Is it Sensible to Buy a Samsung S8 in 2020?
The Samsung Galaxy S8, launched in 2017, is not officially supported anymore. However, it retains all the flagship features such as water resistance, wireless charging, and Samsung Dex. As of 2020, it is available for around ￡150 in the UK, making it a relatively affordable option for those seeking a mid-to-high-end device that is still good despite its age.
Performance and Features of the Samsung S8
Despite being outdated compared to modern smartphones, the Samsung S8 still offers excellent performance and features. It has a highly responsive One UI, equipped with a good display that outperforms many midrange phones from 2019 and even early 2020. The Galaxy Camera (GCAM) and Exynos processors ensure that its camera system is competitive, often besting those found in midrange devices from that time.
Is It Advisable to Buy the Samsung S8?
The decision to buy a Samsung S8 in 2020 hinges on several factors, including its price and the availability of support. Some argue that the S8 is a sensible purchase if it is priced affordably—around ￡13000-15000—in light of its features. Others suggest that due to the lack of software updates and the age of the hardware, it is better to purchase a more recent model such as the S10 Series or the Note 10 Series.
However, others caution against buying the S8 due to the discontinuation of support. The phone may only receive security updates for an additional year. Additionally, the Exynos chipset used in the S8 is underperforming compared to newer chips, leading to subpar performance over time. This, coupled with the limited software updates, makes it less advisable to buy the S8 if you can foresee the need for regular system updates and a longer-lasting device.
Alternative Phone Recommendations
For those looking for an alternative to the S8, some recommend exploring phones from other brands. For instance, the MI Note 9 Pro, MI Note 9 Pro Max, MI 10t, and MI 10i offer similar performance with better future support. However, personal preferences and specific requirements are important, and the OnePlus 7 Pro is also a strong contender with its superior specifications.
Ultimately, while the Samsung S8 is a capable device for its time, it is not the best choice in 2020. Its lack of support, outmoded hardware, and limited future updates make it less viable compared to newer models or devices from other manufacturers like Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Realme. If you are looking for a long-term solution, it is advisable to consider newer models that offer better performance, continuous software updates, and more reliable hardware support.