Two enter. One leaves.
Apple introduced a bunch of new products this week, including the new iPhone 15. That means, of course, that it’s time to put Apple’s newest flagship phone up against Google’s (at the time of writing) newest flagship phone.
Yes, I’m here to talk about the differences between the iPhone 15 and the Google Pixel 7. One is already a great smartphone, and the other will probably be pretty good as well when it comes out. Both have good specs, impressive cameras, and fun features. You can only have one, though.
Before we get into the details, I should say that this comparison will focus on the base iPhone 15, not the Plus or the Pro. Keeping that in mind, let’s get started.
iPhone 15 vs. Pixel 7: Specs
Obviously, what’s on the inside matters more than anything when choosing a smartphone for yourself. Here’s how the basic specs compare between the iPhone 15 and Pixel 7:
- Pixel 7: 6.3-inch display with 1080×2400 resolution and 90Hz refresh rate
- iPhone 15: 6.1-inch display with 1179×2556 resolution and 60Hz refresh rate
- Pixel 7: Google Tensor G2 processor
- iPhone 15: Apple A16 Bionic processor
- Pixel 7: 128GB or 256GB storage options
- iPhone 15: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options
- Pixel 7: USB-C charging port
- iPhone 15: USB-C charging port
Let’s talk about displays first, because I think Google does a better job there. Most people won’t notice the difference in resolution, and the 0.2-inch size difference comes down to personal preference. But the refresh rate is very important. For smooth scrolling, a top-of-the-line phone should have a refresh rate of at least 90Hz, which is what Google has done. On the other hand, Apple’s base iPhone 15 is still stuck in 60Hz land.
That’s too bad, because these two phones are otherwise very similar. The fact that Apple has more storage options than Google is a definite plus, but other than that, it’s kind of a wash. Both use in-house processors that work very well, and for the first time, at least on Apple’s end, both have USB-C charging ports. Also related to this, it’s hard to compare battery life without an iPhone 15. Pixel 7 is rated for 24 hours of use, and in real life, it pretty much meets that goal. We hope that the iPhone 15 can compete in this way.
It’s also worth noting that the Google Pixel 3 lacks the innovative Dynamic Island display found on the iPhone 15. Notifications and other useful features, such as flight tracking, are a breeze with Dynamic Island. However, the Pixel 7 relies on traditional push notifications to accomplish the same thing. OK, but it lacks the glitz of the original.
iPhone 15 vs. Pixel 7: Cameras
Since we haven’t had much time with the iPhone 15, it’s difficult to compare the two camera systems that Apple and Google are releasing into the world. A verdict can be reached, however, by comparing their numerical characteristics.
- Pixel 7: Two lenses, a 50MP main lens and a 12MP ultra-wide lens
- iPhone 15: Two lenses, a 48MP main lens and a 12MP ultra-wide lens
In terms of raw megapixels, the two camera arrays are virtually interchangeable. However, that is no longer the primary criteria by which smartphone cameras are evaluated. Google may have an advantage in the modern market because of its superior software features.
It’s awesome that both phones can take decent photos in low light and make portraits. On paper, however, Google’s suite of software updates is superior to Apple’s. The Magic Eraser tool is a fantastic addition to the Pixel 7, and it works just like magic. It also has the ability to restore sharpness to blurry images, though this function can be a bit temperamental. Nevertheless, the iPhone 15 lacks this feature entirely, and any improvement is preferable to none.
The cameras in the iPhone 15 will almost certainly be state-of-the-art. Apple does not produce low-quality cameras. Only, Google might do a slightly better job of it.
Winner: Pixel 7
iPhone 15 vs. Pixel 7: Price and verdict
Comparing prices is a little unfair here. The Pixel 7 is almost a year old and its successor is on the horizon, while the iPhone 15 isn’t out yet. As such, Apple is going to look way worse in this department if you don’t apply that context. Anyway:
- Pixel 7: Starts at $450
- iPhone 15: Starts at $800
The Pixel phones from Google have always been a good deal, and this one is no exception. On the flip side, Apple product fans are aware that there is a “Apple tax” associated with purchasing Apple goods. As expected, Pixel offers superior value over the iPhone. This is still a competition, though.
Although the iPhone 15 has Dynamic Island, the Pixel 7 has a higher refresh rate. Google’s photography software tricks are more extensive, while Apple’s storage options are superior. If we only consider money, Google easily triumphs over its competitors. However, it’s not quite that easy. Both the iPhone 15 and the Google Pixel 7 have impressive features. It’s a win-win situation.
The winner is the Pixel 7 if you’re on a budget, and the iPhone 15 if you’d rather not be teased about your green text bubbles.
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