Apple iPhone 16 Plus vs Google Pixel 8
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Both phones deliver premium experiences at different price points, with the iPhone 16 Plus commanding a $200 premium. Apple's larger 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display offers stunning visuals but remains locked at 60Hz, while Pixel 8's 6.2-inch Actua OLED screen refreshes at 120Hz for noticeably smoother scrolling. Performance-wise, the A18 chip and Pixel's Tensor G3 both excel, though Apple typically edges ahead in raw speed. Camera systems differ philosophically: iPhone emphasizes Dolby Vision video and computational photography, while Pixel's 50MP main sensor with OIS and advanced AI processing produces exceptional photos in any condition. Battery capacity favors iPhone slightly (4674 vs 4575 mAh), but Pixel charges faster at 27W versus 20W wired. For $200 less, Pixel 8 offers superior value with 120Hz display refresh and practical AI features like Magic Eraser. iPhone 16 Plus justifies its price through ecosystem integration and longevity. Choose Pixel 8 for budget-conscious buyers seeking flagship performance; opt for iPhone 16 Plus if you're invested in Apple's ecosystem.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Google Pixel 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iOS 18 | Android 14 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 199 g | 187 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 160.9 x 77.8 x 7.8 mm | 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 48 MP | 50 MP, f/1.68, OIS |
| Front camera | 12 MP | 10.5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps Dolby Vision | 4K@60fps |
| Ultrawide | 12 MP | 12 MP, f/2.2, 125.8-degree |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 4674 mAh | 4575 mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired | 27W wired |
| Wireless charging | 25W MagSafe | 18W (Pixel Stand) |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.7 inches | 6.2 inches |
| Type | Super Retina XDR OLED | Actua OLED |
| Resolution | 2796 x 1290 | 2400 x 1080 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 2000 | 2000 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Hexa-core | Nona-core (1x3.0 GHz Cortex-X3 & 4x2.45 GHz Cortex-A715 & 4x2.15 GHz Cortex-A510) |
| GPU | Apple GPU (5-core) | Immortalis-G715s MC10 |
| Chipset | Apple A18 | Google Tensor G3 |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 2.0 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple iPhone 16 Plus
Pros
- Excellent battery life from large 4674 mAh cell
- A18 chip supports Apple Intelligence
- New Camera Control button
- Bright 2000-nit display
- More affordable than Pro Max
Cons
- Still locked to 60Hz refresh rate
- No telephoto camera
- USB-C limited to USB 2.0 speeds
- No always-on display
Google Pixel 8
Pros
- Compact and comfortable design
- Seven years of updates
- Excellent main camera
- Bright Actua OLED display
- On-device AI features
Cons
- No telephoto lens
- Tensor G3 thermals can be inconsistent
- Only 8 GB RAM
- Slow charging vs rivals
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