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The Google Pixel 4 is due to be launched on the 15th of October, the following day Realme will launch their first true flagship phone the Realme X2 Pro.
Over the years Google and their Pixel phones have bucked the trend of big specs, instead of optimising their software to get the best out of the hardware they use. As far as critics go, this has worked well for them, people lauded the Pixel 3, 3 XL and most recent the Pixel 3a.
I haven’t had a chance to use any of those phones yet, and it always leaves me feeling a little confused about what to write about them.
For example, the Pixel 3a sells for £399 uses a Snapdragon 670 chipset. 4GB RAM, 64GB storage and has a single 12.2MP rear camera. In comparison, you can get the Xiaomi Mi 9T Pro with SD855, 6GB of RAM, 128GB storage, a triple rear camera with 48MP and 4000mAh batter for just £385 or £355 if you buy from Spain.
This hardware disparity with Google phones and competing brands look set to continue with the Google Pixel 4 and Realme X2 Pro launch.
We don’t know prices yet but the 3XL still sells for £869 on the Play Store, putting it well into the premium flagship pricing range (though it is currently as low as £600 on third party sites). Presumably, the Pixel 4 XL will cost the same if not more.
The Realme X2 Pro could come in at any price, but they claim to be the cheapest Snapdragon 855 Plus phone on the market. This is likely to be around half the price of the Pixel 4 XL.
But, if we look at the current claimed specs, there is a shocking difference:
| Google Pixel 4 | Google Pixel 4 XL | Realme X2 Pro | |
|---|---|---|---|
| SoC | Snapdragon 855 | Snapdragon 855 | Snapdragon 855 Plus |
| RAM | 6GB | 6GB | 6GB/8GB |
| Storage | 64GB / 128GB | 64GB / 128GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB |
| Display | 5.7-Full HD 90Hz OLED | 6.3-inch Quad HD+ 90Hz OLED | 6.55 inche 1080 x 2400 OLED 90hz |
| Rear Camera | 12MP & 16MP telephoto | 12MP & 16MP telephoto | 64 MP, 13MP telephoto, 8 MP ultrawide, 2MP TOF |
| Front Camera | 8 MP ultrawide, TOF | 8 MP ultrawide, TOF | 32 MP |
| Battery | 2800mAh | 3700mAh | 4500 mAh |
| Charging | Unknown | Unknown | 50W SuperVOOC |
Now I am not going be audacious enough to say the Realme X2 Pro is better than the Google Pixel 4 XL, but from the average consumer perspective, it is hard not to see past the numbers. And quite frankly, I think it is ridiculous the Google is still using a 2800mAh in a phone regardless of its screen size.
I have no doubt the new Pixel 4 will receive amazing reviews, Google always manages to do some black magic with their cameras and have some of the best results for any phone even if the numbers are lacklustre.
Google will always have the best software and support, and they seem to rely on this for the sales of their phones, but I wonder what sort of market penetration Google has achieved from this, as I certainly don’t know many none tech people using their devices.
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
