Apple iPhone 8 Review: A Solid Choice in 2025

The Apple iPhone 8, released in September 2017, marked a turning point in Apple’s design philosophy, bridging traditional iPhone aesthetics with modern functionality. Fast forward to 2025, the iPhone 8 remains a viable option for users seeking a compact, reliable smartphone without the steep price tag of newer models.

In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the iPhone 8’s design, performance, battery life, camera quality, and its place in today’s market. We’ll also compare it to similar smartphones like the iPhone XR, iPhone 9, and Samsung Galaxy S8, helping you decide if it’s still worth buying in 2025.

Apple iPhone 8 Key Specifications

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iPhone 8 Design: Compact and Premium

Apple’s iPhone 8 design retains the iconic form factor that fans adored, featuring a 4.7-inch display housed in a sleek aluminum and glass body. Its dimensions (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm) make it one of the most pocket-friendly smartphones even today, weighing just 148 grams.

Design Highlights:

• Glass Back: Enables wireless charging while adding a touch of elegance.
• IP67 Water Resistance: Protects against splashes and dust, up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
• Color Options: Available in:

1. Silver
2. Space Gray
3. Gold
4. Red variant

While the bezels around the screen may seem outdated compared to edge-to-edge displays, the iPhone 8’s design is a nostalgic nod to Apple’s earlier era.

4.7-inch Retina Display

The 4.7-inch Retina IPS LCD with a resolution of 750 x 1334 pixels (326 PPI) delivers crisp visuals. While it lacks the OLED brilliance of newer iPhones, the screen offers accurate colors and adequate brightness, reaching up to 625 nits.

Display Features:

• 3D Touch Technology: Adds intuitive pressure-sensitive gestures.
• Iron-strengthened glass: Provides durability and scratch resistance.
• Compact Size: Ideal for one-handed use and portability.

Although the screen size may feel small for heavy media consumption, it’s perfect for users seeking a practical, no-nonsense display.

 A11 Bionic Chip and Performance

The A11 Bionic processor, a six-core chipset with two high-performance cores and four efficient cores, powers the iPhone 8. Paired with 2GB RAM, this chip delivers snappy performance for most tasks, even in 2025.

Performance Metrics:

iOS Compatibility: Runs on iOS 16.7.7, ensuring access to the latest apps and features.

Gaming Capabilities: Handles casual and graphically intensive games thanks to the three-core GPU.

Benchmark Scores:

• AnTuTu: 237,594
• GeekBench: 10,214

While not as powerful as the latest iPhones, the A11 Bionic ensures smooth multitasking and everyday usage without noticeable lags.

iPhone 8 Camera: Simplicity Meets Quality

The Apple iPhone 8’s 12MP rear camera delivers consistent performance with excellent detail and color accuracy. It excels in well-lit conditions and includes features like Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for stable shots.

Camera Features:

Rear Camera:

• Aperture: f/1.8
• Video Recording: 4K at 60fps, 1080p at 240fps (slow-motion).
• Quad-LED dual-tone flash for better low-light results.

Front Camera:

• 7MP shooter with HDR and 1080p video recording.

While the iPhone 8 lacks modern features like Night Mode or multiple lenses, it’s a capable camera for casual photography.

Battery Life: Sufficient for Daily Use

The 1821mAh battery may seem small compared to today’s smartphones, but it offers decent endurance thanks to the A11’s energy-efficient architecture.

Battery Performance:

Endurance Rating: 66 hours in standard tests.

Charging Options:

• 15W Fast Charging: Achieves 50% in 30 minutes.
• Wireless Charging: Qi-compatible for added convenience.

For light to moderate users, the iPhone 8’s battery life is sufficient for a full day.

Comparison: iPhone XR, iPhone 9 (iPhone SE 2020), and Samsung Galaxy S9

Here’s a detailed comparison of the iPhone XR, iPhone 9 (SE 2020), and Samsung Galaxy S9, focusing on their features, specifications, and usability in 2025.

Conclusion:

• Choose the iPhone XR if you value a large display, long battery life, and Face ID.
• Opt for the iPhone 9 if you prioritize performance, compact size, and longevity with iOS updates.
• The Samsung Galaxy S9 is perfect for those seeking an affordable Android phone with a sharp display and excellent low-light camera.

This comparison helps you decide based on your preferences and budget in 2025.

Apple iPhone 8: The 2025 Surprise Hit?

For users who value compact design, reliable performance, and a trusted ecosystem, the iPhone 8 remains a great choice. It’s ideal for light users, children, or as a secondary phone. However, for those seeking larger displays or cutting-edge camera features, alternatives like the iPhone XR or newer Android devices might be better.

Final Thoughts

The Apple iPhone 8 is a testament to Apple’s enduring craftsmanship. With its sleek design, dependable A11 chips, and a camera that captures stunning photos, it continues to hold its own in 2025. Whether you’re a fan of compact smartphones or looking for a budget-friendly Apple device, the iPhone 8 is a compelling option.

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