A clear camera comparison to help you choose the right phone

Choosing between the POCO F8 Pro and the Google Pixel 9 Pro comes down to how much you value camera performance versus overall value. Both devices take different approaches: the Pixel aims for flagship-level photography, while the POCO focuses on delivering strong hardware at a more affordable price.

The Pixel 9 Pro features a high-end camera system built around a large 50MP main sensor, supported by a powerful ultrawide lens and a dedicated 5× optical telephoto. Its software processing is one of the best available, offering excellent detail, natural colours and industry-leading low-light performance. For users who shoot a lot of portraits, landscapes or zoom photos, the Pixel’s camera versatility stands out.

The POCO F8 Pro, on the other hand, is geared toward delivering strong camera capabilities without the premium price. It is expected to include a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilisation, a telephoto lens with around 2× optical zoom and an 8MP ultrawide. While not as advanced as the Pixel’s setup, it still offers solid performance for everyday photography, especially on the main lens.

Zoom capability is where the biggest difference appears. The Pixel’s 5× telephoto lens produces sharper, cleaner zoom shots and its software enhances this even further. The POCO’s telephoto provides some flexibility but cannot match the Pixel’s reach or clarity for distant subjects. This makes the Pixel the better choice for travel, wildlife or long-range photography.

In terms of software, the Pixel’s image processing has a long reputation for delivering excellent dynamic range, consistent skin tones and strong night shots with very little effort from the user. POCO’s processing has improved over the years, but it still prioritises punchy colours and lacks the refined consistency of Google’s tuning.

Video quality is another area where the Pixel maintains an advantage thanks to stronger stabilisation and more advanced recording modes. The POCO F8 Pro is still capable, but its video performance targets its price segment rather than the flagship tier.

Where the POCO F8 Pro shines is in value. It is expected to offer impressive hardware for a fraction of the cost of the Pixel 9 Pro, making it appealing for users who want good photos without paying top-tier prices. If you mostly shoot casual photos, social media content or everyday moments, the POCO may feel more than sufficient.

The Pixel 9 Pro is the clear winner for users who prioritise camera performance above all else. Its combination of sensor quality, zoom power and software refinement makes it one of the strongest camera phones available. However, for buyers on a budget or those looking for strong performance at a much lower cost, the POCO F8 Pro remains a compelling option.

Ultimately, choose the Pixel 9 Pro if you want the best possible camera experience. Choose the POCO F8 Pro if you want strong photography at a more accessible price point.