The Samsung Galaxy S23 and the Google Pixel 8 are two of the hottest smartphones on the market right now. Both offer strong technical features, impressive cameras and plenty of power for everyday use. But which model is the right choice for you? In this buying guide, we compare the most important features of both devices to make it easier for you to make a decision. Whether the camera, battery life, software or value for money is important to you - we will help you find the right model.
Technical Facts at a Glance
Technical facts of the Samsung Galaxy S23
- display: 6.1 inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X – color-intensive, sharp and perfect for videos or games. The 120 Hz display ensures smooth scrolling and a pleasant viewing experience.
- camera: 50-megapixel main camera, ultra wide-angle and telephoto lens - offers many options for creative shots. The night mode ensures impressive photos even in poor lighting conditions.
- processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 – powerful and energy efficient, ensures smooth performance whether gaming or multitasking.
- battery life: Up to 22 hours of video playback – enough for a long day of use.
- material: Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 – robust, high-quality and offers good protection against scratches.
Find out more about the Samsung Galaxy S23 here in our buying guide.
Technical facts of the Google Pixel 8
- display: 6.2-inch OLED – slightly larger than the S23, with an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120 Hz, offering smooth scrolling and better power efficiency.
- camera: 50-megapixel main camera with improved AI support - ensures even better low-light photos and impressive HDR shots. New is the Magic Editor, which makes it easier to edit photos directly on the smartphone.
- processor: Google Tensor G3 – specifically optimized for machine learning, offers excellent performance for AI functions and everyday applications.
- battery life: Up to 24 hours of video playback – the Pixel 8 scores with a slightly longer battery life.
- material: Aluminum and matte glass – feels comfortable in the hand and gives the device a classy look.
Find out more about the Google Pixel 8 here in our buying guide.
camera comparison
The cameras on the Galaxy S23 and Pixel 8 both offer impressive performance, but with different focuses. The Galaxy S23 scores with its versatility - the telephoto lens in particular is ideal for shots with optical zoom. The Pixel 8, on the other hand, shines with its software support: The AI features, such as the Magic Editor and the improved Night Mode, make it easy to take great photos, even in difficult lighting conditions. So if you like to take uncomplicated photos and value optimized image editing, the Pixel 8 is the better choice.
purchase recommendation according to user profile
photo and video lovers
Are impressive photos and videos particularly important to you? Then the Google Pixel 8 is the right choice.The powerful camera and easy editing options, supported by the Magic Editor and AI features, make it the perfect device for creative everyday shots. But if you want more flexibility when zooming in, then the Galaxy S23 is the better option for you - thanks to the telephoto lens, you can capture even distant subjects in great detail.
gamers and power users
If you want to get the most out of your mobile games, then you should go for the Galaxy S23. The powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor ensures first-class gaming performance without compromise. The Pixel 8 can also keep up, but places more emphasis on AI features and everyday efficiency than on pure gaming power. For you as a gamer, the Galaxy simply offers more.
price-performance fans
Are you looking for a powerful smartphone that also remains attractively priced? Then the Galaxy S23 is a solid choice. It offers you many of the practical features of the Pixel 8, but without the latest AI gimmicks and the Magic Editor. In return, you get a top-equipped device at a fair price. Ideal for anyone who doesn't want to compromise on performance without having to dig too deep into their pockets.
Review - What the Tech YouTubers say
The Tech YouTuber Call Me KJ tested the Samsung Galaxy S23 and the Google Pixel 8 in his video and compared both models. We have summarized his results here.
- design: The S23 is lighter (168g) and has a matte back that doesn't show fingerprints. The Pixel 8 weighs 188g and has a glossy back that shows fingerprints, which some people don't like.
- display: The Pixel 8 has a brighter display (2000 nits vs. 1750 nits on the S23) and faster adaptation to lighting conditions. Both have a high refresh rate (120 Hz).
- battery life: The Pixel 8 starts with a better battery life than the S23. However, long-term forecasts are still unclear, as the predecessor's performance deteriorated over time.
- camera: The Pixel 8 has better color accuracy and offers AI features like Real Tone. The S23 has slightly oversaturated color representation and can record in 8K, making it more attractive for video.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S23 and the Google Pixel 8 both offer strong performance, but with different focuses. The Galaxy S23 impresses with its versatile camera with telephoto lens, strong gaming performance and robust materials, making it ideal for power users and gamers. The Pixel 8, on the other hand, relies on innovative AI features such as the Magic Editor and particularly long software support, making it particularly attractive for photography fans and long-term users.
If you value straightforward photo editing and AI-powered features, the Pixel 8 is the right choice. Users looking for a reliable, robust device for gaming and multitasking will find the Galaxy S23 to be the right smartphone. Both devices offer strong value for money, but the choice ultimately depends on whether you value AI and software support or performance and versatility.
