I Switched from Samsung to Pixel for Weeks – Here’s Why I Don’t Regret It
▼ Summary
– The Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL maintain the same price as last year but include meaningful upgrades, with the Pro XL offering 256GB base storage and faster charging.
– Both models feature the same design and camera hardware as their predecessors but introduce advanced AI features that enhance user interaction and functionality.
– The phones support eSIM setup, which is described as surprisingly painless and quick, taking less than five minutes with QR code scans.
– New features include Pixelsnap for Qi2 wireless charging compatibility and larger batteries, with the Pro XL having a 5,200mAh capacity and 45W wired charging.
– The Tensor G5 chipset, while underperforming in benchmarks compared to competitors, enables efficient AI tasks and improved camera capabilities, including Pro Res Zoom and Camera Coach.
Switching from Samsung to Google’s Pixel 10 Pro XL proved to be a surprisingly smooth and rewarding experience, offering meaningful upgrades in performance, battery life, and AI integration that make it a standout flagship. While the design remains largely unchanged from last year, the refinements under the hood, and in the software, make a compelling case for those considering an upgrade or a platform switch.
Having used the device extensively over several weeks, it’s clear that Google has focused on refining the user experience rather than reinventing the wheel. The contoured edges and polished aluminum frame continue to deliver a premium feel, though the increased weight, 232 grams for the Pro XL, is noticeable during prolonged use. Still, the trade-off brings tangible benefits, including upgraded speakers and larger batteries that contribute to all-day endurance and richer audio.
One of the most seamless aspects of the transition was activating service. Moving from a physical SIM to eSIM proved remarkably straightforward, taking mere minutes with a few QR scans. Even a carrier employee mistakenly congratulated me on “upgrading to the Pixel 9 Pro XL”, a testament to how subtle the generational design changes are. But where the phone truly shines is in its software intelligence.
AI features like Magic Cue and enhanced computational photography elevate everyday interactions. Magic Cue, for instance, pulled relevant flight details during a customer service call, saving time and reducing frustration. The camera system, while using similar hardware to its predecessor, benefits greatly from the Tensor G5 chip’s improved image processing. Pro Res Zoom and Camera Coach help users capture better shots, even at extreme distances or in challenging conditions.
Battery performance impressed, with the XL model consistently ending days with around 35% remaining. The inclusion of 45W wired charging and Qi2-based Pixelsnap compatibility adds convenience, aligning the Pixel with the growing ecosystem of magnetic accessories. While the new screensaver features during charging are visually appealing, they can feel slightly overbearing with too much information vying for attention.
Performance-wise, the Tensor G5 may not top benchmark charts against Qualcomm rivals, but it handles real-world tasks, from gaming and video editing to multitasking, with ease. The efficiency gains are most apparent in AI-assisted tasks like transcription and translation, where speed and accuracy have noticeably improved.
For those debating between the standard Pro and the XL, the larger model justifies its premium with double the base storage and faster charging. Both models represent Google’s most polished hardware and software integration to date, offering an Android experience that feels both refined and innovative.
Carrier promotions and trade-in deals can further soften the financial commitment, making now an excellent time to consider joining, or returning to, the Pixel family. Whether you’re deeply invested in the Samsung ecosystem or simply curious about Google’s vision for smart devices, the Pixel 10 Pro series makes a strong argument for making the switch.
(Source: ZDNET)
