Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC | Google Pixel 8 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.3 × 76.8 × 9.4 mm | 162.6 × 76.5 × 8.8 mm | The Pixel 8 Pro is slightly more compact, potentially making it easier to handle for some users. |
| Weight | 215g | 213g | Negligible difference in weight. |
| Build Quality (Screen) | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Pixel 8 Pro offers superior scratch and drop resistance. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.7" | Virtually identical screen size. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1344x2992 | Pixel 8 Pro's higher resolution results in a noticeably sharper and more detailed image. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 395 | 489 | Text and images appear crisper on the Pixel 8 Pro. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | OLED | Pixel 8 Pro offers better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors due to OLED technology. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and gaming experiences. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2400 nits | Pixel 8 Pro is significantly easier to view in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G (8 nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) | Pixel 8 Pro offers significantly faster performance for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 328,145 | 1,142,984 | Pixel 8 Pro will feel much more responsive and future-proof. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Pixel 8 Pro handles graphics-intensive games and applications much better. |
| RAM | 6 GB or 8 GB | 12 GB | Pixel 8 Pro can handle more apps running in the background without slowing down. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.89, 1/1.7" | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.31" | Pixel 8 Pro's larger sensor and wider aperture allow for better low-light performance and dynamic range despite the lower megapixel count. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.2, 1/3.4" | 10.8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.65" | Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC has a higher megapixel count, but the Pixel 8 Pro's image processing likely results in better overall selfie quality. |
| Telephoto Lens | No | 48MP, f/2.8, 1/2.55" | Pixel 8 Pro offers optical zoom capabilities for distant subjects. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2 | 48MP, f/1.95 (Wide Angle + Macro) | Pixel 8 Pro can take wide angle and macro shots. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps (EIS) | 4K@60fps (HDR, OIS, EIS) | Pixel 8 Pro offers higher quality video with better stabilization and HDR support. |
| DXOMark (Mobile) | N/A | 153 | Pixel 8 Pro has a proven high-quality camera. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5160mAh | 5050mAh | Similar battery life. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging, 23W Wireless Charging, Reverse Charging | Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC charges slightly faster with wired charging. Pixel 8 Pro offers the convenience of wireless and reverse charging. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB/1024GB | Pixel 8 Pro offers significantly more storage options, especially beneficial for users who store large files or shoot a lot of video. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 (up to 12) | Android 14 (up to 21) | Pixel 8 Pro offers a more modern and feature-rich operating system with guaranteed updates for longer. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 7 | Pixel 8 Pro supports the latest Wi-Fi standards for faster speeds and better network performance. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.3 | Pixel 8 Pro offers a slightly newer Bluetooth version with improved features. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Pixel 8 Pro supports eSIM for more flexibility. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Stereo Speakers, 2 Microphones | Stereo Speakers, 3 Microphones | Pixel 8 Pro has a slight edge in audio features (by a small margin) offering clearer calls, better audio separation and immersion, better voice capture |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC features a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor; Provides basic biometric security |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC Advantages:
- Potentially Lower Price: The Poco X3 NFC is significantly older, so it will likely be much cheaper on the used market.
- Slightly Faster Wired Charging: 33W charging vs 30W.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Users may prefer side-mounted fingerprint sensors over in-display solutions
Practical Implications:
- The lower price makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious users needing basic smartphone functionality.
Google Pixel 8 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Tensor G3 chipset offers vastly superior performance for all tasks.
- Significantly Better Display: OLED technology, higher resolution, and higher brightness provide a much better viewing experience.
- More Versatile Camera System: Telephoto lens, wide angle lens, better video recording capabilities, and Google's computational photography provide a more versatile and higher-quality photography experience.
- More Storage Options: Up to 1TB of internal storage.
- Wireless and Reverse Charging: Added convenience.
- Latest Software: Android 14 with guaranteed updates.
- Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 offers superior protection.
- Better Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 and newer Bluetooth version.
Practical Implications:
- The Pixel 8 Pro offers a premium experience with top-tier performance, a stunning display, and a class-leading camera. The guaranteed software updates provide longevity.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Price: The Pixel 8 Pro is significantly more expensive.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC - Ideal Users:
- Budget-conscious users needing a functional smartphone for basic tasks like calls, messaging, and social media.
- Users who prioritize battery life over performance and camera quality.
- Users who are comfortable with older software.
Use Cases:
- As a secondary phone.
- For users who primarily use their phone for calling and texting.
- For users on a very tight budget.
Google Pixel 8 Pro - Ideal Users:
- Users who demand the best possible performance and camera quality.
- Photography enthusiasts.
- Users who value a premium smartphone experience and are willing to pay for it.
- Users who want the latest software and guaranteed updates.
Use Cases:
- Photography and videography.
- Gaming.
- Content creation.
- Professional use where performance and reliability are critical.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The price difference is significant.
- What are your primary use cases? Basic communication vs. demanding tasks.
- How important are camera quality and software updates?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Tight Budget: If your budget is extremely limited, the Poco X3 NFC can be a functional option.
- Scenario 2: Balanced Needs: If you need a solid all-around phone, the Poco X3 NFC still could be a good choice, if you can find it really cheap.
- Scenario 3: Premium Experience: If you want the best performance, camera, and software, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is the clear choice.
My Choice
I would choose the Google Pixel 8 Pro. The Pixel 8 Pro offers a significantly better user experience across the board. The superior performance, display, camera, and software support make it worth the investment for me. While the Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC is a functional device, it is simply too outdated for my needs. I value a smooth and responsive user experience, and I heavily rely on my phone for photography, video recording, and demanding applications. The Pixel 8 Pro excels in all of these areas, making it the clear winner.
