Google Pixel 4 XL 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

Welcome to my review of the Google Pixel 4 XL, a smartphone that was released back in October of 2019. The Pixel 4 XL is the larger variant of the Pixel 4, and it comes with a lot of advanced features that make it stand out from its predecessor.

Design and Build Quality

The Google Pixel 4 XL boasts an impressive design and build quality that is sure to turn heads. The phone features a glass front and back with an aluminum frame, giving it a premium and sophisticated feel. The Gorilla Glass 5 on both sides provides extra durability, and the IP68 dust and water resistance rating ensures that the phone can withstand accidental spills and splashes.

The Pixel 4 XL measures 160.4 x 75.1 x 8.2 mm and weighs 193 g, making it quite a large and hefty device. However, the phone's size and weight do not compromise its ergonomics and comfort. The curved edges and smooth finish of the phone make it easy to hold and use, even with one hand. The phone's power and volume buttons are conveniently located on the right side of the device and are easy to reach.

One of the standout design features of the Pixel 4 XL is its camera module on the back of the device. The camera bump is quite large and protrudes from the back of the phone, which some users may find unsightly. However, the module houses the phone's impressive dual-camera system, so the tradeoff may be worth it for photography enthusiasts.

Overall, the Google Pixel 4 XL's design and build quality are impressive, and the phone feels like a premium device in the hand. The phone's large size and weight may not be for everyone, but the comfortable ergonomics and durability make it a solid choice for those in need of a reliable and stylish device.

Display

The Google Pixel 4 XL boasts a stunning display that is sure to impress even the most discerning users. The phone features a large 6.3-inch P-OLED screen that delivers excellent color accuracy and vibrancy. With a resolution of 1440 x 3040 pixels and a density of 537 pixels per inch, the display is sharp and crisp, making it perfect for streaming videos, browsing the web, or playing games.

One of the most impressive features of the Pixel 4 XL's display is its 90Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and navigating through menus feel incredibly smooth and fluid. This, combined with the phone's HDR support, enhances the visual experience even further, making colors and contrast pop.

The display's brightness is also noteworthy, providing excellent outdoor visibility even in direct sunlight. Additionally, the screen is equipped with Corning Gorilla Glass 5, making it durable and resistant to scratches and cracks.

The phone's touch sensitivity and responsiveness are also outstanding, making typing and navigating through apps a breeze. Overall, the Google Pixel 4 XL's display is one of the best on the market, providing a stunning visual experience that is sure to impress even the most demanding users.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Google Pixel 4 XL does not disappoint. Powered by the Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 chipset, this phone promises smooth and seamless multitasking. Coupled with 6GB of RAM, it can handle heavy applications and demanding games with ease.

In terms of gaming capabilities, the Pixel 4 XL delivers an impressive experience. Its Adreno 640 GPU ensures that graphics are rendered smoothly, with no noticeable lag or stutter. Benchmark scores also reflect its powerful performance, with an AnTuTu score of 323305 (v7) and 403267 (v8), and a GeekBench score of 10171 (v4.4) and 2267 (v5.1).

Real-world usage further confirms the Pixel 4 XL's speed and efficiency. Apps open quickly and run smoothly, and switching between them is seamless. Even when running multiple apps simultaneously, the phone does not slow down or freeze.

Overall, the Pixel 4 XL offers top-notch performance that is sure to impress even the most demanding users. Whether you're a gamer, a power-user or just looking for a fast and responsive phone, the Pixel 4 XL is definitely worth considering.

Software and User Interface

The Google Pixel 4 XL runs on the latest Android 10 operating system, which is upgradable to Android 13. The UI on this device is clean and uncluttered, which makes it easy to navigate through the various features and options. The device also comes with a few pre-installed apps, but the majority of them can be uninstalled to free up some space.

One of the standout features of the Pixel 4 XL UI is its customization options. Users can customize the font size, icon shape, and even the accent colors to their liking. Another notable feature is the "Digital Wellbeing" tool, which helps users track their smartphone usage and set limits on certain apps.

The Google Assistant is also integrated seamlessly into the UI, allowing users to perform various tasks with simple voice commands. Additionally, the Pixel 4 XL also features the "Live Caption" feature, which automatically captions any audio or video playing on the device.

As for software support, Google provides regular updates and security patches for the Pixel 4 XL. This ensures that the device stays up-to-date with the latest features and security protocols.

Overall, the software and user interface on the Google Pixel 4 XL is top-notch, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize ease of use and customization options.

Camera

When it comes to the camera, the Google Pixel 4 XL does not disappoint. The rear camera setup comprises of a 12.2 MP primary lens with f/1.7 aperture and a 16 MP telephoto lens with f/2.4 aperture, offering a 2x optical zoom. The camera system also boasts dual-pixel phase detection autofocus and optical image stabilization, ensuring sharp and stable shots.

The camera's performance in various lighting conditions is impressive, thanks to the Night Sight feature that enhances low-light photography. The camera's zoom capabilities are also noteworthy, producing clear and detailed images even at the maximum 8x digital zoom.

Video recording quality is at par with the competition, with 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 30/60/120fps options, along with gyro-EIS. The front-facing 8 MP camera, while not as impressive as the rear setup, still delivers decent results for selfies and video calls.

Overall, the Pixel 4 XL's camera is undoubtedly one of its strongest features, making it an ideal choice for photography enthusiasts.

Battery Life

Connectivity and Networking

The Google Pixel 4 XL boasts an impressive range of connectivity and networking features. It supports a wide range of cellular networks including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE, making it suitable for use in different regions around the world. The device also has dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi Direct, and DLNA, ensuring fast and reliable internet connectivity.

Bluetooth 5.0, A2DP, LE, and aptX HD are also supported, allowing for high-quality audio streaming and fast file transfers. Furthermore, the device is equipped with GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO, ensuring accurate and reliable navigation.

The Pixel 4 XL also supports NFC, enabling contactless payments and other NFC-based features. However, it does not have a radio. The device is equipped with a USB Type-C 3.1 port, which supports fast charging and data transfer.

In addition, the device features a range of sensors, including face ID, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, and barometer. These sensors enhance the user experience and enable features such as face unlock and motion sensing.

Overall, the Google Pixel 4 XL offers a comprehensive range of connectivity and networking features, making it a versatile and reliable device for various internet-based activities.

Additional Features

The Google Pixel 4 XL boasts a few additional features that make it stand out from other smartphones on the market. One of the most notable is its IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, which means that the phone can withstand being submerged under water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes without sustaining damage. This is particularly useful for those who enjoy outdoor activities or are prone to accidents.

Another unique feature is the phone's Face Unlock technology, which uses advanced sensors and algorithms to scan the user's face and unlock the phone quickly and securely. This feature is not only convenient but also adds an extra layer of security to the device.

The Pixel 4 XL also does not have a headphone jack, which may be a deal-breaker for some users who prefer wired headphones. However, the phone's stereo speakers more than make up for this, delivering high-quality audio for both music and video.

Finally, the Pixel 4 XL features Google's innovative Motion Sense technology, which uses radar to detect hand gestures and allow users to control their phone without touching it. While this feature is still in its early stages, it has the potential to change the way we interact with our devices in the future.

Overall, the Google Pixel 4 XL offers a range of additional features that are both practical and innovative, making it a great choice for those looking for a smartphone that goes beyond the basics.

Comparison with Other Related Phones

When comparing the Google Pixel 4 XL with other related phones, one device that comes to mind is the Samsung Galaxy S20+. Both phones are flagships from their respective companies, offer similar screen sizes, and run on the Android operating system. However, the Galaxy S20+ boasts a higher screen refresh rate of 120Hz compared to the Pixel 4 XL's 90Hz, giving it a smoother performance overall. Additionally, the S20+ offers a larger battery capacity of 4500mAh compared to the Pixel 4 XL's 3700mAh, possibly resulting in longer battery life.

Another phone that can be compared to the Pixel 4 XL is the Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max. Both devices offer high-end camera capabilities, although the iPhone's triple-lens setup may offer more versatility compared to the Pixel's dual-lens setup. The iPhone also boasts a faster processor with the A13 Bionic chip, which may result in better performance overall. However, the Pixel 4 XL offers more customization options with its Android operating system compared to the iPhone's iOS.

Lastly, the OnePlus 8 Pro can also be compared to the Pixel 4 XL. Both phones offer similar screen sizes and resolutions, as well as fast charging capabilities. However, the OnePlus 8 Pro offers a higher screen refresh rate of 120Hz, similar to the Samsung Galaxy S20+. The OnePlus 8 Pro also boasts a larger battery capacity of 4510mAh, potentially resulting in longer battery life compared to the Pixel 4 XL.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Google Pixel 4 XL is a solid smartphone that has its strengths and weaknesses. While the device boasts a sleek design and impressive display, it falls short in areas such as battery life and storage options. The camera performance on the Pixel 4 XL is among the best in the market, making it a great option for photography enthusiasts. The device's performance and user interface are also noteworthy, with the latest Android operating system providing a seamless experience.

However, it is important to note that the Pixel 4 XL does not come without its flaws. The lack of expandable storage and headphone jack may be a deal-breaker for some users, while others may find the battery life insufficient for their needs.

Overall, the Google Pixel 4 XL is a great choice for users looking for a high-end smartphone with exceptional camera performance and a user-friendly interface. However, those seeking a device with longer battery life or more storage options may want to consider other options.