Google Pixel 8 review - GSMArena

Minor nitpick, Pixels don't use stock android. There's a bunch of stuff Google does that's just for Pixels that nobody else has access to

But yeah I'm enjoying my Pixel 7

I don't know if you count the A series but most people I know buy that and not the S series, and that's usually much cheaper than a pixel. Also I feel like it's an unpopular opinion here but I really like OneUI and once you get used to it, it may not be convenient to change back to stock.

In my country, since it is not “pre-approved” by google, the phones are limited to 4G/LTE and cannot have 5G enabled in our networks for pixel phones.

Pixels are sold in fewer markets.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pixel_8

Even fewer for older Pixels, so it's been a deterrent for their growth.

In contrast, S23 will launch in 55 countries.

High price/performance, constant random hardware issues (on the previous generation the lens glass would shatter because who would have thought glass on metal contact is a bad idea), and a new software bug every two months that drains your battery and fucks something else.

Marketing.

The Galaxy brand was firmly established and well known before the Pixel brand even existed. People say it's performance or hardware issues but 99% of consumers don't know (or care) about that at all. Google really only started spending on marketing for Pixel a couple years ago and the sales numbers reflect that.

Although I love the Pixel 8's OS and design and want to love it Unfortunately $699 for midrange performance aint worth the money for me. I can find a used S23 for $650 with better value hardware-wise but the thing stopping me is OneUI and bloat.

I find the android experience on pixel 6 vastly inferior to what i had on onePlus 3t or even galaxy S3.

In pixels it feels like customization is frowned upon, and google keeps pushing its products everywhere.

The Pixel 6 was my last Pixel, and it probably will be for awhile. I'm all set on the Tensioner CPU and the very lackluster 5300 modem " same modem 6 through 8" and UFS 3 memory, Samsung is light years ahead on hardware. Install Nova launcher and deboat Samsung apps through ADB and Install Google apps, will give you near Pixel software experience. Plus I personally cannot stand the camera visor design. Maybe if the Pixel hardware gets better in the 9 I will go back but only time will tell.