737-700 vs 737-800
737-700 and 737-800 are closely matched, each topping 1 of 7 metrics.
The Boeing Commercial Airplanes 737-700 (introduced 1997) and the Boeing Commercial Airplanes 737-800 (introduced 1998) are two aircraft buyers regularly weigh against each other. Both are commercial, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is cabin capacity, where the 737-800 carries more passengers. undefined
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
737-700 vs 737-800: the key differences
- The 737-700 delivers 8% more range (737-700: 3,365 nm; 737-800: 3,115 nm).
- The 737-700 and 737-800 are evenly matched on cruise speed, both at 453 kt.
- The 737-800 delivers 27% more passenger capacity (737-700: 149 seats; 737-800: 189 seats).
- The 737-800 is the newer design (introduced 1998 versus 1997 for the 737-700), a gap of 1 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The 737-800 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (174,200 lbs versus 154,500 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
Both aircraft are built for transcontinental missions, so outright range rarely separates them — the call leans on cabin (the 737-800 seats more), trip economics and what is actually available on the market. Match the airframe to how you fly most weeks, not to the headline range figure.
Which should you choose?
Choose the 737-700 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 737-800 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the 737-700 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
737-700 vs 737-800: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the 737-700 or the 737-800?
The 737-700 has the longer published range — 3,365 nm versus 3,115 nm for the 737-800.
Does the 737-700 or 737-800 seat more passengers?
The 737-800 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 189 seats, compared with 149 on the 737-700.
Which is newer, the 737-700 or the 737-800?
The 737-800 is the newer design, introduced in 1998 versus 1997 for the 737-700.
Is the 737-700 or the 737-800 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the 737-800 is the larger aircraft — 174,200 lbs versus 154,500 lbs for the 737-700.
Should I buy the 737-700 or the 737-800?
Choose the 737-700 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 737-800 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the 737-700 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the 737-700 vs 737-800?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.