The Pixel 10 series, save for the base model, is largely an incremental upgrade, with Google draping the familiar design in new colors. If you are coming from a Pixel 9 series, there’s little conviction to upgrade to the newer models, unless you absolutely cannot live without the new Pixelsnap accessories or the slightly improved Tensor G5. But what if you have an older Pixel 8 series phone?
Then, the Pixel 10’s newer design can be alluring, while the new telephoto on the vanilla Pixel 10 could compel you even more. But will it be worth it? And more importantly, will it truly feel like an upgrade beyond what Google is marketing it to be? To answer these questions, I’m weighing whether you should be upgrading to the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, or Pixel 10 Pro XL from a Pixel 8 or a Pixel 8 Pro.
As a Pixel 8 user, are you upgrading to Pixel 10? If yes, which Pixel 10 feature compels you? 56 votes No, I'm not upgrading 54 % Yes! Better design, more colors 7 % Yes, I want Pixelsnap for wireless charging 5 % Yes! I want three cameras 11 % Yes, Magic Cue is exciting 2 % Yes, new Tensor G5 chip is appealing 21 %
Keep in mind that we haven’t fully reviewed the Pixel 10 phones yet. My opinions below are a blend of our hands-on experience with the devices, as well as their specs and features.
A sleeker design doesn’t mean much
Rita El Khoury / Android Authority Pixel 10
One of the reasons consumers will be tempted to upgrade to a Pixel 10 is the more appealing design. Google updated to the newer design with the Pixel 9 series, with a flat metal frame and a flat glass back. It continues with the Pixel 10, along with new colors for the non-Pro model, one of which has already garnered much interest from you, our readers. In contrast, the Pixel 8’s diffused and tempered colors could feel dull, while the curvier body might not live up to standards, especially since flagships such as the Galaxy S25 and the iPhone 16 have moved to boxier bodies.
However, for me personally, a new design alone doesn’t compel me to upgrade. I’m not as brave as my colleague, Mitja Rutnik, who refuses to put a case on his Pixel phones. Instead, I prefer draping all my phones in cases, which veils much of the design anyway, and am, therefore, immune to design changes.
Tensor G5 is cool, but is it cool enough?
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