Google Pixel 8 Vs Xiaomi 12T

Google Pixel 8
Google Pixel 8
Starting at

Refurbished price:235.00

Versus €999.00 new

See options
Xiaomi 12T
Xiaomi 12T
Starting at

Refurbished price:134.00

Versus €649.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Google Pixel 8, released in October 2023, and the Xiaomi 12T, launched in October 2022, are both Android smartphones offering distinct experiences to users. While the Pixel 8 emphasizes advanced computational photography, a compact design, and extended software support, the Xiaomi 12T focuses on a larger display, rapid charging capabilities, and a high-resolution main camera. Both devices operate on the Android platform, but they differ in their approach to software longevity and overall user interaction.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of a smartphone, factors like release age, software support, and physical resilience are key.

  • Release Timeline and Age: The Google Pixel 8 was introduced in October 2023, making it a more recent device compared to the Xiaomi 12T, which launched in October 2022. This difference in release dates impacts their respective lifespans, particularly concerning software updates.
  • OS Support and Longevity: The Pixel 8 stands out with an impressive commitment to software longevity, offering seven years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates from its release. In contrast, the Xiaomi 12T typically receives three major Android OS updates and four years of security updates, providing a solid but shorter support window. This extended support for the Pixel 8 means it will remain current with the latest Android features and security patches for a significantly longer period.
  • Durability Features: The Pixel 8 features an IP68 rating, indicating strong resistance to dust and the ability to withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. Its display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. The Xiaomi 12T carries an IP53 rating, offering protection against dust ingress and spraying water, but it is not designed for submersion. It uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for screen protection.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from browsing to demanding applications and gaming.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Google Pixel 8 is powered by the Google Tensor G3, designed to deliver smooth performance for everyday use, efficient multitasking, and advanced on-device AI features. The Xiaomi 12T utilizes the MediaTek Dimensity 8100-Ultra, which provides capable performance for a wide range of applications and gaming, offering a responsive experience for most users.
  • Battery Life and Charging: The Pixel 8 is equipped with a 4575 mAh battery, generally providing sufficient power for a full day of mixed usage, though it may require a midday charge for very heavy users. It also incorporates an Adaptive Battery feature to optimize power consumption. The Xiaomi 12T features a larger 5000 mAh battery, known for its good endurance, and supports exceptionally fast 120W wired charging, allowing for very quick recharges.
  • Storage and RAM: Both devices offer storage options of 128GB and 256GB, providing ample space for apps, photos, and media. Both also come with 8GB of RAM, which contributes to smooth multitasking and app handling.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer distinct visual experiences.

  • Display Technology and Size: Both the Google Pixel 8 and the Xiaomi 12T feature vibrant OLED/AMOLED display technology, known for deep blacks and rich colors. The Pixel 8 has a more compact 6.2-inch display, while the Xiaomi 12T offers a larger 6.67-inch screen, providing more screen real estate for media consumption and productivity.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The Pixel 8 features a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution (FHD+) with a pixel density of 428 ppi, delivering clear and sharp visuals. The Xiaomi 12T boasts a 1220 x 2712 pixel resolution (CrystalRes AMOLED) with a higher pixel density of 446 ppi, offering slightly greater detail and clarity.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both devices support a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and fluid animations. The Pixel 8 offers a peak brightness of up to 2000 nits, making it highly visible even in bright outdoor conditions. The Xiaomi 12T reaches a peak brightness of up to 900 nits, which is also suitable for most outdoor viewing scenarios.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

1220 x 2712

Screen type

OLED

AMOLED

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant consideration for many smartphone users, and both devices offer compelling photographic tools.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Google Pixel 8 features a dual-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS) and a 12MP ultrawide lens. It is known for its advanced computational photography, which enhances image quality across various conditions, particularly in low light due to a wider aperture. The Xiaomi 12T comes with a triple-camera system, highlighted by a 108MP main sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro lens. It also includes a dedicated night mode for improved low-light performance.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: The Pixel 8 is capable of recording video at 4K resolution at up to 60 frames per second, offering smooth and detailed footage. Its front-facing camera is 10.5MP. The Xiaomi 12T records video at 4K resolution at up to 30 frames per second. It features a higher-resolution 20MP front camera.
  • Audio Experience: Both smartphones are equipped with stereo speakers, providing an immersive audio experience for media consumption and calls.

Main camera

50 megapixels

108 megapixels

Front camera

10.5 megapixels

20 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Google Pixel 8 supports 5G connectivity and Wi-Fi 6E, along with Bluetooth 5.3 and NFC. It features a USB-C 3.2 port for data transfer and charging. The Xiaomi 12T also offers 5G and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and additionally includes an infrared blaster for controlling home appliances. It uses a USB-C 2.0 port.
  • Biometric Security: Both devices incorporate in-display fingerprint sensors for secure and convenient unlocking. The Pixel 8 also offers Face Unlock as an additional biometric option.
  • Design and Build: The Pixel 8 has dimensions of 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm and weighs 187g, featuring an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus on both the front and back. The Xiaomi 12T is a larger device at 163.1 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm and weighs 202g, with a plastic frame and Gorilla Glass 5 protecting the front.

Weight

187 g

220 g

Screen size (in)

6,2

6.67

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User feedback for the Google Pixel 8 frequently highlights its exceptional camera performance, particularly its computational photography features, and the clean, intuitive Android experience. Users also appreciate Google's commitment to seven years of software updates, ensuring long-term relevance and security. However, some users have noted that the battery life, while adequate for many, is not a standout feature compared to some larger devices, and there have been occasional reports of connectivity issues.

The Xiaomi 12T is often praised for its impressive 120W fast charging, which allows for extremely quick battery top-ups, and its vibrant, high-resolution AMOLED display. Its capable performance for everyday tasks and gaming is also a common positive. Potential criticisms from users sometimes revolve around its software update policy, which is shorter than the Pixel's, and the use of a plastic frame, which some perceive as less premium than metal or glass. The IP53 rating also offers less water resistance compared to some competitors.

For users who prioritize a cutting-edge camera, a compact form factor, and the longest possible software support, the Google Pixel 8 may be the more suitable choice. Its focus on AI-driven features and a pure Android experience caters to those who value software innovation and longevity. Conversely, users who prioritize a larger, high-resolution display, extremely fast charging, and a powerful main camera for detailed shots might find the Xiaomi 12T better suited to their needs. Both devices offer compelling features, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can be an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new.

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