Capturing the moments: OnePlus 12 vs Google Pixel 8 Pro camera face-off
A detailed comparison between the OnePlus 12 and Google Pixel 8 Pro cameras, discover their performance in different photography categories to help you decide the best pick for your mobile photography needs.
I’ve said it numerous times before – OnePlus phones offer great value when it comes to Android phones for photography. However, in my latest photo shootout, it fell short against the Galaxy S24 Ultra. On the other hand, the Google Pixel 8 Pro has captured my attention as my daily driver for the past six months. In this comparison, we delve into the differences between the OnePlus 12 and the Pixel 8 Pro to determine the best camera phone for photography across ten categories.
Main Camera Performance
Both the OnePlus 12 and Pixel 8 Pro handle scenes well, with uniform exposure and ample details. While the Pixel 8 Pro delivers a slightly brighter image, the differences are minor when compared side by side. The dynamic range performance of the OnePlus 12 shines through, particularly in boosting exposure in the shadows, giving it an edge in certain scenarios.
Ultra Wide Camera Comparison
The ultra-wide shots from both phones exhibit similar exposure levels and textures, with the Pixel 8 Pro offering a slightly brighter image. Notably, the Pixel 8 Pro boasts a wider field of view compared to the OnePlus 12, enhancing its versatility in capturing expansive scenes.
Dynamic Range Assessment
In assessing dynamic range performance, the OnePlus 12 excels in shadow exposure but slightly mutes colors compared to the Pixel 8 Pro. The choice between the two comes down to personal preference in color rendition.
Close-up Photography
Both phones perform admirably in macro mode, capturing intricate details and maintaining a pleasant depth of field. While artifacts are present in the Pixel 8 Pro’s shots, it edges out slightly for its brighter and detailed close-ups.
Portrait Mode Showdown
In portrait mode, both phones effectively isolate the subject from the background. The Pixel 8 Pro stands out for its sharper details and focus, particularly in facial features and clothing textures.
Telephoto Camera Battle
The Pixel 8 Pro boasts a 48-megapixel telephoto camera with five times optical zoom, surpassing the OnePlus 12’s three times optical zoom lens on paper. However, real-world results show that the OnePlus 12 matches and even surpasses the Pixel 8 Pro in detail and sharpness, showcasing effective pixel bending technology.
Panoramic Photography
The OnePlus 12 demonstrates even exposure and superior detail in panoramic shots compared to the Pixel 8 Pro, emphasizing its capability in capturing wide scenes with clarity.
Low Light Performance
In challenging low-light conditions, the Pixel 8 Pro outshines the OnePlus 12 with brighter and more detailed images, showcasing its prowess in nighttime photography.
Overall Comparison
Despite the Pixel 8 Pro winning in total tallied categories, the differences in performance between the two phones are minimal. The OnePlus 12 impresses with its camera tuning and image processing improvements, solidifying its position as one of the top Android phones for photography.
Conclusion
The OnePlus 12 and Google Pixel 8 Pro showcase impressive camera capabilities across various photography scenarios, with each phone excelling in different aspects. While the Pixel 8 Pro shines in low-light situations, the OnePlus 12’s dynamic range and clarity in details make it a strong contender. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities, whether it’s cost-effectiveness or advanced AI features. As technology continues to evolve, both phones offer compelling options for mobile photography enthusiasts.