The Google Pixel 2 XL was revealed this week and we finally got another competitor in the flagship smartphone arena just in time for the holiday shopping season. Now, the focus shifts from anticipation to comparison. With the iPhone X earning a lot of hype over the last few weeks it’s only natural that a lot of people would want to compare the iPhone X and the newly announced Google Pixel 2 XL.
These days, flagship smartphones all have great displays, top of the line chipsets, and awesome software packed in. One of the features where smartphones try to set themselves apart is the camera. With augmented reality taking center stage during Apple’s launch event it was inevitable that the camera would become the major comparison point with other smartphones. Google made some improvements with the Pixel 2 XL camera from last year’s model to keep up with the iPhone X. Now, it only makes sense to do a Google Pixel 2 XL vs iPhone X camera comparison.
Google Pixel 2 XL vs iPhone X – Video Shooting
The improvements in video shooting capability is one of the biggest leaps that we have seen in smartphone cameras over the past few years. Apple made some waves with the announcement that the iPhone X could shoot 4K video at 60 frames per second. The Pixel 2 XL is also able to shoot 4K video but the fps drops down to 30. Still a very respectable stat but the iPhone X has a clear advantage. If you want the best video shooting capability in a smartphone then the iPhone X definitely edges out the Pixel 2 XL.
Google Pixel 2 XL vs iPhone X – Optical Image Stabilization
Both devices this year feature OIS which will help with taking action shots and shooting video. Of course, until we see the cameras in action in the real world, it will be hard to make a decision about which (if either) device offers the best OIS. Either way, you can enjoy the feature with both devices which, honestly, should be expected with a flagship device in late 2017.
Google Pixel 2 XL vs iPhone X – Dual vs Single Sensor?
One huge difference you will see just by looking at the two devices is the number of camera sensors on each. The iPhone X is dual sensor camera – one telephoto lens and one wide angle lens. The Pixel 2 XL only has one camera sensor. This won’t be a huge difference for most people but it may show in certain situations. For example, a dual camera sensor will do better in low-light situations simply because it can take in more light than a single camera sensor. If you are really excited about augmented reality then you may want to consider a dual camera sensor like the one found in the iPhone X. Because there are two sensors, the camera is better able to measure distance to objects in a photo. If the camera is the biggest consideration for you when comparing the Google Pixel 2 XL vs iPhone X then the iPhone X dual sensor setup may make a bit of a difference if you find yourself taking a lot of photos at night or making use of AR applications.
Google Pixel 2 XL vs iPhone X – Software Features
The iPhone 7 Plus paved the way the incredibly popular portrait mode which is also available in the iPhone X. This mode is possible because of the dual sensor camera mentioned above. However, Google has found a software solution to bridge the gap. The Pixel 2 XL adds a bokeh effect to photos that blurs the background around the subject. In some photos it looks like this feature is on par with the iPhone X’s Portrait Mode. However, I would really want to see this in the real world before making a judgement. For now, I will give the edge to the iPhone X simply based on the pedigree of the iPhone 7 Plus which, until now, was head and shoulders above most other smartphone cameras.
Google Pixel 2 XL vs iPhone X – Verdict?
I don’t think it would be fair to name a winner in the Google Pixel 2 XL vs iPhone X camera showdown before either device has been released and available for users to put to the test. Realistically, both devices are going to have incredible cameras and you probably can’t go wrong with either one. There are a few situations where the iPhone X might have the edge over the Pixel 2 XL but, for the most part, this is a draw in my eyes.
