Google Pixel 8 vs iPhone SE (2022)

The Google Pixel 8, released in October 2023, and the iPhone SE 2022, launched in March 2022, represent distinct approaches to the smartphone experience. While the Pixel 8 offers a modern design with advanced computational features and a focus on artificial intelligence, the iPhone SE 2022 maintains a classic iPhone aesthetic with a powerful internal processor. Both devices run on their respective operating systems, Android for the Pixel 8 and iOS for the iPhone SE, providing different user interfaces and ecosystem experiences.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, several factors contribute to their expected lifespan.

• Release Timeline and Age: The Google Pixel 8 was released in October 2023, making it a newer device compared to the iPhone SE 2022, which launched in March 2022. This difference in release date inherently gives the Pixel 8 a longer potential support window from its manufacturer.
• OS Support Duration: Google has committed to providing seven years of software support for the Pixel 8, including OS upgrades, security updates, and feature drops, extending support until at least October 2030. The iPhone SE 2022, while known for Apple's generally long software support, was discontinued in February 2025, with its software support typically lasting around 5-6 years from its release.
• Repairability: The Pixel 8 has received repairability scores around 6-7 out of 10, indicating that self-repairs are possible, though some components like the battery can be tricky due to adhesives. The iPhone SE 2022 also has an average repairability score, around 5.5-6 out of 10, with common parts like the battery and screen being relatively accessible for repair with the right tools.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily operations, from app usage to multitasking and gaming.

• Processor Capabilities: The Google Pixel 8 is equipped with a current-generation processor designed to handle demanding applications and multitasking smoothly, with a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence features. The iPhone SE 2022 features a powerful processor that ensures a responsive user experience across various tasks, including editing 4K videos and playing graphics-intensive games.
• Battery Behavior: The Pixel 8 generally offers reliable battery life, with users reporting around 8-10 hours of screen time with mixed usage, and 6-8 hours for heavy users, often lasting a full day. The iPhone SE 2022's battery life is considered adequate for a full day of moderate use, with some users reporting around 6-8 hours of screen-on time, though heavy usage might require more frequent charging.
• Storage Options: Both devices offer various internal storage configurations. The Pixel 8 is available with 128GB or 256GB of storage. The iPhone SE 2022 comes with 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB storage options.

The display is a primary interface for users, and its quality significantly impacts the viewing experience.

• Display Technology and Resolution: The Google Pixel 8 features a 6.2-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. In contrast, the iPhone SE 2022 has a smaller 4.7-inch LCD Retina HD display with a resolution of 750x1334 pixels, providing clear visuals.
• Brightness Levels: The Pixel 8's display can reach a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, making it highly visible even in bright outdoor conditions. The iPhone SE 2022 offers a maximum brightness of 625 nits.
• Refresh Rate: The Pixel 8 boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, which contributes to smoother scrolling and a more fluid visual experience, capable of adjusting down to 60Hz to conserve power. The iPhone SE 2022 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate.

Camera capabilities are a key differentiator for many smartphone users, influencing how they capture and share moments.

• Camera System: The Google Pixel 8 features a dual-camera system on the rear, including a 50MP main camera and a 12MP ultrawide camera with autofocus and macro capabilities. It also has a 10.5MP front-facing camera. The iPhone SE 2022 has a single 12MP rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture and a 7MP front-facing camera.
• Photography Performance: The Pixel 8 is known for its excellent computational photography, producing balanced tones, good detail, and pleasing color reproduction in various lighting conditions, including strong low-light performance. The iPhone SE 2022 delivers good images in decent light with accurate color balance and detail, but it lacks a dedicated night mode, which can result in darker and grainier photos in low-light settings.
• Video Recording: Both devices are capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. The Pixel 8 offers strong stabilization and features like a blur mode for videos. The iPhone SE 2022's video quality is noted for being sharp and smooth.