Should You Upgrade from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 8?
A spec-by-spec look at what actually changes when you move from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 8, 2 years apart.
Maybe — worth it only if the new features matter to you
The Pixel 8 is 2 years newer than the Pixel 6, and the BeastScore rises from 80.4 to 82.0. The biggest improvements: display rated 14 points higher, smoother display (+30hz refresh rate), 1,200 nits brighter peak display. Trade-offs to know: 3w slower wired charging, 3w slower wireless charging.
What you gain with the Pixel 8
- +Display rated 14 points higher
- +Smoother display (+30Hz refresh rate)
- +1,200 nits brighter peak display
- +20 g lighter
What you give up
- −3W slower wired charging
- −3W slower wireless charging
- −0.2" smaller screen
- −Launched $100 more expensive
| Spec | Pixel 6 | Pixel 8 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| BeastScore (overall) | 80.4 | 82.0 | +1.6 |
| Performance score | 80 | 80 | No real change |
| Camera score | 88 | 88 | No real change |
| Battery score | 78 | 78 | No real change |
| Display score | 74 | 88 | +14 (19%) |
| Battery capacity | 4,614 mAh | 4,575 mAh | No real change |
| Wired charging | 30W | 27W | −3W (10%) |
| Wireless charging | 21W | 18W | −3W (14%) |
| Screen size | 6.4" | 6.2" | −0.2" (3%) |
| Refresh rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | +30Hz (33%) |
| Peak brightness | 800 nits | 2,000 nits | +1,200 nits (150%) |
| Main camera | 50 MP | 50 MP | No real change |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB | No real change |
| Weight | 207 g | 187 g | −20 g (10%) |
| Launch price | $599 | $699 | +$100 (17%) |
Upgrade if…
- You use your phone outdoors a lot and want a brighter, smoother screen
Pixel 6 vs Pixel 8: Upgrade FAQ
Is it worth upgrading from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 8?
Maybe — worth it only if the new features matter to you. The Pixel 8 is 2 years newer than the Pixel 6, and the BeastScore rises from 80.4 to 82.0. The biggest improvements: display rated 14 points higher, smoother display (+30hz refresh rate), 1,200 nits brighter peak display. Trade-offs to know: 3w slower wired charging, 3w slower wireless charging.
What is the biggest difference between the Pixel 6 and Pixel 8?
Display rated 14 points higher: 74 on the Pixel 6 vs 88 on the Pixel 8.
Does the Pixel 8 have a bigger battery than the Pixel 6?
No — both have about the same battery capacity (4,614 mAh vs 4,575 mAh).
Who should upgrade to the Pixel 8?
Upgrade if: You use your phone outdoors a lot and want a brighter, smoother screen.