When the Google Pixel and Pixel XL were released in late 2016, the camera experience was the central focus of marketing for this Android smartphone launched by Google. The cameras are central to Pixel phones, largely due to the devices' advanced software and algorithms.
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In addition to imaging performance, Google Pixel phones are similar to the Apple iPhone in terms of receiving regular software updates and Android security updates. Nearly every update brings enhancements, new features, and performance improvements. Unlike some other Android phones, you can rest assured that your Pixel phone will be supported for at least five years too.
Google is following in Apple's footsteps by establishing an ecosystem of connected products. With fantastic Chromebooks, new watches, and the release of the Pixel 8 series phones, Google offers compelling alternatives to Apple and Samsung.
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has gone hands-on with all of the Google Pixel phones on the market. Our pick for the best Google Pixel phone overall is the newPixel 8 Pro , thanks to its AI-enhanced camera features, and sleek redesign. Read on to find out which Pixel phone is right for your budget and lifestyle.
Google Pixel 8 Pro specs:Processor: Google Tensor G3 Display: 6.7 inches Storage options: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB Rear cameras: 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto Front camera: 10.8 MPBattery capacity:4,950 mAhDimensions:6.7 x 3.0 x 0.3 inchesPrice:Starting at$999
The Pixel 8 Pro is Google's most refined and tested device yet, according to reviews editor June Wan. The 6.7-inch display is fitted into a more curved glass-to-aluminum body. It features an updated Google Tensor G3 chip, giving the phone a performance boost and several new AI features, including context-aware Call Screening responses, the ability to summarize and translate bodies of text, and even support for simultaneous voice-to-text input with multiple languages.
The Pixel 8 Pro cameras also get a big upgrade, with new AI features like Video Boost (which helps better record videos in low light), Audio Erase (which removes background noises from a video) and, for the Pro only, Best Take (which lets you swap out faces in a group photo with better ones). The phone's triple camera array, paired with the company's computational prowess, puts it ahead of the competition.
View now at Best Buy View now at Target more buying choicesGoogle Pixel 7a specs: Processor:Google Tensor with Titan M2 security coprocessorDisplay:6.1-in, FHD+ (1080 x 24000)OLED at 429 PPIRAM/storage:8GB RAM, 128GB storageRear cameras:64MP Quad PD Bayer, 13MP ultrawideFront camera: 13MPBattery capacity: Typical 4385mAhDimensions:152 height x 72.9 width x 9 depth (mm)Price:Starting at$499
The Google Pixel 7a is finally here with a starting price$100 less than the Pixel 7. And just because it's more budget-friendly doesn't mean it has skimped out on features. It features the Titan M2 chip and a built-in VPN for added security while using public Wi-Fi networks to protect your personal data from unauthorized access.
Review: Google Pixel 7a
It also features a 13MP front camera and 64MP main rear camera for ultra-detailed photos and video, which is great for hobbyist shutterbugs and professional photographers alike. The only downside is that the Pixel 7a will only feature one storage capacity option at 128GB and no microSD card slot, so you can't expand your storage in the future without upgrading.
View now at Target View now at Amazon more buying choicesGoogle Pixel 6 specs: Processor: Google Tensor with Titan M2 security coprocessor Display: 6.4-inch 1080 x 2400 pixels resolution OLED RAM/storage: 8GB with 128/256GB internal options Rear cameras: 50MP wide, 12MP ultrawide Front camera: 8MP Battery capacity: 4,614mAh Dimensions: 163 x 74.8 x 8.9 mm and 207 grams Price: Starting at$417
In the past, Google offered two variants with one being considerably smaller than the other. But in the most recent year, the size difference has been minor. Still, there are some differences to consider. The Pixel 6 does not have the third telephoto camera on the back, it has a flat display rather than a curved one (this is a benefit IMHO), it has less RAM, and it has a smaller capacity battery. However, it is also significantly cheaper than the Pixel 6 Pro.
Camera performance has always been a pillar of the Pixel experience and Google delivers yet again with the Pixel 6 and its unique and distinct camera bar that sits proudly near the top of the back of the phone. There is plenty of RAM to keep things running quickly on the Pixel 6 while the latest Android software is optimized for the Pixel phone experience.
Review: Google Pixel 6 is the new workhorse to the Pixel 6 Pro thoroughbred
There are some unique Google experiences contained in the Pixel 6 that are not found in Android smartphones from Samsung, OnePlus, TCL, and others. These include the Magic Eraser tool that helps you quickly remove unwanted subjects from your photos, Google Assistant calling features, and the core Material You customization options.
View now at Amazon View now at Walmart more buying choicesGoogle Pixel 5a specs : Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G Display: 6.34-inch 1080 x 2400 pixels resolution OLED RAM/storage: 6GB with 128GB internal storage Rear cameras: 12.2MP wide, 16MP ultrawide Front camera: 8MP Battery capacity: 4,680mAh Dimensions: 161 x 73.2 x 8.8 mm and 183 grams Price: $299
The Pixel 5a with 5G may appear to be a rather boring phone with an unassuming design harkening back to the Pixel 4a, but it offers a lot of power in a package priced at just under$350.
It comes in one color, but the black looks like a very dark green in most lighting conditions, and in one RAM/storage configuration. While the specifications are not as high-end as a flagship phone priced at two times the cost, the power of the Pixel 5a with 5G is in the Google software experience. It is powered by the latest version of Android and continues to receive regular updates along with Google's flagship Pixel phones.
Review: Google Pixel 5a with 5G
Camera performance and results also continue to be a staple of the Pixel phones here with outstanding results. Given the mid-level processor and lower-resolution display, the phone also lasts a long time on the high-capacity battery so you can use it for one or two days in most situations.
View now at AmazonThe Google Pixel 7 Pro elevates photography. Along with the ample photo and video editing features the phone contains, it's also sleek, lightweight, and has enough battery life for 24 hours of use. All told, it's one of the most dynamic phones on the market. See how the best Google Pixel phones compare based on price, processing speed, and display size below.
Google Pixel phone | Price | Processor | Display size |
Pixel 8 Pro | $999 | Google Tensor G3 | 6.7-inch |
Pixel 6 | $417 | Google Tensor | 6.4-inch |
Pixel 5a with 5G | $299 | Snapdragon 765G | 6.34-inch |
Pixel 7a | $499 | Google Tensor G2 | 6.1-inch |
If you're interested in a Google Pixel phone, it's nice there aren't too many options available to confuse you or overwhelm your decision-making process. The first consideration is price. If you have a maximum amount you are willing to spend on a phone, then the price can dictate which is right for you.
Thankfully, when it comes to the software experience Google provides the same experience across all of the actively supported Pixel phones. Here is a look at some of the unique purposes the best Google Pixel phones serve:
Choose this Google Pixel phone | If you want... |
Google Pixel 8 Pro | A sleek, picture-taking machine with tons of AI features, all-day battery life, and a temperature sensor. It also has the most storage capacity options of the Pixel line-up. |
Google Pixel 6 | An affordable Pixel phone with outstanding camera performance, enhanced software, and colorful body choices. It also features Google Assistant for hands-free voice controls. |
Google Pixel 5a with 5G | An IP67 water and dust-rated Pixel phone with long battery life and exceptional cameras. It's also a great option for anyone who doesn't mind using an older Pixel phone. |
Google Pixel 7a | The affordable new kid on the block with a battery that can last over 24 hours on a full charge. It also features the Titan M2 chip and a built-in VPN for added security. |
This article only includes Google Pixel phones that are actively sold by Google on the Google Store. There are older model Pixel phones that continue to receive software and firmware updates, but these are only available as used or refurbished phones from retailers such as Amazon and some wireless carriers.
reviewers tested each of these Pixel phones and we used their hands-on experiences to determine the pros and cons of each model.
When examining the pros and cons, we inspected the device's battery life, processing speed, design, camera capabilities, and more to choose the best options.
Display refresh rates are a consideration today since Android phones now support refresh rates up to 120Hz. For displays with high refresh rates, the default is 60Hz, allowing you to scroll up and down the display faster with smoother performance. It is primarily noticeable when you swipe up and down side-by-side with devices that have different rates, but once you use a phone with a 120Hz refresh rate, it is tough to go backwards.
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The Pixel 7 Pro supports a refresh rate of up to 90Hz, the Pixel 6 up to 90Hz, and both the Pixel 5a and 6a remain at the default 60Hz rate. 90Hz is a decent compromise between the two.
People use their smartphones everywhere today and having some level of dust and water resistance is important. You should not swim or intentionally submerge your phone for extended periods in water without a waterproof case. Warranties generally do not cover water damage. However, if you are outside in the rain, accidentally drop your phone in a puddle, or spill something on your phone, it should be able to survive such an incident.
Thankfully, all of the current Pixel phones have a fairly high level of dust and water resistance. The Pixel 5a and 6a are both certified for IP67 while the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro are rated for IP68.
Wireless charging is a convenient way to charge your phone without having to plug in a USB-C cord directly into the phone. Wireless charging is also now rated as fast wireless charging in many cases, but even with this "fast" rating, it is still faster to charge up your phone with a direct USB-C cable.
Also: Is your Pixel battery draining faster than it should? This feature can help
Both the Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 7 support fast wireless charging, but neither the Pixel 5a or Pixel 6a support this capability.
To begin exploring comparable phones, check out some of 's other buyer's guides:
Meanwhile, consider another capable Google phone below:
An affordable Google Pixel phone featuring Adaptive Battery (for 24+ hour use), Face Unblur, and a water-resistant body.
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