Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone 8
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy J5 (2017)
Starting at
£60.00
iPhone 8
Starting at
£90.00£399.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy J5 (2017) and iPhone 8?
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone 8 comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2017) starts at £60, £30 less than the iPhone 8.
Refurbished from
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Battery
Screen size
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Main camera
- The Galaxy J5 (2017) has more RAM: 3 GB vs 2 GB.
- The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 1821 mAh.
- The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a bigger screen: 5.2 inch vs 4.7 inch.
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone 8 specs
The Galaxy J5 (2017) and the iPhone 8, both released in 2017, offer different experiences suited to different needs. The Galaxy J5 (2017) favours users who want a larger screen with vivid colours and expandable storage through a microSDXC card, alongside a higher front camera resolution for selfies. The iPhone 8 is better for those who value longer software support, more internal storage options, a slightly sharper screen in a smaller size, and a compact, lighter device with a distinct Lightning connector. Your choice depends on whether you prefer a more spacious display and external storage or longer software updates and more built-in storage.
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone 8 price
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Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone 8 battery life and software updates
Durability covers software support and basic device design. Both phones are not foldable, but their software update timelines differ significantly, which affects how long security patches and new features are available.
Software Updates Duration
The Galaxy J5 (2017) stopped receiving software updates in March 2019, which means it no longer gets the latest security patches or system improvements. The iPhone 8 continued to receive updates until March 2025, including iOS 16, providing longer ongoing support. If you want a phone that stays current with software for several more years, the iPhone 8 is the better choice.
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Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone 8 performance
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Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone 8 screen
Screen quality affects how you view content and interact with your phone. Here, size, resolution and screen type all play a role in your daily use and comfort.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a larger 5.2 inch screen with a 720 by 1280 resolution, offering more viewing space which is useful for watching videos or browsing. The iPhone 8's screen is smaller at 4.7 inches but has a slightly higher resolution of 750 by 1334, giving a sharper image in a more compact form.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy J5 (2017) uses a Super AMOLED screen, known for vibrant colours and deep blacks, which can make images and videos stand out. The iPhone 8 features a Retina IPS LCD screen, which provides accurate colours and consistent viewing angles. Your preference may depend on whether you value vivid contrast or colour accuracy.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone 8 camera
Camera quality and front-facing camera resolution are important if you take photos or video calls often. Both devices offer good cameras with some differences in megapixels.
Front Camera Resolution
The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a 13 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail in selfies and video calls. This suits users who prioritise front-facing camera quality. The iPhone 8 has a 7 megapixel front camera, sufficient for clear video chats and casual selfies.
Main Camera Detail
The Galaxy J5 (2017) features a 13 megapixel main camera, while the iPhone 8 has a 12 megapixel main camera. Both cameras can capture detailed photos, so if you want slightly higher resolution for photos, the Galaxy J5 (2017) offers that.
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Main camera
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone 8 size and design
Other practical features such as size, ports, storage and network support affect how you use your phone day to day.
Storage Options
The Galaxy J5 (2017) comes with 16GB of internal storage but supports microSDXC cards for expandable storage, ideal if you want to add more space for photos, music or apps. The iPhone 8 offers internal storage options of 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB but does not have a microSD card slot, so you rely on built-in capacity.
Physical Size and Weight
The Galaxy J5 (2017) is taller and wider at 146.2 mm by 71.3 mm and weighs 160 g. The iPhone 8 is more compact at 138.4 mm by 67.3 mm and lighter at 148 g. If you prefer a smaller, lighter phone that fits easily in one hand or pocket, the iPhone 8 is well suited.
Connectors and Ports
The Galaxy J5 (2017) uses a Micro-USB port and includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, which works with many older accessories and wired headphones. The iPhone 8 uses a Lightning connector, which is standard for Apple devices and requires compatible cables and accessories.
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Galaxy J5 (2017) or iPhone 8: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy J5 (2017) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £60, £30 less than the iPhone 8
- you want more RAM (3 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3000 mAh vs 1821 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 8 if
- you want a lighter build (148 g vs 160 g)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy J5 (2017) appreciate its condition, noting it looks and works like new. Many mention it is a good purchase for everyday use, with some finding it suitable as a first phone for children who are new to technology. The larger screen and camera quality are noted positively, though a few mention issues with the SIM slot size or unlocking on occasion. Overall, customers find it good value for money and reliable for basic smartphone needs.
The iPhone 8 is praised by customers for its near-new appearance, smooth performance, and good battery health. Many highlight the larger storage options and solid build, noting it runs apps well and feels like an upgrade over older iPhones. Some mention minor marks and light scratches but still regard the device as well cared for. A few customers experienced difficulties with unlocking, but most are happy with the device itself.
Both phones suit different users well: the Galaxy J5 (2017) is favoured for everyday use and larger screen needs, while the iPhone 8 appeals to those wanting longer software updates, more storage, and a compact, responsive device.
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone 8 FAQs
Galaxy J5 (2017) vs iPhone 8 comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. The Galaxy J5 (2017) has more RAM: 3 GB vs 2 GB. The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 1821 mAh.
The Galaxy J5 (2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £60 compared with £90 for the iPhone 8.
The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 1821 mAh.
The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a higher-resolution main camera: 13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy J5 (2017) ended in Mar 2019. Updates for the iPhone 8 ended in Mar 2025. Its last version is iOS 16.
Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2017) comes in 16GB, and the iPhone 8 in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
