Google Pixel 10 Review
The Google Pixel 10 has arrived, carrying the legacy of its predecessor while adding a few smart touches. Priced at Rs 79,999, this compact flagship positions itself higher than rivals such as the OnePlus 13s and Vivo X200 FE. At first glance, the Pixel 10 appeals to those who love smaller yet powerful phones, a category that has shrunk over the years. What makes it more interesting is Google’s push toward AI-driven features and a fresh camera setup that includes a 5x telephoto lens. Compared to the Pixel 9, the new model offers a larger battery, refined design, and improved display brightness. But does it truly justify the higher price? Let’s find out.
Design: Familiar but More Refined
The Pixel 10 design continues Google’s minimalist style but adds a satin finish that feels smoother in hand. The pill-shaped camera bar remains, doubling as a grip, while new shades like Indigo and Lemongrass add personality. The 6.3-inch size keeps the phone compact and comfortable to hold, although fingerprints gather easily on the back. A case feels necessary.
Durability is solid, thanks to Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and a 100% recycled aluminium frame. Google also retains the IP68 water and dust protection. The button placement is intuitive, and the slim bezels make the display stand out. In many ways, the Pixel 10 feels sturdier and cleaner than the Pixel 9, though it still lacks the premium gloss of some competitors.
Display: Bright and Immersive
The Pixel 10 features a 6.3-inch Actua OLED screen with a sharp resolution of 1080 x 2424 pixels. Peak brightness now hits 3,000 nits, which helps in strong daylight. Compared to the Pixel 9, this is a step up, and HDR content looks more vivid. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsive animations, matching the flagship standard.
However, when placed next to the OnePlus 13s, the display lacks a bit of punch in color vibrancy. Still, the slim bezels and brightness boost make this one of the most enjoyable compact displays available.
Software and AI: A Smarter Pixel
Running Android 16, the Pixel 10 integrates Google’s Gemini AI more deeply than before. Features like Magic Cue suggest context-based actions, and Camera Coach helps in framing shots. Gemini Live also provides real-time visual insights, making the phone feel like an active assistant.
Compared to the Pixel 9a, these features stand out. The phone anticipates user needs rather than just reacting. Translation, transcription, and instant photo edits feel smoother, making the Pixel 10 one of the most AI-reliant phones available. Yet, the heavy reliance on AI raises the question of whether these tools will stay consistently accurate in daily use.
Performance: Smooth but Not the Fastest
The Pixel 10 runs on the Google Tensor G5 chip, paired with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. Day-to-day usage is fast, with no noticeable lag in apps or multitasking. Gaming also runs smoothly, and the phone manages heat efficiently, even during extended sessions.
On paper, benchmark scores lag behind rivals using Snapdragon 8 Elite or Dimensity 9300+. While those phones may offer raw speed, the Pixel 10 feels balanced in real use, thanks to software optimization. Still, for users who chase the highest benchmark numbers, the Pixel 10 may feel underwhelming.
Camera: Pixel’s Star Performer
Google continues to excel in cameras, and the Pixel 10 proves it again. The triple rear setup includes a 48MP wide, 13MP ultrawide, and a new 10.8MP 5x telephoto lens. Photos show natural tones, accurate details, and strong dynamic range. Unlike Vivo’s punchier colors, Pixel sticks to realism, which may appeal more to purists.
Night Sight captures impressive low-light shots, and portraits come out with natural bokeh. The telephoto lens is a highlight, offering sharp detail at long distances, something the base Pixel models never had before. Selfies also improve with autofocus, ensuring sharpness in group shots.
The only limitation is video performance. While still strong, it lacks some of the cinematic richness found in iPhones.
Battery and Charging: Reliable but Not Fast
The Pixel 10 houses a 4,970mAh battery, which comfortably lasts a day. Extreme Battery Saver can stretch it much further. Compared to the Vivo X200 FE’s 6,500mAh, endurance falls short. Charging is limited to 30W wired and 15W wireless. It takes about an hour for a full charge, which is slower than OnePlus and Vivo rivals.
For everyday users, this will be fine. But in the flagship race, charging speed feels dated.
Verdict: Compact Flagship with Smarts
The Pixel 10 costs more than its compact rivals, but it offers a different kind of value. The AI-first approach, clean Android 16 experience, and excellent cameras make it stand out. Its telephoto lens and smarter features bring something fresh to the compact flagship market.
Still, it lags in charging speed, and raw performance trails behind rivals. If you want flashy numbers, the Pixel 10 may disappoint. But if you prefer a balanced, intelligent phone that takes some of the best photos in the market, the Pixel 10 makes sense.
