Okay, let's dive deep into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi 12X and the Google Pixel 8. This isn't just a spec-sheet face-off; we're exploring what these phones actually mean for you in daily life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi 12X | Google Pixel 8 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 152.7 x 69.9 x 8.2 mm, 176g | 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm, 187g | Xiaomi is taller, slimmer and lighter. Pixel 8 is slightly wider and thicker. Xiaomi 12X feels a bit more compact. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, non-folding phones |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.2" | Virtually identical sizes; both are easy to handle. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Sharp, clear images on both; no significant difference. |
| PPI | 419 | 428 | Negligible difference in pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both deliver great colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 2000 nits | Pixel 8 screen is significantly brighter for outdoor visibility, a major advantage in sunny conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 (7 nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) | Pixel 8's newer chipset offers better performance and efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 815,210 | 876,512 | Pixel 8 has a slight edge in benchmarks, indicating generally better performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Pixel 8's GPU is newer, likely offering better graphics performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56" Sony IMX766 | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.31" Samsung GNV | Pixel 8 has larger sensor & wider aperture for better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.45, 1/3" Omnivision OV32B | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" Samsung S5K3J1 | Xiaomi 12X has higher res selfie, but Pixel 8's larger sensor and wider aperture offers better photo quality. |
| Wide Angle | 13MP, f/2.4, 1/3.06" Omnivision OV13B10 | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.9" Sony IMX386 Exmor RS | Xiaomi 12X has a dedicated wide-angle lens, While Pixel 8 combines it with the Macro lens. |
| Macro | 5MP, f/2.4, Samsung | (part of ultrawide) | Xiaomi 12X has a dedicated Macro Lens while Pixel 8 uses its wide-angle lens for Macro photography. |
| Video | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps w/ EIS | 4K@60fps w/ HDR, OIS, EIS | Xiaomi 12X has 8K but Pixel 8 offers superior video processing with HDR & OIS. |
| DxOMark Score | Not available | Mobile: 148, Photo: 152, Video: 148 | Pixel 8's camera performance is objectively measured to be superior in photos and videos. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4575mAh | Both have comparable battery sizes; Expect similar all day usage with light to medium tasks. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 27W Fast Charging | Xiaomi 12X charges significantly faster. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | Pixel 8 can share battery wirelessly, both have non-removable batteries. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | Pixel 8 offers the latest Android and longer software support with regular updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 | Pixel 8 supports the newest Wi-Fi standard for faster data speeds and better performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | Pixel 8 has the latest Bluetooth version for better performance and reliability. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | Xiaomi has more options and better accuracy overall |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Both have dual SIM, but Pixel 8 adds eSIM for digital switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Both come in the same storage options; Pick depending on need. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12GB | 8 GB | Xiaomi 12X offers a 12 GB variant, making it ideal for heavy multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither device supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Both offer stereo sound; Xiaomi has more advanced audio features while the Google Pixel has noise cancelling. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Both phones use the same basic sensor. |
| Build | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both phones have same screen protection technology |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer; Environmental: Barometer | Google Pixel 8 includes additional environmental sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12X:
- Strengths: Lighter, faster charging, more RAM (in some variants), slightly more compact design, 8K video recording, comprehensive GPS system.
- Advantages: It is geared towards fast and furious use, ideal for gamers, fast charging is a plus.
- Trade-offs: Older Android, weaker camera in low light and overall, slower processor performance.
- Limitations: The lack of expandable storage may be a limitation for some.
Google Pixel 8:
- Strengths: Brighter screen, superior camera quality (especially in low light), superior software with longer updates, reverse wireless charging, newer chipset, better video recording quality.
- Advantages: Ideal for photography enthusiasts and those who value software updates and great overall performance.
- Trade-offs: Slower charging speed, slightly bulkier than Xiaomi, fewer camera lenses overall.
- Limitations: Lacks some advanced features compared to Xiaomi like 8K video.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12X:
- Ideal For: Gamers and users who prioritize fast charging and multitasking. Good for those who need the ability to record in 8K.
- Use Cases: Mobile gaming, binge-watching, users on the move who need to quickly top up their battery.
- Price-to-Value: Generally offers good value for performance.
Google Pixel 8:
- Ideal For: Photography enthusiasts, users who value software and overall performance, and those who prefer a more premium feel.
- Use Cases: Travel photography, capturing memories, those who prefer a very good camera.
- Price-to-Value: Tends to be priced higher, but provides superior camera performance.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three critical questions to help you decide:
How important is camera quality to you?
- If camera quality is paramount, especially in low light, the Pixel 8 is your best bet. Its computational photography and superior sensors give it a clear edge.
- If the camera is less important, then the Xiaomi is a great alternative.
Do you prioritize fast charging over everything else?
- If you need your phone to charge quickly, the Xiaomi 12X's 67W charging is a game-changer.
- If not, the Pixel 8 will still perform fine for all day use.
Are software updates and overall performance a big factor?
- If you want the latest Android updates and longer software support, the Pixel 8 is the better choice, due to Google's direct support.
- If this is less of a priority, the Xiaomi 12X is more than adequate.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
For the Photographer: Choose the Google Pixel 8 for its class-leading camera performance and amazing AI tools.
For the Power User: If you love gaming, media consumption and quick charging, the Xiaomi 12X with its fast charging capabilities and greater RAM options is a great pick.
For the Budget-Conscious: The Xiaomi 12X provides great features for less price.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I'd lean towards the Google Pixel 8. While the Xiaomi 12X's fast charging and extra RAM are tempting, the Pixel 8's superior camera, newer processor, and longer-term software support align more closely with what I prioritize in a daily driver. I value the consistency and quality of the Pixel's photography and video capabilities and the guarantee of timely updates. Although it may not charge as quickly, the overall experience will likely provide the most enjoyment for me.
