Google has just unveiled the highly anticipated Pixel 8 series, showcasing their latest innovations after a flurry of leaks. Featuring a new chipset, extended update support, and a variety of color options, the Pixel 8 Pro stands out as Google’s most advanced smartphone to date.
In contrast, Apple has recently launched the iPhone 15 Pro, which comes packed with cutting-edge features. This raises the question: Which is better, the Pixel 8 Pro or the iPhone 15 Pro?
In this article, we’ll compare the Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro, focusing on critical aspects such as performance, camera capabilities, display quality, battery life, connectivity, and the latest software updates.
Which is the best? Pixel 8 Pro vs iPhone 15 Pro
The first aspect of our comparison will focus on the Pixel 8 Pro’s performance compared to the iPhone 15 Pro.
Tensor G3 Vs A17Pro
Tensor G3 chipset:
The Pixel 8 Pro features Google’s latest Tensor G3 chipset. Despite being in its third generation, the Tensor chip continues to be produced by Samsung’s Foundry, providing a custom solution for Google’s Pixel smartphones.
Recent hands-on reviews reveal that the Tensor G3 includes four Cortex-A715 cores (2.37GHz), four Cortex-A510 cores (1.7GHz), and a year-old Cortex-X3 prime core (2.91GHz). Notably, Google has adopted a new nine-core architecture (1+4+4) for the first time, and the chipset is built using a 4 nm process node.
A17 Pro Chipset:
The iPhone 15 Pro is equipped with the highly advanced A17 Pro chip. This chip features a hexacore design with two high-performance cores and four high-efficiency cores. It is built using TSMC’s latest 3 nm process node and houses nearly 19 billion transistors.
The A17 Pro’s high-performance cores boast a maximum clock speed of 3.70GHz, surpassing the Tensor G3’s Cortex-X3 core, which reaches a maximum of 2.91GHz. Apple’s enhancements to the A17 Pro have achieved a remarkable 3x improvement in performance per watt compared to competitors.
Geekbench Score Comparison
When comparing Geekbench 6 scores, the A17 Pro in the iPhone 15 Pro clearly outperforms the Tensor G3 in the Pixel 8 Pro. The A17 Pro’s advanced 6-core GPU supports Ray Tracing, enabling high-quality AAA gaming experiences on the iPhone—something the Pixel 8 Pro’s Mali-G715 GPU cannot match.
In terms of raw performance, Apple’s chip is currently ahead of Google’s. However, Google’s focus is not solely on achieving the highest performance. Instead, it aims to balance performance, quality, and resource efficiency.
Reports indicate that the iPhone 15 Pro has experienced overheating issues even with simple tasks, a problem attributed to the A17 Pro’s high-power envelope. Some experts suggest that overheating may be exacerbated by third-party apps like Instagram and Uber or by bugs in iOS 17.
Conversely, Google emphasizes efficiency, recognizing the significant advancements in mobile chipset power. This approach offers consumers a choice between a processor optimized for efficiency and one designed for peak performance.
Camera comparison: Pixel 8 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro
Pixel 8 Camera Specifications:
- The Pixel series has consistently excelled in still photography, and the Pixel 8 Pro upholds this reputation with its advanced camera system.
- It features a triple-camera setup: a 50MP primary lens, a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom (and up to 30x with Super Res Zoom), and a 48MP ultrawide sensor. All sensors have improved light sensitivity for enhanced photo quality.
- The front camera is a 10.5 MP lens with autofocus, and video recording has been upgraded to support 10-bit HDR at 4K60FPS.
- New to the Pixel 8 Pro is a Pro mode in the camera app, allowing for more advanced shooting options. The “Best Take” feature, which uses AI to swap out blurry images for clearer ones, will be available soon. Popular tools like Magic Eraser and Photo Unblur are still part of Google Photos.
- Additionally, the Pixel 8 Pro includes a “Video Boost” feature that enriches video with vivid colors, greater detail, expanded dynamic range, and realistic skin tones. Google has even compared this feature with the iPhone 15 Pro Max to highlight its capabilities.
iPhone 15 Pro Camera Specifications:
- Apple has resolved the HDR issues with the camera on the iPhone 15 Pro.
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max now offers a range of focal lengths (13mm, 24mm, 28mm, 35mm, 48mm, and 120mm), allowing users to capture photos in various styles to suit their preferences.
- The sensor includes a periscope lens with a “tetra prism design,” enabling a simulated 120mm (5x) focal length. Although the lens provides excellent results, it still features a 3x optical zoom.
- The iPhone 15 Pro also boasts a 3D camera for recording spatial videos that can be viewed on the Apple Vision Pro. Additionally, it supports 10-bit HDR video recording, ProRes, and Dolby Vision HDR videos at 4K/60FPS.
- Both the Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro offer exceptional camera performance, befitting their flagship status. However, iPhones continue to lead in videography.
Display Comparison: Pixel 8 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro
Pixel 8 Pro:
- The Pixel 7 Pro’s display was highly praised last year, and the Pixel 8 Pro continues this trend with notable improvements.
- The new Pixel 8 Pro features a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED HDR10+ panel, branded by Google as “Super Actua.” This display offers a variable refresh rate of 1Hz to 120Hz.
- It can achieve an impressive peak brightness of 2,400 nits in direct sunlight, while its standard HDR brightness reaches 1,600 nits. Additionally, the panel is flat and protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
iPhone 15 Pro:
- The iPhone 15 Pro boasts an LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This panel meets the HDR10 specification and also supports Dolby Vision.
- The standard brightness is 1000 nits, while its high brightness mode can reach up to 2,000 nits. Overall, the Pixel 8 Pro surpasses both the iPhone 15 Pro and the Galaxy S23 Ultra in terms of brightness.
Battery and charging comparison: Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro
- The Pixel 8 Pro’s 5,050 mAh battery is designed to last a full day, even with heavy usage. It supports Power Delivery 3.0 and can charge up to 50% in just 30 minutes with a 30W adapter.
- Additionally, it features impressive reverse wireless charging capabilities, with a wireless charging speed of up to 23W. In contrast, the iPhone 15 series marks Apple’s official shift to USB-C.
- The iPhone 15 Pro has a smaller 3,274 mAh battery and supports 25W fast charging, allowing it to reach 50% charge in 30 minutes. It offers 15W wireless charging with a MagSafe charger and provides 4.5W of power for reverse wired charging.
Connectivity comparison: Pixel 8 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro
Pixel 8 Pro:
- The Pixel 8 Pro supports both mmWave and sub-6GHz bands for 5G. It uses a Samsung modem, which, while not the top performer on the market, still provides decent connectivity.
- The Pixel 7 Pro was criticized last year for its 5G connectivity issues, during which it struggled to connect to newer 5G bands that other devices could access.
- The Pixel 8 series also includes support for Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 7, and LE. However, satellite connectivity for emergency services remains uncertain, and the device does not support India’s NavIC navigation system.
iPhone 15 Pro:
- The iPhone 15 Pro is equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X70 modem, one of the top 5G modems available. It supports both 5G spectrums and offers peak download speeds of up to 10Gbps.
- Apple and Qualcomm recently extended their partnership, meaning it may still be a few years before Apple introduces its modem. The iPhone SE 4 might be the first to feature an Apple modem.
- In terms of mobile connectivity, the iPhone 15 Pro clearly outperforms the Pixel 8 Pro. Additionally, the iPhone 15 Pro’s Emergency SOS feature enables users to contact emergency services even in remote areas. It also supports Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, LE, and NavIC.
Software Updates Comparison: Pixel 8 Pro Vs iPhone 15 Pro
- Google’s software update policy has set a new benchmark in the mobile industry. The company now promises “seven years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates.”
- This commitment ensures that the Pixel 8 series will receive updates through Android 20, extending to 2030, as confirmed on a support page.
- Specifically, Google has pledged that the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro will receive OS updates, Feature Drops, and security updates until 2030. This significantly surpasses Apple’s five-year update policy.
Pricing comparison: Pixel 8 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro
The base model of the Pixel 8 Pro (128GB) is $999 in the US, a $100 increase compared to the Pixel 7 Pro.
Considering Google’s promise of an unprecedented seven years of OS updates along with notable advancements in AI and camera technology, this price is justified. Similarly, the entry-level 128GB model of the iPhone 15 Pro is also available at $999.
Performance Comparison
Processor and Chipset
Pixel 8 Pro: Tensor G3 Details and Performance
- Chipset Overview: The Pixel 8 Pro is powered by Google’s Tensor G3 chip, featuring a new nine-core architecture with four Cortex-A715 cores (2.37GHz), four Cortex-A510 cores (1.7GHz), and a Cortex-X3 prime core (2.91GHz).
- Performance Improvements: Compared to its predecessors, Tensor G3 offers enhanced AI capabilities and efficiency, making it suitable for demanding tasks and advanced features like real-time translation and enhanced photography.
iPhone 15 Pro: A17 Pro Chip Specifications and Capabilities
- Chipset Overview: The iPhone 15 Pro is equipped with Apple’s A17 Pro chip, which boasts a hexa-core design with two high-performance cores and four high-efficiency cores, all built on TSMC’s 3nm process node.
- Performance Improvements: The A17 Pro delivers exceptional performance with high clock speeds (up to 3.70GHz for performance cores) and a powerful 6-core GPU, enhancing graphics and gaming experiences.
Benchmark Scores and Real-World Performance
Comparative Analysis of Geekbench Scores and User Experience
- Geekbench Scores: The iPhone 15 Pro’s A17 Pro chip consistently outperforms the Pixel 8 Pro’s Tensor G3 in benchmark tests, showcasing higher single-core and multi-core scores.
- Real-World Performance: While the iPhone 15 Pro excels in raw performance and gaming capabilities, the Pixel 8 Pro offers a balanced experience with robust AI-driven features and efficient handling of everyday tasks.
Power Efficiency and Heat Management
How Each Device Handles Performance Under Load and Heat Issues
- Pixel 8 Pro: The Tensor G3’s efficiency-focused design helps manage power consumption effectively, minimizing heat generation during prolonged use. However, it may not match the iPhone 15 Pro in peak performance scenarios.
- iPhone 15 Pro: The A17 Pro’s high performance can lead to higher heat output, particularly during intensive tasks. Reports suggest that the iPhone 15 Pro may experience overheating issues, although Apple is addressing these concerns through software optimizations.
Software and Updates
Operating System and User Interface
Pixel 8 Pro: Android 20 and Google’s Customizations
- Operating System: The Pixel 8 Pro runs on Android 20, featuring Google’s latest enhancements and user interface updates.
- Customizations: It includes Google’s unique software elements, such as the Material You design for personalized theming, advanced AI features for enhanced user experience, and exclusive Pixel-only functionalities like Live Translate and Call Screen.
iPhone 15 Pro: iOS 17 and Apple’s Ecosystem
- Operating System: The iPhone 15 Pro runs on iOS 17, which offers the latest in Apple’s mobile software innovation.
- Ecosystem Integration: iOS 17 emphasizes seamless integration with Apple’s broader ecosystem, including features like Continuity for cross-device functionality, Focus modes, and enhanced privacy controls. The interface is designed for smooth navigation and a cohesive experience across Apple devices.
Software Updates and Support
Duration and Frequency of Updates Provided by Google and Apple
- Google Pixel 8 Pro: Google guarantees up to seven years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates, ensuring the Pixel 8 Pro will remain current with the latest software enhancements and security patches through Android 20, up to 2030.
- Apple iPhone 15 Pro: Apple provides up to five years of iOS updates, including major OS releases and security patches. This ensures continued access to the latest features and improvements, with regular updates for optimal performance and security.
Additional Software Features
Unique Software Features and Enhancements
- Pixel 8 Pro: This device includes exclusive features such as the “Best Take” function, which uses AI to replace blurry photos with better ones, and advanced editing tools in Google Photos like Magic Eraser and Photo Unblur. The Pixel 8 Pro also introduces new functionalities in the Camera app, such as Pro mode and enhanced video recording options.
- iPhone 15 Pro: This model features iOS 17 enhancements like interactive widgets, improved Focus modes, and new privacy tools. It also benefits from Apple’s ecosystem integrations, such as Handoff and Universal Control, and advanced features like ProRAW and ProRes video recording for high-quality media production.
Pricing and Value
Base Model Pricing
Comparison of the Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Base Models
- Pixel 8 Pro: The entry-level model of the Pixel 8 Pro, with 128GB of storage, is priced at $999 in the US. This marks a $100 increase compared to the previous Pixel 7 Pro model.
- iPhone 15 Pro: Similarly, the base model of the iPhone 15 Pro with 128GB of storage is also priced at $999. This pricing aligns with the Pixel 8 Pro, reflecting the premium nature of both devices.
Value for Money
Assessing the Overall Value Based on Features, Performance, and Pricing
- Pixel 8 Pro: Offers exceptional value with its extended software support of up to seven years, advanced AI features, and high-quality camera capabilities. The new Tensor G3 chipset and enhanced display technology contribute to a compelling package, especially for those invested in Google’s ecosystem.
- iPhone 15 Pro: This device provides substantial value with its powerful A17 Pro chip, superior build quality, and integration within the Apple ecosystem. It also benefits from Apple’s five-year software support and robust features like ProRes video recording and advanced camera functionalities. The iPhone’s seamless integration with other Apple products and services adds significant value, especially for existing Apple users.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the key differences between the Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro’s processors?
The Pixel 8 Pro features Google’s Tensor G3 chip, designed for enhanced AI performance and efficiency, with a nine-core architecture. The iPhone 15 Pro uses Apple’s A17 Pro chip, built on a 3nm process with a hexa-core design and a high-performance GPU, providing superior raw processing power and graphics capabilities.
How do the camera systems of the Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro compare?
The Pixel 8 Pro offers a triple-camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor, a 48MP Tela photo lens with 5x optical zoom, and a 48MP ulta rawhide lens. The iPhone 15 Pro features a versatile camera system with various focal lengths and a periscope lens for 5x optical zoom, along with advanced features like 10-bit HDR video recording and spatial video support.
Which phone has a better display?
The Pixel 8 Pro has a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED HDR10+ display with a peak brightness of 2,400 nits, while the iPhone 15 Pro features a 6.1-inch LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED display with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. The Pixel 8 Pro’s display offers higher brightness, while the iPhone 15 Pro’s display supports Dolby Vision.
What are the battery capacities and charging speeds for each phone?
The Pixel 8 Pro has a 5,050 mAh battery, supports 30W wired fast charging, and offers 23W wireless and reverse wireless charging. The iPhone 15 Pro has a smaller 3,274 mAh battery and supports 25W wired fast charging, 15W MagSafe wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
How do the Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro handle software updates?
The Pixel 8 Pro promises up to seven years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates. The iPhone 15 Pro is guaranteed up to five years of iOS updates and security patches, reflecting Apple’s commitment to long-term software support.
Which phone offers better connectivity options?
The iPhone 15 Pro features the Snapdragon X70 modem with su, which supports spectrums and peak download speeds of up to 10Gbps. The Pixel 8 Pro supports mmWave and sub-6GHz 5G bands but uses a less advanced modem, limiting its peak speed and performance compared to the iPhone 15 Pro.
What are the main strengths of the Pixel 8 Pro’s software features?
The Pixel 8 Pro excels with features like Google’s AI-driven “Best Take” function, advanced photo editing tools, and exclusive camera modes. It also benefits from a new Pro mode and extensive customization options in Android 20.
How does the iPhone 15 Pro enhance the user experience with iOS 17?
The iPhone 15 Pro features iOS 17 with interactive widgets, improved Focus modes, and enhanced privacy controls. It also integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem, offering features like Handoff and Universal Control for a smooth user experience across devices.
Conclusion
When choosing between the Pixel 8 Pro and the iPhone 15 Pro, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and priorities. Both smartphones represent the pinnacle of their respective ecosystems, offering a range of high-end features and cutting-edge technology.
Pixel 8 Pro stands out with its advanced AI-driven Tensor G3 chip, impressive camera system with extensive zoom capabilities, and exceptional display brightness. Its extended seven-year software support is a significant advantage for those seeking longevity and frequent updates. The Pixel 8 Pro’s strengths lie in its innovative software features and its ability to deliver a high level of performance and efficiency over an extended period.
