Apple's iPhone 8 vs. Samsung Galaxy S8 specs, price, deals reviews: Will the consumer choose form over function?

photo of the Samsung Galaxy S8 rear cameraWikimedia Commons/Samsung Galaxy S8
Apple's iPhone 8Reuters/Edgar Su

Comparisons between the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Apple's iPhone 8 seem to boil down to form over function. Initial reactions to the Android-powered Galaxy S8 are about its head-turning physical design, whereas the iPhone 8 boasts of its A11 Bionic Chip. However, with about $25 to $100 difference in pricing, which smartphone holds more weight?

One of the main considerations of smartphone users nowadays is the size of the display. In this regard, the Galaxy S8 topples over the iPhone 8, with a 5.8-inch Super AMOLED versus Apple's 4.7 inches. In terms of storage, both phones are on equal footing, with 64 GB available, but the iPhone gets an edge with its option for a beefier 256 GB model.

For those who depend on their smartphones for taking photos, both units rely on a 12-megapixel rear camera, while the Galaxy S8 gives their users a one-megapixel advantage over iPhone users who love to take selfies with their front cameras.

When talking about form, the common consensus is that the iPhone 8 did not veer away too much from the standard look of its predecessor, whereas the Galaxy S8 provides users with a sleeker look and feel. Both the S8 and the S8+ thrills with their Infinity Displays, which allows for a curved and edgy viewing experience.

For audiophiles who bank heavily on their phone's music database, the iPhone 8 may prove to be a frustration due to the lack of a standard headphone jack. Whereas with the Galaxy S8, the bottom surface of the phone still holds a USB-C port, an audio jack and the speaker.

Both are quick-charging smartphones, But more to the point, with the trend these days being wireless charging, both phones are capable with their glass backs that work when paired with the correct Qi-enabled charging pads or accessories. The iPhone 8 and the new iPhone X are the first Apple products to support this added feature, whereas Samsung has been ahead of the game on this lane for years now.

All comparisons taken into regard, Tom's Guide checks off its scorecard with the Samsung Galaxy S8 as a clear winner over the iPhone 8, citing the large display and design as the main scorers.