Update: We last updated this article with the Pixel 10 series on September 4th, 2025
The Google Pixel smartphones are known for offering clean software, timely updates, and impressive cameras. With up to seven years of OS updates and deeply integrated AI features, they are easy to recommend unless you are looking for a powerful processor. So, which is the best Google Pixel phone?
Unlike an iPhone, you don’t need the “Pro” or “Pro Max” to get a 120Hz refresh rate or better performance. However, with four models in the Pixel 9 series and the older models still on sale, it’s easy to get confused. But don’t worry; we are here to navigate this maze and help you find the best Pixel phone based on your budget and use case.
Table of Contents
Best Google Pixel Phones to Buy for Every Budget
1. Best Pixel for Most Users: Google Pixel 10
- Display: 6.3-inch Full-HD+ OLED with 120Hz
- Processor: Google Tensor G5
- RAM: 12GB
- Storage:128GB / 256GB UFS 3.1
- OS: Android 16 (7 years of updates left)
- Cameras: 50MP+48MP+10.8MP
- Weight: 204 grams
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6e, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, USB Type-C 3.2, and comprehensive positioning systems (GPS L1+L5, etc.)
Why We Recommend It:
The Pixel 10 is the most improved Pixel in the Pixel 10 series, as it brings major upgrades across the board. It is the first base Pixel to add to sport a triple camera lens, thanks to the 5x telephoto sensor. You also get the latest Tensor G5 based on TSMC 3nm architecture. And just like the rest of the Pixel 10 series, you get those cool AI features like Magic Cues, Camera Coach, and more. If you want the best Pixel phone without splurging a lot of money, this is the one to go for.
Who Should Buy It:
For those who are switching from an iPhone or simply want the best Pixel phone without breaking their bank balance. It’s on par with Pro models from last year in terms of camera. There’s also PixelSnap, which should make it easier for Apple users to switch. With a bigger battery and faster charging, this is easily the best Pixel phone you can get right now.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
If you have been hoping that Tensor G5 would fix all the performance issues, then you are in for some disappointment. Google has downgraded the primary camera and the ultrawide-angle lens. There’s no vapour cooling chamber here, and you get slower UFS 3.1 instead of the latest 4.1 on the Pro models. If you want a bigger screen or the absolute best experience, then it’s better to opt for the Pixel 10 Pro or Pro XL.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ New Tensor G5 chipset based on TSMC node | ❌ No vapour cooling chamber |
| ✅ Telephoto lens for the 1st time in the base model | ❌ Downgraded primary and ultrawide-angle lens |
| ✅ Latest Android 16 with 7 years of updates | ❌ No Wi-Fi 7 support |
| ✅ Bigger battery with faster charging | |
| ✅ AI features like Magic Cues, Camera Coach, and more |
Why should I buy: If you want a Pixel phone with all the bells and whistles without the premium price.
Price: $799 / ₹79,999
2. Best Budget Pixel: Google Pixel 9a
- Display: 6.3-inch pOLED with 120Hz, 2700 nits peak brightness
- Processor: Google Tensor G4
- RAM: 8GB
- OS: Android 15 (7 years of updates)
- Cameras: 48MP+13MP
- Weight: 186 grams
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB Type-C 3.2, Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM)
Why We Recommend It:
The Google Pixel 9a is the cheapest phone in the Pixel 9 series you can buy right now. At $499, it costs half the price of the Pixel 9 Pro and is even cheaper than the iPhone 16e. Google has also removed the camera bump present on previous Google Pixel phones. Despite paying half the price, you get all the benefits of the more expensive Pixel, including the same Tensor G4 chipset. It will get the same seven years of OS updates, which is amazing for a mid-range smartphone. Interestingly, it is the first Pixel phone to launch with Android 15 out of the box. This means you can expect one year of additional updates compared to the rest of the Pixel 9 series.
Who Should Buy It:
If you want a Pixel phone that delivers the same experience without costing an arm or leg, get the Pixel 9a. It comes with cool AI features like Best Take, Add Me, Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, and Audio Magic Eraser. Although there is no Pixel Screenshots support, you still get Pixel Studio and Gemini Nano for on-device AI. It has the biggest battery among all phones in the Pixel 9a at 5,160mAh, which is fantastic if you want a long-lasting phone. All of these features make it the best budget Pixel phone.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
Those seeking a premium build might find the plastic back of the Pixel 9a too cheap. Furthermore, the lack of stereo speakers and chunky bezels might be a letdown for some. Also, the fact that it has only 8GB of RAM means it uses Gemini Nano 1.0 XXS instead of the full-fledged Gemini. Due to this reason, you won’t find features such as Pixel screenshots or Call Notes.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Cheapest phone in the Pixel 9 series | ❌ Ugly and thick bezels |
| ✅ Bigger battery than Pixel 10 | ❌ Only 8GB of RAM |
| ✅ Same processor as the more expensive Pixel 9 | ❌ Gemini Nano 1.0 XXS instead of a full-fledged Gemini |
| ✅ Seven years of OS updates | ❌ No Pixel screenshots and Call Notes support |
| ✅ No camera bump | ❌ Slower 23W charging and a plastic back. |
| ✅ Wireless charging and 120Hz refresh rate |
Why Should I Buy: If you want a budget Pixel phone with all the AI features without spending a lot of money.
Price: $499 / ₹49,999
3. Best Pixel on a Tight Budget: Google Pixel 8a
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED display with 120Hz, 2000 nits
- Processor: Tensor G3
- RAM: 8GB
- OS: Android 15 (6 years of OS updates)
- Cameras: 64MP+13MP
- Weight: 188 grams
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB Type-C 3.2, Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM)
Why We Recommend It:
If you want to experience the Google ecosystem or enjoy a great Pixel phone without spending much money, the Pixel 8a is the way to go. For just $399, you get a smooth 120Hz display, excellent battery backup, good cameras, and a slightly slower (underclocked) version of the Tensor G3 in the Pixel 8 series.
Who Should Buy It:
Those on a tight budget looking to get their first Pixel phone should get the Pixel 8a. If you can grab one at a deal, especially at a lower price than the Pixel 9a, it makes perfect sense. There are also 7 years of OS updates, so you won’t be upgrading your phone anytime soon. Apart from features like Best Take and Audio Magic Eraser found in expensive Pixels, you also get timely security patches and Pixel drops with new features.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
If you can’t deal with the chunky bezels, slower 25W charging, and the plastic body instead of glass, the Pixel 8A isn’t for you. Also, the Tensor G3 is two generations behind Tensor G5, and there’s no telephoto lens here, unlike the Pro models or even the latest Pixel 10.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Compact form factor | ❌ Cheap plastic body |
| ✅ 7 years of updates | ❌ Downclocked version of Tensor G3 |
| ✅ Best Pixel on a budget | ❌ Slower 18W charging compared to 25W on Pixel 8 |
| ✅ Great battery backup | ❌ Chunky bezels |
| ✅ All the AI features | |
| ✅ Wireless charging support | |
| ✅ IP67 rating |
Why should I buy: The most affordable Pixel with 7 years of OS updates, and get a taste of new AI features
Price: $399 / ₹37,999
4. Best Folding Pixel Phone: Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold
- Display: 6.4-inch OLED with 120Hz, 8-inch inner screen with 120Hz
- Processor: Tensor G5
- RAM: 16GB RAM
- OS: Android 16 (7years of OS updates)
- Cameras: 48MP+10.8MP+10.5MP
- Weight:204 grams
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, UWB, USB Type-C 3.2, Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM)
Why We Recommend It
The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold brings some major improvements over the 9 Pro Fold. For starters, it’s the first foldable phone with an IP68 rating, which means it can even withstand water and dust. Other upgrades include a redesigned hinge, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and bigger displays. There’s a slightly bigger 6.4-inch cover display, while you get the same 8-inch inner screen as last year. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold also gets a bigger 5,015mAh battery with faster charging apart from the latest Tensor G5 chipset. As usual, you get all the cool new AI features such as Magic Cues, Camera Coach, and more. If you want a big screen experience, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is definitely worth it.
Who Should Buy It:
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold finally addresses one of the major woes of foldables: durability. It gets an IP68 rating and a redesigned hinge. Also, the bigger screen on the inside is great for multitasking, such as comparing prices and taking notes while streaming. Moreover, the square aspect ratio also makes it ideal for reading articles or books on the go so that you can ditch your Kindle at home. Overall, it’s the best folding phone from Google so far and deserves the premium it commands.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
: Anyone on a budget (this is the priciest Pixel) or who rarely needs the large screen. Those happy with a standard phone or tablet can skip the foldable. It’s also quite thick when folded, which makes it hard to recommend for most users. There aren’t many foldable-specific features, unlike Samsung’s Z Fold series.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ 1st foldable with IP68 rating | ❌ No foldable specific features |
| ✅ Bigger 5,160mAh battery | ❌ Most expensive Pixel phone |
| ✅ Redesigned hinge for better durability | |
| ✅ One of the few foldables with a telephoto lens | |
| ✅ New AI features like Magic Cues and Camera Coach | |
| ✅ Larger 6.4-inch cover display | |
| ✅ 1st foldable with Qi2 wireless charging like MagSafe |
Why should I buy: If you want a foldable phone with Google’s clean software and imaging capabilities
Price: $1799 / ₹1,72,999
5. Best Compact Pixel Phone: Google Pixel 10 Pro
- Display: 6.3-inch LTPO OLED with 120Hz, 3300 nits
- Processor: Tensor G5
- RAM: 16GB RAM
- OS: Android 16 (7years of updates left)
- Cameras: 50MP+48MP+48MP
- Weight: 207 grams
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, UWB, USB Type-C 3.2, Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM), Satellite SOS
Why We Recommend It:
If you want a premium experience in a compact size, the Pixel 10 Pro should serve you well. It’s powered by the latest Tensor G5 chipset with 16GB RAM. You get a familiar 6.3-inch screen, but it’s now brighter at 3300 nits of peak brightness. Furthermore, you get ProRes zoom up to 100x if you like taking zoomed-in videos. Oh, and you get the Tensor G5 made by TSMC. With 16GB of RAM and 7 years of OS updates, you wouldn’t have to worry about upgrading anytime soon. The major improvements are in the battery as you get a bigger 4,870mAh battery with 30W fast charging support and PixelSnap support. Overall, it’s a more refined version of the Pixel 9 Pro.
Who Should Buy It:
Power users and tech enthusiasts who want the latest Google AI features and best Pixel camera tech in a small form factor. The Pro offers the brightest display and fastest Wi-Fi 7 support. It is the best compact Pixel phone you can get right now.,
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
If you don’t care about the 100x Pro Res video zoom, then the smaller Pixel 10 makes a lot of sense now. It also comes with a telephoto lens and is way cheaper than the Pixel 10 Pro this year.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Tensor G5 chipset for AI tasks | ❌ 128GB as base variant |
| ✅ Bigger 4,870mAh battery | ❌ No major upgrades over Pixel 9 Pro |
| ✅ Pro Res zoom up to 100x | |
| ✅ Brighter screen at 3,300 nits | |
| ✅ PixelSnap wireless magnetic charging | |
| ✅ Faster 30W wired charging |
Why should I buy: If you want a compact Pixel phone with all the latest and greatest features.
Price: $999 / ₹1,09,999
Also Read:
- Google Pixel 9a Specs Leak: Here’s What to Expect From Google’s Most Affordable Phone
- Google’s Pixel 10a and 11 Names Revealed in Leaked Internal Documents
6. Best Pixel for Battery Backup: Google Pixel 10 Pro XL
- Display: 6.8-inch LTPO OLED with 120Hz, 3300 nits
- Processor: Tensor G5
- RAM: 16GB
- OS: Android 16 (7years of updates left)
- Cameras: 50MP+48MP+48MP
- Weight: 232 grams
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, UWB, USB Type-C 3.2, Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM), Satellite SOS
Why We Recommend It:
Last but not least is the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL. This is the best Pixel phone for battery backup as it packs a 5,200mAh battery, the biggest on a Pixel yet. Its 6.8-inch screen is also the biggest in the lineup and is great for consuming content and split-screen multitasking. While the rest of the specs are similar to the 10 Pro, you get 45W charging compared to 37W on the 9 Pro. Nevertheless, the rest of the features make a Pixel a Pixel. There are many AI features, 7 years of OS updates, great cameras, and reliable battery backup. If you want an Android phone that can take on the iPhone 16 Pro Max, look for the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Who Should Buy It:
If you binge-watch a lot of shows or play games or simply use your phone a lot, the bigger screen of the 10 Pro Xl will certainly help. The bigger battery and the faster charging should also serve power users and travelers well. With PixelSnap magnetic charging, it’s a great alternative for iPhone Pro Max users.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It
If you don’t need an enormous display, the extra size/weight will only be a burden. The Pixel 10 Pro (6.3″) is similar except for screen/battery size. Small-phone fans should avoid this XL model. The lack of a 128GB storage variant means it is $100 expensive than last year’s 9 Pro XL.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Massive 6.8-inch OLED screen with 120Hz | ❌ $100 expensive than last year |
| ✅ Tensor G5 chipset made by TSMC | ❌ No 128GB base model this time |
| ✅ Pro Res zoom up to 100x | |
| ✅ Biggest battery on a Pixel phone | |
| ✅ PixelSnap wireless magnetic charging | |
| ✅ Faster 45W wired charging |
Why should I buy: If you want the biggest Pixel phone from Google with all the features
Price: $1099/₹1,39,999
Older Models to Consider on Discount
1. Google Pixel 8: Better Buy Than Pixel 8A
- Display: 6.2-inch OLED with 120Hz, 2000 nits of peak brightness
- Processor: Tensor G3
- RAM: 8GB RAM
- OS: Android 15 (6 years of updates left)
- Cameras: 50MP+12MP
- Weight: 187 grams
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB Type-C 3.2, Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM)
Why We Recommend It:
The Google Pixel 8 can often be found at a discount in India and the US. It was available for as low as Rs.. 31,999 in BDD and $402 during Amazon’s Prime Day sale in the US. This means you can find a similar or cheaper price than the Pixel 8A. Compared to the Pixel 8A, you get a slightly bigger screen with slimmer bezels, an IP68 rating over IP67, Gorilla Glass Victus, faster charging speeds, and a premium glass body. Oh, and the Tensor G3 in the Pixel 8 isn’t downclocked as the one found on the Pixel 8A. So if you find it at a discount, you should buy it over the 8A.
Who Should Buy It:
People who want almost-flagship Pixel performance at a discount. It’s smaller and cheaper than the 8 Pro but retains many features. Great for fans of a sleek Pixel with a high-quality display and strong camera.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
The Pixel 8 is very good, but if you need pro-level zoom or the absolute best battery life, consider the 8 Pro or the newer 9 series. Also, Tensor G3 is now one gen old, so heavy gamers might prefer Snapdragon flagships for pure speed.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Slimmer bezels than Pixel 8a | ❌ Heating issues and connectivity issues on some operators in India |
| ✅ IP68 rating | ❌ No telephoto sensor |
| ✅ 7 years of updates | ❌ Average battery life |
| ✅ Faster performance | |
| ✅ Better build and design with a glass back |
Why should I buy: If you want a good Pixel phone, having the same form factor as the Pixel 8A without the compromises
Price: $489/₹47,999
2. Google Pixel 8 Pro: Better Than Pixel 9 on a Deal
- Display: 6.7-inch LTPO OLED with 2400 nits
- Processor: Tensor G3
- RAM: 12GB RAM
- OS: Android 15 ( 6 years of updates left)
- Cameras: 50MP+48MP+48MP
- Weight: 213 grams
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, UWB, USB Type-C 3.2, Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM)
Why We Recommend It:
The Google Pixel 8 Pro was the company’s flagship phone once upon a time. Compared to the Pixel 9, you get a bigger display with LTPO, a periscope lens with 5x zoom, a thermometer sensor, UWB support, faster wired and wireless charging, and a larger battery. Although the Pixel 9 has a faster processor and a rounded design, the Pixel 8 Pro seems like a better deal overall. What’s interesting is the fact that both the Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro will get 7 years of OS updates. Since both launched with Android 14, you won’t miss out on software support.
Who Should Buy It:
Mobile photographers and enthusiasts who want Google’s best camera tech as well as those who need a taste of AI features and what a premium flagship feels like. Since there was no Pro XL, it was Google’s top-of-the-line phone during its time. It was available for as low as $719 in Amazon’s Prime Day sale, making it cheaper than the base Pixel 9 if you grab it at this price.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It:
If you prefer a smaller device or a lower price, the Pixel 8 (non-Pro) covers most bases. The 8 Pro is overkill for casual users. Also, note it’s heavier and bulkier, and a small premium over the regular 8.
| Reasons to Buy over Pixel 9 | Reasons to Skip |
|---|---|
| ✅ Bigger display with LTPO compared to the Pixel 9 | ❌ Heating issues and connectivity issues on some |
| ✅ 48MP periscope telephoto with 5x zoom | ❌ No telephoto sensor |
| ✅ Larger battery than the Pixel 9 | ❌ Average battery life |
| ✅ Faster wired and wireless charging | |
| ✅ UWB support | |
| ✅ Temperature sensor |
Why should I buy: If you want better cameras, a larger display, and a bigger battery than the 9.
Price: $619 / ₹74,999
Which Pixel Phone Should You Buy?
With the launch of the Pixel 10 series, buying a Pixel phone is harder than ever before. To help you find the Pixel of your dreams, here are some suggestions depending on your use case:
- Best Pixel Overall: The Google Pixel 10 is the best Pixel phone that you can get right now. It uses the upgraded Tensor G5, gets a telephoto lens for the first time, and has a bigger battery. You also get new AI features like Camera Coach, Magic Cues, and Pixel journal. With PixelSnap wireless charging, switching from an iPhone is easier than ever, as you use your existing accessories
- Best Pixel For Power Users: The Pixel 10 Pro is a souped-up version of the Pixel 10 that takes everything up a notch. You get a similar but sharper display with LTPO support, an improved primary and telephoto lens. Oh, and with ProRes Zoom, you can take photos and videos with 100x zoom. The Pixel 10 Pro offers 16GB of RAM and faster 30W wired charging.
- Best Pixel For Battery Backup: While the Pixel 10 Pro XL shares a lot of similarities with the Pixel 10, it has some noticeable upgrades. You get 256GB of storage as standard, apart from a larger 6.8-inch panel. Another upgrade is the battery rated at 5,200mAh, which is the biggest you’ll find on a Pixel phone. Similarly, the charging speed is 45W compared to 30W on the smaller Pro. If you are switching from an iPhone 16 Pro Max or S25 Ultra, you will find the Pixel 10 Pro XL right at home.
- Best Pixel For Budget Users: For those on a tight budget, the Pixel 9a, with its Tensor G4 and AI features, offers a similar experience to its flagship peers. Unlike other Pixel phones, there’s no camera bump, so you can easily slide it into your pocket. Furthermore, you get the second-largest battery on a Pixel at 5,200mAh
- Best Affordable Pixel: If your budget restricts you from opting for the Pixel 8a, you can go for last year’s Pixel 8a. At $399, it comes with a 120Hz refresh rate, a great pair of cameras, and AI features like Best Take and Audio Magic Eraser. With 7 years of updates, you won’t be missing out on much compared to other Pixels.
- Best Foldable Pixel: The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is the best foldable Pixel money can buy. Not only does it boast a redesigned hinge and IP68 rating, but you also get a bigger cover display. With Tensor G5 and PixelSnap, it’s a no-brainer for those who want a large-screen Pixel device
Google Pixel Specs Comparison Table
| Model | Display | Processor | RAM/Storage | Cameras (rear) | Battery & Charging | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pixel 10 | 6.3″ Actua OLED, 60–120 Hz, up to 3000 nits | Tensor G5 | 12 GB / up to 256 GB | 48 MP wide + 13 MP ultra-wide + 10.8 MP telephoto | 4970 mAh; standard charging | Android 16, seven years of updates, Pixelsnap magnets, AI features |
| Pixel 10 Pro | 6.3″ Super Actua OLED, 1-120 Hz, up to 3300 nits | Tensor G5 | 16 GB / up to 1 TB | 50 MP wide + 48 MP ultra-wide + 48 MP telephoto | 4870 mAh; fast wired & Qi2 wireless | OIS improvements, 50 MP portraits, IP68, AI tools, 7 years updates |
| Pixel 10 Pro XL | 6.8″ Super Actua OLED, 1-120 Hz, up to 3300 nits | Tensor G5 | 16 GB / up to 1 TB | 50 MP wide + 48 MP ultra-wide + 48 MP telephoto | 5200 mAh; 45 W wired, 25 W Qi2.2 wireless | Larger display, IP68, Pixelsnap, AI features, best for power users |
| Pixel 10 Pro Fold | 8″ Super Actua flex inner + 6.4″ Actua cover, both 120 Hz, up to 3000 nits | Tensor G5 | 16 GB / up to 512 GB | 48 MP wide + 10 MP ultra-wide + 10 MP telephoto | 5015 mAh dual-cell; Qi2 wireless | First IP68 dust-proof foldable, Pixelsnap, AI features, ships Oct 9 |
| Pixel 9a | 6.1″ OLED, 60–120 Hz | Tensor G4 | 8 GB / 128 GB | 64 MP wide + 13 MP ultra-wide | 4380 mAh; 18 W wired | Affordable option, 7 years updates, good cameras for the price |
| Pixel 8a | 6.1″ Actua OLED, 120 Hz | Tensor G3 | 8 GB / 128–256 GB | 64 MP wide + 13 MP ultra-wide | 4492 mAh; 18 W wired, wireless | Budget-friendly, AI features, 7 years of updates |
| Pixel 8 | 6.2″ Actua OLED, 120 Hz | Tensor G3 | 8 GB / 128–256 GB | 50 MP wide + 12 MP ultra-wide | 4575 mAh; 27 W wired, wireless | Compact size, AI tools, 7 years updates |
| Pixel 8 Pro | 6.7″ Super Actua OLED, 120 Hz | Tensor G3 | 12 GB / 128 GB–1 TB | 50 MP wide + 48 MP ultra-wide + 48 MP telephoto | 5050 mAh; 30 W wired, wireless | Best 8-series camera system, AI features, 7 years updates |
