Google Pixel 7 Review: A Compact and Capable Android Phone
I’m a tech enthusiast and a freelance writer who enjoys assessing gadgets and applications. I’ve been an Android user for more than ten years, exploring numerous brands and models. Furthermore, I’ve owned each Pixel phone since the original Pixel, so I’m well-acquainted with the strengths and weaknesses of Google’s hardware and software.
Recently, I received the Google Pixel 7 as a gift from my friend, who happens to work at Google. He generously provided me with the 256GB model in Obsidian color, which has a sleek, dark gray appearance with a matte finish. Over the past month, I’ve incorporated it into my daily routine and put it through various tests, including photography and video capture, web browsing, gaming, music and podcast streaming, phone calls and messaging, and utilizing a range of applications. Additionally, I’ve compared it to other phones in my possession or available to me, such as the Samsung Galaxy S22, and iPhone 14.
Real-World Benefits
The Google Pixel 7 stands out as an excellent choice for those who appreciate a compact, user-friendly design, a streamlined interface, and exceptional camera capabilities. Here are some practical scenarios where the Google Pixel 7 shines:
Compact and Comfortable Design
Google Pixel 7 offers a relatively small and lightweight form factor, measuring 144.7 x 70.4 x 8.5 mm (5.70 x 2.77 x 0.33 in) and weighing just 151 g (5.33 oz). This makes it a breeze to hold and operate with one hand. The device boasts an elegant and refined design, featuring an aluminum frame, a glass front, and an aluminum back with a matte finish that resists fingerprints and scratches. It’s also IP68-rated for water and dust resistance, capable of surviving accidental splashes or brief submersions up to 1.5m for 30 minutes.
Effortless and Smooth User Interface
Running on Android 13, the Google Pixel 7 offers a clean and user-friendly interface. It incorporates features like adaptive battery management, dark mode, live caption, smart reply suggestions, intuitive gesture navigation, digital wellbeing tools, and more. Regular security updates and feature enhancements from Google ensure that the phone remains current and secure. With the Google Tensor G2 chipset, a custom-designed processor, the device delivers rapid and fluid performance. It effortlessly handles multitasking, gaming, and demanding tasks without experiencing lags or slowdowns.
Outstanding Camera Performance
Equipped with a dual rear camera setup comprising a 50 MP primary sensor and a 12 MP ultrawide lens, the Google Pixel 7 excels in photography across various lighting conditions. Google’s advanced computational photography algorithms enhance details, colors, dynamic range, and low-light capabilities, producing remarkable photos. The ultrawide lens captures broader scenes, ideal for landscapes, group shots, and artistic photography. The device also features a 10.8 MP selfie camera, which captures sharp and natural-looking self-portraits with portrait mode, night sight, astrophotography mode, and more. It can record high-quality videos at 4K@30/60fps or 1080p@30/60/120/240fps, offering optical image stabilization (OIS), electronic image stabilization (EIS), auto-focus, auto-exposure lock (AE-L), auto-white balance lock (AWB-L), audio zoom, and more.
Ideal Users for Google Pixel 7
The Google Pixel 7 is an excellent choice for individuals who:
- Seek Compact Convenience: If you desire a phone that easily slips into your pocket or fits comfortably in your hand, the Google Pixel 7 delivers.
- Value Streamlined User Experience: Prefer a user-friendly interface devoid of bloatware or intrusive ads? The Pixel 7’s clean and straightforward interface is your solution.
- Embrace Photography and Videography: If you’re passionate about capturing top-quality photos and videos with your smartphone, the Pixel 7 excels in this department.
- Prioritize Timely Updates: For those who prioritize timely and consistent updates from Google to ensure their phone remains secure and up-to-date, the Pixel 7 delivers.
- Are Willing to Invest in Premium Quality: If you’re willing to pay a premium price for a premium smartphone, the Pixel 7 is worth considering.
However, the Google Pixel 7 may not be the best fit for individuals who:
- Require Extended Battery Life: If you need a phone with a battery that can easily last a full day or longer on a single charge, the Pixel 7 may fall short.
- Demand Peak Performance: For those who demand top-tier performance capable of handling resource-intensive games and apps, other options may be more suitable.
- Need Ample Storage: If you require substantial storage space or the flexibility to expand it using a microSD card, the Pixel 7 may not meet your needs.
- Rely on Wired Accessories: Individuals who prefer using wired headphones or accessories with their phone should note that the Pixel 7 may not accommodate this preference.
- Desire a Versatile Camera System: If you’re looking for optical zoom or a telephoto lens in your camera setup, the Pixel 7’s capabilities may not align with your expectations.
Exploring Alternative Choices
If the Google Pixel 7 doesn’t quite meet your requirements, there are several alternative products worth considering, each offering distinct features and price points:
Samsung Galaxy S22
The Samsung Galaxy S22 stands as one of the Android market’s leading and most robust options. It boasts a 6.2-inch AMOLED display with a responsive 120Hz refresh rate, powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset. Its triple rear camera setup comprises a 64MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, complemented by a 10MP selfie camera.
Samsung Galaxy S22 runs on Android 13 with Samsung’s One UI 5.1, it houses a 4000 mAh battery supporting 25W wired and wireless charging. The device includes features like an under-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and IP68 water and dust resistance. Available in four colors—Phantom Black, Phantom Silver, Phantom Pink, and Phantom Green—the Samsung Galaxy S22 appeals to those seeking a premium Android phone with a versatile camera system and an impressive display. However, note that it comes at a higher price point compared to the Google Pixel 7.
iPhone 14
Apple’s latest offering, the iPhone 14, ranks among the top iOS smartphones. With a 6.1-inch OLED display featuring a ProMotion adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz, an Apple A16 Bionic chipset, and a quad rear camera setup consisting of a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, a 12MP telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom, and a new LiDAR scanner for enhanced depth sensing and augmented reality. On the front, it features a 12MP selfie camera with Face ID.
iPhone 14 running on iOS 16, has a 3300 mAh battery that supports MagSafe wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. The device also includes stereo speakers and IP68 water and dust resistance. It’s available in six striking colors: Starlight, Midnight, Blue, Pink, Red, and Graphite. The iPhone 14 caters to those who prefer iOS over Android, offering swift performance, exceptional camera quality, and new features. However, it’s worth noting that it comes at a higher price point compared to the Google Pixel 7.
Important Purchase Details
If you’re considering purchasing the Google Pixel 7, it’s crucial to be aware of some key details:
Storage Options
The Google Pixel 7 is available in two storage configurations: 128GB and 256GB. Since there’s no microSD card slot for expandable storage, it’s wise to choose the option that aligns with your storage needs.
Color Choices
The Google Pixel 7 offers three color selections: Obsidian, Lemongrass, and Snow. Obsidian presents a matte-finish dark gray, Lemongrass offers a glossy light green, and Snow features a glossy white. You can view these options in the accompanying image.
Availability
The Google Pixel 7 can be found in specific countries and regions, including the US, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, Taiwan, and Singapore. To determine its availability and pricing in your region, visit the Google Store.
In-Box Contents
When you purchase the Google Pixel 7, you’ll find several items included in the box. These comprise a USB-C to USB-C cable, a 20W USB-C power adapter, a SIM tool, and a quick start guide. Notably, it does not come with earphones or a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, so you may need to purchase these separately if you intend to use wired headphones or accessories with your phone.
Warranty
Google provides a one-year limited warranty for the Google Pixel 7, which covers defects in materials and workmanship under standard use conditions. Additionally, you have the option to purchase supplementary protection plans either from Google or third-party providers. These extended plans offer coverage for accidental damage, theft, loss, and more.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel 7 stands as a compact and capable Android phone, that has an elegant design, outstanding camera capabilities, and improved performance. It shines for those seeking a streamlined user experience and top-tier photo and video quality. Nevertheless, it does come with certain drawbacks, including a less-than-stellar battery life, the absence of a microSD card slot or headphone jack, and limited availability and color choices. Additionally, it bears a higher price tag compared to some competitors. Hence, it’s prudent to carefully consider the pros and cons of the Google Pixel 7 before making your purchase decision. You might also want to explore the alternative products I mentioned in this review. Thanks for taking the time to peruse my review, and I hope you found it informative and helpful 😊
