Pi8 Earbuds
In-ear TWS · ANC · 6.5h/22h · aptX Adaptive · BT 5.3
MSRP
Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds
In-ear TWS · ANC · 8h/30h · Tensor A1 · BT 5.4
MSRP
Our verdict
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds takes the performance lead with a 5% higher overall score, driven by its more shader cores, more of memory, and higher TFLOPS of compute power. In gaming benchmarks at 1440p, it delivers roughly 0% more frames per second across demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Alan Wake 2.
However, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds tells a compelling value story. At $230 versus the Pi8 Earbuds's $400 price tag, it costs 74% less while delivering performance that's only 5% behind. Its of memory is still more than enough for 1440p and even 4K gaming in most titles.
Our recommendation: for the majority of gamers targeting 1440p or even 4K with upscaling enabled, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds is the smarter purchase. The Pi8 Earbuds only makes sense if you need the absolute maximum performance for native 4K ray tracing, professional 3D rendering, or AI workloads where the extra VRAM and compute power provide a tangible advantage.
Performance winner
Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds
5% faster overall
Best value for money
Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds
58% better value per dollar
Pi8 Earbuds best for
Value for money
58% better value per dollar
Audio
Battery
Comfort
Connectivity
Noise Cancellation
Frequently asked questions
Is the Pi8 Earbuds worth $170 more than the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds?
It depends on your needs. The Pi8 Earbuds scores 84 overall vs 80 for the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds. If you need the extra performance for demanding tasks, the premium is justified. For most users gaming at 1440p or below, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds offers better value.
Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the Pi8 Earbuds or Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds?
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds provides more headroom for ray tracing and future titles, while the Pi8 Earbuds still maintains smooth gameplay in current games.
Can the Pi8 Earbuds handle 4K gaming?
The Pi8 Earbuds can handle 4K gaming in less demanding titles and with upscaling technologies like DLSS or FSR. For native 4K at ultra settings in demanding games, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.
Which should I buy, the Pi8 Earbuds or Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds?
Choose the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds if you want the best value for money and primarily game at 1080p or 1440p. Choose the Pi8 Earbuds if you need maximum performance, play at 4K, or do professional workloads like video editing and 3D rendering.
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