Battle of Titans: Samsung Galaxy S24+ vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro

Samsung’s latest Galaxy S24 family is here, and while the hardware might not shock the world, the emphasis on machine learning features definitely turned heads. In this article, we dissect the intermediate contender, the S24+, and pit it against Google’s Pixel 8 Pro. Let’s delve into the price, specs, design, display, software, performance, battery life, camera capabilities, and ultimately, help you decide which flagship deserves the spotlight.

Price, Availability, and Specs

• Samsung Galaxy S24+: Priced at $1,000 for the 256GB variant, with an additional $120 for 512GB, pre-orders come with a free storage upgrade and $125 Samsung store credit until January 30.
• Google Pixel 8 Pro: Starting at $999 for the 128GB model, the Pixel 8 Pro offers 256GB and 512GB options, available through major retailers and Google Fi.

Design

Simple, Streamlined, and Classy:

The S24+ maintains Samsung’s signature style, resembling an iPhone but with refined edges and a premium feel. The Pixel 8 Pro, while not groundbreaking, fixes minor design quibbles from its predecessor, boasting flat edges and a uniform bezel for an overall polished look.

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Display

Two Big, Bright Specimens:

Both phones offer QHD+ displays with LTPO OLED technology, supporting ultra-smooth refresh rates of 1–120Hz and HDR10+ playback. Samsung targets Google’s display supremacy, with improved brightness and a pixel density of 513ppi for the S24+. The Pixel 8 Pro’s panel competes closely, slightly taller with a 20:9 aspect ratio.

Software

Pixel UI vs. OneUI:

Comparing Google’s Pixel UI and Samsung’s OneUI reveals the strengths of Android customization. Pixel UI is more locked down but offers a streamlined experience, while OneUI leads in hype and praise, providing flexibility and intuitive use.

Samsung Jumps on the AI Bandwagon:

Both phones leverage machine learning capabilities, with Samsung introducing its AI feature set. The Galaxy S24 series promises strong competition against Google’s established AI model, with functions offered free initially, and potential subscription fees in 2026.

Performance

An Unsurprising Samsung Win:

The S24+ boasts the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, offering smooth animations, immediate responses, and fluid multitasking. Samsung’s in-house chips, including the Exynos variant for EU devices, show promise in performance and battery efficiency.

Battery Life

Samsung is Victorious, Google is Getting Better:

The S24+ builds on the S23+’s excellent battery life, with a larger battery and enhanced SoC. The Pixel 8 Pro improves on its predecessor, providing a commendable battery life, but Samsung takes the lead. Charging rates, while a topic of discussion, offer practical performance for daily use.

Camera

High-End Camera Quality Convergence:

Both phones offer impressive camera setups, with Samsung aiming to compete with Google’s AI-driven image processing. While Samsung’s improvements are notable, the Pixel 8 Pro remains superior in imaging experience, especially with its ultrawide and telephoto lenses.

Which One’s Right for You?

The S24+ Takes the Trophy:

Despite being fans of Pixel phones, the S24+ showcases significant improvements over its predecessor and competes strongly with the Pixel 8 Pro. Samsung’s blend of performance, battery life, and camera capabilities makes it a compelling choice, earning it the trophy this time.