Yes, Note 8 is in Basic Mode
Thats the Note 8 (not s8) and Pixel 2 XL.
Some more pictures taken with iPhone 6s. Note 8 has the skinomi screen protector on it. Blue Light Filter is OFF on note 8.
100% Brightness:
https://imgur.com/a/4l65d
~50% Brightness:
https://imgur.com/a/8C9eQ
0 Brightness:
https://imgur.com/a/77I1R
For Some reason, the Pixel 2 XL feels faster and smoother. I have seen occasional lag while fast scrolling on the Note 8 (running pixel launcher). The Pixel 2 XL is smaller and feels more comfortable in hand.
Send me questions and I will try to answer. Both of these phones will be probably going back (Note 8 is just too big for me - not able to reach top corners comfortably, Pixel 2 XL possible screen issues and blue tint)