This is the definitive Google Pixel smartphone guide. In an age of constant technological innovation, finding the proper gadget for your lifestyle and requirements might be difficult. We compare two innovation titans: the Pixel 8 and its predecessor, the Pixel 8 Pro. Google advances mobile technology with each iteration, providing customers with the thrilling but difficult choice of which Pixel to buy. Join us as we explore the features, capabilities, and complexity of both devices to help you make an educated and empowered choice. For techies, photographers, and anyone seeking a seamless digital experience, this detailed comparison will help you choose the right Pixel partner.
Google Pixel 8: The best Google Pixel phone for most people
Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, both from Google, are top picks for anyone seeking cutting-edge technology (7/10, WIRED Recommends). Although they are a little more costly than previous models, these flagships are the only Pixels that come with a seven-year software guarantee. Indeed, Google has now committed to providing these phones with seven years of security and operating system updates, which is more than any of its competitors (except the Samsung Galaxy S24 series). Parts for hardware repairs will also be part of the commitment.
You won’t have to strain your eyes to see the Pixel 8 series’ exceptionally brilliant OLED screens, even on bright days. The smaller, more rounded Pixel 8, which is 6.2 inches in size, has a more pleasant design overall, but it’s especially noticeable on that model. In contrast to the 6.7-inch Pixel 8 Pro’s matte, soft-touch glass back, this one sports a glossy finish. Although both feature 120 Hz screens, the Pro model is more power-efficient since it can change the refresh rate from 1 Hz to 120 Hz autonomously.
With the addition of secure Face Unlock, these phones became the first to provide a biometric authentication capability comparable to Apple’s Face ID since the Pixel 4. For secure app access, including banking, you may use your face or the in-screen fingerprint scanner. In low light, it’s not very useful, so you’ll have to use your thumbs instead.
Built-in is Google’s Tensor G3 CPU, which has handled all the applications and games I’ve thrown at it with ease. New smart imaging capabilities, such as Magic Editor (which allows you to alter the colour of the sky in your images and move objects about), Best Take (which fixes people’s faces if they blink), and Audio Magic Eraser (which removes annoying noises like a fire truck’s siren from videos), are powered by it. These aspects are discussed in further detail in this narrative.
All of the cameras have also been improved. To provide a high-quality 2X zoom, the Pixel 8’s 50-MP primary camera crops towards the middle. Additionally, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens is now available with autofocus, enabling the use of Google Macro Focus for up-close photography.
The Pixel 8 Pro’s primary camera is identical to the standard Pixel 8 camera, but its 48-megapixel ultrawide lens is superior in low light and allows you to focus even closer to things using Macro Focus. Even while the 48-MP telephoto 5X optical zoom camera is still there, the Pro adds an autofocus front-facing camera for even better selfies. It’s the only one with Pro camera controls, so you can tweak your shots any way you like, and it has a brand new feature called Video Boost that lets you upload your clips to Google’s cloud servers to improve stabilisation, brightness, noise reduction, and colour reproduction.
Neither the 4,485 mAh nor the 5,050-mAh batteries included in the Pixel 8 nor the 8 Pro are particularly noteworthy. They should last a whole day with typical usage, but a power bank is a good investment for heavy phone users. Thankfully, they have a little quicker recharge time. The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, both available in mint green, were unveiled by Google in January.
The Best Pixel Upgrade: Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
The specifications of the Google Pixel 8 Price: Starting at $699 | Processor: Google Tensor G3 | Display: 6.2 inches | Storage options: 128GB, 256GB | Rear cameras: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10.5MP front | Battery capacity: 4,355 mAh |
Even though the Pixel 8 Pro will be the centre of attention, don’t discount the more modest Pixel 8 model. It’s still the best choice for the vast majority of consumers, regardless of how ordinary they are. The Pixel 8 has many characteristics with the Pro model, including the most recent Tensor G3 CPU from Google, a generous quantity of storage (up to 256GB), and identical primary and ultrawide cameras.
You will not be shortchanged in terms of software capabilities, as the Pixel 8 has also received some of the latest Pixel AI features, such as the Magic Editor and Circle to Search. The smaller Pixel outshines the bigger Pro in some respects, including how it fits in the hand and how comfortable it is to use. A less cumbersome user experience is achieved when one can effortlessly reach from one side of the screen to the other.
First and foremost, it is one of the greatest phones in its price category—the Pixel 8—because it costs $300 less than the Pixel 8 Pro.
The Best Google Pixel Phone to Buy in 2024
The cameras on Google Pixel phones have always been top-notch, but the Pixel 8 Pro ups the ante with enhanced artificial intelligence capabilities. Though they may seem like gimmicks to some, these capabilities are specific to the Pixel and not available on competing phones. Even though they’re often more affordable, the Pixel series has held its own against Apple’s and Samsung’s top offerings. Despite our initial concerns, the newest Google flagship is a reliable Android choice that competes well with the iPhone 15 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.
The latest Pixel 7A still provides an excellent all-around experience, with strong cameras, an easy-to-use UI, and pricing that won’t break the bank if you’re on a tighter budget. Afterwards, we have the Pixel Fold. It may be the priciest Google phone, but its 7.6-inch foldable display makes it ideal for gaming and streaming films from YouTube.
It could be difficult to figure out which one is ideal for you since the variety has expanded and previous models are still available. We hope this list of the best Pixels that are on sale right now will be useful in making your decision.
The best foldable Google Pixel phone
Overview of the Google Pixel Fold: Features: 48MP primary, 10.8MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto, and 9.5MP front cameras; 4,821mAh battery; 5.8- and 7.6-inch exterior and interior displays; 256GB and 512GB of storage; $1,799 price tag;
At $1,799, the Google Pixel Fold is at the other end of the price range. In comparison to its rivals, the Fold—the company’s first phone-to-tablet type foldable—offers several advantages. Notably, unlike other large-screen handsets, the Pixel Fold folds down to reveal a somewhat smaller screen, making it seem more like a tiny Android.
When it opens, you’ll see a 7.6-inch screen, perfect for multitasking, gaming, and watching films and movies online. Fortunately, Google has included a taskbar at the screen’s base, so launching two programmes at once is as easy as dragging and dropping them. Because of its two screens, a foldable camera is ideal for timed shots, vlogging, and group selfies.
The Pixel Fold retails for $1,799; did I say that already? To be clear, the phone isn’t inexpensive, and that’s why it didn’t win the title of “Best Google Pixel phone for most people” here. However, there is such a thing as the price of innovation, and those who live on the cutting edge will probably benefit greatly from the Pixel Fold. Here we have Google’s first and greatest foldable, in case you’re like that kind of thing.
What is the best Google phone?
When it comes to Google phones, ZDNET recommends the Pixel 8 Pro. In addition to its extensive picture and video editing capabilities, this phone is stylish, feels high-end, and has a long-lasting battery life. Several artificial intelligence elements contribute to its status as one of the market’s most active phones. Find out how the top-rated Google Pixel phones stack up against one another in terms of pricing, processing performance, and screen size.
Google Pixel phone | Price | Processor | Display size |
Pixel 8 Pro | $999 | Google Tensor G3 | 6.7-inch |
Pixel 8 | $699 | Google Tensor G3 | 6.2-inch |
Pixel 7a | $499 | Google Tensor G2 | 6.1-inch |
Pixel Fold | $499 | Google Tensor G2 | 5.8-inch and 7.6-inch |
What is the best Google Pixel phone right now?
With its Tensor G3 CPU and plethora of AI abilities, the Pixel 8 Pro takes pride of place as Google’s flagship phone. If you’re looking to splurge even more, consider the Pixel Fold. Its foldable display is sure to wow your loved ones. However, the 7A is the one to consider if you want an inexpensive Pixel phone.
Conclusion
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are two of Google’s most innovative smartphones, offering a range of features and capabilities. The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are the most expensive but come with a seven-year software commitment, offering security and Android OS upgrades. The Pixel 8 series features bright OLED displays, a rounded design, and 120-Hz screen refresh rates. They also have secure Face Unlock, a biometric authentication tool, and Google’s Tensor G3 processor, which powers smart imaging features. The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro have upgraded cameras, with the Pixel 8 Pro having an upgraded 48-MP ultrawide and a front-facing camera with autofocus. The batteries are not very long-lasting, but they can recharge faster.
FAQS
What is the best type of Pixel?
ZDNet has tested every Google Pixel phone currently available, and the Pixel 8 Pro is our top pick because of its dependable camera features, stylish design, and compatibility with up to seven years of software updates.
Is the Google Pixel still worth buying?
Even though the Pixel 8 Pro has been out for a while, Google is still officially selling the Pixel 7 Pro, and the phone is still worth considering because of its cheaper pricing. As a result of its Tensor G2 CPU, it has sufficient power for your daily requirements, a stunning appearance, and three excellent back cameras.