Pixel
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More86 Scores
Engadget
86
Critic 10 Reviews
8.5
Users
Not yet scored
Key Specs
$739.95
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Pixel XL
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More87 Scores
Engadget
87
Critic 10 Reviews
8.9
Users 1 Reviews
Not yet scored
Key Specs
$1,147.49
Buy Now
What happens when Google designs its own phones, as Apple does with the iPhone? You get some of the best handsets money can buy, that's what. The 5-inch Pixel and 5.5-inch Pixel XL are well-built, with fast performance, excellent cameras and great screens (especially on the larger model). No product is perfect, though, and indeed, we've identified a few areas where Google can improve with the inevitable second generation. In particular, we were disappointed to see that these phones are less water resistant (and arguably less stylish) than other handsets you'd find in this price range.
Speaking of the sort, these things are expensive, with starting prices of $649 and $769, respectively. That's on par with other flagships, but for the money, we don't want to see too many "cons" in those review cards you see below. Thankfully, the pros here vastly outweigh the few shortcomings, and both Pixel phones both earn our strong recommendation.
Engadget Score Key
Google Pixel $739.95+
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86
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Fantastic camera
- Smooth performance
Cons
- Expensive
- Yawn-inducing design
- Less water-resistant than rivals
Summary
After years of experimenting with Nexus devices, Google finally decided it wanted to make a phone of its own. HTC might be assembling the phones, but Google designed and developed the Pixel from end to end. In doing so, it crafted a truly great smartphone that, sadly, looks a little dull. Still, the inclusion of a speedy new Snapdragon 821 chipset and a fantastic camera make the smaller Pixel a device to be reckoned with. Now if only it were a little cheaper.
Engadget Score Key
Google Pixel XL $1147.49+
Buy Now
87
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Fantastic camera
- Smooth performance
- Respectable battery life
- Beautiful Quad HD screen
Cons
- Expensive
- Drab design
- Less water-resistant than rivals
Summary
The 5-inch Pixel is a great phone, and its big brother, the Pixel XL, is ever so slightly better. You'll get the same top-tier performance as on the smaller model, just with a bigger, crisper display and a more capacious battery to sweeten the deal. What's more, it's a little narrower and shorter than the iPhone 7 Plus, so it's a surprisingly easy to hold. It'll cost you, though: The XL starts at $769 for the 32GB model.