Xiaomi 14 Pro Vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro
As smartphone companies jostle for places in the flagship market, two smartphones stand right out. One of them is from Xiaomi and the other one is from Google. Which flagship smartphone is the better one? This is the Xiaomi 14 Pro Vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro.
Over the years, Google has transitioned from a software company to a prominent hardware player in the smartphone market. The Google Pixel 8 Pro embodies years of strategic planning, as Google seeks to assert its presence in the smartphone market. Conversely, Xiaomi has diligently earned its position on the global stage, relying on its ethos of fusing cutting-edge technology with affordability. In this analysis, we will scrutinize the flagship offerings of both companies, pitting the Xiaomi 14 Pro Vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro.
The Xiaomi 14 Pro presently stands as the company's flagship, a status it should hold until the anticipated unveiling of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. Xiaomi has a business philosophy of delivering good technology at fairly affordable prices and the Xiaomi 14 Pro aligns well with this guiding principle.
In contrast, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is Google's flagship. It is poised to maintain this position until October 2024. In a recent development, the Pixel 8 Pro is set to receive up to seven years of software updates. This is a first on an Android-based device and marks a significant milestone in Google's chase for a strong position in the smartphone market.
As these companies vie for supremacy in the flagship market, users looking a good device may face a choice between the Xiaomi 14 Pro and the Google Pixel 8 Pro. So let's dive into a comprehensive comparison of the features, specifications, and overall merits of each device. This should aid users in making an informed decision based on their preferences and priorities.
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Xiaomi 14 Pro Vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro
Body and Build
In terms of body and build, both the Xiaomi 14 Pro and Google Pixel 8 Pro are well-made. They both boast IP68 water resistance, aluminum frames, and Gorilla Glass Victus protection. These should ensure durability and protection against water and dust. Xiaomi takes a step further by adding a special Xiaomi 14 Pro edition with a titanium frame which elevates its structural strength. It's worth noting that, at 223g, the Xiaomi 14 Pro is the heavier of the two devices.
Performance and Software
In terms of raw performance, the Xiaomi 14 Pro outshines the Google Pixel 8 Pro, thanks to the superior Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 compared to the Pixel 8 Pro's Tensor G3. This distinction makes the Xiaomi 14 Pro the preferred choice for CPU-intensive apps and gaming. On AnTuTu, the Xiaomi 14 Pro significantly surpasses the Google Pixel 14 Pro, boasting a score of 2 million compared to the Pixel 8 Pro's 1.1 million.
Nevertheless, it's essential to acknowledge the Pixel 8 Pro's strengths. Google has consistently emphasized that Pixel phones prioritize photography, videography, and AI. In doing so, it intentionally sidelines raw performance. While some may view this approach skeptically, Google's commitment to its AI remains strong.
Both smartphones operate on Android 14, the latest version of the Android operating system. The debate over whether stock Android on Pixel phones surpasses Android on other devices or vice versa remains subjective. To enhance its appeal, Google now extends up to seven years of software updates for the Pixel 8 Pro. In contrast, Xiaomi provides up to four years of software support.
Camera and Video
For photography, both smartphones shine and are equipped with triple camera setups. The Xiaomi 14 Pro showcases a 50MP Omnivision OVX9000 main camera, a 50MP Samsung JN1 telephoto, and a 50MP Samsung JN1 ultrawide. In contrast, the Pixel 8 Pro features a 50MP Samsung GN5 main camera, a 48MP telephoto, and a 48MP ultrawide.
When it comes to rear video capabilities, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is limited to 4K HDR video at 60fps. The Xiaomi 14 Pro on the other hand, takes it a step further, supporting up to 8K video at 24fps. For selfies, both phones can record 4K video at 60fps.
Even though the Selfie cameras on both phones can record up to 4K videos at 60fps, the 32MP selfie on the Xiaomi 14 Pro tends to do better than the 10.5MP selfie on the Pixel 8 Pro.
The camera systems on both devices deliver remarkable results for both photos and videos, underscoring Xiaomi and Google's standing as industry leaders in this domain.
Displays
When it comes to displays, both devices feature expansive 6.7-inch screens. The Xiaomi 14 Pro takes the lead with a superior resolution of 3220 x 1440p, accompanied by a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support. Boasting a brighter screen at 3000 nits, it outshines the display on the Google Pixel 8 Pro, which offers a slightly lower resolution of 2992 x 1344p and a dimmer 2000 nits of brightness. Nevertheless, akin to the Xiaomi 14 Pro's display, the Pixel 8 Pro's screen also supports a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+.
In the showdown of displays, the Xiaomi 14 Pro's screen claims victory, thanks to its higher resolution and superior brightness.
Connectivity
In terms of connectivity and features, both devices provide comprehensive options, supporting various 5G variants, WiFi 7, GPS, USB-C 3.2, and NFC. However, the Xiaomi 14 Pro boasts superior Bluetooth 5.4 support.
Battery life
Moving on to battery life, the Pixel 8 Pro takes the lead with its larger 5020mAh battery, surpassing the Xiaomi 14 Pro's 4880mAh capacity. However, the Xiaomi 14 Pro makes a strong comeback with its impressive 120W wired and 50W wireless fast charging capabilities, outshining the Pixel 8 Pro's 30W wired and 23W wireless fast charge.
Pricing
In terms of pricing, the Xiaomi 14 Pro and the Pixel 8 Pro are closely matched. The Xiaomi 14 Pro starts at around $858, slightly more affordable than the $899 price tag of the Google Pixel 8 Pro.
Conclusion
Both phones are very strong contestants in the flagship market and should offer plenty of value for money. They offer almost similar camera and video output, connectivity, battery life, and pricing. However the Xiaomi 14 Pro boasts much better CPU and gaming performance, display, and much faster charging. It also has a slightly more affordable starting price. As a result, this author believes that the Xiaomi 14 Pro is the better device.