In October 2023, Google unveiled its latest flagship smartphones, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, marking a significant advancement in mobile technology. These devices not only build upon the strengths of their predecessors but also introduce new features that cater to both casual users and tech enthusiasts.
Design and Display
The Pixel 8 series maintains Google’s signature design language with subtle refinements. Both models feature a sleek aluminum frame with a glass back, providing a premium feel in hand. The Pixel 8 sports a 6.2-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels, offering vibrant colors and sharp visuals. Its 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and an enhanced viewing experience. The Pixel 8 Pro, on the other hand, boasts a larger 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 2992 x 1344 pixels. This model supports a variable refresh rate ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz, optimizing battery life while delivering exceptional display quality.
Performance
Under the hood, both devices are powered by Google’s custom-designed Tensor G3 processor, coupled with the Titan M2 security coprocessor. This combination ensures robust performance, enhanced security, and efficient AI processing capabilities. The Pixel 8 comes with 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM and offers storage options of 128GB or 256GB. In contrast, the Pixel 8 Pro is equipped with 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and provides storage configurations ranging from 128GB to 1TB, catering to users with extensive storage needs.
Camera System
Google’s Pixel series has always been renowned for its camera prowess, and the Pixel 8 lineup is no exception. The standard Pixel 8 features a dual-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor and a 12MP ultrawide lens, enabling users to capture stunning photos with ease. The Pixel 8 Pro elevates the photography experience further with a triple-camera system: a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens offering 5x optical zoom. This versatile setup allows for detailed and dynamic photography in various lighting conditions. Both models are equipped with a 10.5MP front-facing camera, ensuring high-quality selfies and video calls.
Battery and Charging
Battery life is a crucial aspect of any smartphone experience. The Pixel 8 houses a 4575mAh battery, while the Pixel 8 Pro is equipped with a larger 5050mAh battery, providing extended usage time. Both devices support fast charging, with the Pixel 8 capable of 27W wired charging and 18W wireless charging. The Pixel 8 Pro supports 30W wired charging and 23W wireless charging, ensuring users can quickly replenish their device’s battery when needed.
Software and Features
Running on Android 14 out of the box, the Pixel 8 series offers a clean and intuitive user interface.Both devices use the Tensor G3 chip, with AI and machine learning at the core. Features like Best Take (which lets you swap faces in group photos) and Audio Magic Eraser are baked into both models. That said, some features like video Boost and Pro-level camera controls are exclusive to the Pixel 8 Pro.
If you’re budget-conscious and just want a smart, fast, and solid Android phone with great software, the Pixel 8 is a no-brainer. But if you want the full package — better display, better cameras, more AI tools — the Pixel 8 Pro is worth if you can justify it.