Google Pixel 8 Pro vs. Pixel 7 Pro: A Worthy Upgrade with One Odd Addition
The world of smartphones is a rapidly evolving landscape where each new iteration promises to be better than the last. Google's Pixel series has consistently impressed users with its camera prowess, clean Android experience, and timely updates. The Google Pixel 7 Pro, released in 2021, was no exception, setting high standards for smartphone photography and performance. Now, in 2023, we have the Google Pixel 8 Pro, and enthusiasts and tech aficionados are eager to see what improvements this new model brings to the table. In this article, we'll dive into the comparison between the Google Pixel 8 Pro and its predecessor, the Pixel 7 Pro, exploring the key features and one peculiar addition that makes the 8 Pro stand out.
Design and Build
First impressions matter, and Google has always maintained a certain level of sophistication in the design of its Pixel smartphones. The Pixel 7 Pro featured a sleek and modern design with a glass back and an aluminum frame. The device felt premium and substantial in hand. With the Pixel 8 Pro, Google continues this trend but adds a unique twist. The most noticeable design difference is the all-new color option – a vibrant and eye-catching Crimson Sunset. This addition will likely divide opinion; some will appreciate the boldness, while others may prefer the more traditional color choices. The build quality remains top-notch with both models, maintaining the IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
Display
One of the standout features of the Pixel 7 Pro was its display – a 6.7-inch OLED screen with a Quad HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It offered sharp, vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling. Google has taken the display experience a step further with the Pixel 8 Pro. The 8 Pro boasts a slightly larger 6.9-inch LTPO OLED display with a Quad HD+ resolution and a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate. This ProMotion technology adapts the refresh rate based on the content displayed, conserving battery life. The result is a display that's not only larger but also more power-efficient, ensuring a visually stunning and energy-efficient experience.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Google Pixel 8 Pro packs a punch. It is powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, offering superior processing capabilities and faster 5G connectivity. The Pixel 7 Pro, on the other hand, featured the Snapdragon 888, which was no slouch, but the new Gen 3 chip outperforms its predecessor. This translates into smoother multitasking, quicker app launches, and better gaming experiences. Additionally, both models come with a generous 12GB of RAM, ensuring that even the most demanding tasks run seamlessly.
Camera Upgrades
One of the Pixel series' main claims to fame has been its exceptional camera capabilities, and the Google Pixel 8 Pro continues this tradition with notable improvements. The Pixel 7 Pro already had a stellar camera setup, but Google has raised the bar with the 8 Pro. The new model features a dual-camera system on the rear, consisting of a 50MP wide-angle lens and a 12MP periscope telephoto lens. This periscope lens provides impressive optical zoom capabilities, allowing you to capture distant subjects with incredible clarity. On the front, both models feature an 8MP selfie camera.
The software enhancements are where the Pixel series truly shines. The Google Camera app continues to excel in computational photography, delivering stunning results with features like Night Sight, Portrait Mode, and Super Res Zoom. With the Pixel 8 Pro, Google has introduced a new feature called "Magic Filters." These AI-powered filters add artistic effects to your photos and videos, making them visually captivating. While some may find this a fun addition, others might prefer the more traditional camera features.