In 2024, two flagship smartphones are battling for the top spot in the market for the best Android smartphone of the year: the Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.
Both devices pack cutting-edge technology, from top-tier cameras to exceptional displays.
The Pixel 8 Pro boasts Google’s latest AI-driven camera features and Android updates, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra brings its mighty 200MP camera, stunning display, and performance power.
In this article, we’ll break down the specs, real-life experiences, and core differences to help you make an informed choice.
Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Specs Comparison
| Feature | Google Pixel 8 Pro | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.7-inch LTPO OLED, 120Hz, 2992×1344 pixels, HDR10+, 2400 nits (peak brightness) | 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, 3120×1440 pixels, HDR10+, 2600 nits (peak brightness) |
| Camera | 50MP main, 48MP telephoto, 48MP ultrawide, 10.5MP selfie camera Video: 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@24/30/60/120/240fps; gyro-EIS, OIS, 10-bit HDR | 200MP main (OIS), 10MP telephoto (3x telephoto zoom with OIS), 50MP telephoto (5x telephoto zoom with OIS), 12MP ultrawide, 12MP selfie camera Video: 8K@24/30fps, 4K@30/60/120fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps, HDR10+, stereo sound recording, gyro-EIS |
| Processor | Google Tensor G3 (4nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm) |
| GPU | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Adreno 750 (1 GHz) |
| Storage | 128GB 12GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM, 1TB 12GB RAMUFS 3.1 | 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM, 1TB 12GB RAMUFS 4.0 |
| Battery | 5050mAh with 30W wired, 23W wireless charging | 5000mAh with 45W wired, 15W wireless charging, 4.5W reverse wireless charging |
| Operating System | Android 14 with Pixel-exclusive features | Android 14 with One UI |
| Price | Starting at $999 | Starting at $1,299.99 |
DESIGN AND BUILD
The Google Pixel 8 Pro retains Google’s signature minimalist design, with smooth edges, a matte finish, and a prominent camera bar.
It feels premium and lightweight in hand despite its robust build.
On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra impresses with its curved edges and sleek, almost bezel-less display, giving it a modern, futuristic look.
The materials used in the S24 Ultra, including the Corning Gorilla Glass Armor and the titanium frame, add durability and a luxurious feel.
In real life, both devices offer excellent build quality, but the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra may appeal more to users who enjoy a larger, immersive display.
The Google Pixel 8 Pro, however, strikes a balance between elegance and practicality, offering easy handling for daily use.
DISPLAY
When it comes to display technology, both smartphones are at the forefront.
The Google Pixel 8 Pro features a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and immersive visuals.
Colors are vibrant and true to life, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize accuracy in media consumption and editing.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, on the other hand, takes things up a notch with its 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel.
The 120Hz refresh rate and a higher resolution of 3120×1440 pixels make every detail pop.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s display is slightly brighter (2600 nits peak), more immersive, and optimized for outdoor visibility, making it a favorite among photographers and video editors.
CAMERA
The camera is where these two smartphones shine but also differ significantly.
Google Pixel 8 Pro utilizes its AI-enhanced computational photography, making the most of its 50MP main camera, 48MP telephoto lens, and 48MP ultrawide lens.
In real-life usage, the Pixel excels in low-light photography and portrait shots, producing rich and detailed images.
Google’s software-driven camera experience adds features like Magic Eraser, ensuring clear and refined photos even in tricky conditions.
Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts an astounding 200MP primary sensor, a standout feature in the industry.
The sheer resolution allows for unprecedented zoom capabilities and detail.
Alongside its combination of 10MP + 50MP telephoto lens with 100x Space Zoom, the S24 Ultra offers one of the most versatile camera systems on the market.
Users report that it’s a powerhouse for landscape photography, with ultra-sharp images and impressive zoom performance, though it may slightly lag behind the Pixel in low-light situations.
PERFORMANCE AND BATTERY LIFE
Powered by the Google Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8 Pro is optimized for AI tasks, ensuring smooth multitasking and Google’s exclusive Android features.
The Tensor G3 enhances performance in real-life applications like voice recognition, camera processing, and gaming, making it perfect for users embedded in Google’s ecosystem.
The 5050mAh battery lasts a full day of moderate use, and while its 30W wired charging isn’t the fastest, it’s reliable.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra flexes its muscles with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, a beast when it comes to performance, offering faster processing speeds and more efficient battery management.
With a battery capacity of 5000mAhand 45W fast charging, the S24 Ultra powers through a day of intensive use, including gaming and media streaming, without breaking a sweat.
Real-world users appreciate the quick charging times and power efficiency.
Real-World Experience of the Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Imagine this: You’re heading out on a spontaneous weekend trip. You want a phone that can capture every moment, manage your navigation, and serve as your entertainment hub.
The Google Pixel 8 Pro becomes your ideal travel buddy, it’s lightweight, and with its AI-driven photography, you capture stunning photos of the sunset and crisp videos of your adventures.
You feel secure knowing that Google’s latest software updates keep everything running smoothly.
Now picture holding the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra on a different trip—it’s your go-to device for capturing far-off wildlife in jaw-dropping clarity with its 200MP camera and long zoom range.
You watch movies on the larger display and never worry about battery life, as it’s recharged quickly during breaks.
Both phones enhance your experience, but which one fits your lifestyle better?
Google Pixel 8 Pro
PROS
CONS
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
PROS
CONS
CONCLUSION
Both the Google Pixel 8 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra represent the pinnacle of smartphone technology, each excelling in its unique way.
The Pixel 8 Pro is the perfect choice for users who value Google’s AI enhancements, quick software updates, and a well-rounded camera experience.
On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra offers unmatched camera versatility, superior display, and performance suited for power users.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and how you prioritize features in your daily smartphone use.
So, which one is the right fit for you? Are you leaning toward Google’s AI wizardry or Samsung’s camera powerhouse?
Check out our detailed reviews of the Google Pixel 8 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra to get more insights on which device fits your needs better.
H3: FAQs
- Does the Pixel 8 Pro have better battery life than the Galaxy S24 Ultra?
The Pixel 8 Pro offers solid battery life, but the Galaxy S24 Ultra edges ahead due to its faster charging capabilities and more power-efficient Snapdragon chip.
- Which phone is better for gaming?
While both phones handle gaming well, the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor offers superior performance for graphically intensive games.
- Does the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s 200MP camera really make a difference?
Yes, the 200MP camera on the Galaxy S24 Ultra allows for incredible zooming capabilities and super-detailed photos, making it great for photographers.
