Introduction to the Flagships

The Pixel 7 Pro has made quite an entrance, and it’s impressive to say the least. After spending over a week with both the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, I’ve developed quite an appreciation for their build quality, performance, camera capabilities, and overall user experience. These new devices from Google stand tall against the renowned iPhone.

1. Pricing Strategy

In the UK, the Pixel 7 Pro starts at £849 for the 128GB variant. If you opt for the 256GB model, it will cost you £949. This pricing is quite competitive compared to the iPhone 14 Pro Max, which has seen an increase in price compared to the previous generation.

The base model of the iPhone 14 Pro Max starts at £1,199 for 128GB, representing a £350 premium over the Pixel. Should you want the 256GB variant, you’ll be looking at an additional £360, bringing the total to £1,309.

While the iPhone offers more storage options, the max capacity of 1TB comes at a staggering £1,749. Thus, if budget is your main concern, the Pixel 7 Pro clearly takes the lead.

2. Design and Build Quality

Historically, iPhones have been synonymous with premium quality, boasting materials and craftsmanship that feel top-tier. However, Android manufacturers, particularly Google with the Pixel 7 Pro, have reached a comparable standard.

Both devices exude a sense of durability and luxury. The Pixel 7 Pro is slightly lighter at 212g compared to the iPhone's 240g, making it feel more balanced in hand. However, it does have some drawbacks; it can be quite slippery and the metal band around the camera can easily scratch.

In this round, the iPhone edges out the Pixel due to these minor flaws, but it’s a close contest.

3. Performance and Display

I won't dive deep into technical benchmarks, as many reviewers do that extensively. Instead, I focus on the user experience.

The iPhone 14 Pro Max is notably fast, thanks to Apple’s custom silicon that integrates seamlessly with iOS. The Pixel 7 Pro, powered by the Tensor G2 chip, offers comparable performance and a clean Android experience, making it feel almost iPhone-like.

In terms of display, both phones are impressive, with high refresh rates and HDR support. While the iPhone may boast slightly higher specs, in practice, they appear very similar. Notably, the Pixel has a fingerprint reader, which many users, including myself, find convenient.

4. Operating Systems and Ecosystems

Comparing iOS and Android is tricky, especially with the Pixel providing a pure Android experience. App support is generally consistent across both platforms, but I find the Apple ecosystem indispensable due to features like the Apple Watch and Handoff.

However, for those who prefer the Pixel ecosystem, it’s becoming increasingly competitive, but I still lean towards iOS for my day-to-day needs.

5. Camera Capabilities

Camera comparisons can be subjective, so I’ll let the images do the talking.

Selfie Comparison: The Pixel 7 Pro shows a slight magenta tint, while the iPhone captures a more balanced exposure.

Landscape Shot: The Pixel’s shot is vibrant and clear, while the iPhone’s image appears slightly muted.

For night photography, the Pixel excels in detail and clarity, while the iPhone has its strengths in video stabilization and cinematic modes.

6. Battery Life Performance

My battery tests involve regular usage such as browsing, listening to music, and taking photos. Both devices comfortably last two days under normal conditions. However, during intensive tasks like shooting 4K video, both drained around 3 PM, showing that neither is invincible under heavy use.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

Ultimately, both devices are impressive, but if I weren’t so embedded in the Apple ecosystem, I would likely choose the Pixel 7 Pro due to its pricing and features. Apple’s increasing prices might push many consumers away, making the Pixel an appealing option for those looking for value.

Which device will you choose?