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Compare Apple iPhone 8 deals and contracts

Apple iPhone 8

81/100
41 Critic Reviews

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Release Date (UK): September 2017

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The iPhone 8 is an incremental update over the iPhone 7. Whilst not as groundbreaking as the soon-to-be released iPhone X, it still has some improvements that iPhone fans are likely to be impressed by.

Reviewers liked

  • Improved performance and speed thanks to the new A11 Bionic chip
  • Upgraded camera that takes beautiful shots
  • Capability for augmented reality
  • Wireless charging
    • Reviewers disliked

      • Design is too similar to the iPhone 7
      • Feels outmoded by the iPhone X
        • The Apple iPhone 8: in more detail

          The iPhone 8 doesn't break the mould, but it's a solid device with improvements over the 7, with TechRadar stating 'there's enough here to warrant an upgrade if it's time'. Many reviewers pointed out that it will be quickly overshadowed by its flashier cousin the iPhone X, but whilst it may not innovate, the 8 is the best iteration yet of the tried-and-true basic iPhone. PhoneArena called it 'a fantastic, compact, powerful smartphone'. For Apple devotees who aren't prepared to fork out the eye-watering price of the iPhone X, the iPhone 8 is a great choice.

          Performance and battery

          The iPhone 8 is equipped with the new super-fast A11 Bionic chip, a six-core CPU that improves on the iPhone 7's superb performance and efficiency across the board.

          All that extra power really comes into its own when gaming or exploring the iPhone 8's advanced AR capabilities, and whilst it's probably overkill for most everyday apps, it results in an incredibly slick user experience.

          Apple claims the battery should last about the same amount of time as the iPhone 7's. If this is true, it may leave something to be desired - many reviewers found the 7 ran out of juice before the end of the day.

          Design

          The design of the iPhone 8 is largely similar to the 7, its most notable difference being an all-new glass back replacing the traditional aluminium.

          The glass panel looks premium and makes the phone feel lighter (despite a 10g increase in weight), although some reviewers were concerned that it would make the phone more breakable.

          The switch to glass isn't just aesthetic: it enables wireless charging, meaning all you have to do is stick the phone on a charging pad when it's running low.

          Display

          The iPhone 8's 4.7-inch display has the same screen size and resolution as the last few iPhones, but has been slightly upgraded from the 7.

          The improvement comes in the form of Apple's True Tone technology, which uses the phone's sensors to match screen colour temperature to ambient lighting conditions. The display is bright and sharp, with great colour reproduction, and is easily viewable outdoors.

          Camera

          Like the iPhone 7, the 8 features a 12MP sensor and an f/1.8 aperture. However, this time around the sensor is larger, resulting in bigger, more light-sensitive pixels.

          It's a great camera that takes excellent shots, even in low light. PhoneArena called it 'impressively powerful', and TechRadar said 'the overall quality of the pictures is still superb'.

          Other upgrades include new data-processing systems intended to improve auto-focus speed and HDR performance, as well as improved video capabilities.

          Interface

          iOS 11 adds lots of new features to the familiar iOS landscape, so you'll get plenty of fresh functionality without getting lost.

          Apple has focused on machine learning this time around, improving Siri's artificial intelligence. No longer just a voice assistant, Siri now controls the software too, and is able to recommend music and news stories it thinks you'll be interested in.

          Other new features include a redesigned control centre that lets you access a host of handy options by swiping up from the screen, a file system, screenshot editing functions and new note-taking tools.

What the critics say (scores are out of 100)

92

phoneArena | Stephen S.

In the end, assuming you're properly educated on all of Apple's 2017 iPhone options, you shouldn't feel bad about going with the iPhone 8. But maybe don't be afraid to try something new, even if that means stepping outside your comfort zone a little.

Read full review
91

NotebookCheck | Patrick Afschar Kaboli, Daniel Schmidt

The iPhone 8 is powerful, lasts long, and it has a great camera. An upgrade from the iPhone 7 is not necessary, but the differences are more noticeable when you come from an iPhone 6S or an even older model.

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91

Engadget | Chris Velazco

The iPhone 8 is the smallest of Apple's newsmartphones, but don't let its size fool you: It's an incredibly powerful machine. Not everything is perfect, though: The iPhone 8 still doesn't withstand to the extent of some rivals, and it lacks the dual camera found in the 8 Plus. Still, for fans who want a blend of classic Apple style and top-tier performance, the iPhone 8 is an excellent option.

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90

Firstpost | Anirudh Regidi

The iPhone 8 is the most boring phone in Apple's current lineup, but that doesn't mean that it's a bad phone. You're still getting a scrumptious helping of Apple goodness, just on a smaller plate.

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90

ZDNet | Jason Cipriani

Apple's approach has worked, but as I mentioned earlier, it's growing tired. The iPhone 8 is a worthwhile upgrade if you're coming from anything older than the iPhone 7. Those who have the iPhone 7, I'd suggest either getting the iPhone X or waiting for next year's crop of devices.

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90

Recombu | Chris Barraclough

If you're still rocking an older iPhone however, or tempted to swing over to Apple's vine, then the 8 Plus is bound to satisfy. Sure, 7 Plus owners have no real reason to upgrade. However, a lack of HDR support aside, this is still a solid premium handset that impresses in pretty much every area.

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90

NDTV Gadgets | Kunal Dua

The iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus might seem 'boring' in comparison, but with their improved cameras, A11 Bionic chip, wireless charging, and a whole lot more, either one of them could happily be your designated driver for the next couple of years - or until your head is turned by the new 'X' in town.

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86

CNET UK | Scott Stein

The sensible, speedy iPhone 8 makes a nice upgrade to the iPhone 6S and earlier siblings, but we won't know until November how it compares to the much pricier iPhone X.

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85

Mobile Syrup | Patrick O'Rourke

Despite how solid of a device the iPhone 8 is, it's still overshadowed by the impending iPhone X. If you're an iPhone 7 or even an iPhone 6s owner, the iPhone 8 likely doesn't offer enough to justify an upgrade - the 8 is perhaps a little too reminiscent of the past.

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84

OtherGadgetGuy | Valens Quinn

...if you're upgrading from an iPhone 5 or 6, then you'll be very happy with an 8's excellent camera, clever photo modes, stunning wide colour display, wireless charging and impressive augmented reality-ready capabilities.

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80

Pickr | Leigh Stark

The iPhone 8 is the most hand-friendly iPhone around and worth a look, though given the quality of its Plus-sized brother, not to mention what's coming in the iPhone X, we'd probably consider our options.

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80

TechPP (Technology Personalized) | Akriti Rana

We just cannot deny that the iPhone 8 is one of the best and the most powerful single lens camera phones out there, and ticks most performance boxes.

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80

Gadgets Now | Komal Mohan

After using the iPhone 8 we can safely say that this is a solid smartphone. However, if you've an iPhone 7.... chances are the iPhone 8 might not impress you.It has a lot going for it – a powerful processor, better display, enhanced camera and wireless charging.

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80

Macworld | Leah Yamshon

With wireless charging, a speedy new processor, and a familiar design, the iPhone 8 feels like your trusty iPhone-only better.

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80

91mobiles | Kateki Bhojnagarwala

If you own an iPhone 7, there's absolutely no need to upgrade this year, but if you're using an older-generation iPhone, such as the 6 or 6s, you'll definitely notice the difference with the 8. Personally, I'd choose the 8 Plus...but for many users, the 8 will be a more pocket-friendly option…

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80

AndroidPit | Steffen Herget

If you own an iPhone 7, or maybe even an iPhone 6S, then the jump to the iPhone 8 is not a big one... The iPhone 8 is quite compact and such small smartphones are hard to find in the luxury class of the Android world.

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80

VentureBeat | John Brandon

After testing the phones, I realized the wireless charging and AR could be game-changers for loyal iPhone users.

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80

Expert Reviews | Christopher Minasians

The Apple iPhone 8 is in many ways a step forward from the iPhone 7 – but the price is hard to justify. And of course, if you're not bound to iOS, you can save even more by opting for an Android alternative.

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80

Alphr | Alan Martin, Victoria Woollaston

Despite the improvements, the iPhone 8 lacks any real punch. That's not to say the iPhone 8 doesn't have appeal, but its price remains a big ask when the iPhone 7 remains an excellent handset.

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80

Wired | David Pierce

This isn't 2017's most exciting iPhone. But the iPhone 8 shines even in the shadow of the iPhone X. If you want an awesome iPhone, this is it.

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80

V3 | Carly Page

The iPhone 8 is an excellent phone, boosted by the addition of wireless charging and Apple's new A11 Bionic CPU. Beyond that, however, it's an incremental update over last year's iPhone 7, and the handset's large bezels and three-year-old design mean it does feel somewhat dated compared to the likes of the Galaxy S8 and Pixel 2.

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80

AVForums | David Phelan

Overall the Apple iPhone 8 and 8 Plus remain excellent smartphones that offer plenty of great features for their asking price and certainly come recommended.

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80

The Inquirer | Carly Page

The iPhone 8 is an excellent phone and there are some great new editions to get excited about - ireless charging and A11 CPU makes it a powerful, albeit boring upgrade. Its large bezels and three-year-old design mean it does feel somewhat dated compared to the likes of the Galaxy S8 and Pixel XL 2.

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80

TechRadar | John McCann

Don't let the iPhone 8 name fool you – this is very much the iPhone 7S, an incremental upgrade on 2016's 4.7-inch iPhone 7 with a few additions here and there, but nothing to really wow.

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80

Pocket-lint | Stuart Miles

Compared to the iPhone 7, the iPhone 8 brings minimal upgrades. Overall, iPhone 8 is small, compact, powerful, and will deliver the ideal phone experience for many - especially those who aren't fussed with all the latest and greatest features and the costs associated with them. Just because it has minimal upgrades doesn't mean it doesn't deliver maximum satisfaction.

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80

S21

The iPhone 8 has a new glass design offering wireless charging. It's faster than ever, iOS 11 also brings some cool new features including augmented reality. But as ever, the price of owning the latest iPhone is higher than ever before. As Apple has proved time and time again, when you have a winning formula, no great changes are necessary.

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80

TechnoBuffalo | Brandon Russell

Here's the thing about the iPhone 8: If you have an iPhone 6S or older, it's a must-upgrade. But if you own an iPhone 7, the new features probably aren't worth it. Apple's best smartphone already feels outdated.

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80

T3 | Spencer Hart

It got overshadowed by the X, but a slight redesign, improved battery life, and a great camera make this a great iPhone. The iPhone 8 is an excellent smartphone.

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80

The Guardian | Samuel Gibbs

The iPhone 8 is the best iPhone released to date but it's inherently boring.

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80

Tom's Guide | Mark Spoonauer

The iPhone 8 is well worth it if you prefer a smaller phone, offering fantastic performance, a great camera and a growing number of exciting AR apps.

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80

Trusted Reviews | Max Parker

Where I can recommend the iPhone 8 is if you're thoroughly tied into Apple's services. The iPhone 8 is also great if you're after a safe bet, and aren't ready for the changes that will come with the iPhone X. Great camera, lots of power and a nice screen – only a shame that it's all packed inside an ageing shell.

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80

SlashGear | Chris Davies

The rational choice, therefore is one of these two glass-bodied handsets. My inclination of the two is toward the iPhone 8 Plus, for its excellent dual-camera system. Nonetheless, prepare yourself for the inevitable pangs of jealousy as soon as you see an iPhone X in the wild. The iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus are good devices.

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80

Stuff | Craig Gannell

You think you know what you're getting, but the iPhone 8 offers quite a bit more. There's no getting round its highish price and dated design though.

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80

news.com.au | Jennifer Dudley-Nicholson

Apple's iPhone 8 and 8 Plus are likeable phones, and a step up on the models they replace. There are also solid reasons to buy them.

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80

Mashable | Lance Ulanoff

The iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus move the needle forward in all the right ways, but the only substantive change from the iPhone 7 is wireless charging. If you own the 7, don't bother, but everyone else should seriously consider upgrading.

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80

The Telegraph | James Titcomb

So the 8 improves enough on the most important aspects of a phone - the display, the camera, performance and reliability - to make me recommend it over the iPhone 7, even if you can pick up the latter for less. Should you rush out and buy it? Probably not. If you need a new iPhone, is it a worthy upgrade? Certainly.

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80

The Verge | Nilay Patel

And yet, a lot of people are going to buy an iPhone 8. It's Apple's new default phone, and it's pretty great that a default phone is actually this good. But it's not the future, and it's not the cutting edge. It's just the default. It's an iPhone.

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75

Australian PC World | Fergus Halliday

While it won't inspire mania among the enthusiast crowd like the iPhone X will, the iPhone 8 remains a solid package for those happy to play things safe...rather than the best...a slightly-depreciated price point of the 7 and 7 Plus might well be worth the tradeoff in performance and quality of life improvements here.

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70

PC Mag | Sascha Segan

The iPhone 8 anchors Apple's new phone line, but it isn't where the future is.

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70

Digital Trends | Simon Hill

If you still love your iPhone 6 or 6S and you want to upgrade without spending too much, or you want a smaller phone without compromising on power, then the iPhone 8 is going to tick all your boxes. But if you want the best iPhone, wait for the iPhone X.

Read full review
50

Know Your Mobile | Richard Goodwin

Would I buy this phone? Absolutely not. I can think of multiple phones I'd rather own and use than the iPhone 8. The camera is great, as is the A11 chipset, but that's not enough to warrant a price hike on a phone that is more or less indistinguishable from last year's iPhone 7.

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Compare Apple iPhone 8 specs side-by-side with other phones
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Form factor and dimensions
Dimensions & Form

Form factor: Touchscreen bar
Dimensions 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm (5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in)
Weight: 148 g (5.22 oz)

Screen
Screen

Size: 4.7 inches diagonal
Resolution: 1334 x 750 pixels
Screen Density: 326 ppi
Screen-to-Body Ratio: 65.4 %

Display Type: LED-backlit IPS LCD

Operating System
Runs

iOS

Performance
Performance

Chipset: Apple A11 Bionic
CPU: Hexa-core (2x Monsoon + 4x Mistral)
GPU: Apple GPU (three-core graphics)
RAM: 2GB

Camera
Camera

Main Camera: 12 megapixels with Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) and Quad LED True Tone flash
Secondary Camera: 7 megapixels with Retina Flash

Storage
Storage

Built-in Storage: 64GB, 256GB
Expandable Storage: Not Available

Battery
Battery & Charging

Capacity: 1821 mAh
Removable Battery: No
Wireless Charging: Yes
Quick Charge: Yes (v2)

SIM Standard
SIM standard

Nano SIM
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Water and Dust Resistance
Water & Dust Resistance

IP67 Rating: Protection from contact with harmful dust, and protection from immersion in water up to a depth of 1m for up to 30 minutes

Fingerprint Reader
Fingerprint Reader

Front

More info
References & More info

Official website
GSMArena specs page

Photos taken with the Apple iPhone 8

We've used Flickr to find a selection of pictures taken by the Apple iPhone 8 camera. Here is a selection of photos taken by users from around the world so you can see what kind of picture quality you can expect from real-world use of the Apple iPhone 8.

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All images shown are used under the rights and terms specified by the Creative Commons.

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Last Updated: 10th February 2023

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