SHOWDOWN

Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 7 – which Android phone to buy

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Rhys Melhado-Thompson

Published: 5:09, 12 Dec 2023
Updated: 16:01, 29 Nov 2024

FLAGSHIP phone are released yearly by manufacturers and Google's Pixel range is no different.

In our Google Pixel 8 versus Pixel 7 explainer, we'll see how each smartphone generation compares in specs, price, design, battery life and features.

See how the Good Pixel 7 stacks up against its successor, the Pixel 8, in our versus explainer

Google Pixel 8, £759 -
Google Pixel 7, £380 (was £599) -

Compared to Apple, there are numerous more options when it comes to finding the perfect Android device for your needs, so it's to be expected to find the sheer amount of choice overwhelming.

Luckily, Google is one of the largest Android brands in the world, so you're in safe hands when it comes to picking one of their flagship devices.

Even if you're not tech-savvy, we'll be scrutinising the camera quality, specs, design and battery life in simple, non-jargon terms.

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If you're coming from another Android, like the Samsung Galaxy series, it may be worth taking a look at our Samsung Galaxy A14 vs Google Pixel 6a explainer to see how budget-friendly options stack up against one another.

Camera

Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 7: At a glance

Similarities:

As to be expected, there are a fair few similarities between the two devices since why change a winning formula?

Both phones utilize an adaptive battery, meaning you can expect your device to last up to 72 hours with extreme battery-saving mode. Just using the device normally? You'll be looking at a full 24 hours with each charge.

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One of Google's top features that finds its way into both devices is its live translate, meaning if you're looking to tour the globe, you couldn't ask for a better travel buddy as it'll interpret face-to-face conversations in 48 languages, translate menus with the camera and translate messages in real-time allowing you to ditch the English translations book at home.

Differences:

When it comes to the differences, it's more so in the form of tech.

One stark difference is the chip used in the Pixel 8, as it has been upgraded to the G3, which is the Pixel's most powerful chip yet, making it fast and efficient. Additionally, Google AI will provide personalised help throughout the day.

The Pixel 7, on the other hand, is fitted with a G2, and while it still provides extra security and an incredibly fast processing speed, the G3 is, of course, going to provide all the same things but better.

Surprisingly, the Pixel 7's screen is actually slightly larger than the 8 at 6.3 inches - the latter is marginally smaller at 6.2 inches.

Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 7: Camera

Camera quality between the two devices doesn't actually change too much.

Both the Pixel 7 and 8 have a 50-megapixel rear camera with an 82-degree field of view, while both front cameras are 10.5-megapixels. So if you're the up-and-coming photographer who wants picture-perfect shots, you're safe in either case.

However, the 8 is the only one out of the two with an Ultra HDR feature that will improve the end result of your photos.

Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 7: Design

Google's Pixel design has definitely been one of their winning formulas as the phone has stuck with its edgeless cornering and matt aluminium frames on the rear.

You'll have to find a new deciding factor if device design is going to be what tipped it over the edge.

Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 7: Features

The Pixel devices are jam-packed with a variety of features to make your life just a tad easier.

As mentioned previously, you'll be getting access to Google's live Translate feature, which is perfect for anyone looking to travel abroad.

On top of this, the Pixel 8 races ahead when it comes to photography assistance as it has a magic editor, ultra HRA, and an astrophotography feature that you won't get on the 7.

Anyone unfamiliar with the term astrophotography, it essentially means if you love taking photos of the night sky and moon, you'll be able to nab wallpaper-worthy photos at the press of a button.

Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 7: Battery

Battery life is a breeze with the adaptive battery function. Once the device learns your usage patterns, you can be certain you'll be reaching around 24 hours of usage before needing to top up the battery.

In terms of actual numbers, however, the Pixel 7 packs a 4,355mAh battery whereas the 8 has a 4,575mAh battery, meaning without the assistance of Google's battery AI, you're much more likely to get longer out of the Pixel 8 rather than the 7 with each charge.

Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 7: Price

Since the Pixel 7 has been dethroned by the Pixel 8 as Google's current flagship device, you can find the 7 for much cheaper than its initial release price, while the Pixel 8 is still going to cost you a pretty penny.

Currently, the Pixel 8 is £759 from retailers like Amazon, while the 7 is £599 when there aren't any sales, so you'd be saving £160 if you choose the previous generation of phone.

SIM-Free

Google Pixel 8, £759 -
Google Pixel 7, £380 (was £599) -

Pay-Monthly plans

Google Pixel 8, 300GB of data, on Three network, £0 upfront, £31p/m -
Google Pixel 8, 100GB of data, on iD Mobile network, £9 upfront, £26.99p/m from iD Mobile -
Google Pixel 7, 100GB of data, on iD Mobile network, £99 upfront, £20.99p/m from iD Mobile -
Google Pixel 7, 100GB data, on Three network, £0 upfront, £27p/m -

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