The iPhone 8 Versus the iPhone 8 Plus: What's the Difference?
If you’re thinking about upgrading to an iPhone 8 and haven’t yet, the reason might be indecision. Maybe you’re trying to figure what the differences are between the regular iPhone 8 versus the iPhone 8 Plus. Let’s take a look, because it’s more than just the larger display size.
iPhone 8 Versus the 8 Plus: Yes, the Display is Bigger
First, the obvious. The standard iPhone 8 has a 4.7-inch screen, whereas the Plus model’s display is 5.5 inches. There’s a bit more to the story, though — the Plus has a 1080p display rated at 401 pixels per inch (ppi). The standard iPhone 8’s resolution is lower at 1,334 pixels by 750 pixels, with 326 ppi.
Would you notice the difference in sharpness with the higher resolution? Probably not, but there are other benefits to the Plus’s larger display. You get more icons on your Home screen and a better experience watching video or displaying websites.
It is worth noting that if you prefer to use your iPhone one-handed, or have constraints on pocket space, the iPhone 8 might be a better option for you.
The Camera System is Different
With the standard iPhone 8, you’ll get a very good camera. It’s a single-lens optically-stabilized 12MP camera with a maximum aperture of f/1.8. That’s a pretty decent specification, and the quad-LED flash used now should help provide more consistent lighting.
On the other hand, the iPhone 8 Plus has that camera along with a stabilized f/2.8 telephoto lens. It can provide 2X optial zoom instead of just the simulated digital zoom that pixelates your images.
On top of that, the iPhone 8 Plus offers you Portrait mode, which will artificially blur the background behind a subject. With Portrait Lighting, you can even add in simulated highlights and remove the background completely.
Better Battery Life in the Plus
Battery life for both devices is good, but the Plus is a bit better. Apple advertises the iPhone 8 standard model for 12 hours of internet access, 13 hours of video playback, 14 hours of talk time, and 40 hours of audio.
Since the iPhone 8 Plus has more room, it has a bigger battery. That translates to 13 hours of internet, 14 hours of video, 21 hours of talk time, and 60 hours of audio playback.
If you spend long stretches of time away from a charging point, the iPhone 8 Plus might be your best bet.
Both devices support Qi wireless, as well as fast-charging from zero to 50 percent with the right accessories.
Obviously, They Don't Cost the Same
Finally, we’ll look at the cost. Clearly, the two devices won’t cost you the same. The iPhone 8 standard model will begin at $699 for the 64GB variant. If you want more storage space, an iPhone 8 with 256GB is $799.
By way of contrast, the iPhone 8 Plus starts at $849 for a 64GB model. The 256GB model will set you back almost a grand, at $949.
Summary
So there you have it, the key differences between the iPhone 8 versus the iPhone 8 Plus. This information should make it easier for you to decide which model is best for you. It comes down to how you’ll use the device, whether you need the extra features of the 8 Plus, and how deep you want to dig into your pocketbook.
