Smartphones today are more than just devices. They’re your camera, your video game console, and your social hub. Two of the best mid-range options in 2024 are the OnePlus 12R and the Google Pixel 8. But which one is right for you?
TLDR: Here’s the quick scoop
If you love buttery-smooth performance and gaming, the OnePlus 12R is your pick. But if amazing photos, especially in low light, are important to you, the Pixel 8 is king. Both phones offer great value, but they shine in different areas. Think of it as fluidity vs. photos.
Design & Build: Style Check
Both phones look great, but they have their own personalities.
- OnePlus 12R: Sleek, slightly larger with a curved screen.
- Pixel 8: Compact, modern, and playful with soft colors.
The 12R feels more premium in the hand because of its curved edges, but the Pixel 8 wins points for size comfort. It’s easier to use with one hand and pocket-friendly.
Display: Smooth vs. Smart
Here’s where the OnePlus 12R shows off.
- OnePlus 12R: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate.
- Pixel 8: 6.2-inch OLED, also 120Hz, but with more accurate colors.
The 12R has an LTPO panel, which means it can drop to 1Hz when not needed — saving battery. Scrolling and animations feel like melted butter. The Pixel 8’s screen may not be quite as fluid, but it is colorful and brighter in sunlight.
Performance: Speed Demon vs. Brain Power
If you’re a multitasker or a gamer, this part is key.
- OnePlus 12R: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, up to 16GB RAM.
- Pixel 8: Google Tensor G3, 8GB RAM.
The Snapdragon chip is a beast. The 12R flies through games, apps, and even switching between multiple tasks. The Pixel 8 is no slouch, but it’s more focused on smart features and AI tasks over raw power.
Real-world use:
In day-to-day use, the OnePlus 12R feels snappier. Launches are quicker. Games run smoother. It’s a performer through and through.
Camera Showdown: Looks vs. Brains
Here’s where the Pixel 8 makes its move — the camera.
- Pixel 8: 50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, AI-powered magic.
- OnePlus 12R: 50MP main, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro.
Pixel photos are consistently wow. Especially at night or with tricky lighting. Google’s AI really makes colors pop and details stand out. The 12R takes decent shots. But side by side, the Pixel wins without even trying hard.
Fun features:
- Pixel Magic Eraser: Remove unwanted stuff from photos.
- Best Take: Combine faces from multiple shots.
- 12R Pro Mode: Manual controls for photo nerds.
Basically, the Pixel turns you into a photography pro — no skills needed.
Battery Life & Charging: Who Lasts Longer?
- OnePlus 12R: 5500mAh, 100W fast charging (YES, 100W!).
- Pixel 8: 4575mAh, 27W charging.
The OnePlus 12R has insane charging speeds. From 0 to 100% in around 30 minutes. Just grab coffee, and you’re charged for the day. Battery life also lasts longer due to the efficient chip and smart screen tech.
The Pixel 8 is fine — not bad — but not fast. You’ll wait over an hour to get a full charge.
Software: OxygenOS vs. Pixel UI
This is a matter of taste.
- Pixel 8: Cleanest Android experience with exclusive Pixel features.
- OnePlus 12R: Customizable OxygenOS and ultra-fast animations.
Pixel UI is elegant, minimal, and comes with seven years of updates. That’s future-proof. It also gets the first dibs on Android features.
OxygenOS on the OnePlus 12R is faster and more customizable. You can tweak fonts, gestures, and even the always-on display. But it won’t get updates for as long as the Pixel.
Extra Features
Let’s check the extras that make a difference.
- Both: IP rating for water resistance (Pixel 8 has better IP68, 12R has IP64).
- Pixel 8: Wireless charging.
- 12R: Infrared sensor for controlling devices like TVs and ACs.
Pixel gives you wireless charging and better dust/water protection. OnePlus sticks to wired charging but adds a handy IR blaster.
Price: Bang-for-buck?
- OnePlus 12R: Starts around $499.
- Pixel 8: Usually priced at $699 (but discounts are frequent!).
The 12R is cheaper and still packs flagship-like performance. The Pixel 8 costs more, but you’re getting that sweet camera and long-term software support.
So… Which One’s for You?
Choose the OnePlus 12R if:
- You want super-fast performance and charging.
- You love gaming or multitasking.
- You care more about speed than photos.
Pick the Pixel 8 if:
- You want the best camera in this price range.
- You love smart features and clean software.
- You want years of updates and excellent support.
Final Thoughts
This one comes down to priorities. Both the OnePlus 12R and Pixel 8 are great phones. The 12R is the speedster, blazing through tasks like a sports car. The Pixel 8 is the camera wizard, turning everyday moments into masterpieces.
Either way, you’re winning.