Apple iPhone 15 vs Google Pixel 8 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date September 22, 2023 October 12, 2023
Release Year 2023 2023

Physical

Volume 82.43 cm³ 94.83 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.57 "/g 3.32 "/g
Weight 171 g 187 g
Height 147.6 mm 150.5 mm
Width 71.6 mm 70.8 mm
Thickness 7.8 mm 8.9 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Black
  • Yellow
  • Blue
  • Green
  • Pink
  • Mint
  • Obsidian
  • Hazel
  • Rose

Display

Screen Size 6.1 " 6.2 "
Resolution 1179 x 2556 1080 x 2400
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 86.4 % 87.1 %
Pixel Density 461 PPI 428 PPI
Refresh Rate N/A 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness 1000 nits 1400 nits
Peak Brightness 2000 nits 2000 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 90.00 mAh/in² 119.02 mAh/in²
Battery Density 40.63 mAh/cm³ 48.24 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 3349 mAh 4575 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Apple A16 Bionic (4 nm) Google Tensor G3 (4 nm)
CPU Hexa-core (2x3.46 GHz Everest + 4x2.02 GHz Sawtooth) Nona-core (1x3.0 GHz Cortex-X3 & 4x2.45 GHz Cortex-A715 & 4x2.15 GHz Cortex-A510)
GPU Apple GPU (5-core graphics) Immortalis-G715s MC10

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 3.2
OTG Support
DisplayPort 1
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0, DisplayPort USB Type-C 3.2

Software

Operating System iOS Android
Initial OS Version 17 14
Maximum OS Version 18 21

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureApple iPhone 15Google Pixel 8Practical Impact
Design
Dimensions147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8 mm150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mmPixel 8 is slightly larger and thicker.
Weight171 g187 giPhone 15 is noticeably lighter.
BuildNot specifiedNot specifiedBuild materials impact durability and premium feel; information is missing.
Display
Size6.1"6.2"Pixel 8 offers a slightly larger screen.
TypeSuper Retina XDR OLEDOLEDBoth are high-quality OLED displays, but Apple's typically boasts better color accuracy and calibration.
Resolution1179 x 25561080 x 2400iPhone 15 has a sharper display due to higher pixel density (461 ppi vs 428 ppi).
Refresh RateNot specified120Hz120Hz on the Pixel 8 results in smoother scrolling and animations compared to a standard 60Hz (assumed for iPhone 15, but not specified).
Peak Brightness2000 nits2000 nitsBoth offer excellent outdoor visibility.
Performance
ChipsetApple A16 Bionic (4 nm)Google Tensor G3 (4 nm)Both are powerful chips, but benchmarks are needed for accurate comparison. A16 historically performs better in raw power.
CPUHexa-coreNona-coreCore count doesn't directly translate to performance; architecture and optimization are key.
GPUApple GPU (5-core graphics)Immortalis-G715s MC10Gaming and graphic-intensive tasks might show performance differences. More information needed.
RAM6GB8GBPixel 8 having more RAM could improve multitasking and app switching performance.
Battery
Capacity3349 mAh4575 mAhPixel 8 has significantly larger battery capacity, likely leading to longer battery life.
Other
OSiOS 17Android 14Different operating systems cater to different preferences and ecosystems.
Storage256GB/512GB256GBiPhone 15 offers a 512GB option for users needing more storage.
SensorsFace ID, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometerFingerprint (under display), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometerBiometric authentication preferences vary.

2. Key Differences Analysis

iPhone 15 Advantages:

  • Sharper Display: Higher resolution leads to more detailed visuals.
  • Potentially Faster Performance: A16 Bionic has a strong performance track record.
  • Lighter and More Compact: Easier to handle and carry.

Pixel 8 Advantages:

  • Higher Refresh Rate Display: Smoother and more responsive user experience.
  • Larger Battery: Significantly longer battery life.
  • More RAM: Better multitasking and performance with demanding apps.
  • Fingerprint Sensor: Some users prefer fingerprint authentication over facial recognition.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

iPhone 15: Users prioritizing a compact, lightweight phone with a sharp display, potentially stronger performance, and within the Apple ecosystem. Ideal for users who value portability and a seamless experience with other Apple devices.

Pixel 8: Users who prioritize battery life, a smooth display, and the flexibility of Android. Ideal for power users, gamers, or those who consume a lot of media on their phone.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions:

  1. How important is battery life? Pixel 8 is the clear winner here.
  2. Do you prioritize a smooth display or a sharper one? 120Hz on Pixel 8 vs. higher resolution on iPhone 15.
  3. Which operating system do you prefer? iOS vs. Android is a matter of personal preference and ecosystem.

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Heavy User: Pixel 8 for its larger battery and RAM.
  • Media Consumption: Pixel 8 for the larger display and 120Hz refresh rate.
  • Portability Focus: iPhone 15 for its lighter weight and smaller size.

My Choice: Google Pixel 8

Reasoning: While the iPhone 15 likely edges out in raw performance and display sharpness, the Pixel 8's significantly larger battery, 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling, extra RAM for better multitasking, and the under-display fingerprint sensor (a personal preference) make it a more compelling overall package for my needs. The slightly larger size is a trade-off I'm willing to make for the substantial increase in battery life and smoother user experience. Furthermore, I value the open nature and customization options of the Android operating system.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Key Strengths:

  • Mobile technology analysis
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Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.