Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3 XL
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Galaxy Note8
Starting at
£139.32
Google Pixel 3 XL
Starting at
£100.00What's the difference between the Galaxy Note8 and Google Pixel 3 XL?
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3 XL comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3 XL starts at £100, £39.32 less than the Galaxy Note8. The Google Pixel 3 XL is the newer model, released in 2018.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Exynos 8895, Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 on the Galaxy Note8, Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3 XL.
- The Galaxy Note8 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 3300 mAh.
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3 XL specs
The Galaxy Note8 and Google Pixel 3 XL are similar in screen size and resolution but differ in performance, storage, and features that suit different users. The Note8 offers more RAM and a choice of chipsets, making it better for multitasking and demanding apps. The Pixel 3 XL provides higher storage options and supports eSIM, which suits users wanting flexible mobile plans. For photography, both have similar front camera resolution, while the Pixel's slightly higher megapixel main camera may appeal to photo enthusiasts. The Note8 includes a microSDXC slot for expandable storage, while the Pixel 3 XL does not. The Note8 is a heavier, larger device with a deeper design, while the Pixel 3 XL is slimmer and lighter. Your choice depends on what fits your needs for storage, performance, and device size.
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3 XL price
Colour
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Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3 XL battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, software updates, and operating system. Battery size varies slightly, which can influence how long each phone lasts between charges.
Battery Capacity Differences
The Galaxy Note8 has a 3300 mAh battery, while the Google Pixel 3 XL features a slightly larger 3430 mAh battery. This difference may result in the Pixel 3 XL lasting a bit longer on a single charge, which can be useful if you rely heavily on your phone throughout the day.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3 XL performance
Performance depends on chipset, RAM, and storage options. These affect speed, multitasking, and how much data or media you can keep on your phone.
Chipset Options
The Galaxy Note8 comes with either the Exynos 8895 or Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 chipset, while the Google Pixel 3 XL uses the Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm). The Snapdragon 845 may provide smoother performance for demanding apps or games compared to the Note8's options.
Memory Capacity
The Galaxy Note8 has 6 GB of RAM, which supports keeping more apps open and smoother multitasking. The Google Pixel 3 XL has 4 GB of RAM, suitable for everyday use but with fewer apps running simultaneously without reloading.
Storage Choices
The Galaxy Note8 is stocked with 64GB of storage, which suits users with moderate storage needs. The Google Pixel 3 XL offers 64GB and 128GB options, giving more room if you store a lot of photos, videos, or apps.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3 XL screen
Screen quality affects how you view photos, videos, and apps. Both phones offer the same resolution and screen size, but the screen technology differs, influencing colour and contrast.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy Note8 has a Super AMOLED screen, known for vibrant colours and deep blacks. The Google Pixel 3 XL uses a P-OLED screen, which also delivers good contrast and brightness but with a slightly different colour profile. Either screen suits watching videos or browsing, with subtle differences in colour presentation.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3 XL camera
Audiovisual features include front and main cameras, important for selfies and photography. Both phones have similar front cameras, with a small difference in main camera resolution.
Front Camera Quality
Both the Galaxy Note8 and Google Pixel 3 XL have an 8 megapixel front camera. This means either phone will capture selfies with similar detail, suitable for video calls and social media.
Main Camera Resolution
The Galaxy Note8 has a 12 megapixel main camera, while the Google Pixel 3 XL offers a slightly higher 12.2 megapixel camera. This small difference may appeal to users who want more detailed photos.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3 XL size and design
Other features like size, weight, carrier compatibility, and storage expandability can affect daily use and convenience. The two devices differ in these practical areas.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy Note8 measures 162.5 mm tall, 74.8 mm wide, and 8.6 mm deep, weighing 195 g. The Google Pixel 3 XL is shorter at 158 mm, wider at 76.7 mm, and slimmer at 7.9 mm, with a lighter weight of 184 g. The Pixel 3 XL may feel easier to hold and carry for those who prefer a slimmer phone.
Storage Expansion
The Galaxy Note8 supports microSDXC cards, allowing you to expand storage beyond the built-in 64GB. This suits users who want to add more space flexibly. The Google Pixel 3 XL does not have a microSD slot, so you must choose your storage size when buying.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy Note8 uses a physical SIM card, while the Google Pixel 3 XL supports both a physical SIM and an eSIM. The eSIM allows for easier switching between carriers or plans without changing the physical card, which can suit users who travel or use multiple networks.
Carrier and Network Support
Both phones are unlocked and support 4G networks. This means you can use either with any compatible UK carrier, offering flexibility in choosing your mobile plan.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy Note8 or Google Pixel 3 XL: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Note8 if
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a memory card slot
Buy the Google Pixel 3 XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £100, £39.32 less than the Galaxy Note8
- you want a bigger battery (3430 mAh vs 3300 mAh)
- you want a lighter build (184 g vs 195 g)
What our customers say
Customers of the Galaxy Note8 often praise the phone's appearance, saying it looks like new and works well. Many find it a great value and perfect for everyday use, though some mention concerns with battery life and occasional issues such as moisture detection when charging. The Note8's size and screen receive positive remarks, and users appreciate the unlocked status, despite a few reports of locked units. Overall, buyers highlight its solid performance and good condition for the price.
People who have bought the Google Pixel 3 XL comment on its excellent condition and reliable performance. Many appreciate the phone's design and responsiveness, mentioning it works perfectly for their needs. Some note battery life as a common concern, with a few experiencing minor glitches such as Bluetooth issues or camera faults. The Pixel 3 XL's unlocked status and storage options receive positive mentions. Users familiar with Samsung phones find the Pixel comparable in quality.
Both phones suit buyers prioritising a well-maintained refurbished device with unlocked network freedom. The Note8 appeals to those wanting more RAM and expandable storage, while the Pixel 3 XL suits users seeking a lighter, slimmer phone with eSIM support and higher storage choices.
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3 XL FAQs
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3 XL comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 8895, Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 on the Galaxy Note8, Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3 XL. The Galaxy Note8 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The Google Pixel 3 XL is cheaper refurbished, from £100 compared with £139.32 for the Galaxy Note8.
The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 3300 mAh.
The Galaxy Note8 has 12 megapixels and the Google Pixel 3 XL has 12.2 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy Note8 ended in Nov 2021. Updates for the Google Pixel 3 XL ended in Oct 2021. Its last version is Android 12.
Refurbished, the Galaxy Note8 comes in 64GB, and the Google Pixel 3 XL in 64GB and 128GB.






