iPhone 8 Vs iPhone XR

iPhone 8
iPhone 8
Starting at

£68.00

£249.00 new

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iPhone XR
iPhone XR
Starting at

£103.00

£399.00 new

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Ratings

The iPhone 8, released in 2017, and the iPhone XR, launched in 2018, represent two distinct approaches to Apple's smartphone design during their respective eras. While both operate on the iOS platform, the iPhone XR introduced a larger, edge-to-edge display and Face ID, moving away from the traditional home button design of the iPhone 8, alongside an updated internal processor.

Scores

Durability

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, their release timelines are a key factor in software support and overall longevity.

  • Software Updates: The iPhone 8, being the older model, has likely concluded its major iOS update cycle, meaning it will no longer receive new operating system features. The iPhone XR, released a year later, received major iOS updates for a slightly longer period, though it too is now past its major update cycle.
  • Security Support: Both devices may still receive critical security updates for some time, but new feature development has ceased. The iPhone XR will generally have a slightly extended period of security support compared to the iPhone 8.
  • Repairability: Both models feature glass backs and fronts, making them susceptible to damage from drops. Repairability scores are generally similar, with common repairs like screen and battery replacements being feasible for both.

Year of Release

2017

2018

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance differences between the iPhone 8 and iPhone XR stem primarily from their respective processors and battery capacities.

  • Processor: The iPhone XR features a newer-generation processor compared to the iPhone 8. This translates to more efficient handling of demanding applications, smoother multitasking, and quicker app loading times on the iPhone XR.
  • Battery Life: The iPhone XR is known for its significantly larger battery capacity, which provides substantially longer usage times on a single charge compared to the iPhone 8. Users of the iPhone 8 may find themselves needing to recharge more frequently, especially with heavy use.
  • Storage Options: Both devices were available with similar storage configurations, typically starting from 64GB, offering adequate space for apps, photos, and videos for most users.

Memory

2 GB

3 GB

Screen quality

The display experience is one of the most noticeable distinctions between these two iPhone models.

  • Display Technology: Both the iPhone 8 and iPhone XR utilize LCD display technology, offering good color accuracy and brightness. Neither features the deeper blacks and higher contrast of OLED panels found in more premium models.
  • Screen Size: The iPhone 8 has a compact 4.7-inch display, while the iPhone XR boasts a larger 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display. This larger screen on the XR provides a more expansive viewing area for media consumption and general browsing.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The iPhone 8 has a resolution of 1334x750 pixels, while the iPhone XR has 1792x828 pixels. While the iPhone XR has a larger screen, its pixel density is slightly lower than the iPhone 8, though both offer sufficient clarity for everyday use.

Resolution

750 x 1334

828 x 1792

Screen type

Retina IPS LCD

Liquid Retina IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Both the iPhone 8 and iPhone XR feature capable single-lens camera systems for everyday photography.

  • Rear Camera: Both devices are equipped with a single 12-megapixel wide-angle camera with optical image stabilization. The iPhone XR benefits from a newer-generation image signal processor, which enables features like Smart HDR for improved dynamic range in photos, often resulting in better detail in highlights and shadows.
  • Front Camera: Both models include a 7-megapixel front-facing camera. The iPhone XR's front camera also supports Portrait Mode with Depth Control, a feature not available on the iPhone 8.
  • Video Recording: Both phones are capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, offering good quality for casual video capture.
  • Audio: Both devices feature stereo speakers, providing a more immersive audio experience for media playback compared to single-speaker setups.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

7 megapixels

7 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several other features differentiate the iPhone 8 and iPhone XR.

  • Biometric Authentication: The iPhone 8 relies on Touch ID, Apple's fingerprint recognition system integrated into the home button. The iPhone XR introduced Face ID, using facial recognition for secure unlocking and authentication.
  • Design and Dimensions: The iPhone 8 maintains the classic iPhone design with prominent bezels and a physical home button. The iPhone XR adopts a more modern, all-screen design with a notch at the top and no home button, resulting in a larger overall footprint and weight.
  • Connectivity: Both devices support 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0, providing reliable wireless connectivity for most users. Neither model includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, relying on the Lightning port or wireless audio.

Weight

148 g

194 g

Screen size (in)

4.7

6.1

Network

4G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

Lightning

User feedback often highlights the iPhone 8's compact size and the familiarity of Touch ID as its main advantages, appealing to those who prefer a smaller device and a physical home button. However, its aging battery and smaller screen are frequent points of criticism.

The iPhone XR is generally praised for its significantly better battery life, larger display, and the convenience of Face ID, offering a more modern user experience. Some users, however, noted its LCD screen as a drawback compared to the OLED displays available on other phones at the time, and its single camera setup might be a limitation for those seeking more versatile photography options.

Users prioritizing a compact form factor, the traditional home button, and Touch ID may find the iPhone 8 suitable for basic tasks, understanding its software support has ended. Conversely, users seeking a larger screen, extended battery life, Face ID, and slightly better performance for everyday apps will likely prefer the iPhone XR, even though its major software updates have also concluded.

Both models, available as quality-assured refurbished options, offer an eco-friendly alternative for consumers looking to make an informed and sustainable choice without needing the very latest features.

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