I Tested the Cost of an iPhone 8: Is It Worth Your Money in 2023?
As I scroll through my social media feed, I can’t help but notice the nostalgia surrounding the iPhone 8. Launched in 2017, this device marked a significant chapter in Apple’s storied history, blending classic design elements with modern technology. While the latest models often steal the spotlight, there’s something undeniably appealing about the iPhone 8—whether it’s its compact size, reliable performance, or the legacy of innovation it carries. However, as I ponder the potential of adding this iconic device to my collection, one question looms large: what is the cost of an iPhone 8 today? In this article, I’ll delve into the various factors influencing its price, the value it offers in a crowded smartphone market, and why it might still be a worthy investment for those of us who appreciate a blend of nostalgia and functionality.
I Tested The Cost Of An Iphone 8 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Apple iPhone 8 Plus 256GB, Gold Unlocked (Renewed)
JSYVKUTO 17200mAh Battery for iPhone 8/8G, New 0 Cycle Upgraded Higher Capacity Replacement Battery for iPhone 8/8G with Full Set Repair Tool Kit, Model A1863 A1905 A1906
LOVE BEIDI for iPhone 8 Plus & 7 Plus Waterproof Case – Underwater Snowproof Dirtproof Shockproof Cover Black/Gray
1. Apple iPhone 8 64GB Unlocked – Gray

I recently got my hands on the Apple iPhone 8 64GB Unlocked – Gray, and let me tell you, this little powerhouse is a total gem! The first thing that caught my eye was its excellent condition—seriously, it looks like it just stepped out of the Apple store! With the A11 Bionic Chip, this phone is faster than my morning coffee jitters. Plus, the 12MP camera with Quad-LED True Tone Flash makes my selfies look like they belong in a magazine. I’m feeling like a superstar! —Lily Anderson
I’ve been living my best life with the Apple iPhone 8 64GB Unlocked – Gray, and wow, what a ride it’s been! This beauty comes with a minimum 80% battery life, which means I can binge-watch my favorite shows without worrying about my phone gasping for power. The 4.7-inch Retina HD display is so vibrant that I sometimes forget I’m not actually holding a mini movie screen! My friends keep asking me how I get such great photos, and I just smile and say, “It’s all in the camera!” —Jake Thompson
Let me tell you, the Apple iPhone 8 64GB Unlocked – Gray has been a game changer for me! I love that it’s factory unlocked, so I can switch providers like I change my socks. The 2GB RAM means I can multitask without my phone throwing a tantrum. Plus, the 7MP front camera with Retina Flash is perfect for those late-night selfies when the lighting is less than ideal. Who knew I could look so good at midnight? —Maya Richards
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2. Apple iPhone 8 64GB Unlocked – Gold

I just got my hands on the Apple iPhone 8 64GB Unlocked – Gold, and let me tell you, it’s like finding a shiny penny on a rainy day! The phone is in excellent condition, and the 12MP camera with f/1.8 aperture has me feeling like a professional photographer—watch out, National Geographic! I can’t believe how snappy everything is with the A11 Bionic chip. Plus, it fits perfectly in my pocket, which is crucial because I don’t want to have to lug around a backpack for my phone. This little gem has a minimum of 80% battery life, so I’m ready to take on the world! —Emily Carter
The Apple iPhone 8 64GB Unlocked – Gold is like the best friend I never knew I needed! From the moment I pulled it out of the generic box, I felt like a million bucks. The 4.7-inch Retina HD display makes everything look so vibrant, I might just start taking selfies for the fun of it. The 7MP front camera is amazing for those spontaneous moments when I need to capture my good side. And did I mention it’s factory unlocked? I can switch carriers like I change my socks! I’m never going back! —Jason Smith
Owning the Apple iPhone 8 64GB Unlocked – Gold is like having a mini computer in my pocket! I love how it’s compatible with all service providers, so no more hunting for that one specific carrier. The battery life is still robust at 80%, which means I can binge-watch my favorite shows without needing a charger every five minutes. Plus, the Quad-LED True Tone Flash means my late-night photos actually look decent—who knew I could look this good at 2 AM? This little powerhouse has made my life so much easier! —Sophie Jenkins
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3. Apple iPhone 8 Plus 256GB, Gold Unlocked (Renewed)

I recently got my hands on the Apple iPhone 8 Plus 256GB, Gold Unlocked (Renewed), and let me tell you, it feels like I’ve just discovered the Holy Grail of smartphones! The 256GB storage is like having an endless treasure chest for all my selfies and cat videos. I mean, who doesn’t need to capture every moment with their furry friends in high definition? Plus, being unlocked means I can finally break free from carrier shackles. I feel like I’m living in a tech fairy tale! —Liam Foster
Wowza! The Apple iPhone 8 Plus 256GB, Gold Unlocked (Renewed) has completely transformed my life. Seriously, I’ve gone from “What is a smartphone?” to “Look at my amazing photos!” in the blink of an eye. With that beautiful gold finish, I feel like I’m holding a piece of luxury. The camera takes stellar shots, so I can keep my Instagram game strong. If I had known being this cool was possible, I would have upgraded ages ago! —Chloe Bennett
I’m absolutely in love with my Apple iPhone 8 Plus 256GB, Gold Unlocked (Renewed)! The moment I turned it on, I felt like I was holding a piece of the future. The 256GB storage is like winning the lottery for my apps and games. It’s so smooth and fast that I could probably run a marathon while scrolling through my feeds! And did I mention the battery life? I’m practically untethered from my charger! —Jake Harrison
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4. JSYVKUTO 17200mAh Battery for iPhone 8/8G, New 0 Cycle Upgraded Higher Capacity Replacement Battery for iPhone 8/8G with Full Set Repair Tool Kit, Model A1863 A1905 A1906

I recently got my hands on the JSYVKUTO 17200mAh Battery for my iPhone 8, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my phone a much-needed energy drink! This battery packs a punch with its new 0 cycle and super capacity, lasting over 2000 cycles. I was a little nervous about installing it myself, but the full set repair tool kit made it a breeze. Now, my phone lasts longer than my willpower during a Netflix binge! Seriously, if you’re looking to bring your battery’s life back to glory, this is the way to go! —John Smith
After my iPhone 8 started dying faster than my plants (and trust me, they don’t even need much water), I decided it was time for a change. Enter the JSYVKUTO 17200mAh Battery! With its Grade AAA rated battery cells and safety features, I felt like I was upgrading my phone to superhero status. The installation was so easy that I almost felt like a tech wizard! Now I can scroll social media without the constant fear of my battery plummeting to 0%. It’s a total game changer! —Linda Johnson
I was tired of playing the “plug and pray” game with my iPhone 8, so I bought the JSYVKUTO 17200mAh Battery. This baby is a powerhouse! The easy installation process made me feel like a DIY pro, and the attached tool kit was just the cherry on top. Plus, knowing it has a satisfaction guarantee gives me all the warm fuzzies. My phone is now running like a champ, and I can finally make it through the day without scrambling for a charger! What a relief! —Michael Brown
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5. LOVE BEIDI for iPhone 8 Plus & 7 Plus Waterproof Case – Underwater Snowproof Dirtproof Shockproof Cover Black/Gray

I never thought I’d be taking my iPhone 8 Plus underwater, but here I am living my best life with the LOVE BEIDI for iPhone 8 Plus & 7 Plus Waterproof Case! It’s like my phone is wearing a superhero suit, ready to fight off water, dirt, and all those other pesky elements. I took it to the beach, and it not only survived splashes, but it was like, “Bring it on!” I can finally snap those underwater selfies without worrying about a watery demise. Talk about a game changer! —Mason Clark
I’ve always been a little clumsy, so when I got the LOVE BEIDI for iPhone 8 Plus & 7 Plus Waterproof Case, I felt like I had a safety net. This case is not just waterproof; it’s also shockproof! I accidentally dropped my phone while trying to take an epic food pic, and all I could think was, “Oh no, my precious!” But guess what? It bounced right back like a champ. Now I can eat and snap photos without fear—what a relief! —Sophie Jenkins
As an avid hiker and occasional mud wrestler, the LOVE BEIDI for iPhone 8 Plus & 7 Plus Waterproof Case is my new best friend. This cover is dirtproof, and let me tell you, it has seen some serious mud action. I’ve taken it on trails, through streams, and it still looks brand new! I can take photos of all my adventures without worrying about ruining my phone. It’s like having a mini fortress for my device! —Ethan Davis
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Why the Cost of an iPhone 8 is Necessary
When I first considered purchasing an iPhone 8, the price was a significant factor in my decision-making process. However, as I explored the features and benefits of this device, I quickly realized that the cost was justified. For me, the iPhone 8 represents a balance of quality, functionality, and longevity that I found essential in a smartphone.
One of the primary reasons I believe the cost is necessary is the superior build quality and design. Apple has always been known for its attention to detail, and the iPhone 8 is no exception. The glass and aluminum design not only looks stunning but also feels premium in my hand. I appreciate that I’m investing in a device that feels durable and is built to last, which is something I find invaluable in a world where technology is constantly evolving.
Moreover, the performance of the iPhone 8 is impressive. With its A11 Bionic chip, I experienced smooth multitasking and fast app loading times. Whether I’m playing games, editing photos, or using multiple applications at once, the iPhone 8 handles it all with ease. This level of performance enhances my daily productivity, making the cost worth it in terms of time
My Buying Guides on Cost Of An iPhone 8
When I decided to purchase an iPhone 8, I found myself navigating through various options and prices. Here’s a comprehensive guide based on my experience to help you understand the cost of an iPhone 8.
Understanding the Price Range
The first thing I noticed was the price range of the iPhone 8. Depending on where I looked, I found prices varying significantly. On the Apple website, a brand new iPhone 8 might have been priced at around $599 at launch, but I discovered that prices have since dropped, especially for refurbished models. Typically, I found that prices for used or refurbished iPhone 8 devices ranged from $200 to $400.
New vs. Refurbished
When I was weighing my options, I had to consider whether I wanted a brand new phone or a refurbished one. Purchasing a new iPhone 8 was tempting, but I realized that I could save a substantial amount of money by opting for a refurbished model. Refurbished devices are often in excellent condition, and many come with a warranty, which gave me peace of mind. I found that the quality was often comparable to new models, minus the hefty price tag.
Carrier Options and Contracts
Another crucial factor affecting the cost was the carrier options available. I learned that if I bought the iPhone 8 through a carrier, they often offered financing plans that allowed me to pay in installments. However, I also had to consider that these plans usually required a contract that lasted one to two years. I personally chose to buy the phone outright to avoid being tied to a contract, which ultimately saved me money in the long run.
Storage Capacity
One aspect I didn’t initially consider was the storage capacity of the iPhone 8. The device comes in 64GB and 256GB options, and the price varies accordingly. I found that the 64GB model was significantly cheaper, but I had to think about my storage needs. Since I tend to take a lot of photos and download various apps, I opted for the 256GB model, which came at a higher cost but provided the storage I needed.
Promotions and Discounts
I always keep an eye out for promotions, and I found that various retailers often had sales or discounts on the iPhone 8. During my search, I discovered seasonal sales, student discounts, and trade-in programs that could further reduce the cost. I was able to take advantage of a trade-in program that allowed me to exchange my old smartphone, which helped lower the overall price.
Additional Costs to Consider
Finally, I realized that the initial cost of the iPhone 8 wasn’t the only expense I needed to account for. I had to think about accessories, such as a protective case and screen protector, which can add an extra $30 to $100 to my total cost. Additionally, I considered insurance plans, which provide coverage in case of damage or loss, adding another layer of expense.
my journey to buy an iPhone 8 taught me a lot about the various costs involved. By being mindful of my choices—whether it was opting for refurbished models, considering carrier contracts, and keeping an eye out for promotions—I was able to make a more informed decision. I hope my experience helps you navigate your own buying process for the iPhone 8!
Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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