Google Pixel 7 Pro • Unlocked vs OnePlus 12 • Unlocked

The Google Pixel 7 Pro, released in October 2022, and the OnePlus 12, launched globally in early 2024, are both prominent Android smartphones designed to offer a premium user experience. While the Pixel 7 Pro emphasizes advanced computational photography and a streamlined software experience, the OnePlus 12 focuses on raw performance, rapid charging, and a vibrant display. Both devices run on the Android operating system, but they offer distinct interpretations of the software experience.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key factors.

• Release and Software Support: The Google Pixel 7 Pro, launched in October 2022, is guaranteed to receive five years of OS and security updates, extending its support until October 2027. This means it will receive Android OS updates up to Android 18. The OnePlus 12, released globally in early 2024, comes with a commitment of four years of Android updates and five years of security patches, meaning it is expected to be updated until at least Android 18.
• Repairability: The Pixel 7 Pro generally receives a moderate repairability score, with some sources giving it a 5.5 out of 10, while others rate it at 7.0 out of 10. Challenges include strong adhesive for the screen and battery, and a charging port soldered to the motherboard. The OnePlus 12 has a slightly higher repairability score of 7.5 out of 10, noting that while strong adhesive is used for the back cover and battery, the battery and screen cables are accessible, and pull tabs are provided for battery removal.
• Practical Lifespan: Both devices are built to last, with their respective software support ensuring they remain functional and secure for several years. The Pixel 7 Pro's extended OS update policy provides a slightly longer period for receiving the latest Android features, while the OnePlus 12's robust hardware and faster charging contribute to its perceived longevity.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, gaming, and demanding applications, and both the Pixel 7 Pro and OnePlus 12 offer capable hardware.

• Processing Power: The Google Pixel 7 Pro is powered by a Google Tensor G2 processor, which is optimized for artificial intelligence and machine learning tasks, contributing to a responsive user experience and efficient handling of smart features. The OnePlus 12 features a current-generation Snapdragon processor, known for its high raw processing power, which translates to exceptionally smooth performance in demanding games and heavy multitasking.
• Memory and Storage: The Pixel 7 Pro typically comes with 12 GB of RAM and storage options up to 512 GB. The OnePlus 12 offers configurations with 12 GB or 16 GB of RAM globally, and up to 512 GB of storage, utilizing faster UFS 4.0 storage technology. This can result in quicker app loading and data transfer speeds on the OnePlus 12.
• Battery Behavior: The Pixel 7 Pro houses a 5000 mAh battery, generally providing sufficient power for a full day of moderate to heavy use. The OnePlus 12 is equipped with a larger 5400 mAh battery, often delivering extended usage times, with some users reporting up to two days of normal use. The OnePlus 12 also supports significantly faster wired and wireless charging speeds.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer high-quality viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

• Display Technology and Resolution: The Google Pixel 7 Pro features a 6.7-inch QHD+ LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 3120 x 1440 pixels, resulting in a sharp and vibrant image. The OnePlus 12 sports a slightly larger 6.82-inch QHD+ LTPO AMOLED display with a resolution of 3168 x 1440 pixels, also offering excellent clarity and color reproduction.
• Refresh Rate and Brightness: Both phones offer an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120 Hz, providing smooth scrolling and fluid animations. The Pixel 7 Pro can reach a peak brightness of 1500 nits, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions. The OnePlus 12, however, boasts a higher peak brightness of 4500 nits, making it exceptionally bright for outdoor use and HDR content.
• Viewing Experience: The Pixel 7 Pro's display is praised for its vibrant colors and sharpness, enhancing content consumption. The OnePlus 12's display is noted for its impressive brightness and overall visual quality, making it one of the best available for media and general use.

Both the Google Pixel 7 Pro and the OnePlus 12 are equipped with advanced camera systems, each offering unique strengths for photography and videography.

• Rear Camera Systems: The Pixel 7 Pro features a triple camera setup, including a 50 MP main sensor, a 12 MP ultrawide lens with autofocus, and a 48 MP telephoto lens capable of 5x optical zoom and up to 30x Super Res Zoom. The OnePlus 12 also has a versatile triple camera array, comprising a 50 MP main sensor, a 48 MP ultrawide lens, and a 64 MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and 6x in-sensor zoom.
• Photography Performance: The Pixel 7 Pro is highly regarded for its computational photography, delivering excellent detail, accurate colors, and strong low-light performance, particularly for still images and skin tones. Features like Photo Unblur and Magic Eraser enhance its capabilities. The OnePlus 12, with its Hasselblad tuning, produces excellent images with good dynamics and detail, performing well in low-light conditions and offering strong portrait and selfie capabilities.
• Video and Audio: Both devices support 4K video recording at 60 frames per second. The Pixel 7 Pro offers improved video stabilization and a Cinematic mode for bokeh effects. The OnePlus 12 can record up to 8K video from its main camera. For audio, the OnePlus 12 includes super linear dual stereo speakers and supports Spatial Audio.