Apple vs Google – the ultimate smartphone showdown

Apple vs Google – the ultimate smartphone showdown

We take a look at how Google's new Pixel stacks up against the iPhone 7.

2016 was a good year for smartphones. In September, Apple released their most expensive iPhone yet – the iPhone 7. Despite its lack of headphone jack and excessive pricetag, the iPhone 7 was set to become one of the most popular smartphones ever.

But not anymore.

Google has finally made a phone – well two actually. Released one month after the iPhone 7, the Pixel and Pixel XL are the first Google-branded handsets to make a big splash in the smartphone market.

But can Google throw Apple from the smartphone throne? 

We take an in-depth look at design, battery life, hardware and price to find out who comes out on top in the ultimate Android vs iOS face off...

Let the battle of the handsets commence!!

 

1. Design

iPHONE 7

One of the biggest criticisms of the iPhone 7 is that is doesn’t look that different to its predecessor. It has the same sleek shape, curved sides and flat back as the iPhone 6, with a slightly softer camera bump and curved antenna lines.

Although the design may be predictable, the iPhone 7 is still the most beautiful phone out there, available in 5 different shades. 10/10

PIXEL

The Pixel actually looks very similar to the iPhone. It has the same sleek, curved design but the back plate is half matte and half gloss with the Google logo towards the bottom. The fingerprint sensor is also on the back.

However, the Pixel only comes in black, silver or blue. 9/10

2. Camera 

iPHONE 7

What's better than one 12-megapixel lens with optical image stabilisation? Two 12-megapixel lenses with optical image stabilisation. The iPhone 7 Plus has two cameras that shoot as one, producing some of the best photos you can take on a smartphone camera.

The standard version also captures stunning images even at low light. 9/10

PIXEL

The Pixel's camera will blow you away. Despite having a narrower aperture, the Pixel takes stunning photos every time. You get great dynamic range, rich colours and HD detail even in low light, and can shoot smooth 4G videos thanks to its electronic stabilisation.

It's a close call, but the Pixel takes the win. 10/10

3. Hardware

iPHONE 7  

The iPhone 7 is a seriously powerful smartphone. With 2GB RAM and a new A10 Fusion core, it's faster and smoother than ever before. The iPhone 7 is also IP65 dust and water-resistant, so you can take it with you for a dip in the tub.

However, Apple has forgotten to include a headphone jack, which has caused controversy since the iPhone 7's release. 9/10

PIXEL 

With the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor, the Pixel is a bit more powerful than the iPhone and is lightning fast, so it can handle any game or app you throw at it. The Pixel is only splash-resistant, but it does have that all-important headphone jack. 10/10

4. Battery life

iPHONE 7  

Don’t take the iPhone 7 to a festival. The battery life on Apple devices seems to be getting worse and worse – and the iPhone 7 is no exception. The Li-ion, 1960mAh battery lasts less than a day with moderate use. The Plus model is slightly juicer, but still lags behind the Pixel XL. 6/10

PIXEL 

The Pixel is a little better in the battery department – and the XL lasts even longer. Even during heavy usage, the Pixel boasts around 20% more uptime than the iPhone 7. And even if you do get caught out, the high-speed battery charges 7 hours in just 15 minutes! 9/10

5. Price

iPHONE 7  

Starting at £599 for the 32GB model and going up to £799 for the 256GB option, the iPhone 7 is pretty expensive. However, you can get some good deals out there, so it's worth shopping around before you make a purchase. 8/10 

PIXEL 

Google's Pixel comes with a very premium price tag. The 32GB model starts at £599, and the 128GB model starts at £699 - but the 128GB XL version could set you back £819! It's a pretty steep price to pay for a phone, but you can find good deals at EE and Carphone Warehouse. 6/10

 

So, what's the verdict? 

The iPhone 7 and Pixel are very similar, so we think it comes down to personal preference. While most people are already familiar with Apple devices, Siri, iTunes and iOS software, the Google phone has loads of perks too.

The Pixel comes fully loaded with Google apps – like Gmail, GooglePlay and Chrome – and you get unlimited full-resolution photo and video back-ups. The Pixel is also the first Google phone to come with the advanced GoogleAssistant – a highly intelligent personal assistant.

We think the Pixel comes out on top.