Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone XS
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 3
Starting at
£121.00
iPhone XS
Starting at
£138.35£559.00 newWhat's the difference between the Google Pixel 3 and iPhone XS?
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone XS comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3 starts at £121, £17.35 less than the iPhone XS.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS.
- The Google Pixel 3 has a bigger battery: 2915 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
- The iPhone XS has a bigger screen: 5.8 inch vs 5.5 inch.
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone XS specs
The Google Pixel 3 and iPhone XS both came out in 2018 and offer solid performance and features, but they suit different types of users. The Pixel 3 is lighter and a bit smaller, with a larger battery capacity and a USB-C connector, making it a good choice if you prefer Android and want a more compact phone. Camera resolutions are close, with the Pixel 3 offering a higher front camera megapixel count. Overall, the Pixel 3 fits those who want a lighter, Android experience, while the iPhone XS suits those who prioritise screen detail, storage, and software updates.
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone XS price
Colour
- BlackSold out
- WhiteSold out
Storage
- 64GBSold out
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone XS battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, software updates, operating system, and physical build. These factors affect how long the device lasts each day and whether it receives current software features and security.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 3 has a 2915 mAh battery, which is larger than the iPhone XS's 2658 mAh. This means the Pixel 3 may offer longer use between charges, suiting those who want more battery life in daily use.
Operating System
The Pixel 3 runs Android, while the iPhone XS uses iOS. This difference affects app availability, user interface, and integration with other devices depending on your preferences.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone XS performance
Performance focuses on chipset, RAM, and storage options. These influence speed, multitasking, and how much data you can keep on the phone.
Processor and RAM
Both devices have 4 GB of RAM, which keeps apps running smoothly. The Pixel 3 uses a Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 chipset, while the iPhone XS has an Apple A12 Bionic. Each chipset offers solid performance for everyday use and multitasking.
Storage Options
The Pixel 3 is available with 64GB of storage, which suits users with moderate storage needs. The iPhone XS offers 64GB and 256GB options, making it better suited for those who want to store more apps, photos, and media without relying on cloud storage.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone XS screen
Screen quality covers resolution, size, and display type. These affect how sharp and vibrant images appear and how much screen space you have for videos, photos, and apps.
Resolution and Size
The iPhone XS has a higher resolution of 1125 x 2436 on a 5.8 inch screen, offering a bit more screen space and sharper images. The Pixel 3 has a resolution of 1080 x 2160 on a 5.5 inch screen, which suits those who prefer a smaller display that is still clear and detailed.
Screen Technology
The Pixel 3 uses a P-OLED screen, while the iPhone XS features a Super Retina OLED. Both offer vivid colours and deep blacks, but the Super Retina OLED may appeal to those who prioritise screen excellence for media viewing.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone XS camera
Audiovisual specs focus on cameras, important if you use your phone for selfies, photos, or video calls.
Front Camera
The Pixel 3 has an 8 megapixel front camera, which provides more detail for selfies and video calls compared to the iPhone XS's 7 megapixel front camera. This suits users who prioritise sharp front-facing images.
Main Camera
The main cameras are similar, with the Pixel 3 at 12.2 megapixels and the iPhone XS at 12 megapixels. Both will capture detailed photos, so camera quality will depend more on software and personal preference.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone XS size and design
Miscellaneous specs cover physical dimensions, connectivity, and network features that affect everyday handling and compatibility.
Size and Weight
The Pixel 3 is lighter at 148 g and measures 145.6 mm tall by 68.2 mm wide with a depth of 7.9 mm. The iPhone XS is heavier at 177 g and slightly shorter and wider, at 143.6 mm tall by 70.9 mm wide and 7.7 mm deep. The Pixel 3 fits better in smaller hands or pockets.
Connector Type
The Pixel 3 uses a USB-C connector, common in many devices and chargers, while the iPhone XS uses Apple's Lightning connector. Your choice may depend on what cables and accessories you already have.
SIM and Network
Both phones support 4G networks and use a combination of physical SIM and eSIM, offering flexible options for mobile plans. Both devices come unlocked and work with a range of UK carriers.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 3 or iPhone XS: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 3 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £121, £17.35 less than the iPhone XS
- you want a bigger battery (2915 mAh vs 2658 mAh)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (8 megapixels vs 7 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone XS if
- you want a bigger screen (5.8 inch vs 5.5 inch)
What our customers say
Customers say the Google Pixel 3 looks like new and is small, light, and capable. Many praise its condition and performance, though some have noted battery concerns and one mentioned a pinky orange tint on the screen. A few reported issues with network locking or battery health, but overall the Pixel 3 is seen as a good phone for its price and size.
Reviews of the iPhone XS highlight its like-new appearance and smooth performance. Customers appreciate the larger storage options, especially the 256GB model, and find the battery lasts well enough for a day with regular charging in the evening. Some mention minor marks or screen issues in rare cases, but most find the camera good and the phone compact and high quality.
The Pixel 3 suits buyers looking for a lighter, smaller phone running Android with a larger battery. The iPhone XS appeals to those who want a slightly bigger, higher resolution screen, more storage options, and ongoing software updates with iOS.
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone XS FAQs
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone XS comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS. The Google Pixel 3 has a bigger battery: 2915 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
The Google Pixel 3 is cheaper refurbished, from £121 compared with £138.35 for the iPhone XS.
The Google Pixel 3 has a bigger battery: 2915 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
The Google Pixel 3 has 12.2 megapixels and the iPhone XS has 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 3 ended in Oct 2021. Its last version is Android 12. Updates for the iPhone XS ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3 comes in 64GB, and the iPhone XS in 64GB and 256GB.
