
Google Pixel 8
128 GB, Obsidian, 6.20", SIM + eSIM, 50 Mpx, 5G
Google Pixel 8
128 GB, Obsidian, 6.20", SIM + eSIM, 50 Mpx, 5G
Brief overview:
+ Good display, which has become noticeably better in the sun
+ Good working speed
+ Many AI options such as magic eraser, intelligent widgets, assistants
+ 7 years of Android and security updates according to Google
+ Good camera
+ Pure Android as intended by Google
- Battery performance rather average according to first impressions
- Smaller than many smartphones, but still larger and bulkier than my Pixel 5
- Sometimes confusing AI functions that you first have to discover
- Camera is good, no question, but after 3 years I was expecting more of a revolution, but it feels like an evolution
Details:
It is noticeable that the camera hump is a bit bulky and the weight has also increased compared to the 5 series. Nevertheless, it is a rather smaller smartphone in today's comparison, which is what I wanted.
The display is good, but only really comes into its own in direct sunlight, where you can finally see things properly.
Some of the many AI functions are impressive, but you really have to take your time and read all the Pixel tips on the functions and then activate/use them accordingly.
Based on initial impressions, the battery is good and lasts for the day even with intensive use (always subjective). Nevertheless, I would have liked a little more here and I fear that in 1.5/2 years it could become scarcer here.
The camera (all subjective opinions) is definitely always a strong point of the Pixel and the main camera also takes excellent pictures here. The telephoto camera drops off a little, but still performs at a good level. Macro photography is possible with the main camera and I found the first tests to be good.
The night shots have also improved again.
Overall, the camera will give me pleasure in everyday life and when travelling, but after 3 years I was still hoping for more. But well... Maybe my expectations were too high.
Google's update policy has improved again and with 7 years promised, it's a real plank.
I hope that the repair/replacement battery options will also be as long, then there won't be much in the way of long use.
Conclusion
The now higher price is justified by updates. The performance is good, but could be a bit better overall for the price.
I am awarding it 4 stars for the time being and reserve the right to adjust upwards or downwards after further everyday experience.
This review was created for a different variant: Pixel 8 (128 GB, Hazel, 6.20", SIM + eSIM, 50 Mpx, 5G)
Not a bad mobile for the price, very good cameras, it remains to be seen how good the processor will still be in 5 years' time. In any case, a great battery for the size, unfortunately it charges relatively slowly. However, the 7 years of OS updates are the real selling point. Nobody needs more smartphones, but another zoom camera wouldn't hurt either
Pro
Contra
I've had Nexus phones and different Pixels (1,2,3 & 6), and I"m so happy I got the 8 now.
Google has listened to their users and went back to a phone size you can actually hold in 1 hand. On top of that the OS and its AI just keeps getting better and better.
I was a long time iPhone use before, and I still stick to Mac, but since many years I really don't understand why anyone would still buy an iPhone when you have Pixels who are just SO MUCH better at everything.
And I always find it hilarious when Apple announces a new feature, which the Pixels already had for several years.
Try a Pixel, I'm sure you won't regret it!
Pro
Contra
This review was created for a different variant: Pixel 8 (128 GB, Hazel, 6.20", SIM + eSIM, 50 Mpx, 5G)
The device would have been great, but the manufacturer's repair service and communication is a black box. I find it unacceptable that my main device is simply being repaired for 2-4 weeks. Other manufacturers are much quicker. Never again Google.
Contra
Pro: Camera, image processing, display
Cons: no continuous shooting like with Huawei
The switch from the Huawei P30 Pro was definitely worth it. The main reason for the switch was the great test results that the Google Pixel achieved on various platforms. Even a Pixel 7a in the family has already impressed.
The software runs smoothly, the camera takes great macro shots and the pictures in dark lighting conditions are also impressive.
Removing unwanted things from pictures also works intuitively and is fun for more.
In short, the mobile has convinced with 7 years of updates you are also one step ahead of the competition from Apple.
It remains to be seen what the long-term durability will be like
Pro
Contra
This review was created for a different variant: Pixel 8 (128 GB, Rose, 6.20", SIM + eSIM, 50 Mpx, 5G)
I was a little sceptical when I had to upgrade from my Pixel 5 to a new mobile.
Even though the new Samsung Galaxy S24, for example, is a bit handier and lighter, I still wanted to opt for a Pixel (again) because the main camera is simply amazing!
However, I sometimes read about the Pixel 8's lack of battery life and was a little unsettled. Now, after a few days of intensive use, my Pixel 8 has been running for 14 hours and still has 15 out of 100%. I've been using it a lot today for social media (in Wifi and network), the occasional Spotify via Bluetooth, emails, Netflix, several phone calls, etc.
My fears that I would have to constantly switch to energy-saving mode were therefore completely unfounded.
I only deactivated 5G right from the start (LTE works great) and when I set it up for the first time, I manually transferred the data from the previous mobile to the new one.
The display is very nice, the speakers are good and give no cause for criticism. The main camera is also a noticeable upgrade over the Pixel 8, but I can't judge the front camera - I rarely use it.
Conclusion: I think the Pixel is really great and I'm very happy to have chosen it. Despite the protective cover (Spigen Rugged Armor, great feel and looks great in real life!), the mobile fits well in my trouser pocket and feels comfortable in my hands. The camera is fabulous and the battery lasts through a day of intensive use and a lot of screen time without any problems.
The only annoyance was actually that there were problems with the Whatsapp backup, but this was not due to the Pixel, but to the app. To prevent this from happening to you, I recommend first making sure that the backups are not encrypted with a 64-digit code, or that you can still find the code if necessary (or use your own password).
For me, an absolute buy recommendation for mobile phones. I am very satisfied.
Addendum (1 week later): The battery has got even better and easily lasts me 1.5 days at the weekend and a lot of use. Top!
Pro
Contra
This review was created for a different variant: Pixel 8 (256 GB, Obsidian, 6.20", SIM + eSIM, 50 Mpx, 5G)
6 out of 161 reviews