The Pixel range might have started off simple, but there are now multiple models across various price points. We’re not talking Samsung levels of product, yet there’s more Pixel choice than we’ve seen before. We’ve reviewed all the Pixel phones, past and present, including all the models released in 2022, and we know what makes them tick. We’ve compared all the cameras, batteries and displays along with thoroughly running them all through our rigid performance tests. Rumours are already heating up that we might see a foldable Pixel next year to take on the Galaxy Z Fold 4, and a Pixel 7a seems a given. We also have other best lists for those after something a little less specific. Our best camera phone round-up focuses on a device’s photographic and videography skills, while our best cheap phone and best mid-range phone lists focus solely on more affordable options depending on your budget.
Best Google Pixel phone at a glance
Best flagship phone: Pixel 7 Pro – check priceBest mid-range phone: Pixel 7 – check priceBest affordable phone: Pixel 6a – check priceBest phone with Qualcomm chipset: Pixel 5a – check price
All the phones featured here boast smooth, clean and frequently updated software. As Google makes both the phone and the underlying Android software, Pixel phones get updates as soon as Android releases them so you’ll be first in line for Android 14 when it arrives in 2023. This is a rare treat on Android, which in our experience is extremely slow to get updated when new versions come out. There are a number of reasons why you’d pick the Pixel 7 Pro over the cheaper phones on this list. First off it’s the only model with a 6.7-inch 1440p, 120Hz display meaning it’s bigger, sharper and faster than the Pixel 7 and 6a. It’s certainly the best display on this list, so if that’s a priority you should focus on this model. It’s also the only version with a triple camera array. Both the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro have excellent main and ultra wide cameras, but with the Pro, you’re also getting a 48MP telephoto zoom. It’s not the very best telephoto zoom we’ve used even if it’s the best on the list. Reviewer: Max Parker Full review: Google Pixel 7 Pro review The camera, like with other Pixel phones, is the main highlight here, delivering gorgeously detailed and punchy images regardless of whether you’re using it during the day or at night, but it’s not the only reason you might feel tempted to make one of these your own. The OLED screen, measuring 6.3-inches, is plenty capable enough of giving some life to the TV shows and games you like to enjoy while you’re on the go, and the design certainly looks sleek and feels premium to the touch as well. While the slow charging speeds and lack of a telephoto sensor are two obvious compromises, we certainly don’t think that these should be dealbreakers when a smartphone offers as good overall performance as the Pixel 7 does. Reviewer: Peter Phelps Full review: Google Pixel 7 review The Pixel 6a isn’t the one to choose if you want the very best camera, but if your budget is a little more restrictive and won’t stretch to the pricier Pixel 6 options it remains an excellent choice we thoroughly recommend after in-depth testing. Google has plucked some of the big features from the 7 and 7 Pro to bring down to the 6a. The Tensor chip, for example, enables AI skills like the smart translator and Magic Eraser in the camera. Magic Eraser lets you remove unwanted guests from pictures with the help of AI, and it’s a very useful feature we really like. Tensor is the first smartphone SoC chip designed by Google, and it’s really the star of the show. It enables the Pixel 6a to play the latest games and run everyday tasks with ease. The performance here is pretty much on par with the 6 and 6 Pro, which for a phone at this price is impressive. Wireless charging is missing, but there is an IP67 rating for added durability – a feature often left out of phones like this. Reviewer: Max Parker Full review: Google Pixel 6a review The Pixel 5a is a small phone only slightly larger than the Pixel 6a, capable of taking pictures that pop in all manner of conditions. It lacks the performance of the 6 series phones based on our experience using it, but the mid-range Snapdragon 765G chipset used here is still capable of most everyday tasks. Outside of these sacrifices there’s an IP67 rating, 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. All specs you’d also find on the Pixel 6a. Reviewer: Chris Smith Full review: Google Pixel 5a review 14,192 Mobile Phone
