Google’s Pixel 8 series continues to push the boundaries of smartphone photography with its advanced camera systems. In this article, we will compare the different models of the Google Pixel 8 based on their camera capabilities, including hardware specifications, software features, and overall performance.
This in-depth analysis will help you understand the strengths and unique features of each model, guiding you in choosing the best Pixel 8 for your photography needs.
Overview of Google Pixel 8 Models
The Google Pixel 8 series includes the following models:
- Google Pixel 8
- Google Pixel 8 Pro
Each model is equipped with a high-performance camera system, but there are key differences that set them apart. Let’s dive into the details.
Camera Specifications and Features Comparison
The table below summarizes the camera specifications and features of the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro:
| Feature | Google Pixel 8 | Google Pixel 8 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera Setup | Dual Camera | Triple Camera |
| Main Camera | 50 MP, f/1.9, 1/1.31″, OIS | 50 MP, f/1.9, 1/1.31″, OIS |
| Ultra-Wide Camera | 12 MP, f/2.2, 114˚ | 12 MP, f/2.2, 126˚ |
| Telephoto Camera | – | 48 MP, f/3.5, 5x optical zoom, OIS |
| Selfie Camera | 12 MP, f/2.0 | 12 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 30/60fps, 1080p @ 30/60fps | 4K @ 30/60fps, 1080p @ 30/60fps |
| HDR+ | Yes | Yes |
| HDR+ Enhanced | Yes | Yes |
| Night Sight | Yes | Yes |
| Astrophotography Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Super Res Zoom | Yes, up to 7x | Yes, up to 30x |
| Portrait Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Motion Photos | Yes | Yes |
| Top Shot | Yes | Yes |
| Dual Exposure Controls | Yes | Yes |
| RAW Image Capture | Yes | Yes |
| AI-Based Features | HDR+, Night Sight, Top Shot | HDR+, Night Sight, Top Shot |
| Additional Features | Google Lens, Photobooth | Google Lens, Photobooth, Pro Controls |
Detailed Comparison
1. Rear Camera Setup
Google Pixel 8: The Google Pixel 8 features a dual-camera setup on the rear, consisting of a 50 MP main camera and a 12 MP ultra-wide camera. This combination offers versatility for most photography scenarios, from detailed wide shots to expansive landscapes.
Google Pixel 8 Pro: The Pixel 8 Pro takes it a step further with a triple-camera setup, adding a 48 MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom to the mix. This addition makes the Pro model more suitable for capturing distant subjects with clarity and detail.
2. Main Camera
Both models share the same 50 MP main camera, featuring a large 1/1.31″ sensor and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). This camera excels in various lighting conditions, producing sharp and vibrant images with excellent dynamic range.
3. Ultra-Wide Camera
Google Pixel 8: The ultra-wide camera on the Pixel 8 has a 12 MP sensor and a 114˚ field of view. It is ideal for capturing wide-angle shots, such as group photos and landscapes.
Google Pixel 8 Pro: The Pixel 8 Pro’s ultra-wide camera offers a slightly wider 126˚ field of view, providing even more coverage for wide-angle photography. The additional field of view can be beneficial for architectural and landscape shots.
4. Telephoto Camera
Google Pixel 8: The standard Pixel 8 does not include a telephoto camera, relying on Super Res Zoom for digital zoom capabilities.
Google Pixel 8 Pro: The Pixel 8 Pro features a 48 MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom and OIS. This camera allows for high-quality zoomed-in shots, maintaining detail and reducing blur. The combination of optical and Super Res Zoom offers up to 30x zoom, making it a standout feature for the Pro model.
5. Selfie Camera
Both models are equipped with a 12 MP front-facing camera with an f/2.0 aperture. This camera supports features like portrait mode and Night Sight, ensuring high-quality selfies even in low-light conditions.
6. Video Recording
The video recording capabilities are identical across both models, supporting 4K resolution at 30/60fps and 1080p at 30/60fps. The advanced stabilization and HDR support ensure smooth and vibrant video footage.
7. HDR+ and HDR+ Enhanced
HDR+ and HDR+ Enhanced are available on both models, leveraging computational photography to combine multiple exposures into a single, well-balanced image. This feature is particularly useful in high-contrast scenes, ensuring details in both shadows and highlights are preserved.
8. Night Sight and Astrophotography Mode
Night Sight is a powerful feature on both Pixel 8 models, enabling impressive low-light photography without the need for a flash. The Astrophotography Mode, designed for capturing the night sky, is also available on both models. With a stable surface or tripod, you can capture stunning images of stars and other celestial bodies.
9. Super Res Zoom
Google Pixel 8: The Pixel 8 offers Super Res Zoom up to 7x, using computational algorithms to enhance zoomed-in shots and reduce blur.
Google Pixel 8 Pro: The Pixel 8 Pro significantly enhances zoom capabilities with Super Res Zoom up to 30x, combining the optical zoom of the telephoto camera with computational techniques for exceptional detail and clarity.
10. Portrait Mode
Portrait Mode is available on both models, using advanced depth sensing and AI to create beautiful bokeh effects, blurring the background while keeping the subject in sharp focus. This feature works well for both rear and front cameras, providing flexibility for different portrait scenarios.
11. Motion Photos and Top Shot
Both models support Motion Photos and Top Shot, capturing a few seconds of video before and after the shutter is pressed. Top Shot analyzes these frames and suggests the best ones based on factors like smiles, open eyes, and overall composition, ensuring you get the perfect shot even in dynamic situations.
12. Dual Exposure Controls
Dual Exposure Controls are present in both models, allowing you to separately adjust the brightness of the highlights and shadows in your frame. This feature is useful for high-contrast scenes where you want to balance the exposure without losing detail in either the bright or dark areas.
13. RAW Image Capture
For photographers who want maximum control over their images, both Pixel 8 models support RAW image capture. RAW files retain more detail and allow for extensive post-processing, making them ideal for those who enjoy editing their photos.
14. AI-Based Features
Both models leverage AI for various camera features, including HDR+, Night Sight, and Top Shot. These AI-based enhancements improve image quality and make it easier to capture great photos in a variety of conditions.
15. Additional Features
Google Pixel 8: The standard Pixel 8 includes features like Google Lens and Photobooth, enhancing its versatility and usability.
Google Pixel 8 Pro: In addition to the features found on the standard model, the Pixel 8 Pro offers Pro Controls, providing advanced users with more manual control over camera settings, such as ISO, shutter speed, and focus. This makes the Pro model particularly appealing to photography enthusiasts and professionals.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel 8 series offers impressive camera capabilities across all models, but there are key differences that cater to different photography needs. The standard Pixel 8 is an excellent choice for most users, providing a versatile and powerful camera system. However, for those who require advanced features like a telephoto camera with high optical zoom, wider ultra-wide capabilities, and more manual controls, the Pixel 8 Pro is the superior option.
