Best Google Pixel Phone to Buy in 2024

While we had some early issues with the Google Pixel 8 Pro — mostly with its cameras shooting Raw files — further testing and software updates from Google meant we eventually came away thinking quite highly of the Pixel 8 Pro. It’s got a lot going for it, from its slick design and easy-to-use Android 14 software to its rear camera setup, which can take some genuinely beautiful images. Google has sprinkled a variety of new AI features throughout the phone too, including a tool that uses generative AI to create wallpapers for the phone, and a camera feature that allows you to combine different faces from a series of burst images of a group of friends to make sure that everyone looks their best. 

One of the best updates is Google’s commitment to providing seven years of security updates to the Pixel 8 series, meaning this phone will still be safe to use in at least 2030. While we haven’t been as impressed with this year’s 8 Pro as we were with the 7 Pro, it’s still a great phone to consider, especially if you’re keen to hold on to your phone for longer. Read our Google Pixel 8 Pro review.

The Pixel 8 has many of the features of the more expensive Pixel 8 Pro but comes in a slightly smaller package and with a smaller price tag to match. You’ll find the Tensor G3 processor on board, along with Android 14 software that includes AI tools like the generative image wallpaper creator. It also comes with the same guarantee of at least seven years of security updates so this phone will still be going strong in 2030 — as long as you look after it. 

The rear cameras are more cut back here, as the base Pixel 8 lacks the 5x optical zoom camera seen on its bigger brother. I personally love that zoom lens, but then I’m a professional photographer. If photography isn’t a priority for you, you can save yourself a bundle and opt for the cheaper of Google’s new range. The Pixel 8’s higher price $699 seems worth it and makes you realize just how incredibly affordable the $599 Pixel 6 and 7 were and still are. Read our Google Pixel 8 review.

The Pixel 8A is so good it makes the regular Pixel 8 almost feel irrelevant. It shares so much in common with its pricier sibling, from its selection of AI-powered features like Circle to Search to its cool aesthetic and powerful Tensor G3 processor, that it’s hard to see why anyone would buy the Pixel 8 instead.

The Pixel 8 does offer a marginally better camera system, a slightly larger screen and the ability to charge other phones and accessories wirelessly on the back of the device. Those features don’t feel significant enough to impact the buying decision for most people. As I wrote in my review, the Pixel 8A raises the bar for what a $500 phone should be. That also means I’ll be expecting more from the Pixel 9 this fall.

Editor’s note: Google released the Pixel 8A, also $500. You can read our Pixel 8A review here. If you’re buying a Pixel 7A make sure it’s on sale.

Google’s budget phone leaped forward with the Pixel 7A, which offers many of the same benefits as the Pixel 7 but at a cheaper price. Like the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7A runs on Google’s Tensor G2 processor, meaning it has many of the same photo editing and language translation features as its pricier sibling. The Pixel 7A’s 64-megapixel camera also takes excellent photos that rival the Pixel 7’s in quality. 

While we still like the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7A’s lower price makes it a better deal for most people. Only opt for the Pixel 7 if you want a slightly larger screen and are willing to pay the extra $100 for it. Otherwise, the main differences between the Pixel 7 and 7A come down to the former’s more durable build, slightly faster charging and its ability to wirelessly charge compatible accessories. The Pixel 7 also has a larger camera sensor that’s more sensitive to light, according to Google, but CNET’s Lisa Eadicicco didn’t notice much of a difference. Read our Pixel 7A review.

Released in July 2022, the Pixel 6A is one of the older models on this list, but Google still officially sells it alongside its more recent handsets — and with a cut-down price. The Pixel 6A packs a solid dual camera, 5G connectivity and a decent display into a relatively compact body. While it doesn’t have the most up-to-date Tensor processor, its older chip will still cope with all your everyday essentials. 

Sure, the Pixel 7A makes some welcome updates with face unlock and wireless charging, but it costs about $100 more than the 6A. If you’re looking for a solid Google Pixel experience that leaves you with the most change in your wallet, the 6A is well worth considering.