Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro review: Still the best bargain in flagship phones

While the specs and hardware haven’t changed a ton since last year’s device, the new Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro offer even better software, a Tensor G2 chip and the same great pricing. Battery life is also solid, especially on the smaller Pixel 7. And thanks to a slightly smaller 6.3-inch, the Pixel 7 is also a better choice for compact phone fans than before.

As for the Pixel 7 Pro, not only does it have a slightly longer 5x optical zoom, it can also use its ultra-wide angle lens to take macro photos. On top of that, its curvy edges are also 20 percent flatter than before, so it's nice to hold and there’s less visual distortion around the edge of the screen. All told, between improved software and a price that starts at just $599 for the Pixel 7 or $899 for the Pixel 7 Pro, Google’s latest flagships are some of the best premium phones for the money.

Pros: Slick, refined design, solid battery life, new macro and 5x zoom cams on the Pixel 7 Pro, vibrant displays, Improved software features

Cons: Largely unchanged general performance, Pixel 7 Pro can get a bit warm under load, base Pixel 7 doesn't get mmWave 5G

Engadget Score: 92

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[famousamos]

I appreciate you pointing out the flaws. Another big YouTuber only really mentioned the positives. I didn't realize the phone got warm.

[TangledThorns]

Upgrading from a Pixel 2 to the 7 non-pro. My Pixel 2 is still going strong but I'm concerned that it doesn't have new security updates.

[brett_musgrove]

Finally upgrading from my pixel 3xl to the 7pro. I have loved using my 3xl the last 4 years but I can't wait to get my 7 pro tomorrow.

[antigroundhogday]

First review comparing the battery life of the 7 vs. 7 Pro with real numbers. Thank you!

[sneat]

Every iPhone and Samsung I've setup got warm during the process.These Apple fans don't disappoint.

[neurozoinnovation]

What happens if you take a 30x photo and then Photo Unblur it?

[mcrkon]

I am returning to Pixel 7 after 18 months on iPhone 12 Pro Max. I missed Pixel's web-texting, photo style and fun Android while on iOS.

[keningram]

Upgrading from Pixel 4 XL which was Great. I'm going to miss the Simply Orange.

[Urgento]

this video answered one question that I haven't been able to find anywhere online or in any other video. it's that you can charge the pixel watch with your pixel phone that has battery share.

[AEBcw]

7:35 - Pickle 7? 😂
Great review though

[JonLabbe]

Are we positive that mmWave antenna is not in the unlocked version?

[TimLongson]

Can you please tell us: does it support charger bypassing? The ability to use it, whilst plugged in, with the battery removed from the loop, so the battery is not constantly charging & discharging & so eating hugely into the limited lifespan of charge cycles on a battery you can't replace? Companies like ASUS, Lenovo & some others have added charging bypass so that people can heavily use their phones for prolonged periods (such as playing games, streaming videos, doing work on long flights or regular long train journey commutes, etc.) plugged in, with ZERO detriment to their phones batteries. Companies like Samsung & others NOT implementing charger bypassing means that when you used it plugged in, the charging is coming via the battery so that it is constantly charging then discharging, which for heavy users means a considerably short battery life span. The only reason to NOT offer charging bypass would seem that some greedy companies want to FORCE your phone to need replacing sooner by shortening its battery life. So, can you please tell me if the Google Pixel 7 Pro support charger bypassing?

[plr]

"Kinda lacking in the melanin department " lol that's funny. Enjoyed the review quick and to the point. Touched on all the important things thank you!

[ChrisBanda]

Considering 99% of people will slap a protector of some kind on their phone, it's kind of a moot point for reviewers to go on about matte finishes, glossy backs, fingerprints etc. Yes it's something to talk about, but c'mon people have been putting cases on phones for years now. The only time I enjoy a naked phone is in between case changes when I wipe it clean.

[CBrown]

Raw horsepower in smartphones has been overrated for years. With the exception of some graphically demanding smartphone games, even my old Pixel 4 XL in Power Save Mode handles pretty much every application I throw at it without a hiccup. Perhaps the apps could launch faster, not that it's by any means slow on this 4 year old device but even that would be a minor upgrade at best in my opinion. More power is certainly better but if there needed to be a trade off at this point in the game I want features over raw performance.

[DaraLazy]

Hoping google makes a foldable! I can't go back to regular form factors after using the flip

[allenschneider]

I like the pixel 7 much better than the s22. Also prefer pixel 7 pro over s22+. The S22 ultra is out of consideration because of price. It's the pixel 7 pro vs oneplus 10 pro that seems to be the more difficult choice.

[MLPxTYLER]

I had the Pixel XL, Pixel 3XL, and now the 5 (still mad they didn't make a 5XL). I am BEYOND ready for the 7 pro

[jacure]

Just got mine and it's been amazing

[Pixels-xmsm]

Even if you do have huge hands you should be able to use the regular pixel 7 just fine right?