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Is the Pixel 8 Pro worth it?

Is the top-of-the-line Pixel worth the Pro name tag?
Last Updated on October 9, 2023
Image shows the text "Is the Pixel 8 Pro worth it?" next to the Bay blue Pixel 8 Pro and 3 question marks, on a purple gradient background.
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The release of the Google Pixel 8 Pro has created quite a buzz in the smartphone market. As the latest addition to the Pixel Pro line, it promises notable enhancements that make it a strong contender as Google’s best flagship phone yet. However, before making the decision to upgrade, it’s essential to weigh up the pros and cons of the Pixel 8 Pro. Ultimately, we’ll be answering the question – is the Pixel 8 Pro worth it? In this article, we will delve into the design, display, performance, camera, and overall value of the Pixel 8 Pro to help you determine whether or not this smartphone is worth buying.

What will you get from the Pixel 8 Pro?

Design

The Pixel 8 Pro was launched on October 4, 2023, and is available in three color options: Obsidian (black), Porcelain (off-white), and Bay (blue). It offers 12GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 128GB to an impressive 1TB model for Pixel users in the U.S. When it comes to its design, the Pixel 8 Pro builds on the sleek Pixel aesthetic by introducing a curved edge look, oval-shaped camera housing, and matte glass case. Featuring Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and aluminum construction with an IP68 rating, this phone is both beautiful and durable. In terms of display, the Pixel 8 Pro boasts a 6.7-inch Super Actua Display, with a resolution of 1344×2992 and a peak brightness of 2400 nits. It also supports refresh rates of up to 120Hz and features an always-on mode for quick glance notifications.

Performance

Under the hood, the Pixel 8 Pro is powered by the Google Tensor G3 chip and boasts 12GB of RAM. The Tensor G3 chip has had every major subsystem has been upgraded, including its TPU; this highlights how AI is at the core of the Pixel 8 Pro experience. The 8 Pro runs Google’s foundation models directly on the device, and ML models enhance every aspect of user experience. Text-to-speech models can read articles out loud automatically, Pixel Call Assist can decline spam calls for you, and it’s even got built-in generative AI. The inclusion of on-board ray tracing capabilities in the Google Tensor G3 chip enhances gaming performance, making it a great choice for mobile gamers as well as tech enthusiasts. If that’s not enough, it’s one of the first smartphones to run on Android 14, offering a seamless user experience with impressive specifications to go alongside its powerful new processor.

Camera

In the camera department, the Pixel 8 Pro boasts a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultrawide camera, a 48MP telephoto lens, and a 10.5MP selfie camera. However, what sets the Pixel 8 Pro apart is its array of ‘Pro Control’ features that allow users to edit photos, remove visual background distractions and unwanted audio, and correct focus in blurry images. These additional software capabilities make the Pixel 8 Pro a strong contender for photography enthusiasts and content creators.

Should I upgrade to the Pixel 8 Pro from the Pixel 6 Pro?

Do you currently own a Google Pixel 6 Pro and are wondering if you should upgrade to the newly released Google Pixel 8 Pro? Well, the Pixel 6 Pro is undoubtedly a great device, however, the Pixel 8 Pro dominates the Pixel 6 Pro in most aspects. With its superior performance, refined design, vibrant display, and advanced camera features, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is a compelling choice for those seeking a top-of-the-line Android flagship smartphone. If you’re not sure what divides the Pixel 8 Pro from previous Pixel models, we’ve weighed up the Pixel 7 Pro vs the Pixel 8 Pro, as well as the Pixel 8 vs the Pixel 8 Pro.

Final thoughts

In all, the decision to upgrade the Google Pixel 8 Pro ultimately depends on individual preferences, budget, and the need for the latest features and specifications. With its impressive capabilities, the Pixel 8 Pro is a worthy investment for those seeking a premium smartphone experience that’s so fully powered by AI models; it’s unlike anything else offered on the current smartphone market. Additionally, Google has marked this device as future-proof by promising seven years of OS and security updates for the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. On the whole, it’s easy to come to the conclusion that the Pixel 8 Pro is definitely worth it if you’re looking to upgrade to a next-gen Android smartphone.

Marla writes across a wide range of topics across PC Guide, including AI, PC hardware, and news on the latest tech releases. She's a passionate writer that's interested in the future of technology.