1. Specifications Comparison
Design & Build
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Dimensions | 160.6 × 73.9 × 8 mm | 163.9 × 75.9 × 8.9 mm | Pixel 6 Pro is noticeably larger and slightly thicker, making it less pocketable. Realme 8 is more compact and easier to handle. |
| Weight | 177g | 210g | Realme 8 is significantly lighter, more comfortable for extended use, especially one-handed operation. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel 6 Pro has superior scratch and drop protection for its screen. Realme 8's screen protection is unknown, posing potential durability issues. |
Display
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Size | 6.4" | 6.7" | Pixel 6 Pro offers a slightly larger screen for a more immersive viewing experience, ideal for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3120 | Pixel 6 Pro has a much sharper display, with crisper text and images, suitable for detailed viewing and editing. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 411 | 512 | Pixel 6 Pro's display is noticeably sharper due to the higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pixel 6 Pro offers much smoother scrolling and animations making the overall user experience feel more fluid and responsive. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 0 nits | Realme 8 offers significantly higher brightness, crucial for outdoor visibility in direct sunlight. Google Pixel 6 Pro brightness data is not available, creating a potential for poor outdoor visibility. |
Performance
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 (12 nm) | Google Tensor (5 nm) | Pixel 6 Pro's chipset is significantly more powerful, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 721,000 | Pixel 6 Pro delivers superior overall performance, more responsive user interface, and is better suited to demanding apps and games. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Mali-G78 MP20 | Pixel 6 Pro's GPU is more powerful, offering better graphics performance for gaming and graphically intensive applications. |
Camera
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.79, 1/2" sensor | 50MP, f/1.85, 1/1.31" sensor | Pixel 6 Pro has a larger sensor, capturing more light, leading to better image quality, especially in low light; Realme 8 has higher resolution for more detail when zooming. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.13" sensor | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.93" sensor | Pixel 6 Pro captures more light and better dynamic range, resulting in superior selfies, although with slightly lower resolution. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 48MP, f/3.5, 1/2" sensor | Pixel 6 Pro can take zoomed-in photos with better clarity, a versatile feature for photography. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.25 | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.9" sensor | Pixel 6 Pro has a wider field of view, capturing more of the scene in photos. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Realme 8 can take close-up shots with more detail; the lack of this on the pixel reduces close-up versatility |
| Black & white lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Realme 8 can take monochrome images |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | Up to 4K@60fps with OIS & EIS | Pixel 6 Pro offers higher frame rate recording at 4K and better stabilization, suitable for high-quality videos. |
| Video Stabilization | EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) | OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) & EIS | Pixel 6 Pro provides superior video stabilization, resulting in smoother and less shaky videos. |
| DXOMARK | Not Available | Mobile: 134, Selfie: 138 | Pixel 6 Pro has a superior camera in terms of video, selfie and photos. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, basic features | Triple camera, OIS, advanced features | Pixel 6 Pro has more advanced features like OIS, RAW, night mode, Google Lens offering more creative options and better low light performance. |
Battery
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer comparable battery life, suitable for a full day of moderate use. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Both phones support fast charging, allowing for quick recharges. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable, 23W Wireless charging | Pixel 6 Pro provides added convenience by being able to wirelessly charge other devices and charge wirelessly. |
Software & Connectivity
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 12 (upgradeable to 14) | Pixel 6 Pro has a newer OS version, benefiting from the latest features and security updates, better software optimization and a longer lifespan of software updates. |
| WiFi | 802.11ac | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | Pixel 6 Pro has faster WiFi speeds and better network performance |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Pixel 6 Pro has a more modern Bluetooth version, offering better stability and a wider range of audio codecs, enabling superior audio fidelity for compatible headphones. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | Pixel 6 Pro supports more satellite systems, leading to more accurate and reliable location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Pixel 6 Pro offers more flexibility by supporting an eSIM, convenient for travelers. Realme 8 offers the ability to use two physical sim cards. |
Storage & Audio
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Internal Storage | 64/128 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Pixel 6 Pro offers much more storage, allowing users to keep more files without the risk of running out of space. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 12 GB | Pixel 6 Pro enables much smoother multitasking, opening apps quicker and running multiple apps simultaneously. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows expansion for additional storage. |
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio | Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Pixel 6 Pro has better audio quality for media consumption and voice calls due to stereo speakers and 3 microphones while Realme 8 offers a more refined sound reproduction with wired headphones and Hi-Res audio. |
Other
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 6 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Security Features | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Both phones offer standard biometric security. |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Proximity, Barometer, Fingerprint | Pixel 6 Pro has more environmental sensors, which is suitable for better fitness tracking and additional data. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme 8 Advantages
- Lighter and More Compact: The Realme 8 is easier to handle and carry around due to its lighter weight and smaller size.
- Significantly Higher Brightness: The screen is much brighter (1000 nits vs. 0 nits data for Pixel 6 Pro), offering better visibility in direct sunlight.
- Macro and Black & White Camera: Realme 8 includes a dedicated macro and black & white camera, which is absent on the Pixel 6 Pro.
- Hi-Res Audio: Offers Hi-Res Audio, which is a feature that may be appealing to some users with specific audio needs.
Google Pixel 6 Pro Advantages
- Superior Performance: The Google Tensor chip provides significantly faster processing, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Higher Resolution and Smoother Display: Pixel 6 Pro's display is sharper (1440p) and has a higher refresh rate (120Hz) than Realme 8 making it a better experience for daily use, gaming and multimedia consumption.
- Superior Camera Quality: Larger camera sensors, telephoto lens, and advanced features like OIS offer superior image and video quality, especially in low-light conditions.
- More Advanced Software: Comes with a newer Android version (12 with update to 14) and is likely to receive software updates and security patches for a longer period of time.
- Better Wireless Charging: It has reverse wireless charging and 23W wireless charging.
- Better Audio: Stereo speakers and 3 microphones.
- Superior Connectivity: Supports newer WiFi standard (WiFi 6) and has a more modern Bluetooth version (5.2).
- More RAM & Storage: Comes with 12 GB of ram and up to 512 GB of storage, compared to 8 GB and 128 GB maximum on the Realme.
- Better Build Quality: It features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection, offering superior screen durability.
Trade-offs
- Size and Weight: The Pixel 6 Pro is bulkier and heavier than the Realme 8.
- Outdoor Visibility: Google Pixel 6 Pro brightness data is unavailable, which is a major trade off compared to the 1000 nits brightness offered by the Realme 8.
- Cost: The Google Pixel 6 Pro is significantly more expensive than the Realme 8.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme 8 Ideal User
- Budget-conscious users: Who prioritize affordability and decent performance for everyday tasks.
- Users who need a lighter and more compact phone: For easy handling and pocketability.
- Users who need higher brightness screen: People who frequently use their phone outdoors in direct sunlight.
- Users who want Macro and Black & White camera functionalities: Specifically need these features.
- Users who need two physical SIM cards: Benefit from two physical SIM slots.
Use Cases:
- Daily communication, browsing, social media, and casual gaming.
- Outdoor photography in bright conditions.
- Users who prioritize portability and comfort over high-end features.
Google Pixel 6 Pro Ideal User
- Performance enthusiasts: Who need a powerful device for gaming and demanding applications.
- Photography lovers: Who prioritize excellent camera quality and versatile shooting options.
- Users who value a premium display: For immersive media consumption and smoother user interface.
- Users who want the latest software: People who value the most up to date software and longest software support.
- Users who want better audio: Benefit from stereo speakers and better microphone quality.
Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming, video editing, and graphic-intensive tasks.
- Professional photography and videography.
- Users who prioritize a top-tier multimedia and user experience.
- Travelers who need eSIM support.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The Pixel 6 Pro is significantly more expensive than the Realme 8.
- What are your primary use cases? Do you prioritize camera, performance, or affordability?
- What are your size and portability needs? Do you need a lightweight and compact phone or are you okay with a larger one?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Limited Budget, Basic Needs - If budget is a primary concern and you need a phone for basic tasks with decent battery life and a bright screen, the Realme 8 is the better option.
- Scenario 2: High Performance and Camera Focus - If you prioritize superior performance, an excellent camera, a top-tier display and the latest software then the Google Pixel 6 Pro is the clear choice.
- Scenario 3: Balanced Approach - There is no balanced option between the two phones due to their differences in price range, the Realme 8 is the better option for those who want to prioritize a balance between price and practicality and don't care for features such as a higher resolution screen and better software support.
Personal Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Google Pixel 6 Pro. While the Realme 8 offers a more affordable price and a very bright display, the Pixel 6 Pro's superior performance, significantly better camera, higher resolution display with higher refresh rate, and superior software experience makes it more suitable for my needs. The added benefits of wireless charging, better connectivity, and longer software support ensure a more premium and future-proof device. Although the Pixel 6 Pro is heavier and bulkier than the Realme 8, the performance and camera benefits are worth the trade-off in size for my specific use case. My main usage revolves around media consumption, photography and gaming and the Pixel 6 Pro delivers a much better user experience in these areas.
