Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8 Pro: What’s different?

Google launches its flagship Pixel series smartphones annually. The Pixel 8 series was announced in October last year. They are due to get a successor soon. However, that doesn’t mean the current generation isn’t worth considering. The search giant differentiates the standard model from the Pro variant in terms of specifications and pricing. 

The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro pack premium specifications and compete against the likes of the Samsung Galaxy S24, iPhone 15, OnePlus 12, and more in the market. Google’s smartphones offer the purest Android UI experience and impressive photographic capabilities. Additionally, they have become a preferred option when the company is at the forefront of integrating AI features in smartphones.

If you are confused about making a choice between the standard and the Pro model of Pixel 8, you have come to the right place. In this article, we compare the two devices that should help you make a decision.

Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8 Pro: Display and design

The Google Pixel 8 duo have an identical design with a slim profile and a horizontal camera bridge on the rear. Both the front and back feature glass and the frame is aluminium ensuring a premium in-hand feel. The devices also have an IP68 certification against dust and water ingression.

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In terms of display, the Google Pixel 8 has a 6.2-inch screen bearing a resolution of 2,400 x 1,080 pixels. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 Pro features a larger 6.7-inch display with a resolution of 2,992 x 1,324 pixels. Both devices have AMOLED panels with 2,400 nits peak brightness, HDR support, and 120Hz refresh rate. Notably, the Pro model has LTPO technology meaning it can adjust the refresh rate depending on the content on the screen and can go as low as 1Hz. 

The Pixel 8’s screen is shielded by Gorilla Glass Victus whereas the Pro model features an enhanced Victus 2 protection.

Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8 Pro: Cameras

Google Pixel smartphones are widely known for their photography prowess. This is one area where the standard and Pro models of the Pixel 8 are different from each other. The former has a 50MP OIS and EIS-enabled main sensor with f/1.68 aperture and a 12MP f/2.2 ultra-wide-angle lens with auto-focus. 

On the other hand, the Pixel 8 Pro features triple rear cameras. The setup comprises the same 50MP primary unit as the standard model, the ultra-wide-angle lens is 48MP with dual-pixel PDAF. The device gets an additional sensor that is the 48MP f/2.8 telephoto with OIS and 5x optical zoom. This makes the Pixel 8 Pro a better choice for photography enthusiasts who want more flexibility and higher-quality zoom shots.

Both smartphones have a 10.5MP front-facing selfie snapper. The cameras are capable of recording 4K videos at up to 60fps.

Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8 Pro: Hardware and battery

Underneath the hood, the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are equipped with a Tensor G3 chipset. The former packs 8GB RAM whereas the latter has 12GB. Both models come in 128GB and 256GB storage options with the Pro variant also shipping in 512GB and 1TB configurations depending on the region.

There’s a slight difference in the power department on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. The standard model is backed by a 4,575mAh cell with support for 27W wired and 18W wireless charging. Meanwhile, the Pro variant runs on a 5,050mAh cell with 30W wired and 23W wireless charging support. 

Another difference between the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro is the presence of a dedicated temperature sensor on the latter. It lets users measure the temperature of their body or nearby objects. There’s also ultrawide-band technology that enables precise location on the device.

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The Pixel 8 duo ships with Android 14 out of the box and is eligible for 7 years of OS updates as well as access to spare parts. The devices also come with the search giant’s Gemini Nano AI. However, the standard model gets limited features whereas the Pro variant packs additional exclusive functions due to its more advanced hardware.

Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8 Pro: Pricing and conclusion

The Pixel 8 costs Rs 59,990 for the base 8GB + 128GB variant whereas the 256GB storage option costs Rs 68,990. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 Pro retails at Rs 1,05,990 for the 12GB + 256GB model. Although the Pro variant is expensive, the price tag is justified because of its additional features like temperature sensor and better camera capabilities. The standard Pixel 8 is a better choice if you want a no-frills pure Android experience without breaking the bank. Both phones come with a longer software support policy. 

Choosing between the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro ultimately boils down to your requirements and priorities.