Pixel 2 vs S8 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Samsung Galaxy S8 & Google Pixel 2 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Samsung Galaxy S8 rather than the Google Pixel 2. 

Why Do I Recommend The Samsung Galaxy S8

  • The Samsung Galaxy S8 features a 2960×1440 QHD+ Super AMOLED display for sharper text, finer image detail, and a more immersive viewing experience, while the Google Pixel 2 uses a 1920×1080 Full HD AMOLED display.
  • Samsung Galaxy S8 comes with a curved 18.5:9 Infinity Display for improved edge-to-edge content viewing and better multitasking space, whereas the Google Pixel 2 uses a flat 16:9 display.
  • It supports microSD card expansion to increase storage capacity for photos, videos, and apps, while the Google Pixel 2 uses fixed internal storage with no expansion support.
  • The Samsung Galaxy S8 includes a 3.5mm headphone jack for direct compatibility with wired headphones and audio accessories, while the Google Pixel 2 removes the headphone jack and relies on USB-C or wireless audio.
  • Samsung Galaxy S8 supports wireless charging for more convenient cable-free charging at home or in the office, whereas the Google Pixel 2 supports wired charging only.
  • It features an iris scanner for an additional secure biometric unlocking method in low-light or gloved conditions, while the Google Pixel 2 uses only a fingerprint sensor.
  • The Samsung Galaxy S8 comes with a larger 3000 mAh battery for longer screen-on time during media consumption and daily tasks, while the Google Pixel 2 uses a smaller 2700 mAh battery.
  • Samsung Galaxy S8 includes IP68 water and dust resistance for better protection during submersion and harsh environments, whereas the Google Pixel 2 uses a lower IP67 water resistance rating.

Maybe the Google Pixel 2 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Samsung Galaxy S8. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureSamsung Galaxy S8Google Pixel 2
Display Size5.8″5.0″
Display Resolution2960×14401920×1080
Aspect Ratio18.5:916:9
Display CurvatureCurvedFlat
Display PPI~570~441
HDR SupportYesNo
Water ResistanceIP68IP67
Build MaterialGlass backAluminum back
Headphone JackYesNo
microSD SlotYesNo
Wireless ChargingYesNo
Iris ScannerYesNo
Face RecognitionYesNo
Front Camera AFYesNo
Processor VariantExynos/SnapdragonSnapdragon only
Audio TuningStandardFront stereo
Battery Capacity3000 mAh2700 mAh
PriceCheck Samsung S8 PriceCheck Pixel 2 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Chipset Family: Both models are powered by the Snapdragon 835 platform, which was Qualcomm’s flagship processor at launch. This ensures comparable processing efficiency and overall system responsiveness.
  • CPU Architecture: Each phone uses an octa-core CPU configuration, balancing high-performance cores with efficiency cores. This helps manage demanding tasks while maintaining reasonable power consumption.
  • GPU: The Adreno 540 GPU is shared by both devices, enabling similar graphics performance in games and multimedia applications. Users can expect comparable visual smoothness and rendering capabilities.
  • RAM: With 4 GB of RAM on both phones, multitasking performance is largely similar. This allows multiple apps to stay active in memory without frequent reloads.
  • Internal Storage Type: Both devices use UFS storage, which provides faster read and write speeds than older eMMC solutions. This improves app loading times and overall system fluidity.
  • Rear Camera: Each phone features a 12 MP rear camera sensor, placing them in the same resolution class. This ensures comparable base image detail before software processing is applied.
  • Optical Image Stabilization: OIS is present on both devices, helping to reduce blur caused by hand movement. This improves photo sharpness and video stability, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Phase Detection Autofocus: Both cameras use PDAF technology for faster and more accurate focusing. This is especially useful for capturing moving subjects or spontaneous shots.
  • Front Camera: An 8 MP front-facing camera is used on both phones, offering similar resolution for selfies and video calls. This keeps front camera image clarity within the same range.
  • Video Recording: Each device supports 4K video recording at 30 frames per second. This allows users to capture high-resolution videos suitable for large displays and editing.
  • USB Port: USB Type-C is standard on both models, enabling reversible cable use and faster data transfer. It also supports modern charging accessories.
  • Fingerprint Sensor: Both phones include a rear-mounted fingerprint reader for biometric security. This provides quick and reliable device unlocking.
  • NFC Support: NFC is available on both devices, enabling contactless payments and quick pairing with compatible accessories. This is essential for modern mobile payment systems.
  • Fast Charging: Each smartphone supports fast charging technology, reducing the time needed to recharge the battery. This is especially valuable for users with heavy daily usage.
  • Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.0 is present on both phones, improving connection stability and range. It also supports better audio and accessory connectivity.
  • Wi-Fi Standard: Both support 802.11ac Wi-Fi, allowing faster wireless internet speeds on compatible networks. This improves streaming and download performance.
  • GPS Support: Full GPS support is available on both models, ensuring accurate navigation and location tracking. This is critical for maps and location-based apps.
  • Accelerometer: Each phone includes an accelerometer for motion detection. This enables features like screen rotation and fitness tracking.
  • Gyroscope: A built-in gyroscope is shared by both devices, enhancing motion sensing accuracy. This improves gaming, navigation, and augmented reality experiences.

Common Features

FeatureSamsung Galaxy S8Google Pixel 2
Chipset FamilySnapdragon 835Snapdragon 835
CPU ArchitectureOcta-coreOcta-core
GPUAdreno 540Adreno 540
RAM4 GB4 GB
Internal Storage TypeUFSUFS
Rear Camera12 MP12 MP
Optical Image StabilizationYesYes
Phase Detection AutofocusYesYes
Front Camera8 MP8 MP
Video Recording4K@30fps4K@30fps
USB PortUSB Type-CUSB Type-C
Fingerprint SensorYesYes
NFC SupportYesYes
Fast ChargingYesYes
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 5.0
Wi-Fi Standard802.11ac802.11ac
GPS SupportYesYes
AccelerometerYesYes
GyroscopeYesYes
Price Check Samsung S8 Price Check Pixel 2 Price

FAQ

Which phone has the better display quality?
Samsung Galaxy S8 has a higher-resolution QHD+ Super AMOLED display with a curved design, while Google Pixel 2 uses a smaller Full HD AMOLED panel. The Galaxy S8 screen is sharper and more immersive, especially for media consumption.

Which device offers better camera performance overall?
Google Pixel 2 is widely known for its computational photography, delivering more consistent photos and superior video stabilization. Samsung Galaxy S8 relies more on hardware features and produces excellent images but with less advanced software processing.

Do both phones support optical image stabilization?
Yes, both Samsung Galaxy S8 and Google Pixel 2 include optical image stabilization on the rear camera, helping reduce blur in photos and improve video stability.

Which phone has better video stabilization?
Google Pixel 2 combines optical and electronic image stabilization, resulting in smoother videos. Samsung Galaxy S8 uses optical stabilization only, which is effective but less advanced for video.

Is there a headphone jack on both phones?
Samsung Galaxy S8 includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, while Google Pixel 2 does not. Pixel 2 users must rely on USB-C audio or wireless headphones.

Which phone supports expandable storage?
Samsung Galaxy S8 supports microSD card expansion, allowing users to increase storage capacity. Google Pixel 2 does not support expandable storage and relies solely on internal memory.

Do both phones support wireless charging?
Samsung Galaxy S8 supports wireless charging using Qi standards, while Google Pixel 2 does not offer wireless charging support.

Which phone has better audio output?
Google Pixel 2 features front-facing stereo speakers, providing louder and more balanced sound. Samsung Galaxy S8 uses a single bottom-firing speaker.

Are both phones water resistant?
Yes, both devices are water resistant, but Samsung Galaxy S8 is rated IP68, while Google Pixel 2 has an IP67 rating, giving the Galaxy S8 slightly stronger protection against water and dust.

Which phone receives software updates for a longer time?
Google Pixel 2 receives faster and longer Android updates directly from Google. Samsung Galaxy S8 updates are less frequent and typically end sooner.

Do both phones use the same processor?
Both phones use the Snapdragon 835 chipset in many regions, though Samsung Galaxy S8 also has an Exynos variant in some markets. Performance is generally similar between the two.

Which phone has better biometric options?
Samsung Galaxy S8 includes a fingerprint sensor, iris scanner, and basic face recognition, while Google Pixel 2 relies primarily on a fingerprint sensor.

Are both phones suitable for gaming?
Yes, both phones handle gaming well due to similar CPU and GPU capabilities. However, prolonged gaming may show thermal differences depending on usage and environment.

Which phone is more compact and easier to use one-handed?
Google Pixel 2 is smaller and easier to handle with one hand. Samsung Galaxy S8 has a larger display and taller body, which may require two-handed use for some users.

Which phone is better for a clean Android experience?
Google Pixel 2 provides a stock Android experience with no manufacturer skin, while Samsung Galaxy S8 uses Samsung’s customized interface with additional features and apps.