{"slug": "best-google-pixel-phone-to-buy-in-2026", "title": "Best Google Pixel Phone to Buy in 2026", "summary": "Google's 2026 Pixel lineup includes the Pixel 10A at $500, the Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL with top cameras and Gemini AI, and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold with IP68 rating. The Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL offer iterative updates with strong cameras and AI features, while the Pixel 10A provides excellent value. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold stands out for durability and battery life.", "body_md": "Google offers a full lineup of Pixel phones across a range of prices and performance levels to suit different needs. The [Pixel 10A](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/google-pixel-10a-review/) is Google's newest affordable device, and remains at $500 despite rising costs among other phones. The [Pixel 10 Pro](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/i-tested-the-pixel-10-pro-and-its-a-master-class-on-what-an-android-phone-should-be/) and [Pixel 10 Pro XL](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/ive-spent-days-testing-the-pixel-10-pro-xl-and-its-quite-the-android-phone/) are the company's leading smartphones with top cameras, Google's Gemini AI assistant and Android 16 out of the box, though they can now upgrade to [Android 17](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/android-17-preview/) ahead of other phones. Lastly, the [Pixel 10 Pro Fold](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/pixel-10-pro-fold-review-durability-and-battery-win-out-over-sleekness/) packs all that in a book-style foldable.\n\n## Our Picks\n\nThe Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL aren't a revolution over their predecessors, but almost every element -- from the software to the hardware -- has seen some kind of update, resulting in a phone that feels fresh but familiar. The processor isn't the fastest around, but it's got more than enough power for anything you're likely to need it for, while the cameras have proven themselves extremely capable in our testing.\n\n#### Pros\n\n- Long software support period\n- Camera performs well\n- Impressive AI-assisted Super Res Zoom\n- Fun and useful new AI skills\n\n#### Cons\n\n- Tensor G5 isn't as powerful as rivals\n- Magic Cue of limited use if you don't live strictly in Google's world\n- Images can look over-processed\n\nThe [Pixel 10](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/i-got-my-hands-on-the-pixel-10-impressive-triple-camera-setup-isnt-its-only-wow-factor/) is a standout mid-range phone with a triple rear camera that delivers impressive images in a variety of settings. It has practical AI features, a good display, seven years of OS and security updates, along with a bigger battery that helps it last well beyond a day of regular use. That's why it received a CNET Editors' Choice Award.\n\n#### Pros\n\n- 5x telephoto camera\n- Long-lasting battery\n- Practical AI features like Magic Cue and Voice Translate\n- Same $799 price tag as last year's Pixel 9\n\n#### Cons\n\n- Some AI features are a work in progress\n- Similar appearance to Pixel 9\n\n[Google’s Pixel 10A](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/google-pixel-10a-review/) remains one of the best value options at $499, pairing consistent Android software updates with an excellent camera. While it won’t steal away anyone enamored by the more expensive [Pixel 10](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/i-got-my-hands-on-the-pixel-10-impressive-triple-camera-setup-isnt-its-only-wow-factor/), it’s still an easy recommendation when you simply need a phone.\n\n#### Pros\n\n- iPhone-convert friendly\n- Simple, clean phone design\n- Good at photography\n\n#### Cons\n\n- Missing several Pixel 10 features\n- Similar to the Pixel 9A\n\n**Why we like it**\n\nThe Pixel 10 Pro Fold looks a lot like its predecessor, but what it lacks in design innovation, it makes up for in durability, reliability and performance. It may not be as thin as other book-style foldable phones such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, but it does pack a heftier 5,015-mAh battery. Perhaps most impressive is the Pixel 10 Pro Fold's IP68 rating for dust and water resistance -- a standout feature for a foldable phone.\n\n#### Pros\n\n- Slimmer bezels on cover screen\n- More functionality on internal display\n- IP68 rating\n- Longer battery life\n- No price hike\n- Mostly practical AI features\n\n#### Cons\n\n- Similar design to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold\n- Cameras are a step down from the other Pixel 10 Pro phones\n- Multitasking still limited to two apps\n\n### PRIME DAY MOBILE DEALS OF THE WEEK\n\n- $700 (save $200)\n- $700 (save $300)\n- $599 (save $200)\n- $399 (save $100)\n- $330 (save $120)\n\n## What is the best Google Pixel phone right now?\n\nThe Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL sit at the top of Google's phone lineup, with their Tensor G5 processor, fantastic cameras and a host of AI skills. Gemini Advanced is truly amazing, but in our testing, there were some hiccups. One thing to look out for is price. The Pixel 10 Pro is a new, smaller version with a 6.3-inch screen and a $999 price tag. The 6.8-inch Pixel 10 Pro XL is the larger version, with more starting storage and a bigger battery. The Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL also have satellite SOS for emergencies and come with seven years of major Android OS updates, security patches and Pixel feature drops.\n\n#### Pros\n\n- Long software support period\n- Camera performs well\n- Impressive AI-assisted Super Res Zoom\n- Fun and useful new AI skills\n\n#### Cons\n\n- Tensor G5 isn't as powerful as rivals\n- Magic Cue of limited use if you don't live strictly in Google's world\n- Images can look over-processed\n\nThe Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL aren't a revolution over their predecessors, but almost every element -- from the software to the hardware -- has seen some kind of update, resulting in a phone that feels fresh but familiar. The processor isn't the fastest around, but it's got more than enough power for anything you're likely to need it for, while the cameras have proven themselves extremely capable in our testing.\n\nMix in the fun (and potentially quite useful) new AI skills and the long software support period and Google's new phones do a lot to earn their \"flagship\" title.\n\n**Why we like it**\n\nThe Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL build on their already superb predecessors, offering more power and deeper, more useful AI skills. The cameras remain some of the best around while the large 6.8-inch display offers plenty of space to do justice to YouTube videos and mobile games on the go.\n\n**Who it's best for**\n\nWhile some Android rivals offer more straight-line speed, the Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL offer a truly slick, all-around experience. These phones are easy to use, swift to operate and allow you to take stunning images with little input on your part. If you want a \"do it all\" phone that won't get in your way, you'll likely do well these phones.\n\n**Who shouldn't get it**\n\nPassionate mobile gamers wanting to hit the highest frame rates for pro-level mobile gaming may find the Tensor G5 processor's raw speed lacking.\n\n#### Pros\n\n- 5x telephoto camera\n- Long-lasting battery\n- Practical AI features like Magic Cue and Voice Translate\n- Same $799 price tag as last year's Pixel 9\n\n#### Cons\n\n- Some AI features are a work in progress\n- Similar appearance to Pixel 9\n\nThe [Pixel 10](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/i-got-my-hands-on-the-pixel-10-impressive-triple-camera-setup-isnt-its-only-wow-factor/) is a standout mid-range phone with a triple rear camera that delivers impressive images in a variety of settings. It has practical AI features, a good display, seven years of OS and security updates, along with a bigger battery that helps it last well beyond a day of regular use. That's why it received a CNET Editors' Choice Award.\n\n**Why we like it**\n\nAt $799, the Pixel 10 is a baseline device that packs many of the same features that help Pro-level phones stand out, such as a telephoto camera, long-lasting battery and intuitive AI features. It's a nice, streamlined option if you simply want a dependable phone, backed by seven years of software and security updates.\n\n**Who it's best for**\n\nIf you want a phone with a solid camera for more casual photography, the baseline Pixel 10 should be perfectly suitable. It's also a great choice for someone who simply wants a phone that can last all day, and that's equipped with all the [latest Gemini features](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/i-let-the-pixel-10s-ai-camera-coach-tell-me-how-to-take-photos-and-here-are-the-results/).\n\n**Who shouldn't get it**\n\nIf you consider yourself more of a pro photographer, the Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL may be more appealing options. Also, if you have a Pixel 8 or 9, you're probably fine holding onto your device for a few more years, as there aren't any major differences between those older devices and Google's latest baseline.\n\n[ ](https://cc.cnet.com/v1/otc/04Yxjj1rHOmYAxbnVDhvKNn?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGoogle-Pixel-10a-Smartphone-Detection%2Fdp%2FB0GHRBHVMJ%2Fref%3Dsr_1_1_mod_primary_new&app_deeplink=1)\n\n## Best cheap phone\n\n### Google Pixel 10A\n\n#### Pros\n\n- iPhone-convert friendly\n- Simple, clean phone design\n- Good at photography\n\n#### Cons\n\n- Missing several Pixel 10 features\n- Similar to the Pixel 9A\n\n[Google’s Pixel 10A](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/google-pixel-10a-review/) remains one of the best value options at $499, pairing consistent Android software updates with an excellent camera. While it won’t steal away anyone enamored by the more expensive [Pixel 10](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/i-got-my-hands-on-the-pixel-10-impressive-triple-camera-setup-isnt-its-only-wow-factor/), it’s still an easy recommendation when you simply need a phone.\n\n**Why we like it**\n\nThe Pixel 10A’s ability to send photos and files over AirDrop via Android’s QuickShare makes this phone a lower-cost way to switch from an [iPhone SE](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/apple-iphone-se-2022-review-mind-blowing-value/) to Android without losing that helpful feature. Even those that don’t care about AirDrop can appreciate the Pixel 10A’s camera, which remains one of the best available among phones under $500.\n\n**Who it's best for**\n\nSomeone who wants a nice phone, but isn’t interested in poring through technical details. It’s also a nice gateway phone for people switching from an [iPhone to Android](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/im-switching-from-iphone-to-android/), thanks to its AirDrop support.\n\n**Who shouldn't get it**\n\nGoogle’s prior A-series phones were almost better versions of their pricier siblings with a lot of the same hardware, but the Pixel 10A doesn't follow this tradition thanks to its slower processor and lack of a telephoto camera, which the $799 Pixel 10 has. It’s also not ideal if you absolutely need iMessage or FaceTime access.\n\n#### Pros\n\n- Slimmer bezels on cover screen\n- More functionality on internal display\n- IP68 rating\n- Longer battery life\n- No price hike\n- Mostly practical AI features\n\n#### Cons\n\n- Similar design to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold\n- Cameras are a step down from the other Pixel 10 Pro phones\n- Multitasking still limited to two apps\n\n**Why we like it**\n\nThe Pixel 10 Pro Fold looks a lot like its predecessor, but what it lacks in design innovation, it makes up for in durability, reliability and performance. It may not be as thin as other book-style foldable phones such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, but it does pack a heftier 5,015-mAh battery. Perhaps most impressive is the Pixel 10 Pro Fold's IP68 rating for dust and water resistance -- a standout feature for a foldable phone.\n\nWhat ties it all together is the solid triple-camera setup, which includes a 48-megapixel wide-angle, 10.5-megapixel ultrawide and 10.8-megapixel telephoto camera. There are also 10-megapixel selfie cameras on the inner and cover screens. It's just one example of a foldable phone that doesn't force you to choose design over functionality.\n\n**Who it's best for**\n\nThe Pixel 10 Pro Fold can be a great choice for anyone who needs a compact device for multitasking. The cover screen feels practical for quickly checking texts or scrolling through apps, while the spacious internal display is ideal for running two apps simultaneously (though three apps would really be ideal). If you appreciate having the option to watch videos on a wider display, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold might do the trick.\n\n**Who shouldn't get it**\n\nIf you're seeking true pro-level photography, you may want to opt for Google's non-folding Pixel 10 Pro or 10 Pro XL. Despite the \"Pro\" name on the Fold, its cameras are a step down from what you'll get on those other phones. For instance, you can zoom up to 100x with the Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL and have AI polish up the final image; the 10 Pro Fold can only punch in up to 20x.\n\n## Google Pixel 9 series phones compared\n\n| Google Pixel 10 | Google Pixel 10 Pro | Google Pixel 10 Pro XL | Google Pixel 10A | Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold | |\n|---|---|---|---|---|---|\n| Display size, tech, resolution, refresh rate, brightness | 6.3-inch OLED; 2,424x1,080 pixels; 60 to 120 Hz variable refresh rate | 6.3-inch LTPO OLED; 2,856x1,280 pixels; 1 to 120Hz variable refresh rate | 6.8-inch LTPO OLED; 2,992x1,344 pixels; 1 to 120Hz variable refresh rate | 6.3-inch POLED, 2,424x1,080 pixels, 60-120 Hz variable refresh rate | Cover display: 6.4-inch OLED; 2,364x1,080 pixels; 60 to 120Hz refresh rate; Inner display: 8-inch OLED; 2,152 x 2,076 pixels; 1 to 120Hz refresh rate (LTPO) |\n| Pixel density | 422 ppi | 495 ppi | 486 ppi | 422 ppi | Cover: 408ppi; Internal: 373ppi |\n| Dimensions (inches) | 6 x 2.8 x 0.3 in | 6 x 2.8 x 0.3 in | 6.4 x 3 x 0.3 in | 6.1x2.9x0.4 | Open: 6.1 x 5.9 x 0.2 in; Closed: 6.1 x 3 x 0.4 in |\n| Dimensions (millimeters) | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm | 154.7x73.3x8.9 | Open: 155.2 x 150.4 x 5.2 mm; Closed: 155.2 x 76.3 x 10.8 mm |\n| Weight (grams, ounces) | 204 g (7.2 oz) | 207 g (7.3 oz) | 232 g (8.2 oz) | 183 g (6.5 oz) | 258g (9.1 oz) |\n| Mobile software | Android 16 | Android 16 | Android 16 | Android 16 | Android 16 |\n| Camera | 48-megapixel (wide), 13-megapixel (ultrawide), 10.8-megapixel (5x telephoto) | 50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (5x telephoto) | 50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (5x telephoto) | 48-megapixel (wide), 13-megapixel (ultrawide) | 48-megapixel (wide), 10.5-megapixel (ultrawide), 10.8-megapixel (5x telephoto) |\n| Front-facing camera | 10.5-megapixel | 42-megapixel | 42-megapixel | 13-megapixel | 10-megapixel (inner screen); 10-megapixel (cover screen) |\n| Video capture | 4K | 8K | 8K | 4K | 4K |\n| Processor | Google Tensor G5 | Google Tensor G5 | Google Tensor G5 | Google Tensor G4 | Google Tensor G5 |\n| RAM/storage | 12GB RAM + 128GB, 256GB | 16GB RAM + 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 16GB RAM + 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 8GB + 128GB, 256GB | 16GB + 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |\n| Expandable storage | None | None | None | None | None |\n| Battery | 4,970 mAh | 4,870 mAh | 5,200 mAh | 5,100 mAh | 5,015 mAh |\n| Fingerprint sensor | Under display | Under display | Under display | Under display | Yes |\n| Connector | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C |\n| Headphone jack | None | None | None | None | None |\n| Special features | Gorilla Glass 2 Victus cover glass; 3,000 nits peak brightness; Satellite SOS; Dual-eSIM; Wi-Fi 6E; NFC; Bluetooth 6; 30W fast charging (wall charger not included); Qi2 15W wireless charging; support for PixelSnap magnetic accessories; Google VPN; Super Res Zoom up to 20x; Camera Coach; Add Me; Macro mode; Face Unblur; Auto Best Take; IP68 rating for dust and water resistance; 7 years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates; Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 polished back with satin finish aluminum frame | Gorilla Glass 2 Victus cover glass; 3,300 nits peak brightness; Satellite SOS; Dual-eSIM; Wi-Fi 7; NFC; Bluetooth 6; 30W fast charging (wall charger not included); Qi2 15W wireless charging; support for PixelSnap magnetic accessories; Google VPN; Pro Res zoom up to 100x; Camera Coach; Add Me; Macro mode; Face Unblur; Auto Best Take; High-Res Portrait mode; IP68 rating for dust and water resistance; 7 years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates; Corning Gorilla GlassVictus 2 silky matte back with polished finish aluminum frame; ultrawideband chip | Gorilla Glass 2 Victus cover glass; 3,300 nits peak brightness; Satellite SOS; Dual-eSIM; Wi-Fi 7; NFC; Bluetooth 6; 45W fast charging (wall charger not included); Qi2.2 25W wireless charging; support for PixelSnap magnetic accessories; Google VPN; Pro Res zoom up to 100x; Camera Coach; Add Me; Macro mode; Face Unblur; Auto Best Take; High-Res Portrait mode; IP68 rating for dust and water resistance; 7 years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates; Corning Gorilla GlassVictus 2 silky matte back with polished finish aluminum frame; ultrawideband chip | 7 years of OS, security and Pixel feature drops, Gorilla Glass 3 cover glass, IP68 dust and water resistance, 3,000-nit peak brightness, 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio, 30W fast charging with 45W charging adapter (charger not included), 10W wireless charging Qi certified, Satellite SOS, Wi-Fi 6E, NFC, Bluetooth 6, dual-SIM (nano SIM + eSIM), Camera Coach, Add Me, Best Take, Magic Eraser, Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, Super Res Zoom, Circle to Search; colors: lavender, berry, fog, obsidian (black) | IP68 rating, gearless hinge, cover and internal screen 3,000 nits peak brightnes, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover and back glass, Satellite SOS, ultra-wideband chip, Qi2-certified, free Google VPN. 7 years of OS, security and Pixel Drop updates |\n| US price off-contract | $799 (128GB), $899 (256GB) | $999 (128GB) | $1,199 (256GB) | $499 (128GB) | $1,799 (256GB) |\n\n## Recent updates\n\nIn May 2026, we brought in the latest Pixel phones with the Google Pixel 10 series, Pixel 10 Pro Fold and the most recent Pixel 10A, which is still $500 despite phones getting pricier throughout the year.\n\n## Factors to consider when buying a Pixel phone\n\nDeciding which Pixel phone is best for you will likely come down to how much you're willing to spend. As with anything, the more cash you splash, the better features you'll get. The Pixel 10 Pro XL is the most expensive of the main range (excluding the Fold) and as a result, it comes with the best camera system.\n\nIf photography isn't important to you, you can save yourself some money and look instead toward the base Pixel 10 or the more affordable Pixel 10A. The Pixel 10A has the same processor as the 2025 Pixel 9 Pro, so you can expect good overall performance, butits dual rear camera is better suited for casual shots of your kid at the beach than for chasing Instagram stardom.\n\nIf you want the most cutting-edge piece of tech in your pocket, the Pixel Fold's foldable display certainly makes it stand out. You'll pay a hefty price for this brand-new technology, meaning it's not a phone for everyone.\n\n## How we test phones\n\nEvery phone on this list has been thoroughly tested by CNET's expert reviews team. We use the phone, test the features, play games and take photos. We assess any marketing promises that a company makes about its phones. If we find something we don't like, be it battery life or build quality, we tell you all about it.\n\nWe examine every aspect of a phone during testing:\n\n- Display\n- Design and feel\n- Processor performance\n- Battery life\n- Camera quality\n- Features\n\nWe test all of a phone's cameras (both front and back) in a variety of conditions: from outdoors under sunlight to dimmer indoor locales and nighttime scenes (for any available night modes). We also compare our findings against similarly priced models. We have a series of real-world battery tests to see how long a phone lasts under everyday use.\n\nPlus, we take into account additional phone features including 5G, fingerprint and face readers, styluses, fast charging, foldable displays and other useful extras. We weigh all of our experiences and testing against the price, so you know whether a phone represents good value.\n\n**Read** **more:** [How We Test Phones](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/how-cnet-tests-phones/)\n\n## Other Pixel phones we tested\n\nThe Pixel 9A is still an outstanding phone. In fact it earned a [CNET Editors Choice Award](https://www.cnet.com/editors-choice/) because of the number of features it has for its $499 price. Since the Pixel 10A is out, it makes sense to get it over the 9A if they both cost the same. But if you can snag the Pixel 9A on discount, you'll get a solid phone with good cameras, a clean design and a solid screen.\n\n## Pixel phone FAQs\n\n### Are Pixel phones good?\n\n## What to look forward to in 2026/2027\n\nGoogle will likely be releasing Android 17 in June after Google I/O in May. And we expect to see the Pixel 11 series later in 2026. It'll be curious to see if Google drops another foldable (presumably the Pixel 11 Pro Fold) alongside its other flagship phones in its typical August release window, especially since the Pixel 10A was released earlier in the year. What new features are coming is anyone's guess, but it'll likely include a lot of Gemini AI-powered perks and extras.", "url": "https://wpnews.pro/news/best-google-pixel-phone-to-buy-in-2026", "canonical_source": "https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-google-pixel-phone/", "published_at": "2026-06-26 12:00:00+00:00", "updated_at": "2026-06-26 13:10:09.622350+00:00", "lang": "en", "topics": ["ai-products", "ai-tools", "ai-agents"], "entities": ["Google", "Pixel 10A", "Pixel 10 Pro", "Pixel 10 Pro XL", "Pixel 10 Pro Fold", "Gemini", "Android 16", "Android 17"], "alternates": {"html": "https://wpnews.pro/news/best-google-pixel-phone-to-buy-in-2026", "markdown": "https://wpnews.pro/news/best-google-pixel-phone-to-buy-in-2026.md", "text": "https://wpnews.pro/news/best-google-pixel-phone-to-buy-in-2026.txt", "jsonld": "https://wpnews.pro/news/best-google-pixel-phone-to-buy-in-2026.jsonld"}}