Even though the releases of the iPhone 8 and iPhone X generated as much buzz as any other Apple product launch, tech reviewers are far from sold on them. The general consensus of the tech media on the iPhone X is that it does not live up to the hype. The experience of using the iPhone X sounds confusing and frustrating, especially for users accustomed to the old interface of the iPhone, because there were many changes, including the iPhone X eliminated the Home button.
In comparison with the iPhone 7, improvements (for either the 8 or the X) are marginal or nonexistent. Drawbacks, (the newer phones are expensive, heavy, and bulky) offset any benefits of switching to the newer phone. If you’re like these reviewers, here’s why you might want to consider an iPhone 7 over one of the newer models.
The Newer iPhones Are Heavier
Why does Apple seem to think bigger is better for phones? While a bigger, faster carrier like T-Mobile pairs with any phone, the phone itself should not be bigger. The whole idea of a phone is that it should be light, portable, and fit nicely in a pocket. Keeping your iPhone 6 or iPhone 7 rather than purchasing the iPhone 8 or X sends the message that consumers don’t want big, bulky, heavy phones. What we want is portability.
The Newer iPhones Are Bigger
If you have small hands, this makes a larger device less convenient. Mobile phones are primarily used by holding the device in the palm of the hand and pressing keys on the screen with one’s thumb. This becomes impossible or just plain uncomfortable for someone with small hands as the phones increase in size. Many customers will only accept a phone that is available in a smaller size. In the world of portable communication devices, “small” is the goal. Smallness means lightness, speed, comfort, versatility, portability, ease of use, and convenience
Fewer Color Choices
If you want to express yourself with aesthetic choices, you’re out of luck as far as color options for the newer models of iPhone. Business Insider is one of many tech writers commenting on the decreased color options available in the newer phones. The iPhone 7 and 7 Plus offers the customer the choice of five colors: silver, gold, rose gold, jet black, and matte black. Contrasting this plethora of options, the iPhone 8 only offers gold, silver, and space grey. The iPhone X is even more limited in their color options with a simple choice of black or white.
The New Models Aren’t That Different – but the Price Is Much Higher
The iPhone 8 has the same screen resolution as the iPhone 7. So, you’ll save money if you choose the iPhone 7 by getting a less expensive iPhone with the same screen resolution. There is also not much difference in terms of battery life. Finally, reviewers and tech bloggers have also noted that the cameras are not all that different.
However, the price of the iPhone 8 is much higher than that of the iPhone 7. Most reviewers and tech experts agree that there isn’t enough improvement to justify the higher price of the iPhone 8 or X. The price of an iPhone 7 Plus is now $669 for a 32 GB, and $769 for a 128 GB model. The iPhone 8 Plus is $799 for a 64 GB and $949 for 256 GB. Sure, the new models have greater memory capacity. But if you can get almost the same phone for $130 less or more, why not?
In conclusion, given the increased size, weight, and cost, the newer iPhones don’t seem to merit the vast difference in price. We all want to get the most for our hard-earned dollars, especially when we’re purchasing an item we will use multiple times a day. Given the differences and similarities of these iPhone offerings, sticking with what is tried and true may be the best deal for your money.