The day is finally here! The new Google Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL have landed at the office, and we’ve spent some time getting them out of the box for our latest video. While our full reviews are still on the way, we wanted to share our first impressions and, more importantly, break down the key differences between these three fantastic phones to help you make a smart purchasing decision.
While all three devices share the same powerful new Tensor G5 chip and the awesome new Pixelsnap magnetic charging feature, there are some important distinctions that will likely drive your decision.
First impressions: a familiar, refined feel
Right out of the box, the Pixel 10 series feels like a thoughtful iteration on the design language introduced with the Pixel 9. This is a good thing. The build quality across all three is excellent, with the standard Pixel 10 sporting matte aluminum rails and the Pro models opting for a polished, shiny finish. The screens are all gorgeous, bright, and buttery-smooth with their 120Hz refresh rates. It’s also worth noting that this year’s lineup is eSIM only in the US, so the physical SIM tray is officially a thing of the past for new Pixels in the States.
The key differences that will drive your decision
With starting prices ranging from $799 up to $1199, it’s crucial to know what you’re paying for with each step up. Here’s a quick, high-level breakdown:
- Cameras are the biggest upgrade for the Pros. If photography is your top priority, the decision is simple: go with a Pro model. The Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL share the same upgraded camera hardware, which is a significant step up from the standard Pixel 10 across every single lens. You get higher megapixel counts on the primary, ultrawide, and 5x telephoto lenses, as well as a much-improved selfie camera. The Pros also boast an impressive 100x Super Res Zoom, compared to the 20x on the standard model.
- The Pro XL is the battery and charging champion. While the standard Pixel 10 has a slightly larger battery than the 6.3-inch Pixel 10 Pro, the 6.7-inch Pixel 10 Pro XL is the clear winner for power users. It not only has the largest battery of the three (5200mAh), but it also gets a big boost in charging speeds. The Pro XL supports faster 45W wired charging and 25W Pixelsnap wireless charging, compared to the 15W wireless charging on the other two models.
- The standard Pixel 10 is a fantastic value. It’s important to remember that the standard Pixel 10 is no slouch. It shares the same blazing-fast Tensor G5 chip and 120Hz screen as its more expensive siblings. For users who don’t need the absolute best camera system or the fastest charging, the Pixel 10 delivers the core flagship experience at the most accessible price point.
Ultimately, your choice comes down to what you value most. The Pro models offer a true flagship camera experience, while the Pro XL adds a bigger screen and better battery life to that equation. But for many, the excellent all-around performance of the standard Pixel 10 will be more than enough. Stay tuned for our full reviews of all three of these fantastic phones in the coming weeks.
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