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Google Pixel 2 XL: Pros and Cons

Android OS v8.0 (Oreo)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 MSM8998
Adreno 540
4 GB / 64 GB
6 inch (1440 x 2880 px)
12 MP, 4048 x 3036 px, autofocus, optical image stabilization

Google announced the launch of the Pixel 2 XL smartphone in 2017. The manufacturer is offering this smartphone with 6 inch POLED display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 MSM8998 SoC, and 4 GB of RAM. The Pixel 2 XL series was launched with Android OS v8.0 (Oreo) pre-installed, but it is upgradable. The 6 inch phone comes with a high resolution POLED display (1440 x 2880 px). This smartphone has a single camera on the back (12 MP, 4048 x 3036 px, autofocus, optical image stabilization). Does this phone justify its price tag? I hope to provide clarity by the conclusion of my review.

Table of Contents

This article shares our personal experiences and thoughts about using the Google Pixel 2 XL smartphone. We hope to offer helpful insights to others interested in this device. The specifications below are from the official manufacturer data, but we also consider user reviews. If you've seen any mistakes or things missing in these specifications, please let us know.

Google Pixel 2 XL / 1

Google Pixel 2 XL specifications

BrandGoogle
NamePixel 2 XL
ModelPIXEL2XL
Release date2017

Weight, dimensions, colors

Weight6.17 oz
Dimensions6.22 x 3.02 x 0.31 inch
Colorsblack, white
SIM typeNano SIM

The weight of Google Pixel 2 XL is about 6.17 oz with battery. This is average for smartphones of the same size. Smartphones use a Nano SIM as a small chipcard for a subscriber identity module (SIM).

System, chipset, performance

OS versionAndroid OS v8.0 (Oreo)
SoCQualcomm Snapdragon 835 MSM8998
CPUOcta-core, Quad-core 2.35 GHz Kryo, Quad-core 1.9 GHz Kryo
GPUAdreno 540

The Google Pixel 2 XL comes with Android OS v8.0 (Oreo) out of the box. The Android operating system uses the Linux kernel as its foundation. It includes a user interface, middleware, and many pre-installed applications. An advanced scheduler manages this octa-core CPU. It assigns tasks to the CPU for real-time speed and power efficiency. Qualcomm's Snapdragon processors work with Adreno GPUs. The processors are designed for the GPUs.

Google Pixel 2 XL / 1

Display type, size, resolution

Display typePOLED
Screen size6 inch
Resolution1440 x 2880 px
Multitouch supportyes

The POLED technology allows for innovative and unique designs. The 6 inch display should be big enough for your needs. It will make viewing comfortable. This is true whether you're reading, browsing, or watching. The size of the screen is measured diagonally, from corner to corner.

Memory, storage

RAM4 GB
Internal storage64 GB
Memory card slotmo

The Google Pixel 2 XL comes with 4 GB of RAM, which is considered to be sufficient for most users' needs. The needed RAM amount for good performance depends on factors. These include the OS, the apps, and the services you use. 64 GB of storage is usually seen as good for a smartphone. It should be enough for most users.

Google Pixel 2 XL / 2

Cameras, flash

Main camera12 MP, 4048 x 3036 px, autofocus, optical image stabilization
FlashDual LED
Selfie camera8 MP

The single camera can be enough for many smartphone users. It depends on their photography needs and preferences. The main camera of Pixel 2 XL has optical image stabilization (OIS). It counters camera shake.

Connectivity, network, wireless

GSM 2G bands850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
Network coverage2G / 3G / 4G
Wi-FiWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
Bluetoothv5.0, A2DP
GPSA-GPS, GLONASS
NFCyes
FM radiono
USBUSB Type-C
HeadphoneUSB Type-C adapter

Worldwide, people use 4G networks. They have become the standard for mobile networks in many countries. The phone is capable of connecting to Wi-Fi networks. The Pixel 2 XL smartphone is capable of connecting to Bluetooth devices. The GPS allows this smartphone to find their exact location. It provides accurate navigation and mapping. The Pixel 2 XL has a built-in NFC chip, which allows it to support various NFC applications and services. The Pixel 2 XL smartphone does not have 3.5 mm headphone jack.

Battery type, capacity, charger

TypeLi-Ion 3520 mAh, non-removable

The Li-Ion 3520 mAh, non-removable battery gives the smartphone a good battery backup. The Li-ion is a low maintenance battery. It does not need periodic full discharge. The battery of Pixel 2 XL isn't removable without voiding the warranty.

Features, sensors, specials

Sensorsaccelerometer, active edge, barometer, compass, fingerprint, gyroscope, hall, light, proximity
SpecialsCorning Gorilla Glass 5, Fast charging, Certified IP68 dustproof and waterproof

Today, smartphones come with many sensors. They help make the user experience better. The Pixel 2 XL smartphone has an accelerometer. The Pixel 2 XL phone has a fingerprint scanner. The light sensor detects the level of light in the environment. IP68 rated smartphones often have extra structure or seals. These protect against water and dust. The fast charging technology comes in handy when you need quick juice on your device. Corning Gorilla Glass is a type of chemically strengthened super-glass.

Verdict, pros and cons

Every phone has its strengths and weaknesses, and this Google phone is no exception. As with any device, there are aspects that shine and others that fall short. By examining both sides, we can paint a complete picture of what this phone has to offer. Let's explore its standout features and areas for improvement. Remember, this is just my opinion, and yours might be different.

Pros

  • POLED display
  • appropriate screen size
  • adequate memory
  • optical image stabilization (OIS)
  • IP68 certified protection
  • Corning Gorilla Glass shield

Cons

  • single camera setup
  • no 5G support
  • no headphone jack
  • low-capacity battery
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Lucas Bradley I'm Lucas Bradley, the founder of the Phone42.com site. I love technology, especially smartphones, and I've been working with tech stuff for more than 20 years. This means I've seen a lot of changes and have learned a bunch about what makes a good phone. On Phone42.com, I look at all kinds of phones. They can be from big, well-known companies or new ones trying to make their mark. I want to help people understand what's new and cool in the world of smartphones, in a way that's easy to get.
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