Google’s Pixel phones have evolved from a niche product to a staple in the smartphone market. The Pixel range has become as ubiquitous as Samsung Galaxy phones and iPhones, thanks to its consistent improvement over the years.
A major factor in the success of Pixel phones is their camera system. The combination of Google’s software and quality hardware has made the Pixel one of the top choices for smartphone photography. Despite the overall excellence of the Google Pixel 8, there are valid reasons why you may want to consider other options.
The Tensor G3 processor falls short
While the Tensor G3 is a significant improvement over its predecessors, it still lags behind processors from more established manufacturers like Snapdragon and MediaTek. Despite its flagship status, the Tensor G3 faces challenges such as temperature issues, especially during intensive tasks like gaming where it tends to heat up more than desired. In comparison, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 offers better performance without the heating concerns.
Furthermore, the Tensor G3 is not as powerful as competing chips, with lower clock speeds than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. Although this may not be noticeable in day-to-day use, those seeking top-tier hardware might find the Tensor G3 lacking in comparison.
These performance limitations also impact the phone’s battery life, another area where the Pixel 8 falls short.
Battery life and charging concerns
The Pixel 8 continues the trend of underwhelming battery life common in the Pixel series, despite some improvements. With a modest 4,575mAh battery, the Pixel 8 struggles to provide more than a day of usage, falling short of the longer battery lives offered by devices like the Samsung Galaxy S24 or OnePlus 12.
Additionally, the charging speeds of the Pixel 8, capped at 27W, are relatively slower compared to some of its competitors, further diminishing its appeal.
Limitations of the camera system
While the main lens of the Google Pixel 8’s camera is exceptional, the secondary lenses, such as the ultrawide lens, do not meet the same high standards. The lack of detail and versatility in these secondary lenses limits the overall imaging capabilities of the Pixel 8 compared to devices with more robust camera systems.
Consider other alternatives
If you’re considering the Pixel 8, keep in mind that there are several other compelling options available in the market. Devices like the Google Pixel 8 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S24, or OnePlus 12 offer alternatives with better overall performance and features. Waiting for the upcoming Google Pixel 9 release could also be a wise choice, as newer models are expected to address some of the current Pixel 8’s shortcomings.
Anticipate the Google Pixel 9
Lastly, the imminent release of the Google Pixel 9 serves as a compelling reason to wait before purchasing the Pixel 8. The upcoming Pixel 9 series is expected to offer significant improvements over its predecessor, including better performance, enhanced camera capabilities, and improved battery life. Waiting for the Pixel 9 launch event in August could provide you with better options and potentially discounted Pixel 8 models.
