of the latest A-series chips, the Apple 8 iPhone’s performance remains respectable in 2023.

Camera Capabilities:

The iPhone 8’s single-lens 12 MP camera delivers decent image quality and offers features like Portrait Mode and HDR. While it may not compete with the advanced multi-lens systems in newer iPhones, the iPhone 8’s camera is still reliable for everyday photography.

It captures sharp and vibrant images in well-lit conditions, though low-light photography can be challenging due to the absence of Night mode. Photography enthusiasts may find its capabilities limited compared to more recent models.

Battery Life and Software Support:

Battery life on the iPhone 8 is decent for moderate usage, but it may struggle to keep up with power-hungry tasks throughout the day. While newer iPhones offer better battery efficiency and larger capacity, the iPhone 8 can still manage everyday tasks without frequent charging.

Regarding software support, the iPhone 8 has received several iOS updates since its release, ensuring it remains compatible with the latest iOS version in 2023. However, as technology evolves, it may receive fewer software updates.

Connectivity and Storage Options:

The iPhone 8 supports essential connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and LTE. However, it lacks 5G support, which has become a sought-after feature in 2023. While 5G availability may vary by region, potential buyers should consider its absence when choosing the iPhone 8.

Regarding storage options, the iPhone 8 comes in 64GB and 256GB configurations, offering ample space for most users’ needs.

User Experience and Usability:

The iPhone 8 provides a smooth user experience on iOS, with fluid navigation and an intuitive user interface. Its compact form allows for easy one-handed use, which many users still appreciate.

However, users accustomed to larger displays and Face ID technology may find the iPhone 8’s design and Touch ID fingerprint sensor less compelling.

iPhone 8 vs. iPhone SE and iPhone XR:

To determine whether the iPhone 8 is still a worthy choice, it must be compared with Apple’s newer budget-friendly models, the iPhone SE and iPhone XR. The iPhone SE (2nd generation) shares the same A13 Bionic chip as the iPhone 11, providing superior performance at a similar price point.

On the other hand, the iPhone XR offers a more immersive display experience with its 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display and a single-lens camera system comparable to the iPhone 8. Each device has unique strengths, making a choice between them dependent on individual preferences and needs.

Durability and Build Quality:

The iPhone 8’s glass-back design adds an aesthetic touch but may raise concerns about durability. While it is generally resilient, users should consider investing in protective cases and screen protectors to prevent potential damage from accidental drops.

Regular maintenance and care can ensure the iPhone 8 remains in good condition for an extended period.

Price for iPhone 8:

iPhone 8’s price has decreased considerably because it is an old model, making it an excellent value-for-money proposition. However, you are unlikely to find a new iPhone 8 because Apple has long discontinued it. You will have to do with a used or refurbished iPhone 8, which are great options too.

Trade-In and Resale Value:

For those considering upgrading to a newer iPhone model, the trade-in and resale value of the iPhone 8 is worth considering. While it may not fetch the same price as the latest iPhones, it can still provide some value for a new purchase.

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 8 Still a Worthy Choice?

After evaluating the iPhone 8’s design, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, software support, and user experience, whether it is still worthwhile to buy iPhone 8 in 2023 depends on individual preferences and needs.

For users seeking a compact device with reliable performance and essential features, the iPhone 8 remains a viable option. It is still in demand, and the iPhone 8 sales, even in 2023, testify to it.

However, those who desire the latest cutting-edge technology, larger displays, and advanced camera capabilities may find newer iPhone models a better fit for their requirements.

Conclusion:

The iPhone 8, with its classic design and reliable performance, still offers a worthwhile user experience in 2023. While it may not boast the latest technology in newer iPhone models, its compact form factor and smooth performance appeal to many users.

When considering the iPhone 8, weighing its advantages against the available alternatives, such as the iPhone SE and iPhone XR, is essential. Ultimately, the decision rests on individual preferences, budget constraints, and desired features.

By making an informed choice, users can find the iPhone that best suits their needs and continues to bring joy and efficiency to their daily lives.