Google Pixel 8 Pro Review: Finally, the Perfect Pixel
With the Google Pixel 8 Pro, the company has finally created an Android phone that stands up to the iPhone, offering a complete package with no major compromises. The issues found in the Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel 7 Pro have been addressed, making this the best Pixel yet.
Design
The Pixel 8 Pro’s design is bold and unique, thanks to its body-wide camera bar. This design not only sets it apart from other smartphones but also eliminates the wobble that occurs with off-center camera placements. The phone sits flat on surfaces, which is a refreshing change from other phones.
This design has evolved since the Pixel 6 Pro, with improvements like a metal camera bar in the Pixel 7 Pro. Now, the Pixel 8 Pro refines this even further by placing all the lenses within a single, sleek oval cutout. It’s a subtle change, but it makes the phone look even more polished. The matte glass back also returns, making it less prone to fingerprints, but you’ll still want a case to protect it. Google’s own case is finally attractive and doesn’t add bulk, which is a nice bonus.
The Pixel 8 Pro is all about screen, with tiny bezels and a sleek aluminum frame. While the phone is large, some people, especially those with vision concerns, may appreciate its size. It’s a bit heavy and can be tricky to use one-handed, but that’s typical for phones of this size.
Display
The Pixel 8 Pro features a stunning 6.7-inch OLED display with deep blacks and vivid colors. However, the most significant upgrade is that this display is perfectly flat, without the curved edges that caused issues on previous models. Google even gave it a fancy name, “Super Actua,” but the real magic is in the display’s performance.
Despite a slight reduction in resolution from the previous models, the lack of curved edges more than makes up for it. The dynamic refresh rate adjusts smoothly from 1 Hz to 120 Hz, helping save battery life while providing a fluid experience. This display also gets extremely bright, up to 1600 nits for HDR content, with a peak brightness of 2400 nits.
A feature worth mentioning is the “Extra Dim” setting, which lets you reduce the brightness beyond the standard minimum. This is a game-changer in dark environments, making it much more comfortable on the eyes. The adaptive brightness also works better than in previous models, adjusting more accurately to your surroundings.
Performance and Specs
Under the hood, the Pixel 8 Pro is powered by Google’s Tensor G3 processor, designed for AI and efficiency rather than raw speed. While it doesn’t benchmark as high as some competitors, it performs flawlessly in everyday tasks, with no lag or hiccups.
One of the biggest improvements is in charging speed. The Pixel 8 Pro charges quickly without getting excessively hot, something that plagued earlier models. With 12 GB of RAM and up to 1 TB of storage, it’s equipped for the future, especially with Google’s promise of 7 years of updates.
Connectivity
The Pixel 8 Pro is ready for the future with Wi-Fi 7 and mmWave 5G support. It also includes eSIM and nano SIM slots, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC. Connectivity has been seamless, with strong Wi-Fi performance and easy eSIM management.
Camera
Google’s Pixel phones are known for their camera quality, and the Pixel 8 Pro continues that tradition. It features a 50 MP main camera, a 48 MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and a 48 MP ultra-wide lens. The results are consistently excellent, with Google’s image processing striking a perfect balance between saturation and detail.
The selfie camera has also been updated, but the rear cameras are the real stars. Whether you’re taking wide-angle shots or zooming in for close-ups, the Pixel 8 Pro delivers sharp, vibrant images.
Battery Life and Charging
The Pixel 8 Pro’s battery life is solid, lasting a full day even with heavy use. Charging is faster than ever, with the phone reaching 50% in just 25 minutes using the right charger. Wireless charging is also improved, now supporting 23 watts.
Previous Pixel models struggled with heat during charging, but the Pixel 8 Pro stays cool even during fast charging. It’s a significant improvement that makes daily use much more convenient.
Software and Features
The Pixel 8 Pro runs a highly optimized version of Android, packed with helpful features like call screening, live translation, and safety tools. Google’s AI-driven enhancements make this the best Android experience you can get, without any unnecessary bloatware.
The software is what truly sets the Pixel 8 Pro apart. Google’s integration of AI throughout the system enhances everything from taking photos to managing your daily tasks. It’s smart, intuitive, and keeps improving over time.
Price and Value
Starting at $999, the Pixel 8 Pro offers exceptional value compared to other flagship phones. While it’s pricier than previous Pixels, it’s still more affordable than its main competitors, the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. With frequent sales, you can often find it for even less.
Google offers several storage options, ranging from 128 GB to 1 TB, and four color choices, including the new Mint. It’s a versatile phone that’s built to last, with a 7-year support guarantee that ensures it will stay up to date for years to come.
Final Thoughts
The Pixel 8 Pro is the best premium smartphone on the market today, combining Google’s superior camera technology, a stunning display, and a smart, AI-powered software experience. While its ecosystem may not be as robust as Apple’s, the Pixel 8 Pro delivers a no-compromise experience that is highly recommended.
The Review
https://pixelbyte.dev/2024/08/25/google-pixel-8-pro-the-best-android-phone-yet/
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