Upgrade from iPhone 7. Go for 8 or SE?

[Garuma]

Hi, I need to upgrade from the now very old 7, as I understand iOS 16 will not support it. I want to keep the spend down, so the Q is, a used 8 or a 2020 SE?

Many thanks in advance!

 

[Just_Me_D]

Personally, I’d go for the newer of the two.

 

[Mr.Willie]

You don’t mention the cost of the phones you’re considering, nor the battery health.

A band spanking new 2022 SE is $429 in the US.

 

[EdwinG]

Between the two, I would go for the 2020 iPhone SE. There is a higher likelihood that Apple supports it longer than the iPhone 8.

 

[Annie_M]

Hello and welcome to iMore! I agree that it would be wisest to go with the newest model. Also, keep in mind that the 8 will most probably not be eligible for the next version of iOS (17).

 

[Up_And_Away]

Apple iPhone 11 64GB Black Fully Unlocked B Grade Used Smartphone:
290$ on Walmart right this moment.
Grade B means there may be cosmetic damage but it does not effect functionality (buy a cheap cover).

Imho avoid at all cost buying an iPhone 7 unless you’re paying WELL under 100 dollars. But even then you are to go through this again in too short a span. it just is a bad value proposition. Up front cost is only one element in the overall cost. How long the device lasts (cost per year), age of device (likelihood of break down), any potential resale value. This does not include what is your value for functionality and the 11s far superior screen and camera. The 11 is still a good phone. I was using up until 5 weeks ago.
I hope that helps. BOL

 

[imwjl]

At this point consider what it takes to get a 5G phone if only for this reason - you will get the carrier network improvements already rolled out and being rolled out. You have lots of used and new choices at modest prices. Shop for 12 model and current SE for you future proof insurance.

 

[TwitchyPuppy]

If you enjoy your iPhone 7’s form factor, I’d definitely recommend the newest SE!