The Pixel line has always been considered the purest expression of Android, but after using recent generations, many people think Google 's phones no longer deserve that reputation.
4. Recent Pixel lines have had reliability issues
Many recent Pixel models have been plagued with widespread hardware issues, and this isn't just a few Reddit complaints or bad experiences from a few individuals. These issues are happening so often that even Google has acknowledged them.
Google has had to launch extended repair programs for at least one phone in each generation, from the Pixel 5 line through the Pixel 8 line, usually due to battery or display issues. That's four generations in a row with issues serious enough to warrant a dedicated repair program.
3. Hardware still lags behind competitors
The Pixel has always been a software-first phone, and for the most part, that's fine. Google's Tensor chips have never been able to compete with the best from Apple or Qualcomm, but that doesn't matter much when you get a near- flagship experience for a much cheaper price.
The Pixel 7 launched at $599 and was arguably the best phone you could buy in that price range. It didn't have the same cutting-edge hardware as the iPhone or Samsung flagships of the time, but the lower price and great software features made up for it.
But that balance is no longer there. The Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro now start at $799 and $999, respectively, putting them in the same price range as Samsung and Apple flagships. At that price, the value proposition is gone.
2. Pixel features rarely stay exclusive
As mentioned, the Pixel has always been a software-first phone by design. One of the big draws of the original Pixel was unlimited cloud storage for photos and videos. But these days, Google is happy to bring its features to other devices.
For example, you can use Google's Magic Eraser feature on other Android devices or even an iPhone. And all the Gemini features that Google spends hours showing off at its events work just fine on Samsung phones.
1. Pixel Camera is No Longer the Recognized Best Choice
Some users have recommended the Pixel to anyone interested in cameras. Even in MKBHD's hidden camera test, the budget Pixel 7a outperformed more expensive phones. Google has the edge when it comes to software processing, but with each new generation of cameras, it seems like the company has become less concerned with the camera and more focused on pushing AI, leaving behind any real improvements in smartphone cameras.
Instead of making significant hardware improvements, Google seems to be cutting corners by relying on AI to edit photos and videos after they've been taken. Each year, the focus shifts to AI photo-making tricks like those described for Gemini or Video Boost, which means all your photos will be stored on Google's servers because these features require the cloud.
While there are still plenty of reasons to buy a Pixel , your best bet is to go with Samsung. You'll get most of Google's features anyway, plus hardware that's actually worth the money. Right now, if you want the true Android experience, Samsung is the leader — not Google.