Google Pixel 2 XL review

30 October 2017
Google has come a long way since the days of Nexus smartphones. This is only the second iteration of the Google Pixel and it shows how much Google’s software and hardware have evolved in the past year. Both Pixel smartphones got a refined, yet simpler appearance. This review is specifically for the larger Pixel 2 XL. We’ll be reviewing the smaller Pixel 2, separately.

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  • D
  • AnonD-538833
  • Aba
  • 31 Oct 2017

It would have been the android flagship phone of the year if only it has a better display. But it gives me hope for future pixel phones. It's doesn't have the redundency of bull$hit apps and so called "features" (read bloatware) of samsung phones. It's doesn't have that bull$hit voice assistant "bitchby" (or is it call bixby?. whatever). Not having that trashy assistant alone is worth looking at the phones. It's a shame about the headphone jack though.

It focuses on right things like giving pleasant and consistent user experience. Google assistant is class leading. With pixel separate image processing SoC the image processing will only get better. For now Google has created a solid phone and I like the direction google is taking with their pixel hardware.

    • D
    • AnonD-711964
    • YgM
    • 31 Oct 2017

    Nice review! Somewhat related/unrelated question: The audio output through the dongle looks really good.. would you be able to use that Dongle on a regular XL and get just as good output?

      • D
      • AnonD-594740
      • LvJ
      • 31 Oct 2017

      Last year Google: lololololol we have a 3.5" jack!!!!111

      This year Google: We remove it for a better audio experience 🤪

        • S
        • Surficial
        • 0RS
        • 31 Oct 2017

        apertotes, 31 Oct 2017A fine phone, but no match (sadly) for Samsung's Galaxies a... moreThey can offer the most iphone like experience with their update lifetime and schedule. Nothing like the bang for buck devices the nexi were. Many consumers think things are inferior if they're cheaper, but they need more advertising to sell many at these prices.
        It does have a selling point of having small-ish bezels and stereo speakers, and a light and fast UI.

          • ?
          • Anonymous
          • JpF
          • 31 Oct 2017

          Screen is frim LG.
          They use always rgb.
          How can it be pentile?

            A fine phone, but no match (sadly) for Samsung's Galaxies and their unbelievable screen, micro-sd and wireless charging. And they are even cheaper.

            I dislike the direction Google is trying to steer Android. The new Google Now is a disgrace to what once was leaps and bounds above the competition. Reminders are still half-baked and are not consistent in Inbox, Keep and Calendar. Don't get me started on the messaging apps travesty.

            Google is trying to build the Android iPhone. But that is not what many of us want.

              • D
              • AnonD-425519
              • Y7F
              • 31 Oct 2017

              Daylight samples look more processed than Pixel :(. More contrast, more artifacts, and more noise reduction, sigh. It did need more noise reduction but they went too far. Pixel is more natural: https://www.gsmarena.com/piccmp.php3?idType=4&idPhone1=8720&idPhone2=8345

              Daylight far grass is now mushy compared to the Pixel :(. That's sad. Bad direction Google.
              Typical, every manufacturer is becoming worse with post-processing (cell phones only).

                • Z
                • Zank
                • s3B
                • 31 Oct 2017

                Why are there no mentions of the Nokia 8 or the potential of the Nokia 9?

                Either way, I'd rather get either of those or maybe LG G6 or HTC U11 than this phone; nothing about it (just like with Samsung's and Apple's phones) makes me even want to consider it.

                Oh, O.K. - if it was ~300e cheaper, sure, I'd consider it then!

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