The Google Pixel 4 DXOMARK score highlights a meaningful step forward for smartphone photography, showing how Google refined its imaging stack and computational photography.
By comparing the Pixel 4 with its predecessor, the Pixel 3, the gains in detail rendering, dynamic range, and low-light performance become clear in objective scores and real-world usage.
| Model | Rear Camera Setup | DXOMARK Camera Score | Photo Score | Video Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Pixel 3 | 12.2 MP main | 101 | 101 | 96 |
| Google Pixel 4 | 12.2 MP main + 16 MP telephoto | 112 | 119 | 101 |
| Delta | Added telephoto, improved processing | +11 | +18 | +5 |
Pixel 4 Camera Hardware Innovations
Google upgraded the Pixel 4 with a second 16 MP telephoto lens, enabling 2x optical zoom and better framing flexibility. The larger sensor pixels and wider aperture in the main camera improve light capture, which is directly reflected in the higher DXOMARK score.
Alongside the new telephoto module, Google refined the image signal processor and introduced advanced pixel binning. These hardware and firmware changes deliver sharper details, cleaner shadows, and more balanced highlights in challenging lighting.
Computational Photography Upgrades Driving the Score
Computational photography plays a major role in the Pixel 4’s improvement over the Pixel 3. Super Res Zoom and better HDR merging reduce artifacts, while Night Sight now handles very low light with faster processing and more natural colors.
The addition of depth mapping from the telephoto lens allows more accurate Portrait mode bokeh, even in complex scenes with fine hair or moving subjects. These algorithmic refinements translate into measurable gains across photo and video tests on DXOMARK.
Video Recording and Stabilization Enhancements
Video performance saw one of the largest jumps, with the Pixel 4 scoring higher in motion, autofocus tracking, and color consistency. EIS combines with gyro data to produce smoother footage, while 60 FPS slow-motion expands creative options without sacrificing quality.
Audio processing also improved, with better wind reduction and clearer capture from the bottom-firing microphone. For users who rely on their phone as a primary video tool, these enhancements make the Pixel 4 significantly more capable than the Pixel 3 in everyday shooting scenarios.
Real-World Performance and Use Cases
In day-to-day use, the Pixel 4 handles mixed lighting, backlit scenes, and indoor environments with less noise and better texture preservation. The telephoto lens is practical for concerts, events, and travel, reducing the need for cropping while maintaining detail.
Families, travelers, and content creators benefit from faster capture, improved low-light snapshots, and reliable video recording. The DXOMARK score reflects these real-world strengths, positioning the Pixel 4 as a more complete imaging tool than the Pixel 3.
Key Takeaways from the Pixel 4 Imaging Upgrade
- Pixel 4 DXOMARK score reflects meaningful gains over Pixel 3 across photo and video tests
- Dual-lens setup with 2x telephoto enables more flexible framing without quality loss
- Night Sight and computational HDR deliver cleaner shadows and richer details
- Video stabilization, audio handling, and 60 FPS slow-motion expand creative possibilities
- Real-world shooting experience is smoother and more reliable, especially in mixed lighting
FAQ
Reader questions
Does the Pixel 4 telephoto lens work in all lighting conditions?
The telephoto lens performs best in moderate to good light, delivering clean 2x shots. In very dim settings, the main camera’s larger pixel size may still produce brighter results, though with slightly more cropping compared to the telephoto.
How does Night Solid on Pixel 4 compare to Pixel 3?
Night Sight on the Pixel 4 processes faster and retains more detail in high-contrast scenes, while reducing the smearing and noise that could appear in Pixel 3 images. The improved segmentation and tone mapping lead to measurably better low-light scores on DXOMARK.
Is the Pixel 4 noticeably better for video than the Pixel 3?
Yes, the Pixel 4 records smoother, more stable footage with better autofocus tracking and fewer compression artifacts. The higher DXOMARK video score reflects gains in color accuracy, dynamic range, and practical features such as 60 FPS slow-motion.
Will upgrading from Pixel 3 to Pixel 4 make a difference for casual snapshots?
For everyday snapshots, you will notice sharper details, more consistent colors, and fewer dropped shots in challenging light. The combined effect of hardware and software upgrades is especially visible in quick-capture moments where processing speed and accuracy matter.