Google Pixel 8 vs Apple iPhone 16E: Which One Should You Buy?

Apple has just officially announced the iPhone 16e ( iPhone SE4 2025 ) model in the US at a price of $599. At the time of writing, Google Pixel 8 – which was launched in 2023 is now available for a much cheaper offer price of $399.00 in the US online on Amazon.com. That’s a $200 Discount between these two devices. Which one is a better buy ? Let’s analyze.

Design & Build Quality

  • Google Pixel 8: 187g, Gorilla Glass Victus front and back, aluminum frame, IP68 rating
  • Apple iPhone 16E: 167g, Ceramic Shield glass, aluminum frame, IP68 rating

Verdict: The iPhone 16E is lighter and slimmer, said to have better water resistance, while the Pixel 8 offers robust Gorilla Glass Victus protection.

Display

  • Google Pixel 8: 6.2-inch OLED, 120Hz, HDR10+, 2000 nits peak brightness, 1080 x 2400 pixels (~428 ppi)
  • Apple iPhone 16E: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, HDR10, 1200 nits peak brightness, 1170 x 2532 pixels (~460 ppi)

Verdict: The Pixel 8 boasts higher peak brightness and a slightly larger display. It also supports a 120hz refresh rate, making it a winner in this category.

Performance & Software

  • Google Pixel 8: Google Tensor G3 (4nm), Android 14 (upgradable to Android 15), 7 years of OS updates
  • Apple iPhone 16E: Apple A18 (3nm), iOS 18.4, long-term iOS support

Verdict: The iPhone 16E has a more powerful 3nm chipset compared to Google’s Tensor G3 (4nm). Both are expected to get long-term OS version updates. I would say it’s a draw in this category.

Cameras

Rear Cameras

  • Google Pixel 8: 50 MP (wide), 12 MP (ultrawide), laser autofocus, Ultra HDR
  • Apple iPhone 16E: 48 MP (wide), 3D spatial audio recording

Front Cameras

  • Google Pixel 8: 10.5 MP ultrawide
  • Apple iPhone 16E: 12 MP wide + SL 3D depth sensor

Verdict: The Pixel 8 offers a versatile ultrawide lens, while the iPhone 16E only has a single lens. For photography enthusiasts, having an additional ultra-wide-angle lens, for a much cheaper price makes the Pixel 8 the go-to choice over iPhone 16e.

Battery & Charging

  • Google Pixel 8: 4575mAh, 27W wired, 18W wireless, reverse wireless charging
  • Apple iPhone 16E: Unknown battery capacity, 50% charge in 30 min, 7.5W wireless (Qi)

Verdict: When it comes to battery usage, both should give an almost identical screen on time.

Price & Value

  • Google Pixel 8: $399.00
  • Apple iPhone 16E: $599

Verdict: The Pixel 8 offers outstanding value for money, while the iPhone 16E is significantly more expensive.

Final Verdict: Which One to Buy?

  • Choose the Google Pixel 8 if: You want the best value for money, long Android updates, and superior camera versatility.
  • Choose the Apple iPhone 16E if: You prefer iOS, better chipset performance, lighter build, and deeper ecosystem integration.

Both phones cater to different audiences, but for most users, the Pixel 8 stands out as the best value-for-money option. However, if you’re deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone 16E is the way to go.

Google Pixel 9 Verified Purchase Reviews | Pros and Cons

The Google Pixel 9 has garnered significant praise from users, cementing its reputation as a powerful and versatile smartphone. Here’s an overview based on customer experiences ( based on Verified Purchase Customer Reviews on Amazon US ):

Pros:

  1. Exceptional Camera: The Pixel 9 stands out for its impressive camera quality, with many users highlighting its ability to capture stunning photos in various lighting conditions. Google’s AI-enhanced image processing is frequently mentioned as a game-changer, making casual photography effortless and enjoyable.
  2. Compact and Premium Design: The 6.3-inch display strikes a balance between usability and portability, appealing to those who prefer smaller, more manageable phones. The build quality and design aesthetics, especially in unique colors like Porcelain and Wintergreen, have been well-received.
  3. Strong Performance: The phone’s responsiveness and ability to handle multitasking and AI features efficiently have left a positive impression. Users upgrading from older devices particularly appreciated the noticeable performance boost.
  4. Battery Life: Most users found the battery reliable, lasting a full day even with moderate to heavy use.
  5. Value for Money: Many buyers took advantage of discounts, such as Black Friday deals, making the Pixel 9 a cost-effective choice for a flagship device.
  6. Long-term Software Support: Google’s promise of seven years of updates is a significant draw for those seeking longevity in their devices.

Cons:

  1. Slippery Build: The phone’s glass back, while sleek, has been criticized for being slippery, prompting many users to recommend using a case for better grip.
  2. Mixed Feelings on AI Features: While some users loved the integration of Google’s AI features, others felt that certain AI capabilities, like the new Gemini assistant, were underwhelming or unnecessary.
  3. Fingerprint and Face Unlock Issues: A few users reported inconsistent performance with biometric unlock features, though this was not a deal-breaker for most.
  4. Missing Features: Some users lamented the absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack and microSD card slot, particularly those transitioning from older or budget devices.
  5. Heat Management: There were occasional reports of the phone heating up during intensive tasks, like using navigation apps alongside music streaming.

Summary:

The Google Pixel 9 is a top-tier smartphone that excels in photography, performance, and design. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a flagship experience at a reasonable price, especially during promotional periods. While it may not be perfect, with minor drawbacks like a slippery build and occasional AI quirks, its overall value, longevity, and user-friendly features make it a strong contender in the Android market.

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