Pixel 8 Pro vs. S24 Ultra: The Ultimate Camera Showdown

Are you torn between the Google Pixel 8 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra when it comes to choosing the ultimate Android camera phone? Well, you’re not alone! In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into 23 different categories to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or just want the best camera for your daily needs, we’ve got you covered.

Hardware Breakdown

Before we delve into the camera performance, let’s talk hardware. Samsung flexes its muscles with a massive 200-megapixel main sensor and dual telephoto modules (3x and 5x). On the other hand, Google opts for a more modest 50-megapixel sensor with a single 5x telephoto module. While Samsung boasts raw power, Google relies on its renowned image processing wizardry. Let the battle begin!

Outdoors

In the great outdoors, both phones put up a strong fight. Bright outdoor scenes appear surprisingly similar. The Pixel adds a touch more contrast and excels in exposing certain elements like distant trees. Samsung leans towards a more contrasty look but falls behind in sharpness in some scenarios.

Winner: Tie

Indoors

Moving indoors, the Pixel takes the lead. Its indoor shots exhibit brighter exposure, vibrant colors, and intricate textures. Whether you’re capturing a well-lit room or sumptuous food, the Pixel shines with its attention to detail.

Winner: Google Pixel 8 Pro

Zoom

Now, let’s zoom in on the zoom capabilities of these smartphones. Starting at 2x zoom, both phones perform admirably. However, at 3x zoom, the S24 Ultra’s dedicated module shines with better detail, despite some noise. The Pixel, zooming digitally, holds its ground impressively.

Winner: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (at 3x)

At 5x zoom, Samsung’s clarity and detail are evident in the leaves and signs, leaving the Pixel behind. The gap widens at 10x, with the S24 Ultra delivering vibrant, detailed shots, while the Pixel struggles with a washed-out appearance.

Winner: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (at 5x and 10x)

But what about extreme zoom? Samsung’s 100x zoom triumphs over the Pixel’s 25x, offering sharper visuals despite some AI processing quirks.

Winner: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (at 100x)

Ultrawide

When it comes to ultrawide shots, Samsung’s images tend to suffer from banding and artifacts. The Pixel applies aggressive noise reduction, resulting in soft and blurry shots. In low-light indoor settings, Samsung performs better, retaining more detail.

Winner: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (Indoors), Tie (Outdoors)

Video

Video enthusiasts, pay attention! Samsung flaunts 8K and 4K at 120fps capabilities, ideal for zoom enthusiasts and slow-motion lovers. The Pixel impresses with ProRAW and log recording for editing enthusiasts. In 4K 60fps HDR, the iPhone maintains its edge with sharper, better-exposed footage.

Winner: Google Pixel 8 Pro (ProRAW and log recording), Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (8K and 4K at 120fps)

For ultrawide video, the Pixel maintains better sharpness and brightness, while the S24 Ultra struggles with banding issues.

Winner: Google Pixel 8 Pro

In the realm of slow-motion, the Pixel’s 1080p at 240fps offers cleaner, sharper footage.

Winner: Google Pixel 8 Pro

For cinematic mode (portrait mode video), the Pixel wins with better edge separation and natural colors.

Winner: Google Pixel 8 Pro

In action mode (super steady mode), both phones offer stable footage, but the Pixel wins with sharper visuals.

Winner: Google Pixel 8 Pro

Night Mode

When the sun sets and night mode comes into play, the Pixel impresses with more natural-looking colors. It handles night shots admirably, reducing noise and maintaining contrast. However, the S24 Ultra’s sharpness is undeniable in low light, providing an edge in certain scenarios.

Winner: Google Pixel 8 Pro (for natural colors), Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (for sharpness)

When it comes to night zoom, the Pixel excels at 5x zoom, while the S24 Ultra takes the lead at longer ranges.

Winner: Google Pixel 8 Pro (at 5x), Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (at longer ranges)

Night ultrawide shots are a challenge for both phones, with neither emerging as a clear winner.

Winner: Neither

Night portrait mode favors the S24 Ultra with better sharpness and edge separation, despite some processing quirks.

Winner: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Night videos are a close call, but the Pixel’s cleaner footage and natural colors take the lead.

Winner: Google Pixel 8 Pro

Night zoom videos also favor the S24 Ultra, providing sharper visuals.

Winner: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Frontline Battle

Front-facing cameras are essential for selfies and video calls. Here’s how the S24 Ultra and Pixel 8 Pro fare.

Daytime Selfies

In well-lit conditions, both phones deliver solid results.

Winner: Tie

Nighttime Selfies

At night, the S24 Ultra takes the lead with sharper details, despite some over-processing.

Winner: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Front Video Showdown

In a head-to-head video test, the Pixel emerges as the victor. It offers better-exposed footage and superior audio quality.

Winner: Google Pixel 8 Pro

Front Portrait Mode

For front-facing portraits, the S24 Ultra excels with excellent edge separation.

Winner: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Conclusion: Which One to Get?

In the ultimate camera showdown between the Google Pixel 8 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, both phones have their moments. If you prioritize zoom capabilities, outdoor photography, and portrait mode, the S24 Ultra is a fantastic choice.

However, if video recording, night photography, and overall versatility are your priorities, the Google Pixel 8 Pro remains a strong contender. The choice ultimately depends on your photography style and preferences.

So, which one will you choose to capture your world? Let us know in the comments below!