Should You Buy A Pixel Phone? A “PROS & CONS” Guide…

Google Pixel Phones: The Good and The Bad

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When it comes to smartphones, Google Pixel phones have carved a niche for themselves.

Market share-wise, they’re still a ways behind Apple and Samsung. But Google is now a player in the market despite a few missteps along the way.

If you’ve never used a Pixel phone before, you’ll have questions. I get it: no one likes buying something new and HOPING it all works good.

If you want the skinny on the good and bad side of owning a Pixel phone, read on…

Let’s dive deep into the world of Pixel phones and explore the good and the bad.

The Good Stuff

• Unparalleled Cameras: Pixel phones are all about top-notch cameras. With features like Night Sight and Super Res Zoom, you’ll be snapping stunning photos, even in challenging lighting, like it’s no big deal. It’s like carrying a pro-level camera right in your pocket!
• Swift Updates: Like iPhones, Pixel phones enjoy fast and regular software and security updates straight from Google. You stay ahead, keeping your phone running smoothly and securely.
• Value for Money: Pixel phones offer premium features at competitive prices. You’re getting high-end quality without the high-end price tag—perfect for those who want more for less.
• AI Features: Pixel phones are packed with AI-driven features that take everyday tasks to the next level. Tools like Call Assist can screen calls for you and even handle being on hold, so you don’t have to. With Magic Eraser and Best Take, you can edit photos effortlessly—removing unwanted objects and combining the best facial expressions in group photos. And Live Translate breaks down language barriers instantly, letting you communicate across languages in real time. All these features work together seamlessly, powered by Google’s Tensor chip, making your Pixel phone feel smarter and more intuitive with every use.
• Exclusive Features: With unique features like Live Translate and the Personal Safety app, Pixel phones stand out from other Android devices. You’re getting experiences you just can’t find anywhere else.
• Seamless Google Integration: Everything Google works together effortlessly on a Pixel. You’re experiencing Google at its best, with no compromises or conflicts.
• Smart Touches: The little bits of Google intelligence built into Pixel phones simplify your life. From smart suggestions to useful tools, it’s all about making everyday challenges easier.
• Robust Security: With the innovative Tensor chip, Pixel phones deliver top-tier security, keeping your data safe and giving you peace of mind in a digital world.

The Bad: Things To Keep In Mind

• Hardware Concerns: You might love the software, but when you compare the build quality, displays, and overall feel to other flagship phones, Pixels can sometimes leave you wanting more. It’s that search for perfection in every detail that still needs work.
• Battery Woes: Battery life can be a mixed bag. Some models don’t quite last as long as you’d expect, especially if you’re a heavy user. It’s frustrating when you need to hunt for a charger before the day is even over. Everyone wants power that can keep up with their busy day, and Pixel sometimes misses the mark here.
• Software Glitches: Even with Google’s clean Android experience, software bugs still creep in. You’ll hear about issues like RAM management not working smoothly or fingerprint sensors not responding the way they should. It’s all about making sure every tap and swipe feels just right, and that’s something that could use some polishing.
• Connectivity Hurdles: Staying connected should be a no-brainer, but some users have run into trouble with dropped calls and delayed messages. It’s a real pain point when your phone can’t keep up with your communication needs. Solid, reliable connectivity is a must, and Pixel needs to tighten things up here.
• Tensor Chip Quandaries: Google’s Tensor chip has brought some real power to the table, but it hasn’t been without its quirks. You might notice issues like overheating or performance hiccups. For a device that’s meant to run smoothly, these kinds of problems can make you question the reliability of the tech inside. It’s crucial that Google works out the kinks in future models.
• Pricey Proposition: For some, the price of a Pixel phone doesn’t always match the experience. When you’re shelling out that kind of cash, you want everything to feel top-tier. It’s about finding that sweet spot where cost and quality align perfectly, and some users feel like Pixel isn’t quite there yet.
• Innovation Drought: While Pixel phones are great at refining the essentials, some users crave more innovation. You’re left wanting those game-changing features that push the boundaries. Google’s known for smart solutions, but sometimes it feels like they’re holding back on the really groundbreaking stuff.

Bottom Line?

Google Pixel phones are a mixed bag of extraordinary features and some areas needing improvement.

Google has a history of QC issues and a slew of bugs and issues with its hardware right the way up to its latest models – issues are starting to be reported about the Pixel 9 series.

On a personal note, I’ve owned and used pretty much every single Pixel phone released to date, and most of them had some kind of issue or bug within 6-12 months of usage. 

There are plenty of reports about this online, proving that Google – more so than Apple or Samsung – does have inherent quality control issues with its Pixel phones that are not only persistent but aren’t showing any signs of going away. 

For updates, AI stuff, camera tech, and general look and feel (design), as well as choice, Pixel phones are great – there’s literally one for everybody inside the Pixel 9 series. 

But if you do go Pixel, you need to go in with your eyes open. There are plenty of reported QC issues, ranging from buggy software to camera application glitches to ports just simply no longer working. 

This doesn’t mean EVERY Pixel phone is glitchy, far from it, but there is a QC problem inside Google that, for whatever reason, it cannot seem to get a proper handle on. 

What is The Latest Pixel Phone?

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The current latest Pixel phone you can buy is the Pixel 9 series which is made up of the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. 

That’s four phones, a first for Google. And this year, it even has an “ultra-flagship” model to do battle with Apple’s Pro Max and Samsung’s Galaxy Ultra models – the Pixel 9 Pro XL. 

As per usual, the base model will no doubt by the most popular. It’s price tag ($799.99), features-set, and updated camera and design make it appealing to legacy users and potentially a few floating users bored of either their Apple and/or Samsung phones. 

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is aimed at creators; Google has seem what Apple is doing, courting and converting content creators away from their DSLR cameras, and has finally decided it wants a piece of the action.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold, meanwhile, is a foldable but is something of a missed opportunity (in the camera department). And at $1799.99, it is also HELLA expensive.

Older, Legacy Pixel Phones Detailed (And Which Are Still Worth Buying In 2024)

Google’s Tensor Chipset: What You Need To Know

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Like Apple, Google wanted to start designing its own custom SoC (system of chip) for its Pixel phone, and in 2021, aboard the Pixel 6 series, it launched its first – rather wobbly – version of its new, AI-focussed mobile processor. 

We’re now four generations deep into Tensor’s development, the Pixel 9 series runs the Tensor G4, and while Google has packed in plenty of useful capabilities inside its silicon, including some of the best AI features on the market, Tensor lacks the performance and power of Snapdragon and Apple’s A-series chipsets. 

Google’s latest Tensor G4 chip also has some pretty gnarly throttling issues too which is slightly alarming given the positioning of some of its Pixel 9 models like the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. 

But Tensor is smart and it is useful too, here’s everything else you need to know about the chipset and what it does inside Pixel phones. 

Tensor G4 Features & Capabilities

• Enhanced AI Capabilities: With Google Assistant powered by Tensor G4, expect even faster and more accurate Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR). You can run demanding applications like Recorder and Live Caption without worrying about battery drain, thanks to the chip’s optimized power efficiency.
• Improved Communication: The Tensor G4 brings an enhanced Live Translate feature, making it easier than ever to chat in different languages across apps like Messages and WhatsApp. No more switching between apps—translation happens directly in your chat.
• Superior Video Quality: Tensor G4 takes Google’s HDRNet technology to the next level. Now, HDRNet is embedded directly into the chip, allowing it to work in all video modes, even at 4K and 60fps, delivering videos with richer, more vibrant colors.
• Enhanced Security: Tensor G4 isn’t just about performance—it’s also your phone’s first line of defense. Integrated with Titan M2, the chip includes advanced security features like a security core that protects your sensitive data from advanced threats like electromagnetic analysis and voltage glitching. Yes, it even withstands laser attacks!
• Longer Battery Life: Thanks to the efficiency improvements in Tensor G4, the Pixel 9 series boasts better battery life than its predecessors. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or multitasking, Tensor G4 ensures your phone lasts longer on a single charge.
• Competitive Pricing: Despite its advanced features, the Pixel 9 series continues to offer strong value, with prices that compete directly with top-tier offerings from Apple and Samsung. You’re getting flagship-level performance at a price point that’s easier on the wallet.

With the Tensor G4, Google is setting a new standard for how AI, security, and performance can work together seamlessly in a smartphone. The Pixel 9 series is designed to deliver a smarter, safer, and more efficient experience, all at a competitive price.

The Pixel Phone Difference

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Why do people like Pixel phones? I think it is, mostly, down to two things: the software and the camera tech.

And more recently, Google’s AI features like Gemini Live and the other AI tools that come bundled inside its Pixel phones.

All things being equal, these are the three biggest reasons to get a Pixel phone over, say, a similarly-priced phone from Samsung.

But Which Is The Best Pixel 9 Phone To Get?

We now know why people – in growing numbers; Google’s market share has grown consistently over the past few years – buy Pixel phones. But which of its current models is right for you? 

Let’s break it down, shall we? Model by model. 

Comparison Table

Which Pixel 9 Model is Right for You?

• Pixel 9: Best for those who want flagship performance at an affordable price, with solid camera performance.
• Pixel 9 Pro: For those who want advanced camera features, especially with the telephoto lens and higher refresh rate.
• Pixel 9 Pro XL: Perfect if you want the biggest display and faster charging speeds.
• Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Ideal for users who want the versatility of a foldable with top-tier camera and display features.

Google Pixel A Series – The Cheaper Pixel Option

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Google’s Pixel A-Series has always been about bringing premium features to the masses at an affordable price, and the latest addition, the Pixel 8a, is no exception. Priced at $499, it continues the tradition of delivering flagship-like performance at a fraction of the cost of high-end smartphones.

A-Series Origins

The A-Series began with the Pixel 3a in 2019, which revolutionized the mid-range market by offering the flagship Pixel camera experience for just $399.

Since then, Google has refined the A-Series with each release, offering improved designs, better cameras, and the latest software features.

The Pixel 4a, Pixel 5a, and Pixel 6a all brought incremental upgrades, making them some of the best value smartphones on the market.

And the Pixel 8a is the current model, although there’ll likely be a Pixel 9a released at some point inside the next 12 months.

The Pixel 8a: Key Features

• Design: The Pixel 8a adopts a similar design language to the Pixel 8, with an aluminum frame, a camera visor, and softer, rounded edges. However, it uses a plastic body to keep costs down and comes with an IP67 water resistance rating, slightly lower than the flagship Pixel models. You can get it in colors like Aloe (green), Bay (blue), Obsidian (black), and Porcelain (white).
• Display: The 6.1-inch Actua OLED display has been upgraded to a 120Hz refresh rate (up from 90Hz on the Pixel 7a) and boasts a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, making it more vibrant and responsive than previous models.
• Performance: Powered by the Tensor G3 chipset, the same chip found in the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, the Pixel 8a offers strong AI performance and efficiency. It’s paired with 8GB of RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of storage, which is more storage than the Pixel 7a offered.
• Camera: The camera setup includes a 64MP main sensor and a 13MP ultra-wide sensor. These are the same sensors as the Pixel 7a, but the Pixel 8a benefits from enhanced AI tools, like Magic Editor and Best Take, for improving your photos with minimal effort. The 13MP front camera also offers great quality for selfies and video calls.
• Battery: The Pixel 8a is equipped with a 4,492mAh battery, offering over 24 hours of life on a full charge and up to 72 hours in Extreme Battery Saver mode. It supports 18W wired charging and wireless charging.

Why the A-Series Stays Popular

The Pixel 8a shows why the A-Series remains a favorite among budget-conscious users. It provides a flagship-like experience, including many of the AI features found on the more expensive Pixel 8, but at a much lower price point.

Whether you’re looking for a solid camera, smooth performance, or a bright, responsive display, the Pixel 8a delivers on all fronts without breaking the bank.

The Pixel 8a continues Google’s tradition of offering unbeatable value in the mid-range market, making it a top pick for anyone looking to experience Pixel’s best features at a more affordable price.

Should You Buy A Pixel Phone?

As you can see, there’s quite a lot of stuff to get through when talking about Google’s Pixel phones.

But when it comes to actually buying and using one, there are a few chief reasons why people flock towards Google’s Pixel phones (and also a few reasons why they don’t).

In this post, we’ll look at both the PROS and CONS of Google Pixel phone ownership.

Let’s do this!

Google Pixel Phone PROS – Why You’d Buy One

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Before we get into the not-so-good stuff, let’s first take a look at why you would buy a Pixel phone.

Or, more specifically, why I decided to use Pixel phones for the past several years instead of – technically more exciting – phones from Samsung, Huawei, and OnePlus.

1. Pixels Phones Are Best For Android Updates

Getting early access to the latest Android updates is one of the main reasons why I – and millions of other people – use Pixel phones. Google designs and makes its Pixel phones. Google also makes Android.

The two are designed to work together seamlessly. And when there’s a new Android update coming, Pixel users ALWAYS get it first. If early access to new Android versions is important to you, Pixel phones are the way forward.

On top of this, ALL new, mainline Pixel phones are guaranteed for 7-years’ worth of Android updates, so if you buy one today you will be getting Android updates for for a good long while.

Samsung has now matched this on some of its phones, but 99.9% of Android phones only ever get two Android updates maximum – some get even fewer. And running the latest build of Android is important too; it keeps you protected from malware and security breaches.

2. Beautiful Software Design

There are BILLIONS of Android phones in circulation today, and they all run on the same operating system – Android. But in order to differentiate their respective products, Android phone companies skin Android with custom software – sometimes called an Android Skin.

These skins vary in look and feel. Some are great (like OnePlus’) and others not so much (like Xiaomi’s). They’re all still Android phones at a source code level, so you get most of the same functionality, but they all look and function slightly differently.

And most aren’t great, either.

With a Pixel phone, you get the purest Android experience possible; it’s Android just as Google intended. Android running on a Pixel phone looks stunning, way better than iOS does on the iPhone. It is also free from ALL the useless bloatware you get on most Android phones.

For me, the software and UX design of Google’s Pixel phones is one of the #1 reasons to go with Pixel over, say, a phone from another Android phone brand. Google’s UX design is flawless, free from bloatware, and super intuitive to use. I could never go back to a custom-skinned Android phone.

3. Google’s Pixel Camera Tech is Amazing

Besides Android updates and software design, Google’s camera tech is the main thing that its Pixel phones are known for. Unlike everybody else in the mobile phone space, Google’s Pixel phones are ALL about doing more with less.

While Samsung and OnePlus are adding in more and more lenses, Google is working on ways to make its camera software smarter. This approach has worked too; Google’s Pixel phones (even the cheap ones) constantly top “best camera” lists all around the web.

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Rather than shoe-horning a myriad of hardware into a phone, Google’s approach to camera technology focuses on fewer physical components and more machine learning – AI, to you and me.

With machine learning in place, Google’s camera can capture better images than some Android phones that have twice the amount of lenses.

Google’s secret sauce is essentially a combination of machine learning (AI) and its image processor. Combined with things like HDR+, this helped Google create one of the most powerful (and easy-to-use) mobile phone cameras on the planet.

4. Simplicity – Pixel Phones Focus on Utility, Not Gimmicks (Most of The Time)

As phones have gotten bigger, they’ve got more complex. Bigger phones, more features, multiple camera lenses that most people don’t use – all of these things have combined to inflate the price of phones.

And that’s not exactly good for the consumer. Around the launch of the Pixel 3a, Google stumbled onto something, something it originally discovered back around the time of its Nexus 4 phone: that people ACTUALLY just want affordable, good-quality phones.

The Pixel 3a was Google’s best-selling Pixel phone to date. For this exact reason: it was awesome and it was cheap. And Google’s Pixel A series phones have been a firm favorite with consumers ever since.

The latest Pixel A series model is the Pixel 8a, and it is well worth a look if you’re after a cheaper Android phone that packs a massive punch.

5. The “Not-So-Flagship-Flagship” Phone

By 2024, Google’s approach to the smartphone market has solidified, offering a range of devices that cater to different budgets while consistently delivering strong value and performance. The company now positions its Pixel lineup into three categories: the base model, the Pro model, and the A series model, all designed to meet varying consumer needs without the sky-high price tags associated with other flagship devices.

Pricing Strategy

The Pixel 9 continues this tradition, starting at a competitive price that undercuts major rivals like Apple and Samsung. For instance, in 2023, the Pixel 9 base model starts at $799, while the Pixel 9 Pro begins at $999—prices that remain significantly lower than what Apple charges for its iPhone 15 lineup. This means that with Google, you’re getting flagship-level performance, cutting-edge AI features, and a top-notch camera system for less than what you’d pay for competing models.

And it’s not just about the price tag—Google’s Tensor G4 chipset powers the Pixel 9 series, further enhancing performance, AI capabilities, and battery efficiency. By designing and developing its chips in-house, Google has greater control over the optimization of its software and hardware, leading to better integration and performance—similar to Apple’s approach with its A-series chips. Plus, by avoiding reliance on third-party chip manufacturers like Qualcomm, Google is able to keep costs down, a benefit it passes on to consumers.

The Pixel Experience

Google’s hardware is complemented by its clean Android experience, which offers exclusive features and timely updates that make Pixel devices stand out. And like Apple, Google has recognized that not everyone is willing to pay over $1,000 for a smartphone. This awareness has led to a pricing strategy that resonates with a wider audience, offering premium features at prices that are easier to stomach.

While Google dipped its toes into the ultra-premium market with the Pixel 6 Pro and continued that trend with the Pixel 7 Pro, the company has managed to keep its devices more affordable than most other flagships. The Pixel 9 series follows suit, offering high-end features at a price point that’s still below the market average for flagship devices.

But it now also does an ultra-premium model in the form of the Pixel 9 Pro XL which is aimed squarely at pro-users and creators.

Google Pixel Phone Cons – Things To Keep In Mind

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Google’s Pixel phones – in my humble opinion – are great; they tick nearly all of my boxes with respect to performance, software, and usability. But there are definitely some things, not issues per se, but factors you should know about before you commit to buying a Pixel phone.

Below, I’ll give you a quick overview of things that Google’s Pixel phones don’t do especially well, as well as areas where other phones do things better.

Funky Issues Plagued Older Pixel Phones

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Google’s first few generations of Pixel phones, while impressive, weren’t without their problems. There were issues with the OLED panels on certain models, problems with the charging ports on some, and my Pixel 2 XL just stopped working for no apparent reason. I still don’t know what happened.

The Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL weren’t loved either. But all agreed that one thing remained constant throughout all the ups and downs: Google’s software was still the best available version of Android you could use and its camera tech kicked A LOT of ass.

With the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7, Google has finally hit its stride. The design is on point. The specs and pricing make sense. And the camera tech has evolved to bring even more performance.

And this continued with the Pixel 8 series and the new-look Pixel 9 models.

Basically, Google has finally found its own special niche in the phone market, a place that should help it make a lot of new friends and converts in 2024 and beyond.

There’s still the worry about QC issues but for the most part Pixel phones are now starting to really show their true potential.

OK, that’s basically my 2¢ on Google’s Pixel phones. As you can probably tell, I like Pixel phones. For me, they’re the most utilitarian (in a good way) phones on the market.