When it comes to smartphones, Google’s Pixel line has consistently stood out for its high-quality cameras, smooth Android experience, and timely software updates. From the original Pixel to the latest models, Google has established a solid reputation in the competitive smartphone market. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of each significant Pixel phone to determine which Google Pixel phone is the best.
Table of Contents
Google Pixel Lineup Overview
Google’s Pixel series can be divided into several generations, each bringing incremental improvements and innovations. Here’s a quick overview of the main models:
- Google Pixel (2016) and Pixel XL
- Google Pixel 2 (2017) and Pixel 2 XL
- Google Pixel 3 (2018) and Pixel 3 XL
- Google Pixel 3a (2019) and Pixel 3a XL
- Google Pixel 4 (2019) and Pixel 4 XL
- Google Pixel 4a (2020) and Pixel 4a 5G
- Google Pixel 5 (2020)
- Google Pixel 5a (2021)
- Google Pixel 6 (2021) and Pixel 6 Pro
- Google Pixel 6a (2022)
- Google Pixel 7 (2022) and Pixel 7 Pro
- Google Pixel 7a (2023)
- Google Pixel 8 (2023) and Pixel 8 Pro
Each of these models has its own set of features and specifications that cater to different types of users. To determine which is the best, we need to consider various factors such as camera performance, battery life, design, display quality, software experience, and value for money.
Key Features and Innovations
Camera Performance
One of the standout features of Google Pixel phones has always been their cameras. Google has leveraged its expertise in software and computational photography to deliver exceptional camera performance, often surpassing the competition even with relatively modest hardware specifications.
Google Pixel and Pixel XL
The original Pixel phones set the bar high with their 12.3 MP rear camera, praised for its sharpness, dynamic range, and low-light performance. The software-driven HDR+ mode was revolutionary, offering impressive photo quality without needing dual or multiple camera setups.
Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL
With the Pixel 2 series, Google refined its camera technology further. The 12.2 MP sensor, coupled with an improved HDR+ algorithm, produced even better results, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The introduction of features like Portrait Mode, which used software to create a bokeh effect, highlighted Google’s prowess in computational photography.
Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL
The Pixel 3 series took things up a notch with Night Sight, a feature that allowed for stunning low-light photography without a flash. The single 12.2 MP camera continued to excel, and the addition of dual front cameras (one standard and one wide-angle) improved selfies significantly.
Google Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL
The Pixel 4 series introduced a dual-camera setup on the back for the first time in Pixel history, adding a 16 MP telephoto lens to the primary 12.2 MP sensor. This addition allowed for improved zoom capabilities and enhanced portrait photography. The astrophotography mode was another highlight, enabling users to capture detailed night sky images.
Google Pixel 5
The Pixel 5 focused on refining the camera experience rather than introducing radical changes. It retained the 12.2 MP main sensor and 16 MP ultrawide lens from the Pixel 4a 5G, offering versatility and high-quality images. The computational photography software continued to improve, with features like HDR+ with bracketing and improved Night Sight.
Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro
The Pixel 6 series marked a significant leap in camera technology with a 50 MP main sensor and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. The Pixel 6 Pro also included a 48 MP telephoto lens with 4x optical zoom. These hardware upgrades, combined with advanced software, delivered some of the best photos ever seen on a Pixel device. Features like Magic Eraser, which allows users to remove unwanted objects from photos, showcased Google’s innovation in photography.
Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro
The Pixel 7 series built upon the strengths of the Pixel 6, with improvements in sensor technology and software enhancements. The Pixel 7 Pro, in particular, offered one of the most versatile and powerful camera systems on the market, with further refinements to computational photography and additional features like Super Res Zoom.
Battery Life and Performance
Battery life and performance are critical factors in determining the best smartphone. Google’s Pixel phones have varied in these aspects over the years.
Google Pixel and Pixel XL
The original Pixel phones were powered by the Snapdragon 821 processor and had decent battery life, but nothing extraordinary. They were known for smooth performance, thanks to the optimization of stock Android.
Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL
The Pixel 2 series, with its Snapdragon 835 processor, offered improved performance and slightly better battery life. However, the larger Pixel 2 XL suffered from some display issues that affected battery efficiency.
Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL
The Snapdragon 845 processor in the Pixel 3 series provided solid performance, but battery life was still an area where improvement was needed. The Pixel 3 XL’s larger battery helped, but it wasn’t a standout feature.
Google Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL
The Pixel 4 series, despite having the powerful Snapdragon 855 processor, faced criticism for its subpar battery life, especially in the smaller Pixel 4. The introduction of features like Motion Sense and a 90Hz display added to the power drain.
Google Pixel 5
With the Pixel 5, Google shifted to the Snapdragon 765G, a mid-range processor that was less power-hungry. This resulted in significantly better battery life compared to its predecessors, making it one of the more balanced Pixel phones in terms of performance and endurance.
Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro
The Pixel 6 series featured Google’s custom Tensor chip, designed to enhance AI and machine learning tasks. This chip provided excellent performance for everyday tasks and camera processing. Battery life was also improved, with the larger Pixel 6 Pro offering better longevity due to its bigger battery.
Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro
The Pixel 7 series continued to use the Tensor chip, now in its second generation, delivering even better performance and efficiency. Battery life was comparable to the Pixel 6 series, with optimizations ensuring users could get through a full day of use without much issue.
Design and Display
Design and display quality are crucial for the overall user experience. Google’s Pixel phones have evolved in this regard, offering better build quality and more vibrant displays with each generation.
Google Pixel and Pixel XL
The original Pixels had a simple design with an aluminum body and a glass panel on the back. The AMOLED displays were good but not exceptional, with the Pixel XL offering a higher resolution.
Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL
The Pixel 2 series featured a more refined design with water resistance and front-facing stereo speakers. The Pixel 2 XL’s P-OLED display faced criticism for issues like blue tint and graininess.
Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL
The Pixel 3 series improved on design with a glass back and wireless charging. The displays were better, with the Pixel 3 XL featuring a larger OLED screen, though its large notch was controversial.
Google Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL
The Pixel 4 series introduced a more premium design with a matte glass back and smoother edges. The 90Hz OLED displays offered a more fluid experience, though the large top bezel for Motion Sense was divisive.
Google Pixel 5
The Pixel 5 opted for a more understated design with a bio-resin-coated aluminum body. The OLED display was bright and vibrant, and the inclusion of a 90Hz refresh rate made interactions smoother.
Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro
The Pixel 6 series marked a bold design shift with a distinctive camera bar across the back. The Pixel 6 Pro featured a 120Hz QHD+ OLED display, one of the best in its class, while the Pixel 6 had a slightly lower resolution and refresh rate.
Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro
The Pixel 7 series refined the design introduced with the Pixel 6, offering a more polished look. The displays remained top-tier, with the Pixel 7 Pro continuing to offer a 120Hz refresh rate and high resolution, ensuring a premium visual experience.
Software Experience
One of the key advantages of Google’s Pixel phones is the software experience. Pixel devices run a clean version of Android, with timely updates and exclusive features.
Google Pixel and Pixel XL
The original Pixels launched with Android 7.1 Nougat and were among the first to receive new Android updates. The Google Assistant debuted on these devices, setting the stage for future software enhancements.
Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL
The Pixel 2 series launched with Android 8.0 Oreo and continued to receive timely updates. Features like Active Edge, which allowed users to squeeze the phone to launch Google Assistant, and improved Google Lens integration, enhanced the overall software experience.
Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL
The Pixel 3 series introduced Call Screen, a feature that used Google Assistant to screen spam calls. Digital Wellbeing and more advanced AI-driven features became integral parts of the Pixel experience.
Google Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL
The Pixel 4 series launched with Android 10 and
introduced several new features, including Motion Sense, which used radar technology to detect hand gestures and facilitate touchless interactions. Face Unlock, enabled by the new Soli radar chip, provided a secure and convenient way to unlock the phone, though it was met with mixed reviews due to its inconsistent performance in certain scenarios. The introduction of Recorder, a powerful transcription tool, showcased Google’s software capabilities.
Google Pixel 5
With the Pixel 5, Google focused on delivering a refined and cohesive software experience. It launched with Android 11 and continued to offer features like Call Screen, Hold for Me, and extreme battery saver modes. Google’s emphasis on AI and machine learning was evident, providing users with a smart and intuitive interface. The absence of Motion Sense and a return to a simpler hardware design allowed for a more streamlined user experience.
Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro
The Pixel 6 series, with the introduction of the Google Tensor chip, brought significant enhancements in AI-driven features and machine learning. Launched with Android 12, the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro benefited from the new Material You design language, allowing for a highly personalized user interface. Features like Live Translate, which provided real-time translation across different apps, and more advanced on-device AI processing for photos and voice recognition, highlighted the software advancements enabled by the custom chip.
Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro
The Pixel 7 series launched with Android 13 and continued to build on the foundation set by its predecessor. The improved Tensor G2 chip enabled even more sophisticated AI and machine learning capabilities, making tasks like real-time language translation, voice typing, and photo processing faster and more accurate. Google’s commitment to privacy and security was also evident, with features like the Security Hub and five years of security updates ensuring a safe and up-to-date software environment.
Value for Money
Evaluating the value for money involves considering the overall performance, features, and price of each Pixel model. Over the years, Google has offered a range of Pixel phones to cater to different budgets.
Google Pixel and Pixel XL
The original Pixel phones were priced as premium devices, competing directly with flagship models from other brands. Despite their high cost, they offered a pure Android experience and an excellent camera, which justified the price for many users.
Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL
The Pixel 2 series continued to be positioned as premium devices, with prices reflecting their high-end features. The improvements in camera and software were significant, but display issues with the Pixel 2 XL affected its perceived value.
Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL
The Pixel 3 series maintained the premium pricing, but the introduction of features like Night Sight and wireless charging added value. The smaller battery and controversial notch on the Pixel 3 XL, however, made some users question the cost.
Google Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL
The Pixel 3a series marked Google’s entry into the mid-range market, offering many of the flagship Pixel 3’s features at a significantly lower price. The excellent camera performance and clean software experience made the Pixel 3a and 3a XL some of the best value-for-money phones of their time.
Google Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL
Despite their innovative features, the Pixel 4 series faced criticism for high prices and poor battery life. The unique Motion Sense and Face Unlock features did not resonate with all users, impacting the overall value proposition.
Google Pixel 4a and Pixel 4a 5G
The Pixel 4a series continued Google’s focus on affordable, high-quality devices. The Pixel 4a, with its excellent camera, clean software, and affordable price, was widely regarded as one of the best budget smartphones. The Pixel 4a 5G offered 5G connectivity and a larger display, adding value for those seeking more features.
Google Pixel 5
The Pixel 5, priced more competitively than previous flagships, was well-received for its balanced approach. The combination of a solid camera, good battery life, 5G connectivity, and a more affordable price made it an attractive option for many users.
Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro
The Pixel 6 series, particularly the Pixel 6, offered incredible value with its premium features and competitive pricing. The Pixel 6 Pro, while more expensive, justified its higher cost with a superior display, additional camera features, and a more premium design. Both models were considered excellent value for money, especially considering the advancements in AI and computational photography.
Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro
The Pixel 7 series continued to offer great value, building on the strengths of the Pixel 6 series. The improved Tensor G2 chip, refined design, and enhanced camera features provided a compelling package. The Pixel 7 Pro, while positioned at a higher price point, offered features that could rival other flagship devices, making it a strong contender in the premium segment.
Conclusion: Which Google Pixel Phone is the Best?
Determining the best Google Pixel phone involves balancing several factors, including camera performance, battery life, design, display quality, software experience, and value for money. Here’s a breakdown of the top contenders:
Best for Camera Performance: Google Pixel 6 Pro
The Pixel 6 Pro stands out with its 50 MP main sensor, 12 MP ultrawide lens, and 48 MP telephoto lens. The combination of advanced hardware and Google’s AI-driven computational photography makes it one of the best camera phones available. Features like Magic Eraser and improved Night Sight further enhance its photographic capabilities.
Best for Battery Life: Google Pixel 5
The Pixel 5 offers excellent battery life, thanks to its efficient Snapdragon 765G processor and well-optimized software. Its 4,080 mAh battery ensures that it can easily last a full day of use, making it a reliable choice for those who prioritize endurance.
Best for Design and Display: Google Pixel 7 Pro
The Pixel 7 Pro features a refined and polished design with a stunning 120Hz QHD+ OLED display. Its premium build quality and high-resolution screen make it a joy to use for media consumption, gaming, and everyday tasks.
Best for Software Experience: Google Pixel 6
The Pixel 6, with its Tensor chip and clean Android 12 interface, offers a smooth and intelligent software experience. Features like Material You customization, Live Translate, and on-device AI processing provide a seamless and user-friendly experience.
Best Value for Money: Google Pixel 4a
The Pixel 4a remains one of the best value-for-money phones in the Pixel lineup. Its combination of a high-quality camera, clean software, and affordable price makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who do not want to compromise on performance.
Overall Best Google Pixel Phone: Google Pixel 6
Balancing all factors, the Google Pixel 6 emerges as the overall best Pixel phone. It offers a flagship experience at a relatively affordable price, with a powerful camera system, solid battery life, refined design, and exceptional software experience. The introduction of the Tensor chip brings significant AI and machine learning advancements, making the Pixel 6 a versatile and future-proof device.
In conclusion, while each Google Pixel phone has its own strengths and appeals to different types of users, the Pixel 6 stands out as the best all-around option. It embodies Google’s vision of a smart, capable, and user-friendly smartphone, delivering exceptional value across the board.