Sony Xperia 10 III vs. Google Pixel 8: A Practical Showdown
Let's cut through the specs to see how these two phones actually compare in daily use.
Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III (2021) | Google Pixel 8 (2023) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 154 × 68 × 8.3 mm | 150.5 × 70.8 × 8.9 mm | Xperia is taller/narrower (better one-handed use), Pixel slightly thicker but more compact footprint |
| Weight | 169g | 187g | Noticeable 18g difference - Xperia feels lighter during prolonged use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.0" OLED | 6.2" OLED | Pixel's larger screen better for media, Xperia's taller aspect ratio good for scrolling |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pixel's fluid scrolling is immediately noticeable - games and UI feel more responsive |
| Brightness | Not specified | 2000 nits peak | Pixel destroys the Xperia in sunlight visibility (critical for outdoor use) |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 690 5G (8nm) | Tensor G3 (4nm) | Pixel's modern chip offers 3x better benchmark performance and better efficiency |
| RAM | 6GB | 8GB | Pixel handles more apps in memory - less reloading when switching between apps |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP f/1.8 | 50MP f/1.69 | Pixel's larger sensor captures more light and detail - especially in low light |
| Ultra Wide | 8MP f/2.2 | 12MP f/2.2 (with macro) | Pixel's ultra-wide doubles as macro camera - more versatile |
| Selfie | 8MP f/2.0 | 10.8MP f/2.2 | Pixel's higher resolution front camera better for video calls and selfies |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 4K@60fps with HDR+OIS | Pixel's video stabilization is in another league - smooth footage even when moving |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4575mAh | Nearly identical capacity - real difference comes from chip efficiency |
| Charging | 18W | 27W | Pixel charges ~50% faster (0-50% in ~30 mins vs ~45 mins) |
| Software | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 14 (up to 21) | Pixel gets 7 years of updates vs Xperia's 2 - huge longevity advantage |
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio | Stereo speakers | Xperia better for wired headphones, Pixel better for speaker audio |
Key Insights
Pixel 8 Dominates In:
- Performance: The Tensor G3 is in a different league - apps launch instantly and games run smoothly.
- Camera Quality: Google's computational photography combined with better hardware means consistently great shots.
- Display Quality: 120Hz + 2000 nits makes everything from scrolling to outdoor viewing better.
- Longevity: 7 years of updates means the Pixel will stay secure and relevant far longer.
Xperia 10 III Holds Its Own In:
- Form Factor: The tall, narrow design is uniquely comfortable for one-handed use.
- Audio: Hi-Res support matters for audiophiles with wired headphones.
- Telephoto Lens: The 8MP telephoto gives more flexibility than Pixel's digital zoom.
Who Should Buy Which Phone?
Get the Pixel 8 if you:
- Want the best camera experience possible
- Value smooth performance and future-proofing
- Use your phone outdoors frequently
- Keep phones for 3+ years
Consider the Xperia 10 III if you:
- Prioritize lightweight, one-handed usability
- Use wired headphones daily
- Don't need cutting-edge performance
- Can find it at a significant discount
3 Decision-Making Questions
- Do you take lots of photos? → Pixel 8's camera system is vastly superior
- Will you keep this phone for 3+ years? → Pixel's 7-year update promise is unmatched
- Is media consumption a priority? → Pixel's brighter, smoother display wins
The Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
Without hesitation: Google Pixel 8.
While the Xperia 10 III has its charms with the slim design and headphone support, the Pixel 8 is better in nearly every meaningful way for how most people use phones today. The camera quality difference alone is staggering - Pixel photos look professional with zero effort. Add in the buttery-smooth 120Hz display, vastly better performance, and industry-leading software support, and the choice becomes clear.
Only if I absolutely needed a super lightweight phone for one-handed use AND didn't care about cameras would I consider the Xperia - and even then, only at a steep discount given its age. The Pixel 8 simply delivers more of what matters in 2024.
