Google Pixel 2 Review

• Overview
• Design and Build Quality
• Display
• Performance
• Software and User Interface
• Camera
• Battery Life
• Connectivity and Networking
• Additional Features
• Comparison with Other Related Phones
• Pros and Cons
• Conclusion

Overview

The Google Pixel 2 is a sleek and powerful smartphone that offers a top-notch user experience. With its compact design and vibrant 5.0-inch AMOLED display, this device is a joy to hold and use. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor ensures smooth performance, while the 12.2 MP camera captures stunning photos and videos. The Pixel 2 also boasts an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, making it a reliable companion for any adventure. With options for 64GB or 128GB of storage, you'll have plenty of space for all your apps, photos, and files. Available in Kinda Blue, Just Black, and Clearly White, the Pixel 2 is not only a powerhouse but also a stylish accessory. With a price tag of around 610 EUR, this smartphone offers exceptional value for its features and capabilities.

Design and Build Quality

The Google Pixel 2 boasts a sleek design and a premium look and feel. With its compact form factor and dimensions of 145.7 x 69.7 x 7.8 mm, it is easy to handle and fits comfortably in one hand. The device features a combination of glass and aluminum in its construction, with a Gorilla Glass 5 front and an aluminum/glass back, giving it a modern and stylish aesthetic. The use of these materials also adds to the device's durability and robustness. The Pixel 2 is IP67 dust and water-resistant, providing an added layer of protection. The back panel has a smooth texture, offering a secure grip and preventing slippage. The finishing touches on the device are well-executed, showcasing attention to detail in its build quality. The buttons and controls are well-positioned and responsive, ensuring ease of use. The bezels are minimal, allowing for a larger display-to-body ratio. The frame is made of aluminum, adding to its sturdiness. Overall, the design and build of the Google Pixel 2 exemplify a combination of aesthetics, ergonomics, and functionality, resulting in a device that is both visually appealing and comfortable to use.

Display

The display of the Google Pixel 2 is a 5.0-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels and an aspect ratio of 16:9. It features Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for protection against scratches and accidental drops. The screen has a pixel density of approximately 441 pixels per inch, resulting in sharp and detailed visuals.

One notable feature of the Pixel 2's display is its OLED technology, which provides deep blacks and vibrant colors. The colors on the screen are accurate and well-saturated, making images and videos look more lifelike. The display also offers good brightness levels, ensuring clear visibility even in outdoor environments.

Touch responsiveness is another area where the Pixel 2 excels. The screen is highly responsive, allowing for smooth and precise navigation. Additionally, the Pixel 2 supports an always-on display feature, which shows important information such as time, date, and notifications even when the screen is off, saving battery life.

In terms of viewing angles, the display offers wide angles, ensuring that content remains visible even when viewed from different perspectives. The screen also features an anti-reflective coating, minimizing glare and improving visibility in bright conditions.

The Pixel 2 does not have a notch design, and the bezels surrounding the screen are relatively thick compared to some newer smartphone models. However, the screen-to-body ratio is still respectable, providing an immersive viewing experience.

Other features of the display include a blue light filter to reduce eye strain, adaptive brightness to automatically adjust the screen brightness based on ambient lighting conditions, and screen calibration for accurate color representation.

Overall, the display of the Google Pixel 2 offers a high-quality viewing experience with its vibrant colors, sharp details, and strong touch responsiveness.

Performance

The Google Pixel 2 boasts impressive performance thanks to its powerful chipset and optimized software. Equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 chipset, the octa-core processor delivers excellent CPU performance and efficient multitasking capabilities. It combines four high-performance Kryo cores clocked at 2.35 GHz and four energy-efficient Kryo cores running at 1.9 GHz. This configuration ensures smooth app loading speeds and a lag-free user experience.

In terms of GPU performance, the Pixel 2 utilizes the Adreno 540 GPU, which provides exceptional graphics rendering capabilities. It allows for smooth gameplay and high-quality visuals in demanding games. Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate the Pixel 2's ability to handle graphically intensive games with ease.

Benchmark tests showcase the Pixel 2's stellar performance. In synthetic benchmarks such as GeekBench, it achieves a score of 6437 (v4.4), showcasing its processing power. Graphics scores in gaming benchmarks are also impressive, with the device able to handle demanding games without compromising performance.

One of the key strengths of the Pixel 2's performance lies in its system optimization. The device's software, Android 8.0 Oreo, has been fine-tuned to ensure efficient resource allocation and smooth operation. The combination of the Snapdragon 835 chipset and Android optimization results in a seamless user experience.

The Pixel 2 also excels in thermal management, ensuring that the device remains cool even during extended gaming sessions or resource-intensive tasks. This prevents any performance throttling due to excessive heat, allowing users to enjoy sustained high performance.

Overall, the Google Pixel 2 offers impressive performance metrics across various aspects. Its powerful chipset, efficient CPU, and GPU, along with excellent system optimization, result in a smooth and lag-free experience. Whether you're gaming, multitasking, or simply navigating through apps, the Pixel 2 delivers a high level of performance and a satisfying user experience.

Software and User Interface

The Google Pixel 2 runs on the Android operating system, specifically Android 8.0 Oreo, and it is upgradable to Android 11. This means that users will have access to the latest features and security updates provided by Google. One of the advantages of the Pixel 2's software is its clean and user-friendly interface. The stock Android experience offers a minimalist design and smooth performance. Unlike many other Android smartphones, the Pixel 2 does not come with excessive pre-installed apps or bloatware, which can often clutter the device and slow it down. This allows users to have more control over the apps they want to install and use. The Pixel 2 also benefits from Google's seamless integration with its services, such as Google Assistant and Google Photos. These features enhance the user experience and make tasks easier to accomplish. Additionally, the Pixel 2's software supports customization, allowing users to personalize their device with different themes, wallpapers, and app icons. Overall, the software on the Google Pixel 2 provides a smooth and user-friendly experience, with a clean interface and minimal bloatware, making it a popular choice for Android enthusiasts.

Camera

The Google Pixel 2 boasts a powerful 12.2-megapixel camera with an impressive f/1.8 aperture and a 27mm focal length. This combination allows for excellent image quality and sharpness, particularly in daylight photography. The camera's sensor size and image stabilization contribute to capturing clear and detailed shots, even in challenging lighting conditions. The Pixel 2 excels in low-light performance as well, thanks to its low-light sensitivity and noise reduction capabilities. It also offers a dedicated night mode that enhances the camera's performance in dark environments, producing stunning night photography with minimal noise. The camera features various modes such as portrait mode, HDR, panorama mode, and pro mode, giving users the flexibility to capture a wide range of scenes and styles. Additionally, the Pixel 2's AI scene recognition technology intelligently identifies and adjusts settings for optimal results. When it comes to video recording, the Pixel 2 supports 4K video with excellent video stabilization, ensuring smooth and steady footage. It also offers slow-motion video and time-lapse capabilities, allowing users to get creative with their videos. Overall, the camera on the Google Pixel 2 delivers impressive image and video quality, making it a top choice for photography enthusiasts.

Battery Life

The Google Pixel 2 boasts a Li-Ion 2700 mAh non-removable battery, which provides a decent amount of power for daily use. It supports 10.5W wired charging and PD2.0 technology. While the battery capacity may not be as large as some other smartphones on the market, the Pixel 2 compensates with its power efficiency and optimization features. The device offers a good battery backup and can provide a satisfactory screen-on time and standby time. The inclusion of battery optimization features helps to maximize battery performance and minimize battery drain. The Pixel 2 also supports fast charging, allowing users to quickly recharge their device when needed. However, it does not offer wireless charging options. The battery management system, coupled with the efficient hardware and software integration, ensures a respectable battery life and longevity. Overall, the Google Pixel 2 delivers a reliable battery performance that should meet the needs of most users.

Connectivity and Networking

The Google Pixel 2 offers a range of connectivity options, making it a versatile device for staying connected on the go. It supports various network compatibility, including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE, ensuring that users can connect to their preferred network provider. In terms of data speeds, the Pixel 2 is equipped with LTE capabilities, allowing for fast and reliable internet access.

For wireless connectivity, the Pixel 2 features Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, enabling users to connect to Wi-Fi networks with ease. It supports dual-band Wi-Fi, which enhances the device's ability to connect to different Wi-Fi networks. Additionally, the Pixel 2 supports Wi-Fi Direct and DLNA, providing seamless wireless sharing and streaming capabilities.

Bluetooth 5.0 is integrated into the Pixel 2, offering improved connectivity and faster data transfer rates when connecting to other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This enables users to easily connect their Pixel 2 to wireless headphones, speakers, and other accessories.

NFC (Near Field Communication) is also supported by the Pixel 2, allowing for convenient contactless payments and quick pairing with compatible devices.

The Pixel 2 comes with a USB Type-C 3.1 port, which offers fast charging and data transfer speeds. This port allows for easy connection to other devices, such as computers or external storage.

In terms of navigation, the Pixel 2 includes GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO, providing accurate positioning and reliable navigation capabilities. It also supports mobile hotspot functionality, allowing users to share their device's internet connection with other devices.

Overall, the Google Pixel 2 offers a comprehensive range of connectivity options, ensuring that users can stay connected and enjoy fast and reliable internet access, wireless connections, and seamless navigation.

Additional Features

The Google Pixel 2 offers a range of standout features that make it a top choice among smartphones. Firstly, it comes with an IP67 rating, which means it is both water and dust resistant. This feature ensures that the device can withstand being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes without any damage. Additionally, the Pixel 2 supports wireless charging, specifically Qi wireless charging, which eliminates the need for cables and provides a convenient way to charge the phone.

In terms of sensors, the Pixel 2 is equipped with an accelerometer and gyroscope, which enable motion tracking and enhance gaming and augmented reality experiences. It also includes a sensor suite that includes advanced sensors such as a proximity sensor, compass, and barometer. These additional sensors contribute to the overall functionality and versatility of the device, allowing for a more immersive user experience and access to various environmental data.

With its exceptional water resistance, wireless charging capabilities, and advanced sensor suite, the Google Pixel 2 offers a range of additional features that enhance its overall appeal and make it a compelling choice for smartphone users.

Comparison with Other Related Phones

The Google Pixel 2, released in 2017, was Google's flagship smartphone offering with a strong focus on camera capabilities and pure Android experience. When comparing it to related gadgets in the market, such as the iPhone 8 and Samsung Galaxy S8, the Google Pixel 2 held its ground with its unique features and competitive specifications.

In terms of market positioning, the Google Pixel 2 targeted users who preferred a clean and stock Android experience, similar to the iPhone's iOS. It differentiated itself from competitors by offering unlimited storage for photos and videos at full resolution on Google Photos, a feature that was highly appreciated by users. This gave it a competitive advantage over devices like the iPhone 8 and Galaxy S8, which had limited storage options.

In terms of specifications, the Google Pixel 2 boasted a 5.0-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. While it may not have had the bezel-less design of its competitors, it still offered a vibrant and crisp display. Its Snapdragon 835 chipset and 4GB of RAM ensured smooth performance and multitasking capabilities.

The standout feature of the Google Pixel 2 was its camera. With a single 12.2 MP rear camera, it delivered exceptional image quality, especially in low-light conditions, thanks to its software processing capabilities. This put it on par with or even surpassed the camera performance of devices like the iPhone 8 and Galaxy S8.

In terms of pricing, the Google Pixel 2 was positioned as a premium device, with a price tag of around 610 EUR at launch. While it may have been slightly more expensive than some of its competitors, its unique features and camera capabilities made it a strong contender in the market.

Overall, the Google Pixel 2 offered a competitive package with its clean Android experience, impressive camera, and overall performance. While it may have faced tough competition from devices like the iPhone 8 and Galaxy S8, it carved its own niche in the market with its unique features and value for money proposition.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Google Pixel 2 offers a solid and reliable smartphone experience. Its compact design and IP67 rating provide durability and water resistance. The AMOLED display is vibrant and sharp, while the Snapdragon 835 chipset ensures smooth performance. The camera is exceptional, capturing stunning photos with its advanced features and image stabilization. The stereo speakers deliver impressive audio quality, although the absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack may be a downside for some users. With a decent battery life and the latest Android updates, the Pixel 2 is a worthy choice for those seeking a compact and feature-packed smartphone. Potential buyers can expect a premium experience with this device.