The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is Google’s big-screen flagship for 2025, and it feels like the company is finally putting everything it’s learned into one confident package. It stands tall not just because of its size, but because it delivers a well-rounded experience with cutting-edge cameras, thoughtful AI features and a smooth, polished software experience. It won’t suddenly redefine what a smartphone can be, but it makes a strong case for being one of the best Android phones you can buy today.
Right out of the box, the Pixel 10 Pro XL impresses with its large 6.8-inch OLED display that’s vibrant, sharp and smooth thanks to its adaptive 120Hz refresh rate. Scrolling through apps, watching videos or diving into games feels fluid and really premium, exactly what you’d hope for from a £1,200-plus flagship.
What we like:
- Huge, bright display that’s lovely for media and multitasking.
- Tensor G5 chip handles everyday tasks and AI features with confidence.
- Camera system is still a standout with excellent zoom and great detail.
- Software feels smooth and the promise of long Android support is reassuring.
What we dislike:
- Battery life is decent, but not record-breaking for the price.
- Some AI features feel like they’re still in early stages.
- It’s a large phone, not ideal if you prefer something more pocketable.
- Competition at this price is fierce from Apple and Samsung.
Where the Pixel 10 Pro XL really earns its keep is in the camera department. You’re getting a versatile triple-lens setup with a strong main sensor and a 48 MP telephoto that lets you zoom without losing detail, and results are consistently punchy, rich and easy to share. Even low-light shots feel confident and detailed, which remains a hallmark of the Pixel line.
The Tensor G5 chip brings a nice boost over previous Pixel models, especially when it comes to AI tricks like improved photos and helpful software enhancements throughout Android 16. It all feels responsive and modern, and Google’s promise of several years of updates just sweetens the deal if you plan to keep the phone for the long haul.
Of course, nothing here feels revolutionary. If you’re coming from a recent Pixel 9 Pro XL or another flagship from the last year, you might not feel like you’ve jumped forward by miles, but that’s also part of what makes this phone reliable. It’s a thoughtful evolution rather than a wild redesign.
Overall, the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is a confident flagship that hits most of the right notes: great screen, strong cameras, smooth performance and thoughtful software. It’s big, it’s expensive, and it might not have all the flashiest tricks — but if you want a dependable Android phone that feels polished and capable in everyday use, it’s a contender worth considering.
Our Take at The Tech Blog: This is Google’s most accomplished Pixel yet, not perfect, but consistently strong where it matters most.
What the Tech Blog Thinks
The Samsung Demo Phone currently tops our rank of the greatest Samsung phones available, beating even the pricier iPhone Ultra Max Mega.
So unsurprisingly this is an absolutely fantastic phone. The design isn't massively changed from the previous generation, but most other elements have been upgraded. This is what we call a big boost.
-
Display
-
Performance
-
Features
-
Usability
-
Battery Life
