Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8 Pro: Clash of the Best Flagships

The Samsung Galaxy S24 series is finally here, and the top-of-the-line Galaxy S24 Ultra has everything it takes to compete in 2024. But how does it stack up against Google's Pixel 8 Pro, which launched late last year?

Let's find out.

Design & Display

In terms of design, the Pixel 8 Pro and Galaxy S24 Ultra take different approaches, appealing to different tastes.

Pixel 8 Pro maintains Google's iconic design, featuring rounded corners, a frosted glass panel, and a recycled aluminum frame. Its familiarity may resonate with Pixel enthusiasts, although it lacks the bold redesign seen in some competitors.

In contrast, the Galaxy S24 Ultra exudes premium aesthetics with a Titanium frame, flat screen, and an array of color options. The inclusion of the S Pen stylus enhances functionality, providing a unique edge over the Pixel.

In terms of displays, the Pixel 8 Pro and Galaxy S24 Ultra both provide users with stunning visual experiences.

The Pixel 8 Pro boasts a 6.7-inch LTPO Super Actua Display, offering a vibrant OLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. With a peak brightness of 2400 nits and HDR support, it promises a captivating viewing experience.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra counters with a 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED, boasting a remarkable 2600 nits peak brightness and a dynamic 1-120Hz refresh rate. Both devices showcase cutting-edge LTPO technology for improved efficiency.

Under the Hood

In terms of performance, the Pixel 8 Pro and Galaxy S24 Ultra have different strengths. The Pixel 8 Pro has Google's Tensor G3 chip, which is designed to provide enhanced AI-driven experiences. However, its benchmark scores (via a test conducted by Dexerto), with a single-core score of 1,760 and a multi-core score of 4,442, are lower than those of the Galaxy S24 Ultra.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, dominates with a multi-core score of 7,501, surpassing even Apple's A17 Pro. This stark performance contrast indicates Qualcomm's chipset supremacy.

While the Pixel 8 Pro caters well to general usage, the Galaxy S24 Ultra emerges as the powerhouse, excelling in demanding tasks and resource-intensive applications. For users prioritizing peak performance, the Galaxy S24 Ultra stands as the undisputed choice.

Camera

The Pixel 8 Pro and Galaxy S24 Ultra present compelling camera experiences, each tailored to different preferences. Google's Pixel 8 Pro emphasizes simplicity and computational photography, boasting a 50MP main lens, a new 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom. Its intuitive interface caters to users seeking a point-and-shoot approach.

On the other hand, the Galaxy S24 Ultra impresses with a versatile quad-lens setup, including a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP periscope lens with 5x optical zoom, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP optical zoom lens. Samsung's focus on versatility and detailed shots appeals to photography enthusiasts.

Both excel in low-light conditions with dedicated Night Modes and offer advanced video capabilities. The Pixel 8 Pro caters to users seeking simplicity, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra targets those craving a wide array of creative options.

Battery

When it comes to battery life, both the Pixel 8 Pro and Galaxy S24 Ultra aim to keep you powered throughout the day, but there are nuances to consider.

The Pixel 8 Pro, equipped with a 5050mAh battery, represents a notable improvement over its predecessors. On the other side, the Galaxy S24 Ultra packs a slightly larger 5000mAh battery.

In terms of charging, the Pixel 8 Pro supports 30W wired charging, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra takes a step ahead with 45W wired charging. However, it's worth noting that both devices also offer wireless charging options, with the S24 Ultra having a slight advantage in wired charging speed.

Software Experience

The software experience is a crucial aspect that defines the user's interaction with the device. Google's Pixel 8 Pro runs on Android 14, offering a clean and minimalist user interface. The emphasis here is on simplicity, quick updates, and a user-friendly experience. Google's commitment to providing a streamlined Android experience shines through, and its Pixel lineup often receives timely updates directly from Google.

Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra operates on Android 14 with OneUI 6.1 layered on top. Samsung's OneUI is known for its feature-rich interface, offering a plethora of customization options. While it may not provide the pure Android experience, it introduces a range of additional features and enhancements, including 'Galaxy AI' machine-learning features for photo editing, language translation, smart transcription, and more.

In terms of long-term support, both Google and Samsung have committed to providing seven years of software support for their flagship devices. This means regular Android version updates and security patches for an extended period, ensuring users can enjoy the latest features and security improvements.

AI Features

In terms of AI, both phones offer impressive features. The Pixel 8 Pro has Magic Eraser, Magic Audio Editor, Call Screening, and Best Take. The Samsung S24 Ultra has all of these features plus exclusive features like Circle to Search, Live Translate, Transcript Assist, and Chat Assist. The playing field is level, so the choice of which phone to buy is a matter of personal preference.

The Verdict

Despite the price difference, Samsung's S24 Ultra outperforms Google's Pixel lineup. The S24 Ultra has a faster processor, better cameras, and a brighter display. While the Pixel 8 Pro is a significant improvement over its predecessors, the S24 Ultra's overall package is more impressive.