The Google Pixel 8 was one of the best smartphone releases of 2023. Its compact size, excellent camera, and top-notch software made it a compelling purchase at just $699.
Fast forward to 2024, with new releases from Samsung and OnePlus, as well as rumors about the Google Pixel 9. I decided to revisit the Pixel 8 by inserting my SIM card to see how it holds up.
What I still love about the Google Pixel 8
The Pixel 8 remains an easy phone to live with in 2024. Its size, clean software, and user-friendly interface make it a joy to use. The screen size strikes a perfect balance, and the Pixel’s camera quality is still impressive.
The Pixel 8’s software features like Circle to Search and the camera’s performance continue to impress me. It may not be the most advanced camera system, but the results are consistently great.
Google’s Magic Editor tool is another standout feature, providing powerful editing capabilities for photos. Its object eraser tool works with impressive accuracy, making editing a breeze on the Pixel 8.
My biggest issues with the Pixel 8
Despite its strengths, the Pixel 8 has some noticeable shortcomings. The design, especially the rounded corners, can make holding the phone challenging. Battery life is decent, but not exceptional, and the charging speed is underwhelming compared to other phones in its price range.
While the Pixel 8 performs well with the Tensor G3 chip, it still struggles with heat management and occasional software glitches. The overall user experience is good, but there is room for improvement.
Is the Pixel 8 still worth it in 2024?
While there are better options available in 2024, the Pixel 8’s charm lies in its software, size, and camera quality. Despite its flaws, it remains a delightful phone to use, blending technical imperfections with a pleasant user experience.
Even with newer models on the market, the Pixel 8’s appeal is hard to resist. It may not be perfect, but its unique strengths make it a worthwhile device to consider.
