Google Pixel 2 camera samples prove why it got the highest DxOMark score

Google Pixel 2 scored 98 on DxOMark, the highest so far.

One of the most sought after features on a smartphone is its camera. Even with budget smartphones, a consumer always expects a decent enough camera. With flagship smartphones, the expectations are even higher. Apple’s iPhone 8 Plus and Samsung Galaxy Note 8 briefly held the crown of the best smartphone camera with a DxOMark score of 94. But they were piped by the new Google Pixel 2, which received a score of 96.

The Pixel 2 smartphones feature a 12.2-megapixel camera with f/1.8 aperture. The rear camera is equipped with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS), laser auto-focus, and dual-pixel phase detection. Up front, the smartphone houses an 8-megapixel camera with f/2.4 aperture. Both the rear and front cameras feature Machine Learning-based Portrait Mode for DSLR-like bokeh effects. To prove that its Pixel 2 smartphones are worthy of the high score, Google has shared a host of camera samples.

The photo series includes a total of 24 photos and short videos exploring the Pixel 2′s camera capabilities. Here are a few picked out of the lot showing off what the Pixel 2 is capable of. Firstly, the Portrait Mode on the Pixel 2 brought impressive results and from a single camera. What’s notable here is the pattern set between the subject, and the blurred background which gives a very natural feel and not mechanical or forced upon. 

Photos with a scenic background are also captured with details intact.

These two are my personal favorites. The first photo captured at night captures the details of the intricate designs on the building. You will notice the reflection on the puddle also doesn’t miss out on the details. The second photo looks quite tricky, but manages to catch a glimpse of the onlooker on the glass along with the outside. 

The photos posted here might not do justice to the camera’s true capabilities. As Google’s Pixel hit the shelves, we’ll get a better idea on the camera features. In India, pre-orders for the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will begin on October 26 with sales for the Pixel 2 starting on November 1, and November 15 for the Pixel 2 XL. The Pixel 2 64GB and 128GB variants are priced at Rs 61,000 and Rs 73,000 respectively. As for the Pixel 2 XL, the 64GB model is priced at Rs 73,000 and the 128GB variant at Rs 82,000.