I reviewed the base Google Pixel 10, so I understand the device’s appeal. It boasts numerous high-end features, making it the best value in Google’s flagship lineup for just $800.
Still, that doesn’t mean you should make the mistake of entirely dismissing the Pixel 10 Pro. Like the iPhone 16 Pro in Apple’s lineup, the device has a place, and it will be the best choice for many people.
The Pixel 10 Pro is a premium smartphone with many of the same perks as the larger Pixel 10 Pro XL.
Not everyone wants a flagship phone that can double as a battleship, and the Pixel 10 Pro is ideal for people who want all the creature comforts in a compact form factor.
I understand why people love the Google Pixel 10, but the Pixel 10 Pro deserves more love than it’s getting.
Google’s Super Actua displays are excellent
You do notice a difference
Both the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro feature 6.3-inch screens, but the display technology is different.
The Pixel 10 features an Actua display, with a 1080p resolution and 3,000 nits max brightness. It’s a gorgeous panel, and I’ve been pleased with it on the Pixel 10. The screen is easily viewable outdoors, and the colors are saturated and vibrant.
It’s not that the Pixel 10 display is bad, but spending more does get you more. Buying the Pixel 10 Pro steps you up to Google’s Super Actua display technology.
Holding the phones side-by-side, you can notice a difference.
The Pixel 10 Pro’s screen is sharper, with more vibrant colors. It has a higher resolution, and games and movies look fantastic.
We use the phone’s display 100% of the time we’re using the device, so it’s worth paying up for a better panel.
I’m not saying you should spend more merely to get a better display, but it adds to the equation if you were already on the fence.
More RAM for Google Gemini features and multitasking
Futureproofing at its best
The Pixel 10 features an adequate 12GB of RAM, but Google handles smartphone RAM differently.
A portion of that amount is allotted for AI features and functionality, allowing Gemini the room it needs to work smoothly.
So, while the Pixel 10 does have 12GB, only around 9.5GB is available for programs and multitasking.
I haven’t found that it limits performance, but if you like having lots of apps open and are multitasking regularly, you’ll consider spending more.
I don’t notice the drop-off in colors from photos taken with the primary sensor and the telephoto, unlike in other devices.
The Pixel 10 Pro has 16GB, with a similar split in allotment, but that still leaves 12GB for multitasking and programs. The extra RAM overhead also makes the Pixel 10 Pro better futureproofed than the Pixel 10.
I hope Google doesn’t limit new AI features to older devices, but as time goes on, there might be Gemini upgrades that make it to the Pixel 10 Pro that don’t find their way to the Pixel 10.
The company has used RAM limitations as justification for not trickling down features before.
If you plan on keeping your phone longer, the extra $200 is worth considering.
Better cameras if you spend more
Different sensors on the Pixel 10 Pro
It’s worth noting that Google upgraded the camera system on the Pixel 10.
I love that the company added a telephoto lens, as it makes the cameras more versatile. It also makes the Pixel 10 an attractive value option, especially for $800.
I’m pleased with the photos I get from the phone’s mix of 48MP primary lens, 13MP ultrawide sensor, and the 10.8MP 5x optical zoom telephoto.
I don’t notice the drop-off in colors from photos taken with the primary sensor and the telephoto, unlike in other devices.
Google’s computational photography works well, and Night Sight is fantastic on the Pixel 10. Still, there is more to be had.
The Pixel 10 Pro features several updates.
Its camera system consists of a 50MP primary sensor, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP 5x telephoto lens. It results in similar photo quality across all the sensors, with no drop-off.
Like the other items I mentioned, cameras alone aren’t a reason why you’d spend extra money, but reasons to prefer the Pixel 10 Pro add up fast.
The Pixel 10 Pro at least deserves consideration
Everywhere I looked, people were discounting the Pixel 10 Pro. I understand the Pixel 10 is an outstanding value this year, and it’s an excellent choice for many.
However, there are still reasons people should pick up a Pixel 10 Pro. Its premium finish is gorgeous, and the upgrades I’ve mentioned justify the $200 price difference.
- SoC
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Google Tensor G5
- RAM
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16GB
- Storage
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128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB with Zoned UFS / 1 TB with Zoned UFS
- Battery
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4870mAh
- Operating System
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Android 16
- Front camera
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42 MP Dual PD selfie camera
Google’s latest Pro Pixel packs a faster yet efficient Tensor G5 chip, an upgraded ISP, and a brighter display. Plus, an array of new AI features that make it one of the best Android phones to launch in 2025.
