I’m enjoying my time with the Pixel 10 Pro XL. Google built on everything that made the Pixel 9 series successful, with stable software and excellent hardware.
It’s also easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of a new phone. As an enthusiast, I get it, but not every upgrade is worth making.
The Pixel 8 Pro already features many of the things that make the Pixel 10 Pro XL fantastic. I’m not saying you wouldn’t notice improvements when upgrading to a Pixel 10 Pro XL, because you would.
Still, it’s not worth trading up early for. Unlike my recommendation for Pixel 7 Pro owners, those with a Pixel 8 Pro should exercise self-control and leave their money in their wallets.
Still an excellent display with a premium design
Flagship quality even two years later
One of the major reasons I urged Pixel 7 Pro owners to upgrade was the Super Actua display featured on the Pixel 10 Pro XL.
Google’s displays prior to its Super Actua panels were substandard for a flagship device, and Samsung’s panels consistently outshone those featured on Pixels.
I was frustrated by the Pixel 7 Pro display’s lack of brightness and vibrancy, and I hoped for a day when Google would improve with future phones.
Thankfully, you’re already enjoying those efforts on the Pixel 8 Pro.
Yes, the Super Actua panel on the Pixel 10 Pro XL is brighter overall, but you’re still enjoying a fantastic screen with poppy colors that’s easily viewable outdoors.
If the Pixel 8 Pro didn’t already have a Super Actua panel, I would be keen to upgrade, but its display is gorgeous to look at two years on.
Solid performance and plenty of software support
Still five years of updates remaining
Google takes plenty of heat for its Tensor chipsets, but the reality is far from what the benchmarks suggest.
I’ve never had a problem with the Tensor G3 powering my Google Pixel 8 Pro, and it was the smoothest experience I had on Android that year.
Yes, I would like slightly better gaming performance from the Pixel 8 Pro, but otherwise, I’m pleased with how snappy it is. Daily tasks are handled with ease, and it’ll be hard to notice a difference between the Tensor G3 and G5 for most tasks.
Despite earlier Tensor disappointments, Google dialed in the Tensor G3.
You also won’t be lacking in software support. I don’t know how much of Google’s improved Gemini features will trickle down to the Pixel 8 Pro, but I do know it has received the Material 3 Expressive update.
I love Google’s software overhaul for Android 16, and Material 3 Expressive is well-designed, intuitive, and beautiful — precisely what I want from my software.
The integration throughout the entire user experience is well done, and you’ll enjoy what Google’s created if you’re a Pixel fan.
You don’t need to upgrade to a Pixel 10 Pro XL to enjoy the best software experience Google has to offer.
Excellent Pixel cameras and outstanding battery life
The Pixel 8 Pro lasts all day and then some
I love the cameras on the Pixel 10 Pro XL, but the Pixel 8 Pro is no slouch with photography. Its 50MP primary lens produces excellent photos, with crisp detail and deep contrast.
The Pixel 8 Pro is the phone on which I first felt comfortable using the 5x telephoto lens, as I enjoyed the close-up images of wildlife it captured.
It’s a versatile camera system, and Night Sight is still the best low-light photography software on any Android device. The detail the Pixel 8 Pro picks up in less-than-ideal lighting conditions is impressive.
Despite earlier Tensor disappointments, Google dialed in the Tensor G3. It didn’t have many of the overheating problems of its predecessors, and I saw impressive battery life from a Pixel for the first time.
I still consistently get at least eight hours of screen-on time from a single charge — more than enough for a full day of mixed use.
Recharge speeds aren’t the quickest, but if you remember to put your Pixel 8 Pro on the charger overnight, you won’t have issues.
Yes, I get better overall battery life and performance from my Pixel 10 Pro XL, but nothing that would make me jump at an upgrade.
The Pixel 8 Pro is still capable, and I have no reservations about keeping it in my pocket another year or two.
It’s hard to resist temptation
I know you’re being bombarded by juicy trade-in offers and carrier discounts, but, if you’re honest with yourself, there aren’t too many legitimate reasons to let go of your Pixel 8 Pro.
It’s still a fantastic device, and if you stick with it for another year, you can wait to see what Google has in store for the Pixel 11. Hang in there with your Pixel 8 Pro — you’ll be glad you did.
- SoC
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Google Tensor G5
- RAM
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16GB
- Storage
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256 GB / 512 GB / 1TB with Zoned UFS / 1 TB with Zoned UFS
- Battery
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5200mAh
The Pixel 10 Pro XL packs all the same features you’ll find on its less expensive siblings, along with a few exclusive features like a 6.8-inch display and faster charging.
