Google just announced the new Pixel 8. We compare it to its biggest rival, in this Google Pixel 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S23 comparison.
The Galaxy S23 is one of the best compact Android phones on the market. That said, there aren’t a ton of other competitors here. Thankfully, the Google Pixel 8 shrinks down just enough to make it a viable alternative. So, which phone is the best choice for your needs? Let’s take a closer look in this Google Pixel 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S23 comparison.
Google Pixel 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S23: At a glance
The Galaxy S23 has a more powerful processor than the Pixel 8, though the latter has better AI and machine learning features.
The Pixel 8 has a slightly larger display than the Galaxy S23.
The Galaxy S23 is smaller and lighter than the Pixel 8.
The Google Pixel 8 has a better software update policy than the Galaxy S23. Google Pixel 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S23: Specs
At the heart of the Pixel 8’s experience is the Tensor G3 chipset, which is a pretty solid upgrade from last year’s Tensor G2. There’s a next-gen ARM CPU, a more powerful GPU, a next-gen TPU, and new image sensor capabilities. As always, the Tensor’s primary focus is machine learning and AI over raw performance. It’s these special abilities that enable some of the Pixel’s coolest features like Magic Eraser, speech-to-text-translation, and its advanced photo and video processing.
If raw performance is more important to you, the Galaxy S23 takes a small lead here with its overclocked Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC. Not only is this the fastest Qualcomm chip currently available, but it also has impressive thermals — something that is historically a struggle for the Tensor chip. It’s too early to say whether the Tensor G3 has resolved its predecessor’s overheating issues, but it’s very likely that the latest Snapdragon 8 still holds an advantage in this aspect.
When it comes to games and high-performance apps, the Galaxy S23 will be the stronger performer. That said, it’s unlikely you’ll notice this in day-to-day use.
While we’ll talk more about the camera later, it’s important to note that the new front camera features Class 3 biometric capabilities, ensuring a highly secure face unlock experience comparable to the Pixel’s fingerprint scanner.
The displays aren’t too different on paper. The Pixel 8 packs a 6.2-inch OLED with a resolution of 2,400 x 1,080 and a 60-120Hz refresh rate. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S23 has a more compact 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 2,340 x 1,080 and 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.
Samsung’s Dynamic AMOLED displays are known for extremely accurate colors and contrast, but it’s worth noting Google also utilizes screens made from Samsung Display. The Pixel 8 has a slight advantage thanks to its 2,000 nits peak brightness, versus 1750 nits for the Galaxy S23. Both should perform well even in harsher outdoor lighting conditions.
The Samsung Galaxy S23 wins a few points for improved durability, thanks to its use of Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back. Samsung includes the latest glass on all its flagships, including the S23 Ultra. Conversely, Google reserves the latest glass for the Pixel 8 Pro, sticking to the original Gorilla Glass Victus for the Pixel 8. All of Samsung and Google’s flagships have the same IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, however.
Let’s talk software. Google is known for its minimalist approach to Android. It sticks to a more stock-like skin on top of Android 14 while still adding its own special features to the mix.
