A Pixel for Every Preference: Uncovering Google's Best Phones

Since their inception in 2013, Google Pixel phones have evolved, transitioning from third-party chips to their SoCs and leading in AI photography.

In recent Pixel phone generations, Google has introduced standard, Pro, and mini-like models to accommodate different budgets and preferences. The launch of Google Pixel Fold has further diversified the offerings.

With such a vast arsenal, the Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro aren't the only options left. An earlier-generation model might be a perfect match for your requirements, too.

Let's explore the best Google Pixel phones, their pros and cons, and help you choose the right one.

Table of Contents

Best Google Pixel Phones Overview

• Google Pixel 8

• Google Pixel 8 pro

• Google Pixel Fold

• Google Pixel 7 Pro

• Google Pixel 7

• Google Pixel 7a

• Google Pixel 6 Pro

• Google Pixel 6

• Google Pixel 6a

Best Google Pixel Phones in 2024

Google Pixel 8

The Google Pixel 8 is expected to be a significant release from Google, focusing on innovation and quality. It's rumoured to have a sleek design that's easy to handle, with a 6.2-inch AMOLED display that should offer clear and vibrant visuals. The display's high refresh rate is likely to make using the phone feel smoother and more responsive.

The phone is anticipated to run on Google's latest Tensor chipset, which could improve performance, especially for AI-related tasks like voice recognition and photo processing. This chipset also helps the Pixel 8 have better battery life, a common concern for smartphone users. 

Overall, the Google Pixel 8 aims to be a user-friendly, high-performing smartphone that builds on Google's strengths in software and AI, packaged in a device that's comfortable to use throughout the day.

Pros

• It enhanced AI capabilities for photography and real-time translation.
• Improved battery life and fast charging.
• Water and dust resistance.

Cons

• Similar design to previous models, lacking significant aesthetic innovation.
• Higher price point compared to previous generations.

Google Pixel 8 Pro

The Google Pixel 8 Pro is set to be the top-of-the-line model that pushes the limits of smartphone capabilities. It's designed to offer an exceptional user experience, starting with its 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED display. This display is likely to feature a variable refresh rate, reaching up to 120Hz for smooth motion in videos and games and lowering to conserve battery for tasks like reading.

The build quality of the Pixel 8 Pro is expected to be top-notch, offering a durable yet elegant design that users will appreciate.

At its core, the Pixel 8 Pro is anticipated to run on the latest Google Tensor chipset. This new chipset should enhance the phone's overall performance and enable advanced AI features. Users can expect a smarter Assistant, a real-time translation that's more fluid, and innovative photography features that could redefine mobile photography standards.

The camera system on the Pixel 8 Pro is rumoured to be significantly improved, with a triple-lens array that includes a high-resolution main camera, an ultra-wide lens, and a telephoto lens with substantial optical zoom. Thanks to Google's expertise in computational photography, this camera setup is expected to produce exceptional photos and videos, even in low-light situations.

Pros

• Affordable price with solid performance.
• Compact and lightweight design, ideal for one-handed use.
• Regular software updates and feature drops from Google.

Cons

• The display refresh rate is lower compared to the flagship models.
• Battery life could be better, considering the efficient processor.

Google Pixel Fold

The Google Pixel Fold transforms from a 5.8-inch external screen to a 7.6-inch mini-tablet, with both screens offering a 120Hz refresh rate.

This likely impacts its 4821 mAh battery, which will not last into the second day, but that's typical of most foldables.

As for the camera, the device boasts a comprehensive five-lens system. A 9.5MP selfie camera on the inner screen and an 8MP on the cover screen, both capable of 4K recording,

The rear cameras consist of a 48MP main, 10.8 MP ultrawide, and 10.8 MP telephoto lens equipped with an impressive 5x optical zoom. All embody AI magic Pixel phones are famous for

However, the device's notable downsides are the deep and wide crease on the inner screen and its inability to unfold fully to 180 degrees, which could be a deal-breaker for some.

 

Pros

• High-Quality Pixel Camera System
• Vast external screen 
• Thin body 

 Cons

• Higher Price Tag
• Durability Concerns
• It doesn't unfold fully to 180 degrees 
• Prominent inner screen crease 

 Google Pixel 7 Pro

The Google Pixel 7 Pro stands as the most advanced Pixel series smartphone. It rocks a vibrant 6.7-inch AMOLED display, a fast Tensor G2 processor, and a 50MP primary camera

With the upgraded Tensor G2 chipset, it delivers superior AI capabilities compared to the previous Pixel 6 Pro. This chip also enhances camera algorithms, bringing features like Cinematic Blur for videos, improved macro focus, and creative options.

The 48MP telephoto lens has a 5x optical zoom, and the 10.8MP front camera can now record up to 60fps 4K video.

The phone's battery life is impressive, with its 5,000mAh battery easily lasting a full day of heavy usage. Max speeds of 23W for both wired and wireless charging are also impressive. 

All these features and the Google Pixel 7 Pro price starting from just A$799 make it truly mind-blowing.

Pros

• Great zoom

• One of the best camera phones out there 

• Affordable price

 Cons

• Charging speed doesn't meet expectations

 Google Pixel 7

 The Google Pixel 7 has dropped the two-tone back design and now sports a uniform colour above and below the camera strip.

This latest Pixel phone has a 6.3-inch screen, the same 90Hz refresh rate and 1080p resolution as the Pixel 6, but boasts a 25% brighter display.

Another treat that the Pixel 7 offers is the reintroduction of face unlock, which was discontinued in the previous Google Pixel phones. 

The most significant hardware upgrade on the Pixel 7 is Google’s latest Tensor G2 chip, which runs the machine-learning tasks at an increased speed and makes the algorithms a lot better.

As for the cameras, the Pixel 7 keeps the same back camera as its predecessor but upgrades the front camera to 10MP with 4K recording at 60 fps.

Surprisingly, with all its upgrades, the refurbished Pixel 7 price at Phonebot is just A$659.

Pros

• Compact design
• Brighter display
• Good battery life
• Fast Tensor G2 chipset 

 Cons

• No telephoto lens
• 90Hz display
• Slow charging 

 Google Pixel 7a

While the Pixel 6a was a good compact phone, the Google Pixel 7a takes it to the cleaners by bringing lots of new features. The additions include a faster chipset, 90Hz refresh rate, wireless charging, and a RAM upgrade of 8GB.

The camera segment has also received a complete overhaul. Notably, the main camera is a whopping 64MP, and the ultrawide lens is 13MP. The selfie camera is also 13MP and supports 4K recording, unlike Pixel 6a.

Sure, it lacks a telephoto camera and has a plastic body, but with the upgraded internals mentioned, it's the best-value Google Pixel phone to date.

 

Pros

• 90Hz display
• Good compact design
• Excellent cameras
• Loads of upgrades over Pixel 6a
• One of the best Android smartphones out there

 Cons

• Only 128GB storage option
• Slow charging speed

Google Pixel 6 Pro

While the Google Pixel 6 Pro shares the main camera and chipset with the regular Pixel 6, it boasts several notable upgrades. For instance, the Pixel 6 Pro brings a much-needed 48MP telephoto lens that's capable of 4x optical zoom. 

The Pixel 6 Pro also features a better selfie camera with an 11.1 MP lens, and unlike the vanilla model, it's capable of 4K video recording. These changes single-handedly make it the greatest camera phone among the past Google Pixel phones.

Another thing the Google Pixel 6 Pro does better is the increased battery capacity, which stands at 5003 mAh now. The 6 Pro also has better display features, including a 6.7-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and thinner bezels.

The jump from 6 GB of RAM to 12GB is also a significant upgrade.

 

Pros

• 120Hz display 
• 4x telephoto camera 
• Longer battery life

 Cons

• HDR+ overprocesses pictures
• Google Tensor chip throttles just like in the regular Pixel 6 model

Google Pixel 6

The launch of Google Pixel 6 in October 2021 marked a drastic design shift to be followed by the next-in-line Google Pixel phones. This change includes a raised rear camera strip spanning from one edge to another. 

Housed in this strip is the 50MP wide and 12MP ultrawide lens that captures splendid pictures with the collaboration of Google's AI capabilities. 

On the front, the phone sports a 6.4-inch AMOLED Always-On display with a 90Hz refresh rate. The front camera has an 8MP configuration and rivals giants like Apple and Samsung.

The phone uses Google's custom-made Tensor processor with eight powerful cores for power.

 

Pros

• Google's custom Tensor SoC enhances AI capabilities
• remarkable camera quality 
• Clean and intuitive Android 12 interface
• Strong build quality and appealing design
• High-value phone

Cons

• Camera strip attracts lint and dust
• Lags behind a little in charging speed 
• No 120Hz refresh rate 

Google Pixel 6a

Smaller than the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, the Pixel 6a compactly fits in the hand. The camera bump is also slimmer than the advanced Pixel variants. The 6.1-inch screen uses OLED technology and runs at 60Hz. 

For affordability, the dual cameras have been brought down to 12MP, but with the same Google Tensor chip as the pricier Pixel 6 models, the camera quality still retains some premium characteristics. The selfie camera is the same as the Pixel 6.

Furthermore, the RAM stands at 6GB, with only a 128GB storage option. The battery capacity is a reasonable 4410 mAh, supporting up to 18W wired charging. There's no wireless charging.

 

Pros

• Appealing compact design
• Tensor chip's throttling issues addressed
• Decent camera performance 

 Cons

• Only 128GB of storage is available.
• 60Hz refresh rate
• No wireless charging 

Selecting Google Pixel Phones: Consideration

Choosing the right Google Pixel phone involves considering a few critical factors, especially when evaluating your options in Australia. The most important factor is the Google Pixel phone's price; next in line is your needs, and lastly, carrier compatibility. 

Let's break it down one at a time.

Cost: 

You need to figure out how much you can spend and then choose the Google Pixel model and specs accordingly. If you're on a budget, you might want to consider refurbished Google Pixel phones, which can offer great value at a less price.

Hardware and Specs: 

The hardware and specifications of a Pixel phone determine its capabilities and performance. Depending on your needs, you might opt for a model that better suits them.

Carrier compatibility and 5G support: 

Carrier compatibility is crucial to ensure that your chosen Google Pixel phone works seamlessly with your preferred network provider. In Australia, multiple carriers offer different coverage areas and data plans. Before making a decision, check whether the Pixel model you're interested in supports the 5G bands used by your carrier.

Pricing and Availability:

The cost of the phone and its availability in your region are crucial factors to weigh when making a decision.

Security:

Google Pixel phones are known for their robust security features, including timely software updates and built-in security measures.

Software Experience:

A clean and user-friendly software experience is a hallmark of Google Pixel phones, thanks to their use of stock Android and Google's optimization.

Camera capabilities:

Google Pixel phones are renowned for their exceptional camera performance, delivering stunning photos even in challenging conditions, thanks to advanced AI photography 

features.

Battery Life:

Battery longevity and efficient management are important considerations for a device's day-to-day usability.

Processor and RAM:

The device's processing power and available RAM dictate its performance and multitasking capabilities.

Storage Capacity:

Ample storage is essential for accommodating your apps, photos, videos, and other files.

5G Support:

As 5G networks become more prevalent, having a phone that supports this technology can future-proof your device for faster data speeds.

When selecting a Google Pixel phone, it's essential to be mindful of these factors to ensure you make an informed decision.

Wrapping Up 

Now that you're familiar with the differences among the Google Pixel phones, you know that there's a model for everyone. 

From a foldable option to budget-friendly choices, premium specs models, and the best camera selections, the lineup is diverse. So, which one catches your interest?

Regardless of your choice, Phonebot offers an impressively affordable range of deals. But that's not all – Phonebot is committed to ensuring that your preferred Refurbished Google Pixel phone arrives in nearly flawless condition.

So, If you're on the hunt for Google Pixel Phones in Australia, Phonebot serves as your ultimate destination. From the Pixel 3 to the very latest Pixel phone, we've got each model available.

So why wait? Grab your favorite Pixel Now!