The smartphone landscape is replete with choices, not just between different brands, but also within the same brand’s lineup. Google’s Pixel series has been a game-changer in the market, known for its superior camera systems, clean software experience, and innovative features. The recent unveiling of the Google Pixel 8 Pro and its sibling, the Google Pixel 8, has stirred the tech community. Both devices promise cutting-edge technology and an elevated user experience, but how do they compare against each other? This comprehensive analysis will dissect every aspect of these two smartphones, from their physical aesthetics and display qualities to their internal prowess, software capabilities, camera competencies, battery life, and overall value for the consumer. If you’re grappling with a choice between these two Google flagships, this article is designed to illuminate every facet of the Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 to aid in your decision-making process.
Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Google Pixel 8
Table of Contents
| Google Pixel 8 Pro | Google Pixel 8 | |
|---|---|---|
| DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT | 162.6 x 76.5 x 8.8 mm, 213 g |
150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm, 187 g |
| DISPLAY | 6.7 inches, 1344 x 2992 pixels (Full HD+), OLED | 6.2 inches, 1080 x 2400 pixels (Full HD+), OLED |
| PROCESSOR | Google Tensor G3, octa-core 3 GHz | Google Tensor G3, octa-core 3 GHz |
| MEMORY | 12 GB RAM, 128 GB – 12 GB RAM, 256 GB – 12 GB RAM, 512 GB – 12 GB RAM, 1 TB | 8 GB RAM, 128 GB – 8 GB RAM, 256 GB |
| SOFTWARE | Android 14 | Android 14 |
| CONNECTIVITY | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e and Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS |
| CAMERA | Triple 50 + 48 + 48 MP, f/1.7 + f/2.8 + f/2.0 Single 10.5 MP f/2.2 front camera |
Dual 50 + 12 MP, f/1.7 + f/2.2 10.5 MP f/2.2 front camera |
| BATTERY | 5050 mAh, Fast charging 30W and fast wireless charging 23W | 4575 mAh, fast charging 27W, fast wireless charging 18W |
| ADDITIONAL FEATURES | 5G, dual SIM, IP68 certification, eSIM, UWB support | 5G, dual SIM, IP68 certification, reverse wireless charging, eSIM, UWB support |
Design
In the world of smartphones, design isn’t solely about appearance; it’s a complex interplay between aesthetics, ergonomics, and durability. The Google Pixel 8 Pro continues the Pixel series’ tradition of understated elegance combined with robust build quality. Its dimensions of 162.6 x 76.5 x 8.8 mm and weight of 213 grams give it a substantial yet not overwhelming presence. The fusion of Corning Gorilla Glass Victus and an aluminum frame isn’t just for show; it provides a reassuring sturdiness and a premium feel in the hand. The IP68 rating is no mere technicality; it’s a promise of resilience against the elements, offering peace of mind for those accidental encounters with water and dust. Conversely, the Google Pixel 8, while mirroring its sibling’s commitment to quality, presents these attributes in a more compact package. At 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm and 187 grams, it’s designed for those who yearn for comfort and ease of handling without sacrificing the premium touch. The materials are identical, ensuring the same level of durability, but the smaller form factor might appeal more to those who find larger devices cumbersome. Both devices exude a minimalist charm, with their matte finishes offering a tactile experience that’s as pleasing as it is practical, resisting fingerprints and smudges.
Display
Moving forward, the display is a critical aspect of the user experience, serving as the gateway to all the device’s features and content. The Google Pixel 8 Pro is outfitted with a 6.7-inch OLED panel, boasting a resolution of 1344 x 2992 pixels. This screen isn’t just a display; it’s a canvas that brings content to life with crisp details and vibrant colors, whether you’re an avid gamer, a movie buff, or someone who appreciates high-resolution digital art. The HDR support takes visual engagement to a new level, with colors popping and contrast deepening to deliver a truly immersive experience. The 120Hz refresh rate isn’t just a number; it’s a noticeable enhancement in the fluidity of motion on the screen, making every scroll, swipe, and tap a pleasure. In comparison, the Google Pixel 8 doesn’t compromise on the quality of its display, though it does come in a slightly smaller package. The 6.2-inch OLED screen, with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, offers a visual feast of its own. The details are sharp, the colors are accurate, and the HDR support is present, ensuring content is viewed as intended by the creator. However, the smaller size may or may not appeal to users, depending on personal preference. Some may appreciate the more manageable screen size that doesn’t compromise much on quality, while others might long for the more expansive display of the Pro model.
Specs & Software
At the core of these devices’ operations lie their internal configurations, the engines driving their capabilities. Both the Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 are powered by Google’s in-house Tensor G3 chipset, an octa-core processor with a clock speed of 3 GHz. This processor is a manifestation of Google’s ambitions in AI and computational excellence, designed to handle demanding tasks with ease and efficiency. It’s not just about speed; it’s about the seamless integration of AI to enhance user experience, from speech recognition to image processing and beyond. However, the similarities in processing power are just the beginning of the story. The Pixel 8 Pro takes a step further with its 12 GB of RAM, an allowance that prepares it for the most demanding multitasking scenarios and memory-intensive applications. Whether you’re a power user who constantly switches between apps, a gamer who needs the resources for the latest mobile games, or a professional using your device for resource-intensive tasks, the Pro is designed to handle it all with grace.
On the other hand, the Pixel 8 is equipped with 8 GB of RAM, a capacity that, while lower than the Pro, still stands its ground for everyday usage. For the average user who uses their phone for social media, streaming, regular apps, and occasional gaming, this RAM is sufficient. However, for those who push their devices to the limits, the difference will be noticeable. When it comes to storage, the Pixel 8 Pro demonstrates its readiness for all kinds of users. With options ranging from 128 GB to an impressive 1 TB, it caters to everyone from the average user with basic storage needs to the content creator who needs ample space for their media. The Pixel 8, however, offers a more standard 128 GB or 256 GB, which might be a limitation for users who store a lot of data on their devices.
Beyond the hardware, the soul of these Pixel devices lies in their software. Both phones run on the latest Android 14, offering a slew of new features, improvements, and security updates. What sets Pixels apart is the pure Android experience — an unadulterated version of the OS, free from bloatware and unnecessary add-ons that often clutter other Android devices. This clean approach extends to the user interface, offering a streamlined, intuitive experience that both newcomers to Android and veterans can appreciate.
One of the crown jewels of owning a Pixel is the promise of immediate updates. When Google rolls out a new feature or security patch, Pixel phones are first in line, ensuring that the user always has the most secure, efficient, and feature-rich experience possible. This commitment is not just about having the latest bells and whistles; it’s a dedication to user safety, privacy, and overall satisfaction. The software experience is further enhanced by deep integration with Google services. From the Assistant to Google Photos, to the various AI-driven features, the synergy between the hardware and software in the Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 is a testament to Google’s vision for its smartphones. They’re not just tools; they’re personal assistants, ready to make your life easier, more organized, and more enjoyable.
Camera
In the realm of smartphone capabilities, the camera system stands as one of the most critical factors influencing purchase decisions. It’s no longer about capturing images; it’s about recording memories, expressing creativity, and even professional content creation. The Google Pixel 8 Pro takes smartphone photography to an elevated level with its triple camera array, consisting of a 50 MP primary sensor, a 48 MP telephoto lens, and a 48 MP ultra-wide lens. This setup isn’t just about variety; it’s about providing the user with the flexibility to capture their vision without limitations. The high-resolution sensors ensure that images are detailed and vibrant, suitable for everything from a casual social media post to a printed photograph.
Google’s prowess in computational photography shines through in features like Night Sight, turning night almost into day, and Portrait Light, offering studio-like control over the lighting in your photos. The Magic Eraser feature, a marvel of machine learning, allows users to remove unwanted elements from their photos seamlessly, almost like magic. The 10.5 MP front camera, while not the highest resolution, is engineered for superior image processing, ensuring selfies are detailed, with accurate skin tones and textures. The Pixel 8, though not as versatile in its hardware, holds its own in the photography arena. Its dual-camera setup, a 50 MP main sensor, and a 12 MP ultra-wide lens, backed by Google’s image processing, produces images that punch above their weight. While it lacks the Pro’s telephoto lens, its primary and ultra-wide lenses are capable of capturing stunning photos in various scenarios. The same advanced features, like Night Sight and Portrait Light, are also available, making it a capable device for photography enthusiasts.
Battery
As our reliance on smartphones grows, the significance of battery life becomes more pronounced. Here, both the Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 showcase their stamina, though the Pro takes the lead. The Pixel 8 Pro is equipped with a 5050 mAh battery, a powerhouse designed to support a day’s worth of intensive use. Whether you’re navigating through back-to-back meetings, capturing videos, or engrossed in long gaming sessions, the Pro is built to endure. Its 30W fast charging and 23W fast wireless charging mean less time tethered to an outlet and more time getting things done. Additionally, the Battery Share feature turns your phone into a charging pad, a convenient option for your accessories. The Pixel 8, while housing a smaller 4575 mAh battery, manages to provide a full day’s use for the average user. Its 27W fast charging and 18W fast wireless charging, though slightly less impressive than the Pro, are still sufficiently efficient for quick power boosts. The reverse wireless charging feature is also present, emphasizing Google’s focus on convenience and functionality.
As our reliance on smartphones grows, the significance of battery life becomes more pronounced. Here, both the Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 showcase their stamina, though the Pro takes the lead. The Pixel 8 Pro is equipped with a 5050 mAh battery, a powerhouse designed to support a day’s worth of intensive use. Whether you’re navigating through back-to-back meetings, capturing videos, or engrossed in long gaming sessions, the Pro is built to endure. Its 30W fast charging and 23W fast wireless charging mean less time tethered to an outlet and more time getting things done. Additionally, the Battery Share feature turns your phone into a charging pad, a convenient option for your accessories. The Pixel 8, while housing a smaller 4575 mAh battery, manages to provide a full day’s use for the average user. Its 27W fast charging and 18W fast wireless charging, though slightly less impressive than the Pro, are still sufficiently efficient for quick power boosts. The reverse wireless charging feature is also present, emphasizing Google’s focus on convenience and functionality.
Price
Deciphering the nuances between the Google Pixel 8 Pro (starting from €1100 or $1000) and Pixel 8 (starting from €799 or $700) isn’t about determining a winner. It’s about understanding which device aligns more with your lifestyle, usage habits, and budgetary considerations. The Pixel 8 Pro, with its advanced camera system, larger battery, and more extensive display, is tailored for those who seek the pinnacle of smartphone technology. It’s suited for tech enthusiasts, content creators, and power users who need a device that can keep up with their demanding routines. The Pixel 8, on the other hand, offers a balance between performance and affordability. It retains many of the flagship features that make the Pixel series renowned, making it an attractive option for the average user who desires quality without needing the absolute best.
- OnePlus Ace 2 Pro is available on GizTop: click here if you want to purchase it
- Xiaomi 13 is available on GizTop: click here if you want to purchase it
Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Google Pixel 8: PRO and CONS
Google Pixel 8
PRO
- More compact
- More affordable
- Slimmer
- Lighter
CONS
- Smaller battery
- Inferior camera
Google Pixel 8 Pro
PRO
- Bigger battery
- Better cameras
- Bigger display
- More RAM and storage
CONS
- More expensive price
RELATED
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 vs Huawei Mate X5: Specs Comparison
- Huawei Mate 60 Pro Plus vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Specs Comparison
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 vs OPPO Find N3 Flip: Specs Comparison
- OnePlus Ace 2 Pro vs Realme GT 5: Specs Comparison
Check the latest videos from our YouTube channel and subscribe:
* Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
