COMPARED

Samsung Galaxy S23 vs Google Pixel 8 – which Android should you buy?

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Rhys Melhado-Thompson

Published: 16:42, 14 Dec 2023
Updated: 16:42, 14 Dec 2023

WITH so many options for Android smartphones out there, it can be hard to keep up with all the differences.

So, we decided to compare two current flagship devices, the Google Pixel 8 and the Samsung Galaxy S23, to see how they truly stack up against one another in this versus explainer.

In this article we compare two major Android mobiles: the Samsung Galaxy S23 and Google Pixel 8

Samsung Galaxy S23, £849 from Amazon -
Google Pixel 8, £759 from Amazon -

Almost anything that isn't an Apple device runs on the Android operating system; put simply, most phones are Androids, but they aren't created by just one company.

Two giants on Team Android are Google and Samsung, who are known for creating budget-friendly alternatives for anyone who still wants a solid device.

However, they do still make top-of-the-line flagship phones every year; for Google, that's the Pixel series, and for Samsung, that's the S series.

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If you're not looking to spend too much money, you'll be more interested in our Samsung Galaxy A14 vs Google Pixel 6s versus article as it compares their cost-conscious alternative devices.

Google Pixel 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S23: At a glance

Similarities:

While the phones are from different companies in being Android phones, they do have a few similarities that you'll be glad to know of if you're looking to switch over from a Pixel to a Galaxy or vice versa.

Seeing as they both run on the Android operating system, it won't take a lot of fiddling to reacclimatize yourself to using the device if you're hopping ship.

Another similarity is they both have a max refresh rate of 120Hz, meaning there's not going to be a difference in smoothness when streaming, scrolling or playing games.

Google Pixel 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S23: Camera

We all know whether you're looking to take the best candid photos or set up semi-professional shoots for you and your friends, the camera is extremely important when it comes to a mobile phone.

Fortunately for any photo fanatics, the S23 has a superb 12-megapixel front camera with a three-camera configuration at the rear consisting of a 12-megapixel ultra-wide, a 50-megapixel wide-angle and a 10-megapixel telephoto camera, so you're equipped for capturing any moment.

The Pixel, on the other hand, only has two cameras at the rear consisting of a 50-megapixel wide camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera; while you'll still be able to take some amazing shots, you're likely to get more variety in what you can shoot on the S23.

Google Pixel 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S23: Design

Both phones are actually fairly similar in design, going for curved edges and smooth finishes on the back.

However, the standout for anyone who is environmentally conscious is that Samsung makes a point of utilizing recycled glass and pet film to create their devices.

Google Pixel 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S23: Features

Features are where both devices begin to stand out, the Pixel smartphones are brimming with features that will make your life a little bit simpler.

You'll get access to Google's live Translate tool, which is ideal for anybody planning a foreign trip. It translates conversations, menus and signposts in real time, so you won't have to struggle to learn the lingo before your big break, although it might still come in handy.

It also has a few fancy features to help you with your photo taking, some of which are a magic editor, ultra HRA, and astrophotography to help you better capture the starry night skies.

The S23 still packs a punch with a plethora of its own unique features.

Not every moment is over in a flash, so it's a good thing the device can record up to 8K, be it first steps or a once-in-a-lifetime concert. You'll be able to relive it as if you were actually there.

Nightography is aimed at those who love a drink or karaoke night, so you get better lighting without the risk of flash ruining your pic.

Better selfies and movies can be taken with the Galaxy S23 thanks to its Super HDR capabilities and quick focusing that can leap from 30 to 60 frames per second.

Google Pixel 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S23: Battery

Battery life is just as important as camera quality and price since there's no point having a device that can do all these amazing things but wont last past the afternoon.

Google promises 24 hours of battery life per charge. That's not just because it has a 4,575mAh battery, but its AI learns your app usage pattern and, as a result, means it dedicates less battery life to functions you rarely use.

The S23 has a smaller 3900mAh battery, and while it is smaller, it still promises up to 71 hours of audio playback and 22 hours of video playback, so you can still expect to get a full day of use out of either Android.

Google Pixel 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S23: Price

Both devices are flagship devices, so you can expect a slightly larger price tag than if you were to go for their more affordable options.

Currently, for the S23, you'll be looking at around £849 for the smartphone from retailers like Amazon.

Whereas if you're more interested in the Pixel, it'll cost £759 so you'd be saving £90 if you went with Google.

SIM-Free

Samsung Galaxy S23, £849 from Amazon -
Google Pixel 8, £759 from Amazon -
Samsung Galaxy S23, £849 from Samsung -

Pay-Monthly

Google Pixel 8, 300GB of data, on Three network, £0 upfront, £31p/m -
Google Pixel 8, 100GB of data, on iD Mobile network, £9 upfront, £26.99p/m from iD Mobile -
Samsung Galaxy S23, 300GB of data, £0 upfront, £32p/m from Mobilephonesdirect -
Samsung Galaxy S23, 400GB, £20 upfront, £32p/m from mobiles.co.uk -

Samsung Galaxy S23 vs Google Pixel 8 – which Android should you buy?

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