Google Pixel 8 vs Samsung Galaxy S23: Best Flagship Android Phone Under ₹37,000?
Choosing between the Google Pixel 8 and the Samsung Galaxy S23 can be challenging, especially given that both smartphones offer compelling features under ₹37,000. Let’s compare them in terms of specifications, features, and pricing to help you decide which flagship Android phone suits you better.
Display and Design
There is no difference other than marginally higher peak brightness from the Pixel 8 at 2000 nits than from the Galaxy S23’s 1750 nits. If you want to get something almost as compact but lightweight, you prefer the Galaxy S23 in size and dimension. Otherwise, Gorilla Glass Victus and IP68 for water and dust resistance are the same on both of these devices.
Performance
Raw performance-wise, of course, the Samsung Galaxy S23 takes the cake since its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor is much more powerful than Google’s Tensor G3. If gaming or heavy multi-tasking is your concern, then you’d be better off with a processor like that in the S23, which would offer better efficiency and faster performance. Both phones ship with 8GB of RAM, although the S23 has UFS 4.0 storage, a much more efficient application than the Pixel 8 running with UFS 3.1.
Camera
Something we already know pretty well about the Google Pixel 8 is its camera, famous in software mode – something like Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and Real Tone for more realistic skin tone. Other features include a dual-camera, a 50MP primary, and a 12MP ultrawide. The Samsung Galaxy S23 has been much more versatile due to the presence of the triple-camera features-it comes with a telephoto lens for optical zoom. And the software is also top-notch, featuring Super Steady Video and Director’s View, so the Galaxy S23 makes an absolute dream device for video developers.
Battery
There are slight upgrades in the battery sizes as well; Pixel 8 is slightly larger – 4575 mAh compared with 3900 mAh on the Galaxy S23. Fast charging is available across both phones: up to 27W with Pixel 8 and 25W on the Galaxy S23, also that wireless charging is on the list for both handsets. Neither handsets come with a charger
Software and Features
While the Google Pixel 8 runs a stock and up to date Android 14, the Galaxy S23 uses One UI 5.1 on top of Android 13, offering more features but a slightly heavier experience. The overall Samsung software feels much more personalized, with Pixel much better at offering smart AI-driven features and all-around smoother user experience.
Specifications Comparison:
| Feature | Google Pixel 8 | Samsung Galaxy S23 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.2″ OLED, 1080×2400, 120Hz, 2000 nits peak brightness | 6.1″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 1080×2340, 120Hz, 1750 nits peak brightness |
| Processor | Google Tensor G3, 3.0 GHz (9 cores) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 3.36 GHz (8 cores) |
| RAM | 8GB LPDDR5X | 8GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | 128GB UFS 3.1 | 256GB UFS 4.0 |
| Rear Cameras | 50 MP (wide), 12 MP (ultrawide) | 50 MP (wide), 10 MP (telephoto, 3x optical zoom), 12 MP (ultrawide) |
| Front Camera | 10.5 MP | 12 MP |
| Battery | 4575mAh, 27W fast charging, wireless charging | 3900mAh, 25W fast charging, wireless charging |
| Operating System | Android 14 | Android 13, One UI 5.1 |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus, IP68 water/dust resistance | Gorilla Glass Victus 2, IP68 water/dust resistance |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C 3.2 | 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C 3.2 |
| Dimensions | 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm, 187g | 146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6 mm, 168g |
| Price | ₹36,000 (approx.) | ₹37,000 (approx.) |
Final Verdict
Google Pixel 8 is ideal for users who prioritize a stock Android experience, excellent AI-powered photography, and smooth performance.
Samsung Galaxy S23 is better suited for those who want a more versatile camera setup, faster performance, and higher storage capacity.
Ultimately, if photography and Google’s clean software are essential, the Pixel 8 is the way to go. However, if you prioritize performance, the Galaxy S23 offers more value with its Snapdragon chipset and additional camera features.
Also Read: Best Smartphones Under ₹20,000 to Buy in September 2024
