The "1-Minute" Review
Verdict
Reviewers consistently refer to the Google Pixel 6 Pro as one of the best Android phones ever released. If you’re looking for an Android phone that can compete with Apple’s iPhone on polish and performance, this is as close as it gets.What's good
- Android 12
- Impressive cameras
- Great new design
- Priced lower than competitors
What's bad
- Average battery
- Some camera features can be tricky
- Finicky fingerprint sensor
There was a lot to look forward to with the new Google Pixel 6, and now the Pro says it brings even more to the table. Is Google’s pinnacle phone release worth buying? Let’s find out.
Design
Much in line with the smaller sibling, the Pixel 6 Pro has the same full-length camera bump and ultra-clean lines. While the camera bump is larger, reviewers were pleased that the phone doesn’t rock or tile when set on its back. The Pro version offers different color options, including Cloudy White, Sorta Sunny and Stormy Black.
Display
The 6.7-inch display blew reviewers away. They loved the vivid colors on offer and sharp details. They also noted it was easy to see in broad daylight. Add in a 120Hz refresh rate and the screen is an example of the best screen technology available today.
Performance
The new Google-developed Tensor chipset adds to the phone. Reviewers state that the Google Pixel 6 Pro is smooth and snappy without stutters or app crashes. Nothing they could throw at it would make it stumble or hiccup. From gaming to productivity to messaging and media, the phone handles it all.
Software & Storage
The Google Pixel 6 Pro ships with the brand-new Android 12 and rapid updates as soon as they’re released. Storage has the same options as the Google Pixel 6, though some countries will find a 512GB option available.
Cameras
While the Pixel 6 wowed reviewers with its software-centric approach to cameras, the Google Pixel 6 Pro added even more bells and whistles. The magic eraser allows you to remove people or objects from your pictures. There’s a long exposure mode for artistic shots or astrophotography. Of course, there are also the typical features like portrait and ultra-wide shots as well.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or looking for a camera that lets you point and shoot without worry, the Pixel 6 Pro is a powerhouse.
Battery Life
Battery life is the one area where reviewers felt the phone stumbles a little. Most reviewers stated that it would last a normal day with moderate use. But if you’re a heavy phone user or like to record lots of videos, you’ll likely need a charger on hand mid-day.
To add to the aggravation, the phone doesn’t ship with the supported 30W fast charger. So if you want speedy top-ups, you’ll need to spend a little extra.
Audio
Reviewers state that including the stereo speakers is a step in the right direction. But to get the most from the phone’s speakers, you need to use the adaptive sound features or dive into the equalizer yourself -- both can be kind of complex depending on your experience with such things.
Specs at a Glance
- Aluminum and glass chassis
- 6.7-inch QHD display
- Google Tensor (5 nm) Octa-core 2.8 GHz processor
- 12GB of RAM
- Android 12
- 128, 256, or 512GB of storage
- 50+MP camera
- 5,003mAh battery
Bottom Line
There’s a lot of great things to say about the Google Pixel 6 Pro. It offers a unique new design, a beautiful screen, and lots of fun features to play with. It’s even priced lower than many of its competitors.
There’s a debate about the new camera bump, but on the whole, more people love it than don’t. A 120Hz refresh rate display and impressive new chipset also make it one of the fastest Android releases ever. It seems like Google may have brought Android back to the table in the fight with Apple’s ubiquitous iPhone.
PC Magazine states, “Google's Pixel 6 Pro is a class-leading flagship phone thanks to killer battery life, fast performance, excellent cameras, and unbeatable Android software.”
Tom’s Guide says, “Google has once again reclaimed its Android photography crown and goes head-to-head with Apple’s best. The Pixel 6 Pro is a powerful and capable phone and Tensor, while somewhat moderate in benchmarks, has some seriously excellent applications.”
What the Critics Are Saying...
- Josh Hendrickson, Review GeekWithout a doubt, the Pixel 6 Series is Google’s finest achievement in flagship hardware yet. If you’ve ever been on the fence about a Pixel phone, now is the time to get off the fence and buy one already. But unless you have money to spare and you absolutely want the best possible specs, I’d steer y...
- Peter Phelps, RecombuThe Google Pixel 6 Pro is a truly excellent smartphone that boasts a brilliant screen, a top-class camera, and luscious software. The only major disadvantage to this device is its battery, which can drain at an alarming rate if you’re gaming or recording video.
- Lynn Anderson, DxOMarkDespite slightly low brightness at its default settings when playing videos, the Google Pixel 6 Pro put in a satisfactory performance overall in our Display protocol tests. It has very good color and a comfortably smooth touch.
- Marie Georgescu De Hillerin, DxOMarkWhile the Google Pixel 6 Pro bests its predecessors, it delivers a mid-pack performance when compared to all the phones in our Audio rankings. Google’s 2021 flagship fares reasonably well in gaming playback, but isn’t an interesting option for playing music or watching movies on the built-in speaker...
- Robert Triggs, Android AuthorityPersonally, I’m learning to love the Google Pixel 6 Pro, warts and all. Despite its flaws, it’s my favorite phone to use this year thanks to its unique design and powerful camera setup. Yet while the smaller Pixel 6 doesn’t have quite the same technological wow factor, it’s an unbelievably good buy...
Prices (Where to Buy)
Common Questions
Google Pixel 6 Pro prices will vary depending on retailer, age, special offers and whether or not it's purchased with a service plan. If purchased with a 2 year service contract for example, you would likely pay much less for the phone itself up front. Google's suggested retail price is $899.00. You can compare Pixel 6 Pro prices from around the web here on The Informr.
Google backs up the Pixel 6 Pro with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
If your Pixel 6 Pro has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact Google support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find Google's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.
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