Google Pixel 8 vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro – What are the differences?

A few years ago, Google began to design and market its own smartphones, and today it has managed to position itself as one of the great references in this field. Above all, with high-end models, like the two we have chosen in this comparison. These are the brand’s most recent smartphones, those of the Google Pixel 8 range, in their standard and Pro versions. A priori, we can guess that the Google Pixel 8 Pro will be an improved version of the Google Pixel 8. But does this mean it’s more worth it?

To answer this question, we must look in more detail at the most important differences between the two models. One of them is the screen, both due to size and resolution. The Google Pixel 8 Pro has a larger screen than the Pixel 8, but this means the phone is also larger. Something similar happens with the battery, which has more capacity in the Google Pixel 8 Pro. However, both smartphones have the same autonomy, although this depends on how we use the mobile.

Another of the most relevant differences has to do with the cameras, which go from 2 rear cameras in the Google Pixel 8 to 3 in the Pixel 8 Pro. In addition, this model adds a temperature sensor just below the flash, although we must say that we have not been able to find all the usefulness that it will surely have for the moment.

As you can see, it is interesting to break down the pros and cons of the two smartphones to decide which one to choose. Do you want to know? Join us in this review!

Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8 Pro – Comparison Table

Next, we compare the technical specifications of the two smartphones belonging to the Google Pixel 8 range. This way, you can get a more complete idea of ​​what their main differences are:

The Pro model increases its size and screen

As it was easy to guess, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is a larger version of the Google Pixel 8. Both maintain the same design line that we have seen in the Google Pixel 7, but with an obvious size difference. As for colors, both are available in three colors, but they are not the same. In particular, we really like the baby blue tone of the Pixel 8 Pro, but this is a matter of taste.

Returning to the objective specifications, the increase in size is undeniable. In fact, the Google Pixel 8 has a 6.2-inch screen, which becomes 6.7 inches in the Pixel 8 Pro. Although it may not seem like it, it is a difference that is very noticeable in phones of this size. To give you an idea, it can be the difference between one smartphone fitting in a bag and another not. Both screens are OLED, but the Google Pixel 8 Pro’s screen improves both resolution and maximum brightness.

The battery has more capacity, but the same autonomy

One of the consequences of the Google Pixel 8 Pro being larger is that the battery has more capacity than the Google Pixel 8, going from 4575 to 5050 mAh. However, there is no practical difference in maximum autonomy, since both can last just over 24 hours, even 72 hours with the battery saving function. Likewise, both smartphones have fast charging, and in half an hour they recharge to 50%, since the charger is 30 watts in both cases. Full charging takes approximately one hour.

No changes to the operating system

The two smartphones have the same processor, Google Tensor G3, plus the Titan M2 security chip. This processor offers great performance when processing different applications simultaneously, and is one of the reasons why the economic jump is more pronounced compared to the Pixel 7 range. In addition, they are based on the Android 14 operating system. However , the Google Pixel 8 Pro has a higher internal capacity, up to 12 GB of RAM, compared to the 8 GB that the Google Pixel 8 has.

The rear cameras are the most differential aspect

Without a doubt, the main difference is found in the set of rear cameras, which go from 2 to 3. Specifically, both smartphones have the same main camera, a 50 MP wide angle. The Google Pixel 8 adds, to this camera, a 12 MP ultra wide angle. On the other hand, the Google Pixel 8 Pro has two more cameras apart from the main one: an ultra-wide angle that increases the resolution to 48 MP and a telephoto camera, also 48 MP. 

The result is that the photographic quality and depth achieved by the Google Pixel 8 Pro is much superior to that of the Google Pixel 8, and this is where we notice the difference most. It also includes some more professional features derived from the trio of more advanced lenses. In the case of the front camera, both smartphones have a 10.5 megapixel selfie camera.

As a curiosity, it should be noted that the Google Pixel 8 Pro has a temperature sensor located just below the flash. Google’s initial idea was that it would be able to measure our body temperature, but the truth is that, for now, it has not achieved this.

Connectivity and audio options, identical

If we now look at the connectivity and more technological options, we see that there are few changes between the two smartphones in the Pixel 8 range. Both are compatible with Bluetooth version 5.3, as well as NFC technology that allows contactless payments. . In addition, they integrate a dual SIM, so you can combine two cards in the same smartphone. And, as far as sensors are concerned, except for temperature, they have the same ones.

The audio in both cases is stereo, and both have 3 microphones to which is added a functionality that allows reducing ambient noise. This is very noticeable when having conversations, where there is less interference caused by outside weather conditions.

Is it worth upgrading to the Google Pixel 8 Pro?

At this point, the dilemma we face is whether it is worth betting on the Google Pixel 8 Pro or it is more interesting, economically, to stay with the Google Pixel 8. And the answer, as always, depends. From our point of view, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is worth it if you are really going to take advantage of the triple rear camera and the Pixel 8’s dual camera falls short. In practice, it is the only difference that we think is really noticeable, because the size of the screen does not seem to us to be such a relevant difference in the decision.

Therefore, if you think that having three higher resolution cameras is going to be decisive, we recommend opting for the Google Pixel 8 Pro. This is the case, for example, of people who regularly work with images and prioritize photographic quality . . If not, the Google Pixel 8 is cheaper and integrates the same processor and operating system, which makes the performance very similar.

That said, it’s only up to you to choose which of the two Google phones best suits your needs and preferences. What you can be sure of is that, being the most recent of the brand, technological innovation is maximum in both cases.