1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F3 | Google Pixel 8 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.7 × 76.4 × 7.8 mm | 150.5 × 70.8 × 8.9 mm | Poco F3 is larger and thinner, while Pixel 8 is more compact and slightly thicker. |
| Weight | 196g | 187g | Pixel 8 is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.2" | Poco F3 offers a larger screen for immersive media consumption and gaming. Pixel 8 is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same level of sharpness. |
| PPI | 395 | 428 | Pixel 8 has slightly sharper text and images due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; similar display quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 2000 nits | Pixel 8 provides much better outdoor visibility under bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 (7 nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) | Pixel 8's newer chip provides better efficiency and performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 800,216 | 876,512 | Pixel 8 has a benchmark advantage, translating to smoother overall performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Pixel 8 has a more powerful GPU for improved graphics. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/2", 0.8µm | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.31", 1.2µm | Pixel 8 has a larger sensor, larger pixel size, and wider aperture, resulting in better low-light performance and image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.45, 1/3.4", 0.8µm | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | Pixel 8 has larger pixels and wider aperture on selfie camera for better low light and wider view. |
| Wide Angle/Macro | None | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.9", 0.8µm | Pixel 8 has an additional versatile camera. Poco F3 lacks a dedicated wide angle/macro lens. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, OIS, EIS | Pixel 8 has more advanced video recording with stabilization, HDR and higher framerate at 4K. |
| DxOMark | - | Mobile: 148 (Photo: 152, Video: 148) | Pixel 8's camera has been independently tested and scores well on photo and video. |
| Features | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer | Noise reduction, Pro Video Mode, 4K Video, Digital zoom, Dual camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), NPU AI Engine, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | Pixel 8 offers more advanced features like OIS, Pro Video Mode, RAW capture, Night Mode and AI-enhanced capabilities. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4520 mAh | 4575 mAh | Similar battery capacity, suggesting comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 27W Fast Charging | Poco F3 charges slightly faster. |
| Features | Supports QC3 + / PD3.0 | Reverse Charging | Poco F3 has support for QC3/PD3 charging protocol. Pixel 8 can charge other devices wirelessly. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 13) | Android 14 (Upgradable to 21) | Pixel 8 has the latest OS with longer support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | Pixel 8 supports the newest Wi-Fi standard for faster speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | Pixel 8 has a newer Bluetooth version for better stability and range. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | Poco F3 supports a wider range of satellite systems which can lead to higher positional accuracy |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Pixel 8 supports eSIM, offering flexibility with carrier options. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both offer similar storage configurations. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB | Pixel 8 has a standard 8GB of RAM for smoother performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Poco F3 has Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res audio certification. Pixel 8 features noise cancellation microphone. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Poco F3 has a more advanced fingerprint sensor placement and technology. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel 8 has superior screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Proximity, Barometer | Pixel 8 has additional environmental sensors like barometer and magnetometer. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Poco F3 Advantages:
- Larger Display: Provides a more immersive experience for media and gaming, beneficial for users who prefer larger screens.
- Slightly Faster Charging: 33W charging may allow for quicker top-ups compared to Pixel 8's 27W.
- More Advanced GPS: Supports more satellite systems, potentially for more accurate location tracking.
- Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio: Provides superior audio experience to audiophiles and people who consume a lot of music/video.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: Can be considered more user friendly and more convenient to use.
Google Pixel 8 Advantages:
- Better Performance: The newer Tensor G3 chipset offers better overall speed and efficiency, leading to smoother daily usage.
- Superior Camera: Larger sensor, wider aperture, and a dedicated wide-angle/macro camera result in better image quality, especially in low light, as well as more versatile photography.
- Higher Display Brightness: Significantly better visibility in bright outdoor conditions.
- Advanced Video Features: Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), HDR recording, and higher framerates provide higher quality video recording.
- Newer Software and Longer Support: Ships with Android 14 and will receive more OS and security updates, ensuring a more modern experience.
- eSIM Support: Allows for easier switching between carriers, beneficial for frequent travelers.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides superior protection against damage.
- Advanced Audio Features: Noise cancellation microphone and 3 mics provide higher quality audio when recording and on phone calls.
- Reverse Wireless Charging: Can charge other devices wirelessly.
- More Sensors: Includes a barometer and magnetometer.
Trade-offs:
- Poco F3 offers slightly faster charging and a larger display, however, it has an older chipset and an inferior camera.
- Pixel 8 offers superior camera, performance and latest features but is more expensive and has smaller display and slower charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Poco F3 Ideal User:
- Price-Conscious Gamers: Users who prioritize performance for gaming but are on a tighter budget.
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: Individuals who enjoy consuming content on larger screens and appreciate enhanced audio.
- Users Who Want a Larger Phone: Users that want a larger device for more screen real estate.
Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming on a budget.
- Streaming movies and videos frequently.
- Everyday use with good performance at a mid range price.
Google Pixel 8 Ideal User:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize high-quality images and versatile camera capabilities.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who want the latest software, features, and security updates.
- Users Who Value Performance and Quality: Users who want a smooth, high-quality user experience and don't mind the smaller screen.
Use Cases:
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos in various lighting conditions.
- Using advanced AI-powered camera features.
- Receiving the latest Android updates and software features.
- Smooth daily usage with no lag or hiccups.
Price-to-Value:
- Poco F3 offers high performance at a lower price point.
- Pixel 8 justifies its higher price with a better camera, performance, updated software and latest features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- What's my primary use case? (Gaming, photography, everyday use, multimedia consumption?)
- How important is camera quality? (Do you need high-end photography or is basic quality enough?)
- What is my budget? (Are you willing to pay more for better camera, performance and latest features, or do you need more value for your money?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious Gamer - If you are on a budget and your main focus is gaming and multimedia, the Xiaomi Poco F3 is a better choice due to the large display, good performance, and great value.
- Scenario 2: Photography Focused User - If photography is your main priority, and you are willing to pay more, the Google Pixel 8 is significantly better due to the superior camera performance.
- Scenario 3: General User Seeking Balance - If you want a balanced mix of good performance, good camera, and latest software features, while having no issues with a smaller display, the Google Pixel 8 is the better pick, although it costs more.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Google Pixel 8. While the Poco F3 presents a compelling value with its larger screen and slightly faster charging, the overall experience of the Pixel 8 is superior due to its significantly better camera, performance, latest software and more up-to-date features.
While the larger display and fast charging are convenient on the Poco F3, the improved camera performance, especially in low light and versatile photography, make the Pixel 8 a better choice for someone who appreciates taking high-quality photos and videos. Additionally, the Pixel 8's newer chipset and software guarantee a smoother and more future-proof experience. Even with its slightly smaller screen, the higher brightness makes the Pixel 8 much more usable in direct sunlight, something which is important for me.
While there is a significant price difference between the two, I believe the Pixel 8 justifies the higher price point with its superior camera, the latest software and newer features.
