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Best Google Pixel phones 2024: Which Google smartphone should you buy?
All of the Pixel handsets, ranked.
Google is now on its ninth generation of Pixel smartphones, but which is the best model for you? We've rated all the latest Pixel handsets, from the flagship Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL to the most affordable Pixel 8a, and even older models like the Pixel 8 and Pixel 7a, to bring you the best phone recommendations possible.
The Pixel range has built a reputation over the past few years for offering a pure Android experience, with a superior camera system to many of its competitors. Perhaps best of all, the smartphones are usually priced competitively to undercut Samsung and Apple.
These are just a few reasons you'll find many Google Pixel models in our list of best iPhone alternatives.
In terms of the number of models, Google's range is relatively small, especially compared to Samsung's sprawling lineup (which can be seen in our best Samsung phone list), but that doesn't mean there aren't some difficult choices to make as you compare your options.
Best Pixel phones
Want to save money on the latest Google Pixel phones? Check out Digital Spy's best Pixel 9 deals, best Pixel 8 phone deals, the best Pixel 8a deals and don't forget to buy a new Pixel case either.
Here's a breakdown of the different Pixel models:
Pixel: This is Google's flagship smartphone, with a premium design and an advanced set of Pixel features. The standard model is often denoted with just a number – the Pixel 8, for example.
Pixel Pro: Feature-wise, the Pro model of the Pixel is essentially identical to the standard Pixel, just with a larger display, an extra camera lens and a bigger battery.
Pixel A: The Pixel A series is Google's affordable smartphone range. These models generally share many of the features of the flagship range, but have a less premium display and build quality.
Pros
- Advanced camera hardware and software
- Small with a bright 6.3 inch screen
- Seven years of software updates
Cons
- Very expensive
- Battery could still last longer
Display: 6.3-inch, 1280 x 2856 pixels | Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Camera: 50MP wide, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto | Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB | Battery: 4700mAh| Weight: 199g
If you're happy to splash out on a premium handset, the Google Pixel 9 Pro is one of the best phones in the world.
It has a small yet stunning 6.3-inch screen and a more advanced camera setup than the standard Pixel with a dedicated 5x zoom lens. If you're a budding photographer who doesn't want a huge screen, we'd recommend buying this pocketable flagship.
Jam-packed with AI features, the 9 Pro has some software tools the regular Pixel doesn't have like Video Boost to automatically adjust colour, lighting, stabilisation and graininess in your video footage, 8K video recording and Super Res Zoom Video. You'll also get a brighter screen, more RAM and one year of Gemini Advanced with perks like 2TB of cloud storage and extra AI features.
Buy if:
• You want an advanced camera system with a telephoto lens
• You intend to keep your next phone for a long time
Don't buy if:
• You want a big screen
• You're on a budget
Google Pixel 9
Pros
- Identical main camera and ultrawide lens
- Compact size
- Countless up-to-date AI tools
Cons
- No telephoto lens
- More expensive than the Pixel 8 was
Display: 6.3-inch, 2424 x 1080 pixels | Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Camera: 50MP wide, 48MP ultrawide | Storage: 128GB/256GB | Battery: 4700mAh| Weight: 198g
The Google Pixel 9 is not only the best Pixel smartphone for most people, we think it's one of the best Android phones for most people.
We tried out the Pixel 9 and were impressed by what it has to offer – it's stylish, the camera produces great shots, the Tensor G4 chipset and 12GB of RAM make for speedy system navigation and there are loads of cool AI features.
In comparison to the Pixel 8, the 9th generation introduces a slightly bigger 6.3-inch screen, a more powerful battery and an upgraded 48MP ultrawide lens to go alongside the 50MP main lens.
Buy if:
• You want a pocket-friendly smartphone
• You intend to keep your next phone for a long time
Don't buy if:
• You want a dedicated zoom lens on the camera
• You would rather have a big screen
Google Pixel 9 review
Google Pixel 8a
Pros
- 120Hz OLED display
- 7 years of software updates
- All-day battery
Cons
- Camera and screen aren't as good as the Pixel 8
- Takes a while to charge
Display: 6.1-inch, 1080 x 2400 pixels | Processor: Google Tensor G3 | Camera: 64 MP wide, 13 MP ultrawide | Storage: 128GB, 256GB | Battery: 4,492mAh | Weight: 188g
The Pixel 8a is one of the best budget phones on the planet in 2024 — it isn't that different from the Pixel 8 but it costs a fair amount less, which makes this such a good deal. Yes, the camera lets in slightly less light, the OLED screen isn't as bright and the battery is a bit smaller, but you get all the same cool AI features, an identical processor and Google's iconic design.
When we tested out the phone, we were also impressed by the battery that lasted the whole day, and despite being less advanced than the Pixel 8, we still managed to snap good-looking shots on the camera system, thanks to Google's cutting-edge software. To add to that the device is pocket-friendly, stylish and will get up to seven years of software updates. This is a top buy for a tight budget!
Buy if:
• You want a pocket-friendly, affordable smartphone
• You intend to keep your next phone for a long time
Don't buy if:
• You want a dedicated zoom lens on the camera
• You want fast charging
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Pros
- Huge 6.8-inch screen
- Biggest Pixel battery
- Advanced camera system and features
Cons
- Might be too big for some
- Expensive
Display: 6.8-inch, 1344 x 2992 pixels | Processor: Google Tensor G3 | Camera: 50MP wide, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto | Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Battery: 5,060mAh | Weight: 221g
If you spend a lot of time on your phone streaming TV and movies, gaming or working, you might be better off buying the Pixel 9 Pro because it has a huge 6.8-inch screen. It'll be too big for some people, but if you want the extra space, it'll provide top-level quality and performance.
Other than size, there aren't many differences between the Pro and the Pro XL – the larger model also has a bigger battery and faster charging but the same camera system, the same processor and the same software features.
Buy if:
• You want a large screen
• You're interested in smartphone photography
Don't buy if:
• You want a compact phone
• You're on a budget
Google Pixel 8
Pros
- Compact handset
- Stellar camera system
- 7 years of software updates
Cons
- No telephoto lens
- Slippy without a case
Display: 6.2-inch, 2400 x 1080 pixels | Processor: Google Tensor G3 | Camera: 50MP wide, 12MP ultrawide | Storage: 128GB/256GB | Battery: 4575mAh| Weight: 187g
The Google Pixel 8 was the best Pixel smartphone for most people in 2023 and it is still very much worth buying in 2024. The best part? Because it's a previous-generation smartphone, you'll be able to find some fantastic deals on it now.
If you buy this phone, you'll get a slightly smaller 6.2-inch screen, although it's the same resolution as the latest model, and it sports the same level of water resistance, as well as an identical 50MP main camera lens.
One of the biggest reasons to buy a Pixel is software, and this phone will get a lot of the same tools and features as the new device. The drawbacks are losing out on speed without the Tensor G4 processor and only 8GB of RAM, and the battery also won't last as long.
Buy if:
• You want a small smartphone
• You're on a budget
Don't buy if:
• You want a dedicated zoom lens on the camera
• You would rather have a big screen
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Pros
- Fantastic cover display with lots of space
- Solid camera capabilities
- Useful mini tablet screen on the inside
Cons
- Very expensive
- Charges slowly
Display: 6.3-inch cover, 8-inch internal display | Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Camera: 48MP wide, 10.5MP ultrawide with macro focus, 10.8MP 5x telephoto, 10MP front | Storage: 256GB/512GB | Battery: 4,650mAh | Weight: 257g
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the tech giant's second smartphone with a foldable screen. There's no need to own a phone and a tablet because this pocket-friendly gadget can do both — the front panel looks like a standard smartphone, but the handset opens up like a book to reveal a tablet screen on the inside.
Granted, it's not perfect, and there are still some issues to iron out – for instance, the software could use some work and it's slow to charge. Having said that, we were very impressed by its camera system, which has loads of features to help you get the best shot both pre- and post- capture.
Buy if:
• You stream a lot of TV shows and movies on your phone
• You want lots of cool features like a split-screen and Gemini
Don't buy if:
• You want fast charging
• You're on a budget
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold review
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Pros
- Top tier camera with Pro controls
- Big, bright screen
- Smooth performance
Cons
- Slippy without a case
- It's quite a large handset
Display: 6.7-inch, 1344 x 2992 pixels | Processor: Google Tensor G3 | Camera: 50MP wide, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto | Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB | Battery: 5050 mAh | Weight: 213g
If you want a big screen, the 8 Pro is a top choice and now it has been pushed off the top spot, you'll be able to find some great deals. It has a stunning 6.7-inch screen and a more advanced camera setup than the standard Pixel 8.
Like the most recent Pixels. the 8 Pro has plenty of software perks including Video Boost, Circle to Search, the Magic Editor and Flip to Shhh. You'll still get six more years of software updates and feature drops too, so it'll last up until 203o.
Buy if:
• You want an advanced camera system and a big screen
• You intend to keep your next phone for a long time
Don't buy if:
• You don't like big phones
• You want the most up-to-date model
Google Pixel 7a
Pros
- Terrific value for money
- Great software
Cons
- Battery life could be longer
- Slippy to hold without a case
Display: 6.1-inch, 1080 x 2400 pixels | Processor: Google Tensor G2 | Camera: 64 MP wide, 13 MP ultrawide | Storage: 128GB | Battery: 4,385mAh | Weight: 193.5 g
The Pixel 7a offers many of the same features as the more premium Pixel 7 but at a more attractive price point. The upgrades from the Pixel 6a are significant: the camera is a higher resolution, it has a newer processor which helps with AI features, and a more refined design including a metallic camera bump. When it comes to value for money, this is really tough to beat.
In our full Google Pixel 7a review, we noted that even though the flagship Pixel 7 is a more powerful phone overall (it has more storage options, a slightly bigger screen and faster charging) the Pixel 7a is a stunning mid-range Android option to consider. It delivers everything you need, but, if you want even more storage, longer battery life or that extra telephoto camera on the Pro series, then you'll have to consider upgrading.
Buy if:
• You want a smaller screen
• You're looking for a super-affordable smartphone
Don't buy if:
• You want a dedicated zoom lens on the camera
• You want new feature drops past 2025
How Digital Spy tests Pixel phones
We test Google Pixels based on how they perform over an extended period of use. We always use the handset as our main phone to evaluate every aspect of the device, including its display, cameras, performance, build quality, battery life and software.
We take photos in all lighting conditions, play music through the built-in speakers and download several apps from the Google Play Store, while comparing how it feels to use against similarly priced phones. This list is based on a combination of hands-on tests and rigorous research.
Why you should buy a Google Pixel phone
We've been hands-on with every recent Pixel phone, and there are a few standout features that make them better than other Androids, particularly in the lower-cost models.
Low cost
Pixels are affordable smartphones, with even the Pro series being cheaper than rivals from Apple and Samsung. It's possible to pick up the compact and lightweight Pixel 6a for under £300 these days, and while it won't have the latest processor, many of the base features are the same as newer models, including the eye-turning design language and AI camera modes that let you unblur or remove subjects from your pictures.
Performance
From navigating the menus to downloading apps from the Play Store and uploading videos to Instagram, using a Pixel phone is nearly always a smooth experience. We rarely see lag or stuttering during day-to-day use, and it's consistently speedy, too.
Software support
Google supports its smartphones for years with software and security updates, so you can be assured that you'll get new Android versions (usually quicker than other phones) and that your phone is protected against malicious apps for a long time.
Camera quality
Thanks to Google's AI and machine learning algorithms, the camera systems on Pixel phones are often better than handsets at double the price. They have top quality in low light, bright light and murky light – and there are modes built-in that can remove people from the background of your snaps, or even unblur their faces.
How many years will a Pixel last?
Up until recently you got up to five years of software and security support, starting from when the phone first became available on the Google store. But now, things are changing. The latest devices like the Pixel 8a promise up to seven years of updates and new feature drops.
If you buy an older phone, they become out of date much more quickly. For example, the Pixel 6 (we don’t advise going back further than this as support becomes more limited) has new versions of Android until October 2024 and security patches until October 2026, while the new Pixel 7a will receive new versions of Android until June 2026 and security patches until June 2028. Not sure about your phone? Check out the Google website’s software support page.
Don’t forget: only smartphones with the latest software updates have the most complete protection, so always download the latest version.
Why choose a Pixel instead of an iPhone?
The iPhone 15 is a seriously impressive phone – for iOS users. But if you have lots of other Google-made devices around your home – such as the Nest Hub, Nest doorbell, Fitbit tracker or the Pixel tablet – the Apple world can be a tough place to live for easy connectivity. Having a Pixel phone in your pocket means all these devices will pair quickly and work seamlessly, with the data usually shared (and backed up) via your personal Google account.
That's not all. The Pixel phones have a distinctive design – a large camera bump runs along the entire width of the handset – and it's slightly more eye-catching than the standard iPhone shape and size, which hasn't evolved too much in recent years. And unlike the iPhones, you get to charge your phone via a USB-C cable instead of the Lightning connector.
What to consider before buying a Pixel phone
Which of the best Pixel phones to buy will depend a lot on how much you would like to spend, how long you plan to keep it and what you tend to use your smartphone for.
If you're on a tight budget and simply looking for the cheapest option, you should consider buying an older device like the Google Pixel 7 or the Google Pixel 7a. They're still very capable phones but you can now buy them for a fraction of the price of the latest devices. The only downside is you won't get the latest hardware and those phones won't offer as many years of updates, so you will have to upgrade a few years earlier than if you buy a more recent handset.
Those who are happy to spend the extra money on one of the latest devices will first need to decide how big or small they would prefer their handset to be. The Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8a are more compact and pocket-friendly gadgets, while the Pixel 8 Pro has a much bigger screen.
You'll also need to decide whether you want an advanced camera system or whether you're happy with a more basic set-up. All Pixel phones tend to take nice shots, but only the Pro model comes with a telephoto zoom lens.
Why you can trust Digital Spy
Digital Spy has been in business for 25 years, with a team of experts across TV, movies and tech.
Yasmine Crossland, our Tech Ecommerce Editor, has reviewed countless phones since the start of her career and is an expert on Android in particular. She uses a Google Pixel flagship as her everyday smartphone, so she's well-placed to rank Google's top devices!
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