Kerry Wan/ZDNET
Google's non-Pro Pixel phone has always been the "safe pick." It's the model I recommend to most users, so long as they can live without the Pro features -- whether that's an extra telephoto camera, more RAM, or better hardware.
Also: This rumored Pixel 10 feature puts Google above Samsung and OnePlus for me - here's why
While there's little left to the imagination as far as what the upcoming Google Pixel 10 phones will look like, if the leaks and rumors are true, there will be a notable shift in dynamics this year. I'll say it now: The Pixel 10, not the Pixel 10 Pro, will be both the safe pick and the best pick in 2025. I'm not alone in that belief, and here's why.
1. A telephoto lens to zoom further
Kerry Wan/ZDNET
An early look at marketing renders suggests that the base-model Pixel 10 will finally get a dedicated telephoto lens, rounding out the traditional main and ultrawide sensors. Whether it's pulled from last year's Pixel 9 Pro Fold or another older model, having a greater optical zoom range will allow users to capture distant subjects with more clarity and detail.
It's a big win, whether you frequently capture photos of your child or pet running around from afar, or want to preserve the liveliness of an artist from your nose-bleed seats.
Also: Google will announce its next lineup of Pixels on August 20 - Here's what we know
There is one notable trade-off with this design decision: Google is reportedly downgrading the main and ultrawide sensors of the Pixel 10 to match the Pixel 9a (which had an inferior camera system to last year's Pixel 9) in order to integrate the additional telephoto sensor. While I found the Pixel 9a's 48MP shooter capable enough for most environments, camera buffs may be more drawn to the Pixel 10 Pro for this reason.
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