Key Differences at a Glance
The Apple iPhone 8 and iPhone X were announced together in September 2017 but targeted different priorities. Below is a concise overview of their core differences to help you decide which fits your needs.
| Attribute | iPhone 8 | iPhone X | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display Size and Type | 4.7-inch LCD Retina | 5.8-inch OLED Super Retina | Size, sharpness, contrast, and true tone management differ noticeably. |
| Design and Build | Home button with Touch ID | Edge-to-edge display with Face ID, no home button | Changes interaction model and physical feel. |
| Processor | A11 Bionic | A11 Bionic | Same chip; similar day-to-day performance. |
| Rear Cameras | Single 12MP Wide | Dual 12MP Wide + Telephoto | X offers 2x optical zoom and Portrait Mode with stronger bokeh. |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 7MP | Similar resolution, but X supports Portrait Mode for selfies. |
| Biometrics | Touch ID | Face ID | Convenience and security approaches differ; masks work differently. |
| Battery Life | Good; typically lasts a full day | Good; comparable or slightly better despite smaller battery | Usage and network conditions vary results. |
| Price at Launch | Starting lower | Starting significantly higher | X commanded a premium for OLED, dual camera, and new design. |
Design and Display Comparison
Physically, the iPhone 8 and iPhone X look and feel different. The iPhone 8 follows the familiar slab design with thick bezels and a home button, while the iPhone X introduces a nearly bezel-less front with Face ID and no home button. This design shift changes one-handed use, pocket fit, and overall handling. The display also plays a major role: the iPhone 8 uses a 4.7-inch LCD, whereas the iPhone X uses a larger 5.8-inch OLED panel. OLED provides deeper blacks, higher contrast, and better color accuracy, making media consumption more vivid on the X. If display size, readability in bright environments, and physical button preferences matter to you, these differences are central to choosing between the two.
Performance and Chipset Considerations
Both phones are powered by the A11 Bionic chip, which remains capable for everyday tasks, social media, and many games. Because the same processor powers both devices, raw performance and speed are comparable in most scenarios. Where they differ is in software longevity: the iPhone X generally received major iOS updates for a slightly longer period due to its newer design and classification as a flagship. If you plan to keep your device for several years, this small difference in update support can be meaningful, even if day-to-day performance feels similar today.
Camera Capabilities and Photography Features
Rear Camera Systems
The iPhone 8 features a single 12MP wide lens, which is straightforward and reliable for most situations. The iPhone X steps up with a dual 12MP system, pairing a wide lens with a telephoto lens. This enables 2x optical zoom, better background separation in Portrait Mode, and more flexibility when framing shots. In practice, the X often produces more versatile photos, especially for portraits, events, and candid moments that require a little extra reach. However, the iPhone 8’s single lens remains competent and is often more forgiving in very bright or very low-light conditions where digital zoom can be noisy.
Front Camera and Selfies
Both devices feature a 7MP front camera, but the iPhone X adds Portrait Mode for selfies, using its TrueDepth system to create depth effects. If taking self-portraits with a blurred background is important to you, the X offers an additional creative option. Beyond that, basic selfie quality is similar between the two models.
Biometrics and Security: Touch ID vs Face ID
Security and unlocking differ between the two phones. The iPhone 8 relies on Touch ID, a fast and polished fingerprint reader that works well for most users. The iPhone X replaces Touch ID with Face ID, using facial recognition for unlocking and Apple Pay. Face ID is convenient in many everyday situations, but it can be less reliable with masks, low light, or certain accessories. Some users also prefer the simplicity and tactile feedback of a physical home button. If you frequently unlock your phone while wearing a mask, drive often, or value a button-based interface, these practical tradeoffs are worth considering.
Value, Longevity, and Refurbished Options
Today, both models are available through refurbished programs and third-party sellers, which affects value. The iPhone X typically commands higher resale value and offers newer features, but its premium price is harder to justify if the differences matter less to you. The iPhone 8 presents strong value if you want a dependable Apple device at a lower cost, with a physical home button and smaller form factor. Longevity is similar in terms of supported iOS versions, though the X may remain compatible slightly longer due to its flagship status. Assess how much you prioritize camera versatility, display quality, and design innovation against cost and size when deciding.
Which Should You Choose: iPhone 8 or iPhone X?
Choose the iPhone 8 if you prefer a compact, tactile device, enjoy pressing a home button, want lower upfront cost, and do not need the latest camera features. It remains a solid, everyday phone with dependable performance. Choose the iPhone X if you value a larger OLED display, dual-camera versatility, Face ID, and a design that feels more modern. The X also tends to age better in software support and resale value. Your decision should hinge on how much weight you give display quality, camera flexibility, biometric convenience, and budget.