The iPhone 8 Plus, which was introduced by Apple in September 2017, quickly became a popular model thanks to its premium build quality, large screen, and powerful features. In 2025, with the release of newer models like the iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and iPhone 15, many users are wondering if the iPhone 8 Plus still holds up against modern smartphones. As a reliable device that continues to deliver solid performance, the iPhone 8 Plus remains a favorite among users in Australia who want a great phone at an affordable price.
Whether you're considering purchasing the iPhone 8 Plus through Wise Market Australia or you're a current owner contemplating whether it's time to upgrade. Additionally, we will examine the commercial benefits of buying through Wise Market Australia, offering competitive prices and top-tier customer service for Australians looking to buy this iconic phone.
What Makes the iPhone 8 Plus Special?
Before diving into comparisons and performance analysis, it's essential to understand what made the iPhone 8 Plus a standout model in the first place. As one of the last models to feature a physical Home button, the iPhone 8 Plus offered a blend of traditional design with modern technology. The iPhone 8 Plus incorporated the following features:
- 5.5-inch Retina HD Display: With True Tone technology, the screen offered vibrant colors and improved contrast.
- A11 Bionic Chip: Powered by Apple’s A11 chip, the iPhone 8 Plus delivered robust performance that handled everyday tasks, heavy apps, and gaming with ease.
- 12-Megapixel Dual Rear Cameras: The iPhone 8 Plus featured a dual-camera system that was a significant upgrade for photography enthusiasts, offering both wide and telephoto lenses for versatile photography.
- Wireless Charging: The iPhone 8 Plus was one of the first iPhones to support wireless charging, allowing users to charge their device without plugging it in.
- Premium Glass and Aluminum Build: It featured a durable glass front and back with an aluminum frame, providing a stylish and sturdy design.
For Australian consumers, these features made the iPhone 8 Plus an attractive option for those who wanted a larger phone with high-end specifications but at a more affordable price point compared to flagship models like the iPhone X and iPhone XS.
iPhone 8 Plus vs. iPhone SE (2020): Is the iPhone 8 Plus Still Superior?
The iPhone SE (2020), released in April 2020, was designed to provide a high-performance phone at a lower price. With a similar design to the iPhone 8 and many of the same features, the iPhone SE (2020) raised the question of whether it was better to opt for the newer, more affordable model or stick with the iPhone 8 Plus. Let’s explore the key differences between these two models:
Display and Design: Classic vs. Compact
The iPhone 8 Plus features a 5.5-inch Retina HD display, making it one of the larger iPhones in the lineup. On the other hand, the iPhone SE (2020) has a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, which may appeal to users who prefer smaller, more compact phones.
- iPhone 8 Plus: The 5.5-inch display provides more screen real estate, which can be better for watching videos, gaming, and multitasking.
- iPhone SE (2020): The iPhone SE’s smaller size makes it easier to use with one hand and carry around, which is ideal for users who prefer a more pocket-friendly phone.
Why it matters: If you prefer a larger screen for immersive viewing and gaming, the iPhone 8 Plus stands out. However, if compactness is a priority, the iPhone SE offers a more portable option.
Performance: A11 Bionic vs. A13 Bionic
The iPhone SE (2020) is powered by the A13 Bionic chip, which is significantly faster and more efficient than the A11 Bionic chip in the iPhone 8 Plus. The A13 chip offers improved performance in gaming, photo editing, augmented reality (AR), and machine learning applications.
Why it matters: While the iPhone 8 Plus performs well for everyday tasks and apps, the iPhone SE with the A13 chip is better suited for future-proofing and handling demanding apps. If performance is your top priority, the iPhone SE (2020) may be a better choice.
Camera: Dual vs. Single Lens
The iPhone 8 Plus has a dual 12MP rear camera system, with both a wide and telephoto lens for high-quality zoomed-in photos and portrait shots. The iPhone SE (2020), however, only has a single 12MP wide lens.
- iPhone 8 Plus: The dual-camera system on the iPhone 8 Plus provides more versatility when it comes to zooming in on subjects and creating stunning bokeh effects in portrait mode.
- iPhone SE (2020): While the single camera on the iPhone SE lacks optical zoom, it still offers Portrait Mode, Smart HDR, and impressive low-light performance thanks to the A13 chip.
Why it matters: If you enjoy photography and prefer the versatility of a dual-camera setup, the iPhone 8 Plus remains a better option. But for users who don’t need optical zoom and want a high-performing camera for a lower price, the iPhone SE still delivers impressive results.
iPhone 8 Plus vs. iPhone 11: Is the iPhone 8 Plus Worth It Compared to the iPhone 11?
With the launch of the iPhone 11, Apple took smartphone photography to a new level with enhanced camera technology, an ultra-wide lens, and longer battery life. But how does it compare to the iPhone 8 Plus?
Design: Bigger, Better, and More Durable
While the iPhone 8 Plus has an elegant glass and aluminum design, the iPhone 11 uses a glass back and aluminum frame, but with a more robust build. The iPhone 11 is also more durable, with improved water resistance.
- iPhone 8 Plus: The iPhone 8 Plus has a durable design, but it is slightly more susceptible to scratches and cracks compared to the iPhone 11.
- iPhone 11: The iPhone 11 features a tougher design and better durability, making it a more practical choice for users who want added protection for their device.
Why it matters: If you’re someone who’s always on the go and needs a phone that can endure drops and accidents, the iPhone 11 provides more peace of mind with its durable design and improved protection.
Performance: A13 Bionic Chip
The iPhone 11 features the A13 Bionic chip, which is notably faster and more efficient than the A11 Bionic chip in the iPhone 8 Plus. This improvement means better performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- iPhone 8 Plus: While still fast enough for daily tasks, the A11 Bionic chip isn’t quite as capable as the A13 chip.
- iPhone 11: The A13 chip in the iPhone 11 offers a smoother experience for running intensive applications, AR apps, and longer-term performance with software updates.
Why it matters: The iPhone 11 has superior performance, ensuring it will handle more demanding apps for years to come. If future-proofing is important, the iPhone 11 is a better long-term investment.
Camera: Night Mode, Ultra-Wide Lens, and More
One of the standout features of the iPhone 11 is its dual-camera system, which includes an ultra-wide lens and Night Mode for stunning low-light photography. The iPhone 8 Plus, while still offering excellent photos, lacks these features.
- iPhone 8 Plus: The iPhone 8 Plus’s dual 12MP camera setup performs well in good lighting but struggles in low-light conditions.
- iPhone 11: The iPhone 11’s Night Mode and ultra-wide lens offer significantly better photography, especially in dimly lit environments.
Why it matters: For Australian consumers who love taking photos in various lighting conditions, the iPhone 11 offers far more advanced camera technology, including Night Mode for brighter, clearer low-light shots.
iPhone 8 Plus vs. iPhone 12: The Edge of Innovation
The iPhone 12 was a huge leap forward in terms of design, performance, and camera technology. Here’s how it stacks up against the iPhone 8 Plus:
Design and Display: OLED vs. Retina HD
The iPhone 12 features a 6.1-inch OLED Super Retina XDR display, while the iPhone 8 Plus has a 5.5-inch Retina HD display. The iPhone 12’s OLED display offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and higher resolution.
- iPhone 8 Plus: The Retina HD display is still great, but lacks the deep contrast and vibrancy of OLED.
- iPhone 12: The OLED screen on the iPhone 12 offers a better viewing experience for videos, photos, and general media consumption.
Why it matters: If you prioritize display quality, the iPhone 12 is a clear winner with its OLED display.
Why Choose Wise Market Australia for Your iPhone 8 Plus Purchase?
Buying your iPhone 8 Plus through Wise Market Australia comes with several benefits, making it the ideal platform for Australians looking to get great value for their money:
- Competitive Pricing: At Wise Market Australia, you can find the iPhone 8 Plus at a price that fits your budget, without sacrificing quality.
- Secure Payment Options: Wise Market Australia ensures that all transactions are safe, with secure payment options for peace of mind.
- Excellent Customer Service: The customer support team is available to assist with your queries, ensuring a smooth and pleasant shopping experience.
- Fast Shipping: Expect quick delivery, so you can start enjoying your iPhone 8 Plus sooner.
Conclusion: Is the iPhone 8 Plus Still Relevant in 2025?
Despite the arrival of newer iPhone models with enhanced features, the iPhone 8 Plus continues to hold value in 2025. Its large display, solid performance, and impressive camera system make it a worthwhile choice for Australians looking for an affordable, reliable smartphone.
When purchasing through Wise Market Australia, you can enjoy the benefits of competitive pricing, secure payments, and great customer service. If you’re on the lookout for a capable and affordable iPhone, the iPhone 8 Plus remains a top contender.
Ultimately, whether you choose to stick with the iPhone 8 Plus or upgrade to a newer model depends on your needs. For those seeking a cost-effective phone that still delivers premium performance, the iPhone 8 Plus remains highly relevant in the modern smartphone market.