Best Cell Phone for Film and Video

Filming decent video used to mean spending thousands of dollars on specialized equipment. Although high-quality cameras can positively impact your video sales strategy, today’s technology that includes the iPhone 8 Plus and Google Pixel, enables us to have quality picture and video capabilities in the palm of our hands.

Mobile phones contain cameras and video recorders that are just as good as some of the best technology on the market. That means you can record a high-quality video without the need to carry around bulky film equipment.

But, that doesn’t mean all mobile phone technology is created equal.

The iPhone 8 Plus and Google Pixel 2 are popular choices for the average person who wants to post pictures and video on social media. With their modern technology, they can even be used to film movies, marketing materials, and more, but is one choice better than the other when it comes to filmmakers?

There’s no doubt that both options will provide you with good video, but if you’re a filmmaker who pays attention to the details, you’ll want to pick the best camera for the job. This comparison between the iPhone 8 Plus and the Google Pixel 2 will enable you to make the best choice for your recording style.

Stabilization

Stabilization isn’t a problem if you’re recording someone sitting at a desk, but if you want to take action shots, stabilization is going to be extremely important.

Both cameras have stabilization features to make recordings appear smooth. However, the way both cameras do this differs greatly.

The iPhone 8 Plus utilizes optical stabilization in its wide lens, with a separate cinematic video stabilization system that’s designed to make the video appear as if it is recorded using a rig.

In contrast, the Google Pixel 2 uses fused stabilization. This system stabilizes video in three different ways to remove shake and unwanted movements from filmed video. The device can gather data from a built-in gyroscope, and it uses “frame look ahead” technology that stabilizes movements from one frame to another.

With this new technology, the Google Pixel 2 is the better choice for filmmakers who are on the move as they’re recording video.

Color

If you’re looking for true-to-life color, the iPhone 8 Plus is the better choice, but as a filmmaker, you know that true-to-life color isn’t always what you’re looking for.

The Google Pixel 2 tends to saturate the color, enhancing lines and creating a greater contrast between objects and their surroundings without the need for editing.

Things are a little different, though, if you’re planning on using the front facing camera to take video. The iPhone provides the most contrast from this point of view. However, the Pixel 2 provides more even exposure. If you want your shots to appear consistent from the front to the rear camera, go with the Pixel 2.

Audio

Audio is an important aspect of any recording. However, if you’re filming anything other than a single person in a quiet office, you will probably have to use additional film equipment or do extensive editing.

The Google Pixel two records audio that can sound a bit flat and unpleasant. The iPhone’s audio sounds more clear, but it is far from perfect.

If you’re choosing between the two devices based on audio, you should go with the iPhone. However, if you’re willing to open yourself up to more choices, the Galaxy Note 8 actually has the best audio.

4K Video

Both phones take 4K video, and they both do it very well. However, the iPhone can reach twice as many frames per second as the Google Pixel 2. It is important to keep in mind that the video stabilization technology on the iPhone isn’t active at 4K, while the Pixel’s stabilization technology is.

If you’re filming lots of 4K video, it can be a challenge to store it. The iPhone uses a compression format called HEVC that allows large files to take up less storage, while the Pixel 2 uses H.264.

The choice here is really between whether or not you want to use stabilization technology while you record in 4K. If you do, choose the Google Pixel 2.

Slow Motion and Low Light

So far, it would seem that the Google Pixel 2 is your best choice. That may be the case up to this point, but if filming in slow motion and in low light conditions are your goals, you will have to rethink the Pixel 2.

Google’s phone can only record in its slowest frame rate at a resolution of 720p. The iPhone, in contrast, records at 1080p. That means the iPhone retains much more detail in each frame than the Pixel 2.

When it comes to low light conditions, the iPhone has the Pixel 2 beat. Although both phones do a great job of keeping colors balanced as the lighting changes, the Pixel 2 produces grainy footage. The iPhone doesn’t.

So, is the iPhone 8 Plus or Google Pixel 2 Better for Filmmakers?

As you might have guessed, the answer to this question isn’t obvious. The answer depends on exactly what kind of film you plan on taking.

If you’re filming action shots, even if the action is simply walking down the street, the Google Pixel 2 is your best choice, thanks to its innovative stabilization technology. However, if you love filming the night life, you’re going to want to choose the iPhone 8 Plus.

The good news is, both cameras can shoot great video, even if some situations require additional film equipment and editing software.

If you’d rather not worry about the quality of the video you’re recording for marketing purposes, turn to True Film Production. Our filmmakers will use their own equipment to ensure you get the best shots, and we’ll do all the editing to ensure you receive a polished, effective marketing video you can share with the world. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you could use some help creating a video for your brand.