1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 7 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 160.6 × 73.9 × 8 mm | 155.6 × 73.2 × 8.7 mm | Realme 8 is taller, while Pixel 7 is slightly thicker. This impacts pocketability and one-handed use. |
| Weight | 177g | 197g | Realme 8 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use, while the Pixel 7 feels more substantial. |
Display
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 7 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.4" | 6.3" | Realme 8 offers a slightly larger screen for immersive media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same sharpness for daily use. |
| PPI | 411 | 416 | Negligibly different pixel density; no noticeable difference in sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, better contrast compared to LCD screens. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Google Pixel 7 has smoother scrolling and animations, and a more responsive feel compared to Realme 8. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 1400 nits | Pixel 7 has dramatically better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 7 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6785V/CD Helio G95 (12 nm) | Google Tensor G2 (5 nm) | Google Pixel 7's newer and more powerful chip results in significantly faster app loading, better multitasking, and smoother gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 827,033 | Google Pixel 7 offers 102% higher performance, translating to a much more fluid user experience, especially for demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Mali-G710 MP7 | Google Pixel 7's GPU provides superior graphics performance for gaming and graphically intensive applications. |
Camera
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 7 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rear Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.79, 1/2" | 50MP, f/1.85, 1/1.31" | Realme 8 has higher resolution, but Pixel 7 has a larger sensor for better low-light performance and dynamic range. |
| Front Camera | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.13" | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | Realme 8 has higher resolution, but Pixel 7 has a larger sensor, and a wider aperture, offering better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.25 | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.3" | Google Pixel 7 captures more detailed and brighter wide-angle shots. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | None | Realme 8 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, while Pixel 7 lacks this. |
| Black & White Lens | 2MP | None | Realme 8 includes a dedicated black and white sensor for artistic monochrome shots; while Pixel 7 does not. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, OIS, EIS | Google Pixel 7 offers higher quality video with HDR, OIS for better stabilization, and 60fps recording. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | N/A | 140 (Overall), 145 (Photo), 143 (Video) | Google Pixel 7 has a DxOMark score of 140 for the main camera, indicating excellent overall camera performance. Realme 8 has no DxOMark data. |
| DxOMark (Selfie) | N/A | 138 (Overall), 134 (Photo), 144 (Video) | Google Pixel 7 has a DxOMark score of 138 for the selfie camera, indicating good overall performance. Realme 8 has no DxOMark data. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, Ultra stable video, other basic features | Dual camera, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Manual focus, RAW, Night Mode, other advanced features | Google Pixel 7 has more advanced features for photography enthusiasts. |
Battery
| Feature | Realme 8 | Google Pixel 7 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4355mAh | Realme 8 has a larger battery, potentially offering better battery life. |
| Charging | 30W fast charging | 20W fast charging, 23W wireless charging | Realme 8 charges faster using a wired connection, while Pixel 7 offers convenient wireless charging. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable, No charger in box, Wireless charge 23W, Reverse wireless charge | Pixel 7 has reverse charging capability for accessories, ships without a charger. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme 8 Advantages:
- Lighter Design: 20 grams lighter for better comfort during long usage.
- Larger Battery: 5000mAh battery potentially offers longer battery life.
- Faster Wired Charging: 30W wired charging tops up the battery quicker.
- Dedicated Macro and Black & White Lenses: Offers additional creative options for specific photographic needs.
- Hi-Res Audio: Better for audiophiles who want high-quality audio.
Practical Implications: The Realme 8 is better for users who prioritize longer battery life, and a lighter design, and enjoy specific camera features such as macro photography, and high-quality audio.
Google Pixel 7 Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Tensor G2 chip provides significantly better speed and responsiveness for all tasks.
- Smoother Display: 90Hz refresh rate provides a more fluid and responsive user experience.
- Brighter Display: 1400 nits brightness offers better outdoor visibility.
- Better Main and Wide Angle Cameras: Superior sensor quality, wider apertures, and features like OIS result in better overall image quality in different conditions, especially low light.
- Advanced Camera Features: OIS, RAW capture, Night Mode, and advanced autofocus system offer significant advantages for photography enthusiasts.
- Wireless Charging: More convenient charging and reverse wireless charging for accessories.
- More Advanced Software: Newer Android version with guaranteed updates.
- Superior Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides better screen protection.
- Better Audio Features: Better audio quality with stereo speakers, noise cancellation microphone, and additional microphones.
- eSIM Support: Enables easy switching between carriers.
- Barometer Sensor: Useful for environmental data.
Practical Implications: The Google Pixel 7 is better for users who prioritize performance, camera quality, advanced features, and future-proofing. It is a significantly more powerful device that excels at multimedia and content creation.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Realme 8: Sacrifices processing power and camera quality for a lower price point and lighter design.
- Google Pixel 7: Costs more, is slightly heavier, and the box does not include a charger.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme 8: Ideal Users
- Budget-conscious consumers: Those who want a capable phone at a more affordable price point.
- Users prioritizing battery life: Those who need a phone that can easily last a full day or two on a single charge.
- Casual users: Those who use their phone for basic tasks like social media, browsing, and messaging.
- Photography beginners: People who want a dedicated macro and black and white camera, but are not too concerned with image quality.
Use Cases:
- Daily social media browsing and communication.
- Casual gaming.
- Extended multimedia consumption (videos and music) without frequent charging.
- Basic photography, with focus on macro and monochrome shots.
Google Pixel 7: Ideal Users
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who value camera quality, advanced features, and post-processing capabilities.
- Performance Seekers: Those who want a fast, responsive phone for gaming, multitasking, and other demanding tasks.
- Tech Savvy Users: Those who appreciate the latest software and a smooth user experience.
- Power Users: People who need the most out of their device and are looking for an advanced piece of tech.
- Users Seeking Future-Proofing: Those who want a phone that will receive regular updates for years.
Use Cases:
- High-quality photography and videography.
- Gaming and other performance-intensive tasks.
- Professional use cases that require reliable performance and a high-quality camera.
- Users who want the latest Android OS and features, and want their device to last for years.
Price-to-Value Ratio
- Realme 8: Offers good value for the price, especially for users with less demanding needs.
- Google Pixel 7: Offers more advanced features and significantly better performance, and camera for the higher price, making it the better value for performance and photography enthusiasts.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget?
- Are you looking for the most affordable option or are you willing to pay more for higher performance and better features?
- What is more important: battery or camera quality?
- Do you prioritize long battery life or do you need a top-of-the-line camera system?
- What are your typical daily use cases?
- Do you primarily use your phone for basic tasks, gaming, or high-quality photography?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget Conscious User with basic needs: If you are on a tight budget, primarily use your phone for basic tasks like communication and web browsing, and need long battery life, the Realme 8 is a solid choice.
- Scenario 2: User Prioritizing Camera and Performance: If you want the best camera capabilities, performance, and a smoother user experience, even at a higher price, the Google Pixel 7 is the clear winner.
- Scenario 3: Balanced User: If you are looking for a balanced approach but still value performance and camera over battery, but do not want to pay the price of the Google Pixel 7, then the Realme 8 is the option to consider.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Google Pixel 7. While the Realme 8 has some advantages like a larger battery and a lighter design, the Pixel 7’s strengths in performance, camera quality, and display are far more important to me. I am a person who values a smooth user experience, high-quality photography, and the latest features.
The significantly better performance of the Google Tensor G2 chip, the smoother 90Hz display, and the superior camera capabilities of the Pixel 7 make it the better device overall for my use case, and I am willing to pay the higher price. The Pixel 7 is an overall better and more modern device. Although the battery of the Realme 8 might last longer, I prefer the convenience of wireless charging and a more premium experience with the Pixel 7.
