Google Pixel 7 vs 8: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

The Pixel lineup has always been Google’s way of showing what Android can truly offer. With the release of the Pixel 8, many people are asking the same question: how does it compare to the Pixel 7, and is the $100 price increase really justified? To answer that, let’s take a closer look at the changes in design, display, performance, cameras, battery life, and software support.

Design and Size

When you hold the Pixel 8 for the first time, the difference in design is immediately noticeable. It is more compact and pocket-friendly compared to its predecessor. In fact, it’s the smallest flagship Google has made since the Pixel 5. The body is softer with rounded corners, making it more comfortable in the hand.

The glossy back finish is still present, but the camera bar now sits slightly higher due to the reduced chassis size. The cutout for the lenses is also larger, giving the rear design a more defined look. Overall, the Pixel 8 feels easier to carry, lighter, and more refined without losing the familiar Pixel identity.

Quick Table

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Display

One of the most significant upgrades is the screen. The Pixel 7 features a 6.3-inch FHD+ OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate. It’s a good panel for everyday use, but when you switch to the Pixel 8, the difference is clear.

The Pixel 8 offers a 6.2-inch “Actua” OLED display with a smoother 120Hz refresh rate and much higher peak brightness. Not only does it feel faster and more fluid, but it’s also easier to use outdoors under bright sunlight. The bezels are slimmer too, which adds to the modern look.

Face Unlock is another notable difference. On the Pixel 7, it works for basic unlocking, but on the Pixel 8, it can finally be used for secure apps such as banking or password managers. This is the first time Google has brought this level of biometric security back since the Pixel 4.

Camera Comparison

Google’s Pixel phones are known for their photography, and both of these models continue that tradition. The Pixel 7 comes with a 50MP wide and 12MP ultrawide camera, while the Pixel 8 keeps the same dual setup but introduces a new main sensor with better low-light performance.

The newer model also borrows macro mode from last year’s Pixel 7 Pro, letting you capture detailed close-ups without needing a telephoto lens. In real-world use, the Pixel 8 edges ahead in consistency and quality, particularly in night shots and video recording.

That said, the differences are subtle. If you’re happy with the Pixel 7’s already strong performance, you won’t feel left behind. But for those who want the very best results in challenging lighting, the Pixel 8 offers an advantage.

Software and Updates

This is where the Pixel 8 pulls far ahead. The Pixel 7 launched with a standard three years of Android updates and five years of security patches, which means support ends in 2027, with Android 16 likely being its final version.

The Pixel 8, on the other hand, is guaranteed seven years of software and security updates, extending support until 2030. This means it will potentially receive Android 21. For many buyers, this single change is enough to justify the higher price. It ensures that the device will stay secure and up-to-date for much longer, reducing the need for frequent upgrades.

Beyond the update promise, the Pixel 8 also comes with exclusive AI features such as Magic Editor, Best Take, and Audio Magic Eraser. These tools allow users to edit photos and videos more creatively and with less effort. While some of these may eventually trickle down to older devices, the most advanced ones are expected to remain exclusive to the newer model.

Performance and Processor

Under the hood, the Pixel 7 is powered by the Tensor G2, which was known for its AI performance but also criticized for running hot and being less power efficient. The Pixel 8 introduces the Tensor G3, which brings better thermal management and improved efficiency.

While raw performance gains aren’t dramatic, the G3 does run cooler, which means smoother gaming sessions and less battery drain. In everyday use like browsing, messaging, or taking photos, the difference isn’t huge. But for heavy users, the improved efficiency will be noticeable over time.

When put to the test in AnTuTu benchmarks, the newer model pulls ahead in raw performance. The Pixel 8 scores around 876,500 points in one version of the test scoring system , while another dataset places its average much higher around 1,145,000 points, with detailed sub-scores like 349,700 for CPU and 376,800 for GPU performance . By comparison, the Pixel 7 usually lands between 827,000 and 924,000 points, depending on the sourcesome figures even break it down, showing CPU at about 266,800 and GPU at 297,200 . In short, the Pixel 8 shows a notable jump in benchmark numbers especially in graphics and gaming performance, highlighting real improvements under the hood thanks to its newer Tensor G3 chip.

Battery and Charging

Despite being slightly smaller, the Pixel 8 manages to pack a larger battery than the Pixel 7. Combined with the efficiency of the Tensor G3, this results in longer screen-on time and better overall endurance.

Charging has also seen slight improvements. It’s still not the fastest compared to competitors, but the Pixel 8 charges a bit quicker, which makes a difference during short top-ups throughout the day. Wireless and reverse charging remain available on both devices.

Price and Value

The Pixel 7 launched at $599, while the Pixel 8 starts at $699. At first glance, a $100 increase might seem like a simple price bump. But when you factor in the longer support window, better display, improved camera system, and efficiency gains, the Pixel 8 actually offers more value in the long run.

If you divide the cost by the years of guaranteed updates, the Pixel 7 ends up costing about $120 per year, while the Pixel 8 drops that figure closer to $100 per year. From this perspective, the newer model gives more for the money.

Who Should Upgrade?

If you already own a Pixel 7, the jump to Pixel 8 isn’t a must-have. The improvements, while meaningful, are not massive enough to justify upgrading after just one year unless you really want the seven-year update promise.

However, if you’re using an older Pixel or switching from another Android phone, the Pixel 8 makes a lot of sense. Its compact size, brighter screen, improved efficiency, and unmatched software support make it one of the best small flagship phones available today.

Final Thoughts

The Pixel 7 remains a strong and reliable device, especially if you can find it at a discount. But the Pixel 8 refines the formula in just the right places. It’s smaller, easier to use, and equipped with a faster display. The updated camera sensor, longer battery life, and AI features add even more value. Most importantly, the seven years of updates set a new standard not just for Google, but for Android phones in general.

For buyers choosing between the two, the Pixel 8 emerges as the smarter long-term option. It may cost $100 more upfront, but the additional support and features make it a better investment over time. In short, Google has managed to trim the fat and add enough substance to make the Pixel 8 stand out as one of the best compact flagships you can buy right now.

Interested in Google Pixel 7 Pro vs 9 Pro: Is the Upgrade Really Worth It? then click here.

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