The Greatest Google Pixel Telephones of 2025, Examined and Reviewed
There are some minor multitasking enhancements—it is simple to place two apps aspect by aspect in split-screen, and you’ll transfer the slider in between them to resize the apps, even stow one far to the aspect for simple entry. However you continue to cannot use three apps concurrently (I miss the OnePlus Open’s implementation of this.)
If you need a folding telephone, I recommend trying on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, which is thinner, lighter, and simpler to make use of. Nevertheless, in the event you favor Google’s software program expertise and digicam high quality, there is a good probability you may actually get pleasure from utilizing the Pixel 10 Professional Fold—in the event you can abdomen the worth.
Final 12 months’s Pixels
{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
You needn’t purchase the newest and best! Shopping for final 12 months’s flagship telephone is an effective way to avoid wasting money. Nevertheless, ensure you’re spending far lower than the MSRP—in any other case, you could as nicely purchase one of many newest Pixel 10 telephones. The earlier Pixel technology from 2024 consists of the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Professional, Pixel 9 Professional XL (9/10, WIRED Recommends), and the Pixel 9 Professional Fold (6/10, WIRED Evaluation).
The Tensor G4 chipset in these telephones is completely succesful, the shows nonetheless get very vibrant, and the cameras aren’t vastly completely different. The Pixel 9 lacks the additional 5X optical zoom digicam, and none of those units have Qi2 help, so no magnetic enjoyable. Whereas Google hasn’t confirmed what options from the Pixel 10 sequence will arrive on the Pixel 9 sequence, there is a good probability a lot of them will in a future Pixel Drop characteristic replace.
Earlier than the launch of the Pixel 10, the Pixel 9 commonly dipped to $599, the Pixel 9 Professional dropped to $749, the Pixel 9 Professional XL was on sale for $899, and the Pixel 9 Professional Fold hit $1,499. I would not purchase these units except they had been at these costs once more or decrease.
How Lengthy Is Your Pixel Supported?
The Pixel 10 sequence, Pixel 9 sequence, Pixel 8 sequence, Pixel 9a, and Pixel 8a will get seven years of Android OS upgrades and safety updates. The 2023 Pixel 7a will obtain three years of Android OS upgrades and 5 years of safety updates from the date of launch, the identical as older Pixels. Google has a web page you possibly can examine to see precisely what month your Pixel telephone will cease receiving updates. Safety updates scale back the chance of malware, hold your telephone bug-free, and make it safer. Android model updates introduce new options—beauty and useful—that enhance the OS as a complete.
Pixel telephones additionally occur to be the primary to obtain any type of Android replace, in order quickly as Google releases a brand new model, like Android 16, you possibly can obtain it instantly by heading to Settings > System > System Replace > Test for Replace. You too can take a look at beta variations of Android, however you may must enroll your system. (Be sure that to again up your telephone first!) Pixels are additionally aware of the characteristic drops Google points each few months, which embody options from newer Pixels coming to older fashions and brand-new options for the newest units.
Qi2 is the next-gen wi-fi charging customary, following the Qi wi-fi protocol. It makes use of magnets baked into the again of smartphones to completely align them with magnets in Qi2 wi-fi chargers, making certain a quicker and extra environment friendly cost with much less warmth. It is virtually the identical as Apple’s MagSafe expertise (Apple helped develop the Qi2 customary), and all MagSafe iPhones now help Qi2, ranging from the iPhone 12. Nevertheless, not all telephones that declare Qi2 performance are literally Qi2 telephones. Samsung’s Galaxy S25 sequence is notably Qi2 Prepared, that means they do not have magnets inside, and the one manner they’ll obtain the charging speeds and effectivity of Qi2 is with a magnetic case.
You do not have to fret about that with the Pixel 10 telephones. They’re all correct Qi2 units with magnets inside. Google calls it “Pixelsnap” and that is additionally the identify its utilizing for its suite of equipment. The Pixel 10 Professional XL is the one one of many lot that helps the even newer Qi2.2 25W customary, which bumps the charging pace from 15 watts to 25. Which means it’s going to wi-fi cost the quickest, offered you utilize a appropriate charger.
When you’ve got an older Qi wi-fi charger mendacity round, there’s an opportunity it will not work all that nicely with the brand new telephones. Qi2 is backward appropriate, however we have run into points with older chargers simply not recharging units persistently. You may in all probability must improve to a Qi2 charger. Should you get a case (learn our information!), be certain that it is a Pixelsnap or Qi2 case with magnets inside. With out magnets, a case will weaken the magnets within the telephone, and so they will not stick nicely to Qi2 or different magnetic equipment.
What About Older Pixel Telephones?
There are just a few different Pixel telephones value contemplating if you don’t need any of the above decisions. The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Professional (7/10, WIRED Recommends) can be found by official channels and third-party retailers (till provides final). The secret is to not pay greater than $500 or $600 for both of them; in any other case, you could as nicely put that cash towards the Pixel 9 or Pixel 10 sequence.
I don’t advocate you purchase any older Pixel units. A number of Pixel A-series telephones have been put underneath a battery efficiency program to mitigate the chance of overheating or swollen batteries. These software program updates have crippled the battery life on these telephones, and Google has offered clients with battery alternative choices or Google Retailer credit score for a brand new Pixel telephone. These potential points imply it is simply not well worth the threat of shopping for a Pixel 7a or Pixel 6a. I additionally do not assume the Pixel 8a is worth it anymore as the worth hasn’t come down a lot; you are higher off shopping for the Pixel 9a.
Pixel A-Collection Battery Points
In 2025, some Google Pixel 4a and Pixel 6a homeowners have obtained obligatory updates that purposefully degrade the efficiency of the battery to stop overheating. Your telephone could have been working high-quality earlier than, however Google issued these updates as a preventative measure, and never each system was affected. Equally, some Pixel 7a units could encounter battery swelling points.
In case your telephone has been affected, you might have two choices. You will get a free battery alternative—Google has a registration web page for the Pixel 4a, Pixel 6a, and Pixel 7a. If that is not going to be just right for you, you will get Google Retailer credit score for the Pixel 4a and Pixel 6a to place towards a brand new Pixel telephone.
These points appear to have solely affected some batteries within the A-series telephones, suggesting it is probably a provider challenge. What concerning the newer Pixel 9a? Here is an announcement a Google spokesperson offered to WIRED: “Google repeatedly improves Pixel testing based mostly on consumer suggestions and completely investigates reported incidents for all elements, together with batteries. With Pixel 9a, we delivered the most important and longest-lasting battery of any A-series but. We’ve been inspired by its reception up to now and are assured within the telephone’s longevity and sturdiness.”
Ideally, this battery challenge has been rectified within the newest mannequin, however we’ll be monitoring it over the following few years.
What Does Pixel Care+ Embrace?
If you buy a Pixel from Google, you may see the choice so as to add Pixel Care+ for defense. It is solely obtainable within the US by the Google Retailer and Google Fi. The month-to-month possibility can run for as much as 60 months, whereas the fastened pricing is for a 2-year time period. Here is what you get.
Pixel Care+ begins at $9 per thirty days or $179 and consists of limitless unintentional harm safety, $0 display screen and battery repairs, replacements that ship in a day, and precedence help from Pixel specialists. That pricing is for the Pixel 10, and it goes up for the pricier units. For instance, the Pixel 10 Professional will value $13 per thirty days, or $239 for the 2-year time period. There isn’t any Pixel Care+ possibility for the Pixel 9a.
Pixel Care+ with Loss and Theft begins at $10 per thirty days or $199 and consists of the identical protections as talked about above however consists of two claims of loss and theft each 12 months. Weirdly, Loss and Theft protection will not be obtainable in New York state.
You Can DeGoogle Your Pixel Telephone
Love Pixel telephones however wish to get away from utilizing Google providers? It is slightly odd, however you possibly can really use a unique working system with the Pixel as a substitute of the built-in Android. We have examined and actually like /e/OS, a privacy-first working system that is based mostly on the Android Open Supply Challenge. When you can set up it your self, it requires a little bit of technical know-how, you possibly can purchase a refurbished Pixel from Murena with /e/OS put in already. Should you’re , we have now extra particulars about /e/OS right here.
The Greatest Pixel Circumstances and Equipment
I’ve written a broader information on the Greatest Pixel 10 Circumstances and Greatest Pixel 9 (and 9a) Circumstances, however listed below are just a few choices on your perusal. We have highlighted circumstances for the present Pixel lineup, however you possibly can simply discover the identical variations for prior fashions in the event you peruse the case maker’s catalog.
{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
Pixelsnap Telephone Case for Pixel 10 Collection
These official circumstances from Google for the Pixel 10 sequence are Qi2-certified with Pixelsnap magnets baked in, permitting you to connect the telephone to magnetic equipment with none loss in power or wi-fi charging capabilities (in the event you use a case with out magnets, it’ll weaken the power and disrupt the characteristic). The delicate silicone is nice to the contact, and you’ll color-match it together with your Pixel 10 telephone to focus on the telephone’s coloration. I additionally like Google’s official Pixel 9a case ($30), which has similarities, however it would not have the magnets inside, as it is not a Qi2 telephone.
{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
Mous
Limitless Case (Pixelsnap)
Mous circumstances are Made for Google licensed, and that is particularly vital with the Pixel 10 sequence, because it ensures the very best compatibility with Pixelsnap. The Limitless is a good all-rounder, with raised edges over the show, clicky buttons, dependable magnets for Qi2, and a number of other design aesthetics you possibly can select from, together with a walnut again or speckled cloth (pictured).
{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
dbrand
Grip Case (Pixelsnap)
Dbrand’s Grip case lives as much as its identify. It has clicky buttons and extremely grippy edges. It feels strong but pretty slim, and you’ll select a snazzy design. Simply know that you must apply this “pores and skin” to the again of the case. There’s loads of room for error right here, so watch out, and watch Dbrand’s set up video for ideas. There’s Pixelsnap help so you should use your Pixel with Qi2 and even MagSafe equipment, and it labored exceptionally nicely in my testing.
{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
Bellroy
Leather-based Case (Pixelsnap)
Bellroy has been making Pixel circumstances for a very long time, and it labored in collaboration with Google for the Pixel 10 circumstances, making certain the right match. It is Pixelsnap-certified (the Pixel 9a case would not have magnets), so it’s going to work with magnetic equipment. The leather-based comes from sustainable sources, and it exudes class.
{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
Peak Design
On a regular basis Case for Pixel 10 (Magnetic)
That is hands-down the very best case in the event you ceaselessly connect your Pixel to the handlebars of a motorcycle or an electrical scooter. Peak Design’s mounting system helps you to magnetically affix the telephone to its Common Bike Mount ($50), and it stays put. After greater than a 12 months of testing, I’ve but to have a telephone fall off my journey utilizing this mounting system. The corporate additionally has a number of different magnetic equipment, like a automobile vent mount. The case itself is good; I simply want the sides had been raised extra for higher display screen safety. You may select to have it with the loop, which acts as a grip, or with out it.
{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
dbrand
Ghost Case 2.0 (Pixelsnap)
That is the very best clear case for the Pixel 10 sequence. Dbrand guarantees that the Ghost 2.0 will not yellow over time, a lot in order that if it really does, the corporate will exchange it without spending a dime. It is skinny, has stronger magnets than most different Pixelsnap circumstances, and has grippy edges. And also you get to see your Pixel’s coloration shine by. The corporate technically would not make it for the Pixel 10, simply the Professional fashions, however as a result of the size are the identical, the ten Professional case suits completely on the Pixel 10.
{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
Pixelsnap Ring Stand
Google’s Ring Stand is a surprisingly sturdy and nice kickstand. There’s good rigidity within the metallic ring, and you’ll alter your telephone at various heights. You too can twist it to place the telephone in panorama or portrait orientation. Be sure you take it off earlier than putting the telephone on a wi-fi charger; you are not supposed to connect magnetic equipment or chargers to the Ring Stand itself.
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{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
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{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
Pixelsnap Charger With Stand
You needn’t spend this a lot for an honest Qi2 charger, however these are what Google is formally promoting, and so they’re nice (if overpriced). The stand model is definitely the identical Pixelsnap charger, simply with a sturdy stand to maintain it propped up. The stand is steady, would not shift round, and you’ll cost the telephone in panorama or portrait orientation.
{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
dbrand
Prism 2.0 Display Protector
Dbrand provides you two display screen protectors on this package deal, and it comes with a super-easy utility device. Wipe down your telephone with the included alcohol wipe, dry it with the microfiber, after which place the device over your telephone and pull the pull tab. Press down on the road, wait 30 seconds, after which take the device off. There is a squeegee to push out air bubbles. Should you do not wish to spend this a lot, Spigen’s GlasTR tempered glass protectors are additionally straightforward to use and value $20 for a two-pack.
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{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
Nomad
65W Slim Energy Adapter
Google’s newest Pixel 10 sequence helps 29W and 39W charging speeds, relying on the mannequin. That makes this 65W slightly overkill, however I nonetheless assume it is an important all-around charging adapter to hold with you. It is extremely slim and light-weight, has folding prongs, and consists of two USB-C ports. When you might have two units plugged in, one port will dish out 45W and the opposite will ship 20W. The previous will allow you to hit the quickest charging speeds attainable on any of your Pixel units.
The Pixel Ecosystem
Should you purchase a Pixel telephone, there is a good probability you are excited about Google’s different Pixel {hardware}. Excellent news: They’re fairly nice. The Pixel Buds Professional 2 are glorious earbuds, and the Pixel Watch 4 is the Android smartwatch to beat.
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{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
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{Photograph}: Parker Corridor
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{Photograph}: Parker Corridor
Denoted because the “Greatest Earbuds for Android” in our Greatest Wi-fi Earbuds information, the Pixel Buds Professional 2 (9/10, WIRED Recommends) are splendidly small and compact, with a enjoyable, egg-shaped case that has a stunning matte texture. They pair nicely with Android units, have wi-fi charging, and embody glorious noise-cancelling. You too can faucet and maintain the buds to speak to the Gemini voice assistant, and a current software program replace added Loud Noise Safety and Adaptive Audio, the latter of which dynamically reduces the quantity of undesirable appears like sirens. You may even nod to reply a name or shake to say no!
Should you do not wish to spend as a lot, there’s additionally the Pixel Buds 2a ($129), that are even smaller and have most of the identical options, although there isn’t any wi-fi charging within the case.
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{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
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{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
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{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
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{Photograph}: Julian Chokkattu
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The Pixel Watch 4 (8/10, WIRED Recommends) works with all Android telephones, and it is a pure match with a Pixel telephone. This smartwatch will relay any app notifications you wish to see in your wrist, and you’ll even examine your Nest safety cameras by way of the Google House app. You may elevate your wrist to speak to the Gemini assistant, no scorching phrase wanted, and there is a strong suite of well being and health monitoring capabilities that go toe-to-toe with the Apple Watch. Battery life is stable too, lasting a couple of day and a half with the 45-mm mannequin, and it recharges extremely quick.
You may go for the mobile model if you would like always-on connectivity even away out of your telephone, although you may must pay up for a separate watch knowledge plan. Learn our Greatest Smartwatches information for different choices.
Our Favourite Pixel Software program Options
Pixels have many nice software program options, however some should be toggled on. It will also be arduous to keep in mind that all these options exist, so listed below are a lot of the high ones.
There are some key options on Pixels that you simply will not discover on another Android telephone. A few of these can be found solely on choose Pixels—the Tensor chip began with the Pixel 6, and at present, the Tensor G4 is within the Pixel 9 vary. Here is a breakdown:
Name Display: If you get a name from an unknown quantity, Google Assistant will scan and flag it if it is suspected spam or a robocall. If it is merely a quantity you do not acknowledge, you possibly can have Assistant take the decision. You may see a real-time transcription of what is occurring, so you possibly can finish the decision straight away if it is a telemarketer or reply if it seems to be a long-lost highschool good friend. If it is somebody vital, you can provide Assistant responses to recite in the event you’re unable to take the decision—it affords up contextual replies now, too. Bear in mind to show it on by opening up the dialer app and heading to Settings (three dots on the highest proper) > Spam and Name Display.
