iPhone 6S vs iPhone 8
Shop iPhone
iPhone 6S
Starting at
£32.09£149.00 new
iPhone 8
Starting at
£90.00£399.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 6S and iPhone 8?
iPhone 6S vs 8 comes down to the chipset, battery and screen type. Refurbished, the iPhone 6S starts at £32.09, £57.91 less than the iPhone 8. The iPhone 8 is the newer model, released in 2017.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen type
Front camera
Software updates
- Chipset: Apple A9 APL0898 on the iPhone 6S, Apple A11 Bionic on the iPhone 8.
- The iPhone 8 has a bigger battery: 1821 mAh vs 1715 mAh.
- Screen type: IPS LCD on the iPhone 6S, Retina IPS LCD on the iPhone 8.
iPhone 6S vs iPhone 8 specs
The iPhone 6S and iPhone 8 share the same screen size and resolution, making both comfortable for everyday use. The iPhone 8 features a slightly larger battery and a newer chipset, which suits users wanting more performance for apps and tasks. Photographers will notice the iPhone 8 has a higher resolution front camera for improved selfies. The iPhone 6S keeps the 3.5mm headphone jack, appealing to those who prefer wired headphones without an adapter. Storage options differ, with the iPhone 8 offering larger maximum capacities for more apps and media. Overall, the iPhone 6S suits straightforward use with classic features, while the iPhone 8 suits those who want enhanced speed and camera detail.
iPhone 6S vs iPhone 8 price
Colour
iPhone 6S vs iPhone 8 battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, operating system compatibility, and physical design elements that affect everyday use.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone 8 has a battery capacity of 1821 mAh compared to 1715 mAh in the iPhone 6S. This means the iPhone 8 may last slightly longer between charges, which benefits users who need more screen time or use power-intensive apps.
Operating System
This suits users who prefer a stable software experience without the need for the newest features.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 6S vs iPhone 8 performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM, and storage options. Both phones have the same RAM, but the iPhone 8 has a newer chipset and more storage capacities.
Chipset
The iPhone 8 uses the Apple A11 Bionic chipset while the iPhone 6S runs on the Apple A9 APL0898. The newer chipset in the iPhone 8 provides smoother handling for more demanding apps and multitasking, suitable for users who want quicker responsiveness.
RAM
Both devices come with 2 GB of RAM. This amount keeps everyday apps running smoothly and supports general multitasking.
Storage Options
The iPhone 6S comes in 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB sizes, which suits users with moderate storage needs. The iPhone 8 offers larger options of 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB, ideal for those who store many apps, photos, or media.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 6S vs iPhone 8 screen
Screen quality affects how images and text appear. Both phones have the same size and resolution but differ slightly in screen type.
Screen Type
The iPhone 6S features an IPS LCD screen, while the iPhone 8 uses a Retina IPS LCD. For users, this means the iPhone 8 may offer sharper and more vibrant visuals, enhancing video watching and photo viewing experiences.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 6S vs iPhone 8 camera
Audiovisual features include camera capabilities that impact photo and video quality. Both phones share the same main camera resolution but differ in front camera detail.
Front Camera
The iPhone 8 has a 7 megapixel front camera compared to 5 megapixels on the iPhone 6S. This makes the iPhone 8 better suited for selfies and video calls with improved image detail.
Main Camera
Both phones have a 12 megapixel main camera. This means either device can capture detailed photos, fitting users who want reliable photo quality.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 6S vs iPhone 8 size and design
Other factors include physical dimensions, network compatibility, and connectors that influence daily comfort and accessory use.
Headphone Connector
The iPhone 6S includes both a Lightning connector and a 3.5mm headphone jack, which suits users who prefer wired headphones without needing an adapter. The iPhone 8 uses only a Lightning connector.
Size and Weight
The iPhone 6S measures 138.3 mm by 67.1 mm with a depth of 7.1 mm and weighs 143 g. The iPhone 8 is slightly larger and heavier at 138.4 mm by 67.3 mm, 7.3 mm deep, and 148 g. These small differences mean the iPhone 6S may feel a touch lighter and more compact in hand.
Carrier and Network
Both phones are unlocked and support 4G networks with physical SIM cards, fitting users who want flexible network choices and good mobile data speeds.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 6S or iPhone 8: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 6S if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £32.09, £57.91 less than the iPhone 8
- you want a lighter build (143 g vs 148 g)
- you want a headphone jack
Buy the iPhone 8 if
- you want a bigger battery (1821 mAh vs 1715 mAh)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (7 megapixels vs 5 megapixels)
What our customers say
Customers appreciate the iPhone 6S for its good condition and value. Many say it feels like a brand new phone and suits those looking for a straightforward, reliable smartphone. Some mention battery health as a factor, with positive remarks about phones that hold charge well. The size and simplicity make the iPhone 6S popular for gifts and users wanting a lighter phone. The camera and screen quality satisfy everyday needs.
For the iPhone 8, customers highlight its near-new appearance and strong battery health. The larger storage options and faster performance make it suitable for users who want more space and speed. Some users find it excellent for work and daily use, praising its solid feel and camera quality, especially the improved front camera. A few mention minor marks or battery charging during heavy use. Overall, the iPhone 8 is noted as a good upgrade from earlier models.
Both devices attract buyers who want reliable refurbished phones in excellent condition, with the iPhone 6S suiting those valuing classic features like the headphone jack and compact size, and the iPhone 8 appealing to users seeking enhanced performance and camera detail.
iPhone 6S vs iPhone 8 FAQs
iPhone 6S vs 8 comes down to the chipset, battery and screen type. Chipset: Apple A9 APL0898 on the iPhone 6S, Apple A11 Bionic on the iPhone 8. The iPhone 8 has a bigger battery: 1821 mAh vs 1715 mAh.
The iPhone 6S is cheaper refurbished, from £32.09 compared with £90 for the iPhone 8.
The iPhone 8 has a bigger battery: 1821 mAh vs 1715 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the iPhone 6S ended in Mar 2025. Its last version is iOS 15. Updates for the iPhone 8 ended in Mar 2025. Its last version is iOS 16.
The iPhone 8 adds a bigger battery (1821 mAh vs 1715 mAh) and a higher-resolution front camera (7 megapixels vs 5 megapixels). Refurbished, it costs £57.91 more (from £90 vs £32.09).
Refurbished, the iPhone 6S comes in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB, and the iPhone 8 in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
