Google Pixel 2 XL review: The God of Android
The Pixel 2 XL has been developed by Google working closely with LG. With tight control over hardware and software, has it managed to outdo Apple in its premium smartphone game?
For an expensive phone, the Pixel 2 XL lacks the fine detail in the build quality. It has an irregular gap between the lens and the rim surrounding it. AT many places, the glass and metal do not fit seamlessly either. On the bright side though, it at least does not have a hideous notch found on the iPhone X.
The Pixel 2 XL’s 6- inch display is sharp. For those interested in numbers, it packs in 1440 x 2880 pixels with a pixel density of 538ppi.
OLED has inherited advantages over LCD panels. Yet, LG and Google have somehow managed to spoil the party. It is one of the dullest OLED panels we have ever seen. The screen also throws out a blue tinge.
The Pixel 2 XL runs the latest version of Android Oreo. It is not the first smartphone to feature Oreo but is surely the one to deliver the unadulterated experience — Android purists love the stock Android experience on their devices.
Like most flagship phones this year, the Pixel 2 XL is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 835 chipset and the phone pulls off an amazing performance — be it menu navigation or switching between the apps, the phone just won’t give up. The Pixel 2 XL packs in a 3,520mAh battery. On moderate use, the phone easily lasts for over a day and a half on a single charge.
The Pixel 2 XL’s 12.2MP snapper now comes with OIS. It captures sharp images with plenty of detail. Its low- light performance is on par with other premium phones such as the Galaxy S8. The camera captures 4K@ 30fps. The 8MP front- facing camera is good enough to please the selfie- addicts.
The Google Pixel 2 XL has a few bright spots such as a brilliant camera and bloat- free Android. Unfortunately, a badly calibrated screen, boring design, and lack of fine detail in design make it a wasted opportunity. Priced upwards of ` 73,000, the Pixel is pretty steep, but you won’t be sorry either considering the beastly performance within your hands.