Google Pixel 8 Pro Review

Google Pixel 8 Pro Review: A Leap Forward in Innovation, but at What Cost?

The Google Pixel 8 Pro has emerged as a significant player in the world of flagship smartphones, boasting upgrades in various aspects, particularly in artificial intelligence integration. However, the real question that looms is whether these enhancements justify the increased price tag.

In this comprehensive review, we delve into the design, display, performance, software, camera capabilities, and battery life of the Pixel 8 Pro to determine its overall worth. Check out the latest prices: Google Pixel 8, and Pixel 8 Pro.

Design:

The design of the Google Pixel 8 Pro is both innovative and practical. Departing from the common trend of cramming multiple cameras into a small space, Google has opted for a sleek metal bar to house the cameras, not only giving the phone a minimalist look but also providing practical benefits.

This design choice protects the lenses from dirt and impact, preventing the common issue of wobbling on surfaces or sustaining damage when dropped. The rounded edges not only enhance aesthetics but also contribute to a smaller and more ergonomic feel.

The matte finish on the back, available in three colors, adds a touch of luxury while ensuring a comfortable and fingerprint-resistant grip. However, the polished aluminum frame may be prone to visible fingerprints and scratches, which is a drawback compared to the matte frame of the regular Pixel 8. The device is water-resistant for up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1.5 meters, adding a layer of durability.

Buttons, which had a previous issue with the Pixel 7 Pro, seem to have been improved on the Pixel 8 Pro. The addition of an infrared thermometer, located next to the camera on the back, opens up interesting possibilities, such as measuring the temperature of objects or even body temperature in a future update.

Display:

The Pixel 8 Pro brings significant changes to its display. The screen is now perfectly flat, abandoning the curved sides, yet maintaining an Ultra-sharp Quad HD Plus resolution. The Adaptive refresh rate, ranging from 1 to 120 Hz, ensures a smooth user experience. A remarkable increase of over 40% in brightness, reaching a maximum of 2,400 nits, makes the display exceptionally visible even in bright sunlight.

The thin bezels and rounded corners contribute to a visually pleasing aesthetic. The fingerprint sensor, while reliable, feels a bit outdated compared to competitors’ ultrasonic fingerprint sensors. On the other hand, face recognition has seen notable improvements, being faster and more secure.

Performance:

Google’s custom processor, the Tensor G3, marks the third consecutive year of in-house chip development. While benchmarks may not match the latest Snapdragon or Apple processors, the Pixel 8 Pro excels in real-world performance. With no noticeable crashes, stable 120 Hz performance, and faster photo processing, the device feels exceptionally smooth.

Google’s promise of extended software updates sets the Pixel 8 Pro apart. A commitment to seven years of feature drops, security updates, and Android updates ensures longevity and keeps the device relevant. The pure Android experience enhances the overall performance, making the Pixel 8 Pro stand out in day-to-day use.

Software:

Android 14 shines on the Pixel 8 Pro, showcasing the seamless integration of hardware and software. The customizable lock screen, intuitive interface, and vibrant animations make the user experience delightful. The Google Assistant, combined with Google Bart in an upcoming update, promises an advanced level of interaction, with Bart capable of seeing, hearing, and performing tasks.

Unique features like reading out loud, automatic song recognition, and advanced photo editing capabilities make the Pixel 8 Pro feel more intelligent than its competitors. The device’s integration with various Google services, coupled with regular feature drops, keeps the software experience fresh and cutting-edge.

 

Battery Life:

Battery performance on the Pixel 8 Pro is a mixed bag. On regular days with moderate usage, the device lasts a satisfactory amount of time. However, on more demanding days, such as during a city trip with navigation and camera use, the battery drains relatively quickly. The modem appears to consume more power than expected.

Charging speed, while labeled as “fast charging,” may not meet the expectations set by competitors. A 50% charge in 30 minutes is decent, but a full charge in the same time frame could have been more impressive.

Camera:

The Pixel 8 Pro boasts three improved cameras, each delivering enhanced performance. The main 50-megapixel sensor, with a larger aperture, excels in capturing crisp and contrasty images. The ultra-wide-angle lens sees a significant upgrade, offering four times sharper images with a larger sensor and aperture. The 5x telephoto camera now captures over 50% more light with its improved aperture.

Pixel’s signature image quality shines through, providing sharp pictures with balanced exposure. The color reproduction tends to be slightly cool and desaturated, but the overall result is visually appealing. The improved ultra-wide angle is a standout feature, particularly for low-light and close-up photography.

Video capabilities are top-notch, allowing seamless switching between lenses while filming. An upcoming update with a video boost feature aims to enhance night and challenging light situations. The selfie camera, now equipped with autofocus, produces bright and clear images.

Pros And Cons of Google Pixel 8 Pro:

  • Pros:

  • Innovative Camera System: The Pixel 8 Pro features an upgraded camera system with improvements in all three lenses, offering enhanced image quality, especially in low-light conditions.
  • New Tensor G3 Processor: Google’s custom Tensor G3 processor brings noticeable improvements in day-to-day performance, ensuring a smooth and responsive user experience.
  • Extended Software Updates: The Pixel 8 Pro promises an impressive seven years of software updates, including feature drops, security updates, and Android updates, providing long-term usability.
  • Innovative Design: The design of the Pixel 8 Pro is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical, with the unique camera bar protecting lenses and minimizing wobbling on surfaces.
  • Matte Finish and Water Resistance: The matte finish on the back adds a touch of luxury, and the phone is water-resistant for up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1.5 meters, adding durability.
  • Flat Display with Thin Bezels: The flat display with thin bezels provides a modern and visually appealing look, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
  • Improved Face Recognition: Face recognition on the Pixel 8 Pro is faster and more secure, offering a convenient alternative to the fingerprint sensor.
  • Impressive Display: The display boasts a Quad HD Plus resolution with an adaptive refresh rate of 1 to 120 Hz, making it visually stunning with over 40% increased brightness.
  • Unique Features: The inclusion of an infrared thermometer and upcoming features like Google Bart integration and video boost showcase Google’s commitment to innovation. Check out the latest prices: Google Pixel 8, and Pixel 8 Pro.
  • Cons:

  • Higher Price Tag: The Pixel 8 Pro comes with an increased price compared to its predecessor, which may be a drawback for budget-conscious consumers.
  • Polished Aluminum Frame: The polished aluminum frame may be prone to visible fingerprints and scratches, impacting the device’s aesthetics over time.
  • Battery Life and Charging Speed: The battery life, especially during demanding days, may not be as long-lasting as some competitors. Additionally, the fast charging, while decent, falls short of some competing devices.
  • Fingerprint Sensor: The continued use of a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, while reliable, may feel outdated compared to more modern alternatives like ultrasonic fingerprint sensors.

Reasons to Upgrade from Pixel 7 Pro to Pixel 8 Pro:

  1. Improved Camera System: The Pixel 8 Pro boasts significant upgrades to its camera system, delivering better image quality, especially in challenging conditions. If photography is a priority, the upgrade is justified.
  2. Enhanced Performance: The new Tensor G3 processor brings a noticeable boost in performance, contributing to smoother day-to-day operations and a more responsive user experience.
  3. Extended Software Updates: The Pixel 8 Pro promises an unprecedented seven years of software updates, ensuring longevity and keeping the device up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.
  4. Innovative Design and Features: The unique camera bar design, coupled with additional features like the infrared thermometer, provides a fresh and innovative feel to the Pixel 8 Pro.
  5. Improved Display: The flat display with thin bezels and increased brightness offers an improved visual experience, making the upgrade worthwhile for users who prioritize display quality.
  6. Matte Finish and Water Resistance: The matte finish on the back and water resistance add to the device’s durability and aesthetics, providing tangible benefits over the Pixel 7 Pro.
  7. Unique Software Features: New software features, such as Google Bart integration and video boost, showcase Google’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what smartphones can do, offering unique experiences to users.

Conclusion:

The Google Pixel 8 Pro is a compelling smartphone, pushing the boundaries of innovation in various aspects. The design is both aesthetically pleasing and practical, the display is stunning, and the performance in day-to-day use is exceptional. The camera improvements, particularly in low-light and video capabilities, add significant value.

While the battery life may not be class-leading, and the charging speed falls short of some competitors, the Pixel 8 Pro‘s true strength lies in its software experience and the promise of extended updates. Seven years of feature drops, security updates, and Android updates set a new standard for the industry.

The increased price may be a point of contention, especially considering the absence of features like an ultrasonic fingerprint reader and faster charging. However, the Pixel 8 Pro remains competitive, offering stock Android, a great camera, and an attractive design at a price considerably lower than some of its counterparts.

In conclusion, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is a smartphone that caters to both the tech enthusiast and the average user, providing a balanced mix of innovation, performance, and longevity. Check out the latest price: Pixel 8 Pro.

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Daven Klarsen is a technology writer and researcher. He's also an avid sports fan, especially when it comes to the LAL. When not working, you can usually find him tweaking his Android devices or watching soccer news.