Google Pixel 8 Pro vs 7 Pro: Should You Upgrade?
Are you considering upgrading your smartphone? The Google Pixel lineup has consistently impressed, and the latest iteration, the Google Pixel 8 Pro, promises significant advancements. But is it worth the upgrade from its predecessor, the Google Pixel 7 Pro? This comparison will delve deep into the key differences.
We’ll examine everything from performance and camera capabilities to battery life and design. The Google Pixel 8 Pro boasts several upgrades, but the Pixel 7 Pro remains a strong contender. We’ll help you decide which phone best suits your needs and budget.
Get ready to explore the nuances of each device. We’ll break down the specs, features, and real-world performance to give you a comprehensive understanding of the Google Pixel 8 Pro vs 7 Pro. By the end, you’ll have all the information needed to make an informed decision.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Pixel 8 Pro | Pixel 7 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.7-inch | 6.7-inch |
| Display Type | LTPO OLED | LTPO OLED |
| Resolution | 1344 x 2992 pixels | 1440 x 3120 pixels |
| Processor | Google Tensor G3 | Google Tensor G2 |
| RAM | 12GB | 12GB |
| Main Camera | 50MP + 48MP + 48MP | 50MP + 48MP + 12MP |
| Front Camera | 10.5MP | 10.8MP |
| Video Recording | 4K@60fps | 4K@60fps |
| Battery | 5050 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 30W Wired, 23W Wireless | 23W Wired, 23W Wireless |
| Operating System | Android 14 | Android 13 |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor
- Google Pixel 8 Pro: Features the Google Tensor G3 chip, offering significant performance improvements in AI and machine learning tasks. It boasts increased processing power and efficiency compared to its predecessor, but may still lag behind some competitors in raw performance.
- 7 Pro: Equipped with the Google Tensor G2 chip, the 7 Pro delivers capable performance for everyday tasks and gaming. While it excels in AI-related features, its overall performance is slightly less powerful than the latest generation.
- Winner: 8 Pro
Display
- Google Pixel 8 Pro: Boasts a brighter and more vibrant display, potentially using LTPO technology for adaptive refresh rates, improving battery life. This may include a higher peak brightness and improved outdoor visibility.
- 7 Pro: Features a high-quality display with a smooth refresh rate, offering a pleasant viewing experience. While excellent, its brightness and overall performance may not quite match the advancements in the 8 Pro.
- Winner: 8 Pro
Camera System
- Google Pixel 8 Pro: Likely features upgraded camera sensors and improved image processing algorithms, potentially including enhanced computational photography capabilities. This could result in better low-light performance, improved video recording, and new features like Magic Editor.
- 7 Pro: Offers a stellar camera system known for its excellent image quality and ease of use. It captures detailed photos and videos, especially in well-lit environments, but may not have the same level of advanced features as the 8 Pro.
- Winner: 8 Pro
Battery Life
- Google Pixel 8 Pro: Potentially offers improved battery life due to the more efficient Tensor G3 chip and display optimizations. Users can expect to get a full day’s use from a single charge.
- 7 Pro: Provides solid battery life, easily lasting a full day for most users. However, it may not be as optimized as the latest generation.
- Winner: 8 Pro
Software & Updates
- Google Pixel 8 Pro: Ships with the latest Android version and is guaranteed to receive software updates for several years, ensuring it stays up-to-date with the newest features and security patches.
- 7 Pro: Currently running the latest Android version, and will continue to receive software updates for a period of time, but not as long as the 8 Pro.
- Winner: 8 Pro
Design & Build
- Google Pixel 8 Pro: May introduce a refined design with updated materials and a more premium feel. This could include subtle changes to the camera bar and overall aesthetics.
- 7 Pro: Features a sleek and modern design with a premium build quality. It is known for its distinctive camera bar and comfortable ergonomics.
- Winner: 8 Pro
Price
- Google Pixel 8 Pro: Likely to have a higher price tag due to its advanced features and newer technology.
- 7 Pro: Available at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- Winner: 7 Pro
Connectivity
- Google Pixel 8 Pro: May include improvements in 5G connectivity and Wi-Fi standards.
- 7 Pro: Offers excellent connectivity options, including 5G and Wi-Fi.
- Winner: 8 Pro
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Processor | Pixel 8 Pro |
| Camera Features | Pixel 8 Pro |
| Software Updates | Pixel 8 Pro |
| Display Brightness | Pixel 8 Pro |
| Value for Money | Pixel 7 Pro |
What They Have in Common:
- Display Technology: Both phones utilize a vibrant and smooth LTPO OLED display, offering excellent color accuracy and adaptive refresh rates for a fluid user experience.
- Water Resistance: Both the Pixel 8 Pro and the 7 Pro are rated IP68, providing robust protection against dust and water submersion, giving users peace of mind in various environments.
- RAM: Both phones come equipped with 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient performance for demanding applications and games.
- Operating System Updates: Both phones are designed to receive regular software updates and security patches from Google.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, providing users with convenient charging options.
Google Pixel 8 Pro Vs 7 Pro Buying Guide
Design and Build Quality
The Google Pixel 8 Pro introduces a more refined design with a flat display, replacing the curved screen of the 7 Pro. This change offers a more modern aesthetic and potentially improved durability. Both phones boast IP68 water and dust resistance, ensuring protection against the elements. The 8 Pro features a polished aluminum frame and a matte glass back, while the 7 Pro has a glossy finish. The overall build quality remains premium in both models, but the 8 Pro’s design updates provide a slightly more contemporary feel. The 8 Pro’s flatter screen also makes using screen protectors easier.
Display and Visuals
The Pixel 8 Pro’s display boasts a brighter panel and improved peak brightness compared to the 7 Pro, enhancing visibility in direct sunlight. Both phones utilize OLED technology for vibrant colors and deep blacks. The 8 Pro has a slightly larger display than the 7 Pro. It also features a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. The 8 Pro offers a more refined visual experience overall. The 8 Pro’s display also incorporates “Super Actua” technology for better outdoor visibility.
Performance and Software
The Pixel 8 Pro is powered by the Google Tensor G3 chip, offering performance enhancements over the Tensor G2 found in the 7 Pro. This translates to faster app loading times and smoother multitasking. Both phones run on stock Android, ensuring a clean and responsive user experience. The 8 Pro introduces new AI-powered features and software updates, which are not available on the 7 Pro. The 8 Pro typically receives software updates for a longer period than the 7 Pro.
Camera Capabilities
The Pixel 8 Pro features a refined camera system with improved image processing and new features. While both phones excel in photography, the 8 Pro offers enhanced low-light performance, and improved video recording capabilities. The 8 Pro also includes an ultrawide lens with autofocus, enabling macro photography. The 8 Pro also offers features like “Best Take” for photo editing, and “Video Unblur”. Both phones are known for producing natural-looking photos, but the 8 Pro takes it a step further.
Battery Life and Charging
Both phones provide all-day battery life for most users, but the Pixel 8 Pro’s battery optimization is slightly improved. The 8 Pro has a similar battery size to the 7 Pro. Both phones support fast charging, although the charging speeds are not the fastest in the market. Wireless charging is also supported on both devices. Battery life will vary depending on usage patterns, but both phones deliver satisfactory performance in this aspect.
Price and Value
The Pixel 8 Pro is typically priced higher than the 7 Pro, reflecting its newer technology and features. The 7 Pro offers excellent value for its price, especially if purchased at a discounted rate. The best choice depends on your budget and desired features. If you are looking for the latest features and performance, the Pixel 8 Pro is the better choice. However, the Pixel 7 Pro remains a compelling option for those seeking a premium experience at a lower price point. Consider the long-term software support as well.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Pixel 8 Pro If…
- You want the latest Google Tensor processor and improved performance.
- You prioritize the newest camera features and enhancements.
- You desire a phone with a longer software support lifecycle.
- You want a brighter display.
Buy Pixel 7 Pro If…
- You’re looking for a more affordable flagship phone.
- You want a phone that still offers excellent camera quality and performance.
- You don’t need the absolute latest features and are happy with a slightly older model.
- You want a phone with a slightly higher resolution display.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the major design differences?
The Pixel 8 Pro sports a flat display, a polished aluminum frame, and a matte glass back, offering a more modern and refined aesthetic compared to the 7 Pro’s curved screen and glossy finish. The 8 Pro also has a more robust camera bar design and slightly different dimensions. Both phones are well-built, but the 8 Pro feels more premium in the hand due to its design refinements. The 8 Pro offers a more modern look.
How does the display quality compare?
The Pixel 8 Pro’s display is brighter, with improved peak brightness, and offers a slightly larger screen than the 7 Pro. Both use OLED technology with vibrant colors. The 8 Pro has “Super Actua” technology for enhanced outdoor visibility, providing a more immersive viewing experience. The 8 Pro’s smoother 120Hz refresh rate enhances the user experience, making scrolling and animations feel more fluid.
Is the performance significantly different?
The Pixel 8 Pro, with its Tensor G3 chip, offers performance improvements over the 7 Pro’s Tensor G2. This results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and improved overall responsiveness. The 8 Pro also benefits from software optimizations. While the 7 Pro is still a very capable phone, the 8 Pro provides a noticeable performance boost, especially in demanding tasks and AI-related features.
What camera upgrades does the 8 Pro have?
The Pixel 8 Pro boasts an improved camera system with enhanced low-light performance, refined image processing, and new features like “Best Take” and “Video Unblur”. It also includes an ultrawide lens with autofocus for macro photography. The 8 Pro produces higher quality photos and offers more versatile shooting options compared to the 7 Pro, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. The 8 Pro also offers improved video capabilities.
How does battery life compare?
Both phones offer all-day battery life for most users. The Pixel 8 Pro features slightly improved battery optimization compared to the 7 Pro. The actual battery life depends on usage patterns. Both phones support fast charging, although it is not the fastest in the market. Wireless charging is also supported on both devices. Both phones are competitive in battery life.
What are the software differences?
The Pixel 8 Pro runs on stock Android and introduces new AI-powered features not available on the 7 Pro. The 8 Pro also receives software updates for a longer period. Both phones offer a clean and responsive user experience, but the 8 Pro benefits from the latest software enhancements and AI capabilities. The 8 Pro’s updated software includes features like “Magic Editor” and “Audio Magic Eraser.”
Which phone offers better value for money?
The Pixel 7 Pro offers excellent value, especially at a discounted price. The Pixel 8 Pro is priced higher, reflecting its newer technology. The best choice depends on your budget and needs. If you want the latest features and performance, the 8 Pro is better. The 7 Pro remains a strong contender for those wanting a premium experience at a lower cost. Consider long-term software support.
Final Verdict
The Google Pixel 8 Pro refines the design, enhances the display, and boosts performance with the Tensor G3 chip. Its improved camera system, AI features, and longer software support make it the superior choice. While the Pixel 7 Pro offers strong value, the Pixel 8 Pro provides a more advanced and polished experience.
Winner: Google Pixel 8 Pro