The launch of the Google Pixel 10 Pro has set the stage for a direct comparison with its predecessor, the Google Pixel 8 Pro. Announced in March 2024, the Pixel 10 Pro is positioned as a compact flagship, while the Pixel 8 Pro serves as the company’s larger general flagship model from 2023. This article examines their specifications, design, performance, and camera capabilities to help consumers make informed choices.
Specifications Overview
The specifications of both smartphones highlight their advanced technology. The Google Pixel 10 Pro retails at $999, whereas the Google Pixel 8 Pro is priced at $645. Below is a summary of their key features:
– **Dimensions**: Pixel 10 Pro – 152.8 x 72 x 8.6 mm; Pixel 8 Pro – 162.6 x 76.5 x 8.8 mm
– **Weight**: Pixel 10 Pro – 207 grams; Pixel 8 Pro – 213 grams
– **Display**: Pixel 10 Pro – 6.3-inch Super Actual LTPO OLED; Pixel 8 Pro – 6.7-inch LTPO OLED
– **Chipset**: Pixel 10 Pro – Google Tensor G5; Pixel 8 Pro – Google Tensor G3
– **RAM**: Pixel 10 Pro – 16GB; Pixel 8 Pro – 12GB
– **Storage Options**: Both models offer 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations, though the Pixel 10 Pro uses faster UFS 4.0 storage compared to UFS 3.1 in the Pixel 8 Pro.
– **Battery Capacity**: Pixel 10 Pro – 4,870mAh; Pixel 8 Pro – 5,050mAh
– **Main Camera**: Both feature a 50MP sensor, but the Pixel 10 Pro includes a 48MP periscope telephoto camera, while the Pixel 8 Pro does not.
Design and Build Quality
Both smartphones exhibit a premium build quality, combining aluminum and glass materials. The Pixel 10 Pro features more rounded corners and a flat backplate, contrasting with the slightly rounded frame of the Pixel 8 Pro. Each device has uniform bezels and similar button placements, with the power/lock button positioned above the volume controls.
Notably, the camera visors on the back differ in design. The Pixel 10 Pro has a pill-shaped camera bar, while the Pixel 8 Pro’s camera system tapers towards the side frame. Both devices are certified with IP68 ratings for water and dust resistance, ensuring durability under various conditions.
Display Quality
The display technology in both models is impressive. The Google Pixel 10 Pro offers a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 2856 x 1280 pixels and a peak brightness of 3,300 nits. In comparison, the Google Pixel 8 Pro features a slightly larger 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 2992 x 1344 pixels and a peak brightness of 2,400 nits.
Both displays support HDR10+ content, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks. However, users may notice that the Pixel 10 Pro’s screen performs better in direct sunlight due to its higher brightness capabilities.
Performance and Battery Life
The Google Tensor G5 chip in the Pixel 10 Pro offers enhanced performance, being a 3nm processor compared to the 4nm Tensor G3 in the Pixel 8 Pro. The former is paired with 16GB of RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, delivering faster data access and reduced heating during intensive tasks.
While both smartphones perform well, the Pixel 10 Pro exhibits superior speed and efficiency. Daily usage reveals a noticeable difference in snappiness, especially for demanding applications and gaming. Despite the Pixel 8 Pro’s capable performance, it tends to lag behind its successor.
Battery life is another critical factor. The Pixel 10 Pro, with its 4,870mAh battery, outperforms the Pixel 8 Pro’s 5,050mAh battery in everyday usage. Users can expect a couple of extra hours of screen-on time from the Pixel 10 Pro, making it a more efficient choice despite its smaller battery capacity.
Camera Capabilities
Photography remains a strong focus for Google, and both devices are equipped with advanced camera systems. The Pixel 10 Pro boasts a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultra-wide camera, and a 48MP periscope telephoto lens, while the Pixel 8 Pro features similar specifications but lacks the periscope lens.
While hardware improvements are subtle, image processing advancements have yielded better performance in the Pixel 10 Pro. Users report that it captures more detail, particularly in low-light conditions and when using zoom features.
Audio and Connectivity
Both smartphones feature stereo speakers that deliver good audio quality, although neither device includes a traditional audio jack. Users can connect wired headphones via the USB Type-C port or opt for Bluetooth connectivity, with the Pixel 10 Pro supporting Bluetooth 6.0 and the Pixel 8 Pro supporting Bluetooth 5.3.
The absence of a charger in the box for both models aligns with industry trends, as users are encouraged to use existing chargers or purchase new ones separately.
In summary, the Google Pixel 10 Pro offers significant upgrades over the Pixel 8 Pro in terms of performance, display brightness, and camera capabilities. Consumers seeking a compact flagship with advanced features may find the Pixel 10 Pro a worthy investment, especially with its competitive price point.
