Google Pixel 8 Pro vs iPhone 15 Pro Max

The Google Pixel 8 Pro is now available. This year has a lot to offer, particularly in terms of software. In fact, the Pixel 8 Pro includes even more AI functions this time around, particularly in the camera. 

With the Google Pixel 8 Pro, users can expect an enhanced photography experience thanks to its advanced AI capabilities. The camera now includes features like improved low-light performance and intelligent scene recognition, allowing users to capture stunning photos in any setting. Additionally, the AI-powered software optimizations ensure that every shot is optimized for clarity, color accuracy, and detail, making the Pixel 8 Pro a top choice for photography enthusiasts. 

While the Pixel 8 Pro excels in photography, the iPhone 15 Pro Max offers a comprehensive package of upgrades and additional features. From its powerful A15 Bionic chip to its advanced Face ID technology, the iPhone 15 Pro Max provides a seamless user experience and unmatched performance. Both phones cater to different preferences, with the Pixel 8 Pro focusing on photography prowess and the iPhone 15 Pro Max offering a well-rounded upgrade in various aspects. 

Google will have a difficult time replacing Apple at the top of our best phone rankings. Despite all that Pro Max has to offer, there are still a number of functions it lacks. Here are seven instances in which the Google Pixel 8 Pro outperforms the iPhone 15 Pro Max. 

AI camera features 

Based on our tests, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is one of the greatest camera phones, but the Pixel 8 Pro may have it beat when it comes to AI. Or, more specifically, how Google is able to employ AI to offer consumers more control over the images they take. Pixels have been doing this for a while, particularly with the debut of Magic Eraser on the Pixel 6, but the Pixel 8 Pro takes things even farther.

The Pixel 8 Pro features Magic Editor, a generative AI tool for modifying photos, Best Take for capturing multiple photos, and a Zoom & Enhance feature for filling gaps at higher magnification, ensuring a seamless experience for users.

Video Boost will also be available later this year, allowing you to boost the quality of any films you shoot. This features a video-centric Night Sight version for use in low-light situations. While this is only possible in the cloud and not on your device, it means that your movies will benefit from the same AI advancements as your images.

Audio magic eraser

Magic Eraser, known for improving photos, now offers Audio Magic Eraser, which effectively removes background noise from videos, including traffic, wind, construction, and barking dogs, making it a powerful tool for editing.

iPhone 15 Pro Max owners can record footage without noise interference, making it easier to capture spur-of-the-moment situations. AI can handle unnecessary tasks, making it easier to shoot and obtain necessary footage.

Pro camera controls 

Apple’s Pixel 8 Pro offers creative control with its ProRAW setting, allowing users to tweak various camera settings, similar to the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, which has been available for years.

The camera offers features like shutter speed, white balance, shadow, ISO, focus, and RAW format at 50MP resolution, which are essential for serious photographers and some phone makers may keep away for simplicity.However, for those who are passionate about photography, having these advanced features is essential.

For the time being, it appears that the Pixel 8 Pro has a significant advantage in the world of photography.

A brighter display

A brighter display has several advantages, not the least of which is the ability to view your phone screen more clearly outside or in other brightly lit areas. In terms of screen brightness, Google’s Super Actua display may be the brightest on the market, even brighter than the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

According to Google, the Pixel 8 Pro can reach 1,600 nits of HDR brightness, and has a peak brightness of 2,400 nits. The iPhone 15 Pro Max has the same HDR brightness, per Apple’s official specs, but its peak brightness tops out at 2,000 nits. That’s quite a bit lower.

The iPhone 15 Pro Max achieved 1,550 nits of HDR brightness, similar to the official numbers, but it’s interesting to see if the Pixel 8 Pro performs similarly in similar conditions.

Built-in temperature sensor

The Pixel 8 Pro’s object temperature sensor, a gimmick awaiting FDA approval, could potentially detect early signs of illness or infection, despite its potential use during the COVID pandemic.

The Pixel 8 Pro sensor offers numerous applications, such as measuring baby’s milk or pavement temperature, but further testing is needed to determine its accuracy.

A lower price tag

Google Pixel phones are often cheaper than their competitors, with the Pixel 8 Pro starting at $999, compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s $1,199. However, it is $100 more expensive than the Pixel 7 Pro and has a smaller storage capacity.

The Pixel 8 Pro remains the cheaper option due to its lower initial cost and additional storage tiers, which are only $60 per level compared to Apple’s $200 per tier on the Pro Max, as long as Google manages its pricing strategy effectively. In addition, the Pixel 8 Pro offers a highly competitive camera system that rivals the Pro Max’s capabilities. 

With its advanced computational photography features, users can expect stunning photos and videos without breaking the bank. This combination of affordability and impressive camera performance makes the Pixel 8 Pro an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers who prioritize value for money.