Tested: The Pixel 10 is your new standard Android flagship
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With improvements that include magnetic charging and a telephoto camera, Google has strategically enhanced the Pixel 10 while keeping its price unchanged from last year. Despite minor drawbacks, it stands out as an excellent choice for buyers seeking a feature-rich flagship smartphone.
Price When Reviewed
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Best Pricing Today
Price When Reviewed
Starting at $799
Best Prices Today: Google Pixel 10
$799
The Google Pixel 10 lineup has officially launched, with a familiar yet refined offering that remains competitively priced while introducing a variety of enhancements.
Standing out in the Android market, the Pixel 10 capitalizes on tech innovations, introducing Qi2 magnetic charging, previously seen only in the iPhone's MagSafe ecosystem. This feature sets a new precedent in Android flagship devices.
The standard Pixel 10, under review, boasts exclusive color options not found in other iterations, alongside a newly integrated telephoto camera, afordng optical zoom capabilities for the first time in a non-Pro model.
Although early speculation suggested it might be a lackluster release, I now perceive it as the definitive entry-level flagship for anyone seeking quality and performance.
Design & Build
Retains familiar aesthetics with fresh colors
Subtle design refinements
Significant, albeit invisible, upgrades
Smartphone designs often evolve through a cycle of consistency before a major upgrade arrives. Following the new design language of the previous Pixel iteration, the Pixel 10 maintains a similar look.
Unless scrutinized closely, distinguishing the Pixel 10 from its predecessor can be challenging. For example, the USB port area now features a more structured design with symmetrical holes for a sleeker visual.
Additionally, the SIM card tray's relocation to the top of the phone, while peculiar, is negligible in daily use, especially as the US models transition to eSIM only, mirroring Apple's approach.
My experience with the Lemongrass color has been less favorable; it veers towards a jarring shade regardless of personal preference.
Image by Chris Martin / Foundry
More crucially, the Pixel 10 introduces vibrant new colorways exclusive to this variant, featuring Obsidian along with Frost, Indigo, and Lemongrass. Each model's hues set it apart from the traditional Pro offerings.
Opinion varies on the Lemongrass color; it may appeal to some but struck me as rather unappealing in natural light, oscillating between a vibrant foam yellow and an unattractive green. While the metal frame and camera bar exhibit a tasteful gold hue, it's overshadowed by the brightness of the rear cover.
The Pixelsnap case designed for the unit, incorporating 42% recycled material, offers adequate protection but may feel more slippery compared to previous models.
Image by Chris Martin / Foundry
Qi2 compatibility opens the door to various accessories, including magnetized chargers, vastly enhancing usability and convenience. Users can seamlessly connect an array of MagSafe accessories, though buyers should be aware of potential limitations on charging speeds.
Google's Qi2 implementation is set to influence the broader Android market significantly.
While the increased thickness from this feature is minimal, it remains a comfortable device to handle. It balances exceptionally well in hand, offering a compact option for those who prefer manageable device sizes.
Display & Audio
Display remains largely unchanged
Improved brightness levels
Quality audio output
Turning our attention to the display, the Pixel 10 employs the same OLED panel as before, retaining measurements of 6.3 inches with a 120Hz refresh rate.
However, notable improvements bring peak brightness up to an impressive 2,700 nits, enhancing visibility in bright conditions and enriching the overall viewing experience.
Image by Chris Martin / Foundry
While the Pixel 10 provides dependable battery life, fluctuations depending on user habits remain an area of concern.
Its ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner is operational as expected, with dual stereo speakers delivering robust audio quality, albeit with minor distortion at maximum volumes.
Specifications & Performance
Powered by Tensor G5 chipset
Equipped with 12GB RAM
Available in two storage variants
On the performance front, the Pixel 10 features the latest Google Tensor G5 processor, crafted via a finely-tuned 3nm process. While benchmark results may not be class-leading, everyday performance in browsing and multitasking is commendable, ensuring a smooth user experience.
Users can choose between two storage options: 128GB or 256GB. The 128GB variant, however, feels somewhat inadequate given the increasing demands for storage space.
Image by Chris Martin / Foundry
While storage limitations may concern some, the absence of advanced features present in Pixel 10 Pro variants—such as Wi-Fi 7 and Ultra-Wideband capabilities—are likely to go unnoticed by average users.
Google Pixel 10 Benchmarks
Camera System
Brand new camera setup
Includes dedicated telephoto lens
Enhanced AI capabilities
The Pixel 10 introduces a novel camera package that differentiates it from Pro models, featuring a 48MP primary sensor and a 13MP ultra-wide lens, pairing them with a dedicated telephoto camera—an innovation for non-Pro devices.
This enhanced camera system ensures that users enjoy consistent quality across all lens options, maintaining Google's reputation for producing excellent point-and-shoot cameras.
Image by Chris Martin / Foundry
The versatility of the camera system, punctuated by the introduction of 5x optical zoom, presents increased creative opportunities previously reserved for higher-priced models. With a digital zoom capability extending to 20x, users can capture distant subjects with clarity.
AI features in the camera app, such as Camera Coach and Auto Best Take, provide helpful guidance for achieving optimal composition or enhancing group shots by ensuring that all subjects have appealing expressions.
Battery Performance & Charging
Enhanced 4970mAh battery capacity
30W fast wired charging capability
Qi2 wireless charging functionality
The Pixel 10 features a larger 4970mAh battery, contributing to its increased weight. Combined with the efficiency of the Tensor G5, users can expect better battery performance under typical use.
While benchmark tests suggest outstanding longevity, real-world use often yields mixed results; users may find themselves occasionally needing to recharge earlier than anticipated.
Image by Chris Martin / Foundry
Charging enhancements include a boost to 30W wired charging and the introduction of Qi2; the latter allows for a seamless charging experience with magnetic compatibility. Though existing accessories may still work, performance could vary, necessitating proper chargers to ensure optimal fast charging.
Software & AI Features
Latest Android 16 operating system
Variety of AI-driven functionalities
Exceptional support longevity with software updates
The Pixel 10 runs on Android 16 and promises an impressive seven years of OS and security support, reflecting Google's commitment to its devices. The new Material 3 Expressive interface modernizes user interactions but may require some adjustment for long-time users.
Image by Chris Martin / Foundry
Ongoing developments in artificial intelligence are evident throughout the user's experience, enhancing features like the newly introduced Magic Cue, which provides proactive suggestions for improved usability.
Pricing & Availability
The Pixel 10 launches at a starting price of $799 for the 128GB variant, maintaining the previous year's price point despite an expanded feature set.
This positions the Pixel 10 favorably against competitors like the Galaxy S25 and iPhone 17, which currently offer higher base storage options at similar prices.
Available through Google's official store, the Pixel 10 can also be found on major retail platforms, including Amazon.
Should You Buy the Google Pixel 10?
For those in the market for an entry-level flagship smartphone, the Google Pixel 10 stands out as one of the leading options available.
With an attractive design (barring the Lemongrass color), robust display, impressive camera system, and user-friendly interface full of valuable AI enhancements, it ticks all the right boxes.
Though limitations in storage and inconsistent battery life may frustrate some users, the Pixel 10 remains an excellent recommendation for those with a budget of $799. In this price range, it strikes a commendable balance between performance and versatility.
However, users seeking advanced features might consider looking into the Pro models for enhanced capabilities.
Technical Specifications
Android 16 with seven years of updates
6.3-inch FHD+ 120Hz OLED display
In-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor
Face Unlock feature
Google Tensor G5 processor
12GB RAM
Storage options: 128GB / 256GB (non-expandable)
4970mAh battery
30W wired charging capability
15W Qi2 wireless charging
Reverse wireless charging functionality
48MP f/1.7 primary camera
13MP f/2.2 ultra-wide camera
10.8MP f/3.1 telephoto camera (5x optical zoom)
10.5MP f/2.2 front-facing camera
Stereo speakers
USB-C connectivity
5G compatible
Supports NanoSIM and eSIM
Wi-Fi 6e support
Bluetooth 6.0
IP68 water and dust resistance
Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (front and back)
Dimensions: 152.8 x 72 x 8.6mm
Weight: 204g
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