Overview: iPhone 7 Plus vs iPhone 8 Plus at a glance
The iPhone 7 Plus and iPhone 8 Plus are both large-screen, dual-lens iPhones that remain popular choices for value-focused buyers. This evergreen comparison explains their similarities, differences, and which workflows and users each model suits best. If you are deciding between these two generations, focus on performance gains, camera features, and build quality rather than flagship-first specs, as both benefit from mature iOS support and wide refurb and third-party markets.
| Attribute | iPhone 7 Plus | iPhone 8 Plus | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display size and type | 5.5-inch LCD | 5.5-inch LCD | Same screen size and basic display technology. |
| Chipset | A10 Fusion | A11 Bionic | A11 is faster and more power-efficient, especially in sustained tasks. |
| Rear cameras | Dual 12 MP (wide + tele) | Dual 12 MP (wide + tele) | Hardware is similar; computational photography differs by iOS generation. |
| Front camera | 7 MP | 7 MP | Same sensor, but Portrait mode support depends on iOS version. |
| Battery (typical use) | Approx 2,900 mAh | Approx 2,691 mAh (design capacity) | Real-world longevity favors 7 Plus largely due to A10 efficiency in idle tasks. |
| Water resistance | None (IP rating not official) | IP67 (1 m for 30 min) | 8 Plus offers limited spill protection. |
| Connectivity | Baseband option varies by region | Intel LTE modem (most models) | LTE categories and carrier band support vary; check specific model. |
| Build and materials | 7000-series aluminum | 7000-series aluminum + glass back | Glass back enables wireless charging on 8 Plus where supported. |
| Software support timeline | Released 2016; last major iOS updates around 2023 | Released 2017; last major iOS updates around 2023 | Both appear likely to remain viable for basic tasks through the supported iOS era. |
Design and build quality: durability and daily use
Both phones use 7000-series aluminum frames and carry similar dimensions, but the iPhone 8 Plus introduces a glass back for wireless charging. If you plan to use a MagSafe wallet or a compatible Qi charger, the 8 Plus is the practical choice. However, the glass back on the 8 Plus can be more fragile than the 7 Plus aluminum shell when dropped, so consider screen protector and case habits. For users prioritizing pure ruggedness and no wireless charging needs, the iPhone 7 Plus remains a durable everyday device.
Performance: everyday speed and future-proofing
The A11 Bionic in the iPhone 8 Plus brings noticeable gains over the A10 Fusion in the 7 Plus, especially in app launch times, GPU workloads, and background tasks. While both chips remain capable for messaging, calls, social media, and light photography, the A11 handles sustained loads and newer iOS efficiencies better. If you plan to keep the device through multiple iOS updates or run heavier apps and multitasking, the iPhone 8 Plus offers better longevity. For strictly light use, the 7 Plus remains responsive, but the gap widens as apps evolve.
Cameras and media: what you’ll actually capture
Rear dual-camera behavior
The hardware is nearly identical, and photos from both phones are serviceable in good light. The real differences appear in software features rolled into later iOS versions, such as Portrait lighting adjustments and improved depth maps on the 8 Plus. Neither device supports Night mode, which debuted later, so low-light performance is limited by hardware and processing constraints. If low-light and computational photography are priorities, both models show their age compared to modern iPhones, but the 8 Plus benefits from newer iOS optimizations.
Front camera and Portrait
Both front cameras are 7 MP and capable for video calls. Portrait mode on the front relies on software rather than a dedicated sensor, so iOS version and device compatibility determine results. The 8 Plus may receive newer Portrait features longer due to its A11 and glass design that better supports certain effects.
Battery and charging: real-world stamina
Although the iPhone 8 Plus has a slightly lower official design capacity, the A11’s efficiency often balances the difference. In practice, the 7 Plus can last longer in idle states thanks to the A10’s lower background power draw. With mixed use, the 8 Plus may require midday charging more often. Neither device supports fast charging out of the box, so plan for overnight or top-off charges. If battery life is your biggest concern, consider a higher mAh aftermarket option or a case with integrated battery for either model.
Connectivity, carrier bands, and future use
Check your specific iPhone 8 Plus model for LTE band support; many variants include Intel modems that cover common 4G bands in the United States and many international regions. The iPhone 7 Plus varies by region and may use Qualcomm modems with different band configurations. For 5G, neither device supports it, so treat these as 4G-only phones. If you plan to keep the phone for several more years, confirm that your carrier’s 4G coverage and voice fallbacks meet your needs where you live and work.
Which should you choose: decision guidance
Choose the iPhone 7 Plus if you want the lowest cost of entry, accept no wireless charging, and prioritize slightly longer standby battery life for light to moderate use. Choose the iPhone 8 Plus if you value the fastest practical performance in this duo, want a glass back for wireless charging, and prefer stronger long-term support from both hardware and iOS updates. For most buyers today, both serve well as budget-friendly secondary or travel devices, but pairing usage habits with these tradeoffs will clarify the best fit.