Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison between the Honor 70 and Google Pixel 7, focusing on what these specs mean for real-world usage.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of the key technical specifications, including their implications for the average user:
| Feature | Honor 70 | Google Pixel 7 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.4 x 73.3 x 7.9 mm | 155.6 x 73.2 x 8.7 mm | Honor 70 is taller but slimmer; Pixel 7 is more compact, and slightly thicker; Honor 70 is slightly more pocketable due to its thinner design. |
| Weight | 178g | 197g | Honor 70 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Build | Unknown Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel 7 has better scratch resistance and overall durability due to Gorilla Glass Victus. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.3" | Honor 70 offers a more immersive viewing experience, great for media consumption; Pixel 7 is more convenient for one-handed operation. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer sharp, clear images. |
| PPI | 395 | 416 | Pixel 7 has slightly sharper text and visuals, although the difference is subtle. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; no major difference in display quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Honor 70 provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1400 nits | Pixel 7 is significantly brighter, offering better visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 778G+ 5G (6 nm) | Google Tensor G2 (5 nm) | Pixel 7's Tensor G2 chip provides a higher benchmark score, leading to faster apps loading, smoother operation, and improved AI capabilities; Honor 70 is fast enough for most tasks and games. |
| Antutu Score | 600,525 | 827,033 | Pixel 7 offers noticeably faster performance for demanding tasks and apps. |
| GPU | Adreno 642L | Mali-G710 MP7 | Pixel 7 has more graphics performance, offering a better gaming and media experience. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 54MP, f/1.9, 1/1.49" (Sony IMX800) | 50MP, f/1.85, 1/1.31" (Samsung GN1) | Honor 70 has a higher resolution main sensor. Pixel 7 has a wider aperture and larger sensor, which means it can capture more light for better photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.4, 1/3.2" (Omnivision OV32C) | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" (Samsung S5K3J1) | Honor 70 has higher resolution front camera. Pixel 7 has wider aperture and larger sensor, which makes it better for low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle | 50MP, f/2.2 | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.3" (Sony IMX381) | Honor 70 captures higher resolution wide-angle photos. Pixel 7 sensor is wider. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Honor 70 includes a dedicated macro lens for detailed close-up shots. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, OIS, EIS | Pixel 7 provides more advanced video capabilities with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and HDR recording across all resolutions. |
| DXOMARK | 115 (Mobile) | 140 (Mobile), 138 (Selfie) | Pixel 7 cameras excel in both photos and video (especially in low-light conditions and overall image quality). |
| Features | Triple camera, Ultra stable video | Dual camera, OIS, Manual focus, PDAF, LAF | Honor 70 has triple camera. Pixel 7 has dual camera and OIS to produce more stable images and videos. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 4355mAh | Honor 70 has a larger battery, which may lead to slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 66W Fast Charging | 20W Fast Charging, 23W Wireless Charging | Honor 70 charges significantly faster. Pixel 7 offers wireless charging convenience. |
| Features | Reverse charging | Reverse & Wireless charging | Pixel 7 offers more convenient charging features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 (Upgradable to 14) | Pixel 7 has the latest OS and gets more long-term software support and faster updates from Google. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6, MIMO | Wi-Fi 6 | Honor 70 has Wi-Fi MiMO for more reliable connection. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 LE | Bluetooth 5.2 LE | Both offer the same Bluetooth version and audio standards. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | Pixel 7 supports more satellite systems, improving GPS accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Pixel 7's eSIM capability offers flexibility for digital carrier switching; Honor 70 supports two physical SIM cards. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB/256 GB/512 GB | 128 GB/256 GB | Honor 70 offers up to 512GB storage for heavy users; Pixel 7 has 128GB/256GB storage options. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB/12GB | 8GB | Honor 70 offers configurations with more RAM, enabling better multitasking performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Both phones lack external storage expansion options. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Both offer good audio; Pixel 7 is superior for calls, with clearer audio separation and better noise-canceling. |
| Security | |||
| Biometrics | Basic Fingerprint sensor | Basic Fingerprint sensor | Both provide basic fingerprint sensors. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors Suite | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer | Pixel 7 has more sensors than the Honor 70. |
2. Key Insights
Honor 70 Strengths
- Larger Display & Lighter Build: The larger 6.67" screen provides an immersive viewing experience, while the lighter weight makes it more comfortable for extended use.
- Faster Charging: 66W fast charging is a significant advantage, getting you back to full power much quicker.
- Higher Resolution Front Camera: The 32MP selfie camera produces detailed photos, making it ideal for social media enthusiasts.
- More Storage and RAM Options: The Honor 70 offers configurations with up to 512GB of storage and 12GB of RAM, great for power users.
- Higher Refresh Rate: Honor 70 offers 120Hz for smoother visuals.
Google Pixel 7 Strengths
- Superior Camera System: The Pixel 7’s camera, with a wider aperture and larger sensor, shines in real-world use, particularly in low-light conditions and overall image quality.
- Brighter Display: The 1400 nits brightness makes the Pixel 7 more usable in direct sunlight, enhancing outdoor visibility.
- Advanced Video Features: Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and HDR recording across all resolutions give Pixel 7 a significant edge in video.
- Latest Software: The Pixel 7 ships with Android 13 and guaranteed updates, providing a more fluid and feature-rich software experience with long term support.
- Better Performance: The Tensor G2 chipset delivers faster overall performance, making demanding apps and games run more smoothly.
- Wireless Charging: The 23W wireless charging adds more convenience in topping up battery life.
- Better Call Quality: Noise cancellation mic and the 3 mic system on the Pixel 7 is superior in calls and recording compared to Honor 70.
- More Sensors: Pixel 7 has Barometer and Magnetometer for extra features and compatibility.
- Durability: Pixel 7 comes with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection.
Trade-offs
- Honor 70:
- Lacks the superior image processing and video stabilization found in the Pixel 7.
- May not perform as well in extreme lighting conditions.
- Software updates may be less frequent and slower compared to Pixel devices.
- Lacks screen protection
- Slightly less powerful performance overall.
- Google Pixel 7:
- Charges slower than the Honor 70.
- Smaller display may not be as immersive as the Honor 70's larger screen.
- Heavier than the Honor 70 making it less comfortable to use.
- Lacks Macro lens.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Honor 70
- Media Consumption Enthusiasts: The larger screen and lighter build make it excellent for watching videos and browsing content.
- Social Media Creators: The higher-resolution front camera is great for selfies and short videos.
- Users Prioritizing Fast Charging: If charging speed is paramount, the Honor 70’s 66W fast charging is a major advantage.
- Storage Savvy Users: 512GB maximum storage size and 12GB RAM configurations for people that need storage.
- Budget Conscious Users: For those looking for a well-rounded device at an attractive price-point.
Google Pixel 7
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who value exceptional camera quality, especially in low-light conditions, will find the Pixel 7 compelling.
- Video Content Creators: The Pixel 7's advanced video capabilities (HDR recording, OIS) make it a top choice for content creation.
- Software Aficionados: Users who want the latest Android experience with frequent updates and AI features will appreciate the Pixel 7.
- Outdoor Users: The brighter display of the Pixel 7 is an advantage.
- Power Users: The faster chipset and larger GPU are good for heavy users.
- Those wanting more sensors: The Pixel 7 features more sensors to make it future proof.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, here are three practical questions:
- How important is camera quality to you?
- If it’s critical: Pixel 7 is the clear choice due to superior image processing and video capabilities.
- If it's important but not the top priority: Honor 70 offers very capable results with a capable all-around camera.
- Do you value faster charging or wireless convenience?
- Faster Charging: Choose the Honor 70 for its impressive 66W charging.
- Wireless Convenience: Pixel 7 offers 23W wireless charging as well as reverse wireless charging.
- Do you value the software experience?
- If yes: Pixel 7 has the latest and pure Android software experience that Google provides, with long term updates, and is generally smooth.
- If no: Honor 70 has an excellent software experience as well, based on Android 12.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Scenario 1: You are a professional photographer or videographer: The Google Pixel 7 is the better choice, with its superior camera system, video recording capabilities, and brighter display.
- Scenario 2: You are a social media influencer who mainly uses the front camera: The Honor 70 would be a better choice due to its high resolution front camera. However, if you take a lot of videos the Pixel 7 will provide much better overall quality and will be a better choice for low light performance and its advanced video features.
- Scenario 3: You prioritize fast charging, media consumption, and good all-around performance: The Honor 70 is your pick with its 66W fast charging and lighter design.
- Scenario 4: You want top of the line software and longevity: The Google Pixel 7 will be your choice due to its pure Android experience and long-term updates.
- Scenario 5: You want a smooth gaming and overall experience: The Google Pixel 7 will be better due to its much better performance.
- Scenario 6: You want a more immersive experience with a bigger display: The Honor 70 has a bigger display and is slightly lighter.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two devices, I would go with the Google Pixel 7. Here's why:
As a tech journalist, I prioritize the latest and greatest in software and hardware. The Pixel 7 delivers that by offering a far superior camera system, with a brighter display, and a robust processor. The AI capabilities that Google provides are also crucial to the user experience. While the Honor 70 is certainly a strong contender, the Pixel 7’s overall camera quality, advanced video features, faster performance and latest software experience outweigh the Honor 70’s advantages in charging speed. I do a lot of photography and video recording for my work, so the advanced features provided by the Pixel 7 are a must have. In addition, the inclusion of wireless charging makes it a lot more convenient to use.
Ultimately, the “best” choice depends on your specific needs. However, for me and a lot of other users that require a high-end phone, the Google Pixel 7 comes out on top.
