Our Experts
Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission.
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Andrew Lanxon Editor At Large, Lead Photographer, Europe
Andrew is CNET's go-to guy for product coverage and lead photographer for Europe. When not testing the latest phones, he can normally be found with his camera in hand, behind his drums or eating his stash of home-cooked food. Sometimes all at once.
Expertise Smartphones | Photography | iOS | Android | Gaming | Outdoor pursuits Credentials
- Shortlisted for British Photography Awards 2022, Commended in Landscape Photographer of the Year 2022
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Lisa Eadicicco Senior Editor
Lisa Eadicicco is a senior editor for CNET covering mobile devices. She has been writing about technology for almost a decade. Prior to joining CNET, Lisa served as a senior tech correspondent at Insider covering Apple and the broader consumer tech industry. She was also previously a tech columnist for Time Magazine and got her start as a staff writer for Laptop Mag and Tom's Guide.
Expertise Apple | Samsung | Google | Smartphones | Smartwatches | Wearables | Fitness trackers
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Patrick Holland Managing Editor
Patrick Holland has been a phone reviewer for CNET since 2016. He is a former theater director who occasionally makes short films. Patrick has an eye for photography and a passion for everything mobile. He is a colorful raconteur who will guide you through the ever-changing, fast-paced world of phones, especially the iPhone and iOS. He used to co-host CNET's I'm So Obsessed podcast and interviewed guests like Jeff Goldblum, Alfre Woodard, Stephen Merchant, Sam Jay, Edgar Wright and Roy Wood Jr.
Expertise Apple | iPhone | iOS | Android | Samsung | Sony | Google | Motorola | Interviews | Coffee equipment | Cats Credentials
- Patrick's play The Cowboy is included in the Best American Short Plays 2011-12 anthology. He co-wrote and starred in the short film Baden Krunk that won the Best Wisconsin Short Film award at the Milwaukee Short Film Festival.
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CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.
What to Consider
iOS or Android
Size
Cameras
Software support
Table of Contents
Best Google Pixel Phone to Buy in 2024
What is the best Google Pixel phone right now?
Factors to consider when buying a Pixel phone
How we test phones
Pixel phone FAQs
Our Picks
Best Google has to offer
Google Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL
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Best phone for Android purists
Google Pixel 9
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Last year's model is still great
Google Pixel 8 Pro
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Best Android phone under $700
Google Pixel 8
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Best Google Pixel phone for most people
Google Pixel 8A
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The best Google Pixel phone when on sale
Pixel 7A
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The best Google Pixel if you're on a tight budget
Pixel 6A
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Why You Can Trust CNET
16171819202122232425+
Years of Experience
14151617181920212223
Hands-on Product Reviewers
6,0007,0008,0009,00010,00011,00012,00013,00014,00015,000
Sq. Feet of Lab Space
CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.
What to Consider
iOS or Android
Size
Cameras
Software support
Table of Contents
Best Google Pixel Phone to Buy in 2024
What is the best Google Pixel phone right now?
Factors to consider when buying a Pixel phone
How we test phones
Pixel phone FAQs
With phones like the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, Google just shook up its entire smartphone lineup for the better. For years Pixel phones were known for their camera capabilities and being the ideal implementation of Android -- which makes sense because Google makes Android. These new models still have great cameras and will eventually get Android 15 but are largely a platform for Google's Gemini AI assistant.
The Pixel series comfortably competes against the best from Apple and Samsung. Google's current lineup ranges from the affordable Pixel 8A, which is just $449, to the Pixel 9 Pro XL, which starts at $1,099. Then there's the Pixel Fold, which has been replaced by the newly announced Pixel 9 Pro Fold. At $1,799 the 9 Pro Fold is the most expensive Pixel Google sells, but it has a folding display that opens up into a large 8-inch screen, which should be great for watching YouTube videos or playing games. We're currently testing the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and don't have a recommendation at this time.
The range has grown, and with older models like the Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 7A still on sale, it can be a bit confusing to work out which one's best for you. So we've pulled together the top Pixels currently on sale to help you decide.
Read more:Best Phone to Buy in 2024
What is the best Google Pixel phone right now?
The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL sit at the top of Google's phone lineup, with the Tensor G4 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 9 Pro is a new, smaller version with a 6.3-inch screen and a $999 price tag. The 6.8-inch Pixel 9 Pro XL, while it has a new name, is for all intents and purposes the successor to last year's Pixel 8 Pro. The 9 Pro XL actually costs $100 more than the 8 Pro did when it was released. The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL also have Satellite SOS for emergencies and come with seven years of major Android OS updates, security patches and Pixel feature drops.
Pros
- Genuinely fun new AI skills
- Sleek new design
- Seven years of software updates
- Cameras can take great daytime shots
Cons
- Camera hardware hasn't improved much over Pixel 8 Pro
- Gemini AI will eventually require a paid subscription
- Launches with Android 14, not Android 15
Screen size 6.3 inches or 6.8 inches
Processor Google Tensor G4
Cameras 50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (5x telephoto), 42-megapixel (selfie)
Colors Porcelain, rose quartz, obsidian, hazel
The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL have a lot going for them, like their shiny new designs and long software support period. But it's the AI skills that really stand out, from the deep integration of the conversational Gemini Live, to the new Pixel Studio that creates weird and wonderful images from your text prompts.
The phones aren't perfect. While the cameras are good and can take excellent photos in bright light, they're just okay in low-light and in night mode. The best AI features will require a monthly subscription (though you get the first year for free). But if you're keen to experiment with AI on your phone then the new Pixel 9 Pro range is a superb way to experience it.
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Buy a Google Pixel 9, get $100 store credit
Pros
- Beautiful design
- Fun and somewhat useful AI features
- Better ultrawide camera
- 7 years of software updates
Cons
- More expensive
- Doesn't feel that different from Pixel 8
Screen size 6.3 inches
Processor Google Tensor G4
Cameras 50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 10.5 megapixel (selfie)
Colors Peony, wintergreen, porcelain, obsidian
Buy a Google Pixel 9, get $100 store credit
There’s a lot to like about the Pixel 9, from its respectable camera to its classy new design and lengthy seven-year timeline for software updates. But Google’s phones have always shined for their clean, slick software, and that once again applies to the Pixel 9 series. Pixels are also among the first to get new software updates, making them an ideal choice for those who want to get their hands on the latest version of Android first. Aside from Android updates, Google also brings new features to Pixel phones throughout the year through updates it calls Feature Drops.
The Pixel 9 comes with a few new AI tricks that you may find useful, like the ability to search for content in screenshots, generate images from scratch in the Pixel Studio app and add new objects in photos. These features aren’t must-haves, and they’re not without flaws. Plus, at a starting price of $799, the Pixel 9 has a higher bar to live up to. But the Pixel 9 feels like it belongs in that class of device.
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Pros
- Long software support period
- Fun AI tools
- Solid overall camera quality
Cons
- Overall performance is disappointing
- Battery life could be better
Screen size 6.7 inches
Processor Google Tensor G3
Cameras 50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (telephoto), 10.5-megapixel (selfie)
Colors Mint, bay, obsidian, porcelain
While we had some early issues with the Google Pixel 8 Pro -- mostly with its cameras shooting Raw files -- further testing and software updates from Google meant we eventually came away thinking quite highly of the Pixel 8 Pro. It's got a lot going for it, from its slick design and easy-to-use Android 14 software to its rear camera setup, which can take some genuinely beautiful images.Google has sprinkled a variety of new AI features throughout the phone too, including a tool that uses generative AI to create wallpapers for the phone and a camera feature that allows you to combine different faces from a series of burst images of a group of friends to make sure that everyone looks their best.
One of the best updates is Google's commitment to providing seven years of security updates to the Pixel 8 series, meaning this phone will still be safe to use in at least 2030.While we haven't been as impressed with this year's 8 Pro as we were with the 7 Pro, it's still a great phone to consider, especially if you're keen to hold on to your phone for longer. Read our Google Pixel 8 Pro review.
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Pros
- Great cameras
- Bright display
- Long software support period
Cons
- Some AI tools don't work as well as expected
- Higher price
Screen size 6.2 inches
Processor Google Tensor G3
Cameras 50-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide), 10.5-megapixel (selfie)
Colors Mint, hazel, obsidian, rose
The Pixel 8 has many of the features of the more expensive Pixel 8 Pro but comes in a slightly smaller package and with a smaller price tag to match. You'll find the Tensor G3 processor on board, along with Android 14 software that includes AI tools like the generative image wallpaper creator.It also comes with the same guarantee of at least seven years of security updates so this phone will still be going strong in 2030 -- as long as you look after it.
The rear cameras are more cut back here, as the base Pixel 8 lacks the 5x optical zoom camera seen on its bigger brother. I personally love that zoom lens, but then I'm a professional photographer. If photography isn't a priority for you, you can save yourself a bundle and opt for the cheaper of Google's new range.The Pixel 8's higher price $699 seems worth it and makes you realize just how incredibly affordable the $599 Pixel 6 and 7 were and still are. Read our Google Pixel 8 review.
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Pros
- Great camera
- 7 years of software updates
- Many of the same features as the Pixel 8
- Good battery life
Cons
- 256GB storage not available on all models
- Zoomed and low light shots aren't as clear as the Pixel 8's
Screen size 6.1 inches
Processor Google Tensor G3
Cameras 64-megapixel (wide), 13-megapixel (ultrawide), 13-megapixel (selfie)
Colors Aloe, bay, obsidian, porcelain
The Pixel 8A is so good it makes the regular Pixel 8 almost feel irrelevant. It shares so much in common with its pricier sibling, from its selection of AI-powered features like Circle to Search to its cool aesthetic and powerful Tensor G3 processor, that it’s hard to see why anyone would buy the Pixel 8 instead.
The Pixel 8 does offer a marginally better camera system, a slightly larger screen and the ability to charge other phones and accessories wirelessly on the back of the device. Those features don’t feel significant enough to impact the buying decision for most people. AsI wrote in my review, the Pixel 8A raises the bar for what a $500 phone should be. That also means I’ll be expecting more from the Pixel 9 this fall.
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Pros
- Excellent camera
- Attractive design
- Gains wireless charging, face unlock and high refresh rate
Cons
- Screen still looks dim outdoors
- Higher price compared with Pixel 6A at launch
- Only three generations of Android OS updates
Screen size 6.1 inches
Processor Google Tensor G2
Cameras 64-megapixel (main), 13-megapixel (ultrawide), 13-megapixel (selfie)
Colors Coral, sea, charcoal, snow
Editor's note: Google released the Pixel 8A, also $500. You can read our Pixel 8A review here. If you're buying a Pixel 7A make sure it's on sale.
Google's budget phone leaped forward with the Pixel 7A, which offers many of the same benefits as the Pixel 7 but at a cheaper price. Like the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7A runs on Google's Tensor G2 processor, meaning it has many of the same photo editing and language translation features as its pricier sibling. The Pixel 7A's 64-megapixel camera also takes excellent photos that rival the Pixel 7's in quality.
While we still like the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7A's lower price makes it a better deal for most people. Opt for the Pixel 7 only if you want a slightly larger screen and are willing to pay the extra $100 for it. Otherwise, the main differences between the Pixel 7 and 7A come down to the former's more durable build, slightly faster charging and its ability to wirelessly charge compatible accessories. The Pixel 7 also has a larger camera sensor that's more sensitive to light, according to Google, but CNET's Lisa Eadicicco didn't notice much of a difference. Read our Pixel 7A review.
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Pros
- Great camera
- Affordable price
- Premium design for a middle-tier phone
- Among the first to get new Android updates
Cons
- Somewhat dim display
- Not a great value alongside discounted Pixel 6
- Not as many years of guaranteed Android updates as Samsung
- Video quality isn't as good as still photos
Screen size 6.1 inches
Procssor Google Tensor
Cameras 12.2-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultrawide), 8-megapixel (selfie)
Colors Sage
Released in July 2022, the Pixel 6A is one of the older models on this list, but Google still officially sells it alongside its more recent handsets -- and with a cut-down price. The Pixel 6A packs a solid dual camera, 5G connectivity and a decent display into a relatively compact body. While it doesn't have the most up-to-date Tensor processor, its older chip will still cope with all your everyday essentials.
Sure, the Pixel 7A makes some welcome updates with face unlock and wireless charging, but it costs about $100 more than the 6A. If you're looking for a solid Google Pixel experience that leaves you with the most change in your wallet, the 6A is well worth considering.
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Factors to consider when buying a Pixel phone
Deciding 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 9 Pro is the most expensive of the main range (excluding the Fold) and as a result, it comes with the best camera system.
If photography isn't important to you, you can save yourself some money and look instead toward the base Pixel 9 or the more affordable Pixel 8A. The Pixel 8A has the same processor as the 2023 Pixel 8 Pro, so you can expect good overall performance, but its dual rear camera is aimed more toward those of you simply wanting to take the odd snap of your kid on the beach, rather than those looking for Instagram stardom.
If you want the most cutting-edge piece of tech in your pocket, the Pixel Fold's foldable display certainly makes it stand out in the range. You'll pay a hefty price for this brand-new technology, meaning it's not a phone for everyone to consider.
How we test phones
Every 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.
We examine every aspect of a phone during testing:
- Display
- Design and feel
- Processor performance
- Battery life
- Camera quality
- Features
We 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.
We take into account additional phone features like 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.
Readmore:How We Test Phones
Pixel phone FAQs
What about the Pixel 7?
While we loved the Pixel 7 when it first launched, thanks to its solid all-round performance and lower price, the arrival of the cheaper Pixel 7A means we no longer recommend buying the Pixel 7. The 7A shares many of the Pixel 7's features, including the processor and excellent dual camera setup. But in 2024, we'd recommend looking at the Pixel 8A, or if you can afford it, the Pixel 9.
Are Pixel phones good?
We've consistently given Google's Pixel phones high scores in our reviews, due to their decent all-round performance and typically good camera quality. They don't have the most high-performance processors around, but they offer enough power for almost any need, while the pure Android software makes them smooth and easy to use.
