Google Pixel 2 XL camera test: how does it compare to iPhone 8 Plus and Note 8?

And the winner is... the Google Pixel 2 XL!

Followed by the Samsung Galaxy Note 8, with the Mate 10 Pro and iPhone 8 Plus coming in third and fourth place.

With the Pixel 2 XL consistently coming out in first or second, whether you're an expert or an amateur, chances are if you want an automatic mode champion with a seriously decent bokeh effect, go Google.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 came a very respectable second, even winning out in low light scenarios with our expert Photography Editor, Phil Hall. Thanks to the versatility of its second lens, offering a 2x zoom, it can also get you closer to the action and has manual controls out of the box too.

Where the Huawei Mate 10 Pro edges ahead is in its enthusiast shooting modes. When it comes to point and shoot automatic mode, it had a tendency to over-expose shots, though did manage to perform decently in low light.

Finally, the iPhone 8 Plus was on an equal-footing with the Mate 10 for Phil. Gerald, meanwhile, positioned it at the bottom of the pack. Despite this, it offered among the best portrait modes around, producing the most flattering picture of the bunch. 

For all the details, watch our video and check out all the results in the high-resolution grids below.

But what about mid-range smartphone cameras? Check out our live camera comparison between the OnePlus 5T and the Honor View 10 above and view our examples!

Basil Kronfli

Basil Kronfli is the Head of content at Make Honey and freelance technology journalist. He is an experienced writer and producer and is skilled in video production, and runs the technology YouTube channel TechEdit.