The Google Pixel 10 officially launched in August 2025, marking Google’s most refined Pixel smartphone to date. Positioned as the “sweet spot” in the Pixel lineup, the Pixel 10 combines Google’s AI-first approach, reliable camera performance, and long-term Android support in a more accessible flagship package.
With the Pixel 10 now widely available, buyers are searching for clear answers about real-world performance, camera quality, battery life, UK pricing, and whether it is a better choice than the Pixel 9, iPhone 17, or Samsung Galaxy alternatives. This in-depth review covers everything that matters — without speculation.
Hand-On Review
Google has steadily refined its Pixel strategy over the past few generations, and the Pixel 10 represents the most balanced execution yet. Rather than chasing extreme hardware numbers, Google continues to focus on software intelligence, AI-driven features, and camera consistency.
The Pixel 10 sits below the Pro models but avoids feeling like a compromise. It shares the same design language, core software experience, and Tensor-powered AI features, making it the Pixel that will appeal to the widest range of users.
Google Pixel 10 Price in the UK
The Google Pixel 10 price in the UK starts at £799 for the 128GB model, with the 256GB variant priced higher. While this places it firmly in flagship territory, Google positions the Pixel 10 as a value-focused alternative to similarly priced iPhones and Samsung devices.
In typical Google fashion, regular promotions, trade-in deals, and retailer discounts make it possible to purchase the Pixel 10 for less than its official launch price, particularly during major sale periods.
Design and Display Quality
The Pixel 10 maintains Google’s instantly recognisable design, with a premium glass back, aluminium frame, and the signature camera bar that spans the rear of the device. The build quality feels solid and refined, without unnecessary weight.
The display is a 6.3-inch OLED panel that delivers excellent sharpness, strong contrast, and smooth scrolling thanks to its adaptive refresh rate. In everyday use, the screen is bright enough for outdoor visibility and well-calibrated for video streaming, gaming, and reading.
Although the Pixel 10 does not push display specifications beyond its Pro siblings, it still offers a flagship-level viewing experience that most users will be more than satisfied with.
Google Pixel 10 Specs and Performance (Tensor G5)
At the core of the Pixel 10 is the Google Tensor G5 processor. Unlike Snapdragon-powered competitors, Tensor chips are designed to prioritise AI and machine-learning tasks rather than raw benchmark scores.
In daily use, the Pixel 10 feels smooth and responsive. App launches are quick, multitasking is stable, and general navigation remains fluid. While Tensor processors are not known for leading gaming benchmarks, popular games run reliably, and thermal performance remains controlled.
Key hardware highlights:
Google Tensor G5 processor
12GB RAM
128GB or 256GB storage
Titan M2 security chip
Android 16 out of the box
For most users, the Pixel 10 offers more than enough performance for everyday tasks, productivity, and entertainment.
Software Experience: Android 16 and Pixel AI Features
The Pixel 10 ships with Android 16, offering Google’s most refined Android experience to date. Pixel software is deeply integrated with Google’s AI ecosystem, delivering features that go beyond what standard Android phones provide.
Key highlights include:
Gemini AI integration
Advanced voice typing and translation
Pixel-exclusive productivity tools
Long-term Android and security updates
Google’s commitment to up to seven years of updates makes the Pixel 10 one of the most future-proof Android phones currently available.
Google Pixel 10 Camera Review
The camera remains one of the Pixel 10’s strongest selling points. Google continues to rely on computational photography rather than sheer sensor size, and the results speak for themselves.
The Pixel 10 consistently produces sharp, well-balanced photos across a wide range of lighting conditions. Colours appear natural, dynamic range is strong, and night photography remains a standout feature.
Zoom performance, assisted by AI processing, performs well for everyday use, while portrait and group photo features continue to improve thanks to Google’s ongoing software enhancements.
For users who prioritise reliable photography over manual camera controls, the Pixel 10 remains one of the best smartphone cameras available.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life on the Pixel 10 is solid rather than spectacular. It comfortably lasts a full day with moderate use, supported by Google’s Adaptive Battery features that learn user habits over time.
Charging options include fast wired charging and wireless charging compatibility. While charging speeds do not lead the market, they remain competitive and consistent, focusing on battery longevity rather than extreme fast-charging numbers.
Google Pixel 10 vs Pixel 9
For users upgrading from older Pixel models, the Pixel 10 offers noticeable improvements. Compared to the Pixel 9, the Pixel 10 benefits from a newer Tensor chip, refined AI features, and a longer software support window.
However, Pixel 9 owners who are satisfied with their device may not feel an urgent need to upgrade unless they value the latest AI features or extended update support.
Google Pixel 10 vs iPhone 17
The Pixel 10 and iPhone 17 take very different approaches. Apple continues to dominate raw performance and video recording, while Google focuses on AI-driven photography, software intelligence, and customisation.
For users invested in Google services and Android flexibility, the Pixel 10 offers a compelling alternative to Apple’s ecosystem. The choice ultimately depends on software preference rather than hardware alone.
Is Google Pixel 10 Worth Buying in 2025?
The Google Pixel 10 is worth buying if you:
Want a clean, AI-focused Android experience
Prioritise camera reliability over manual controls
Value long-term software updates
Prefer Google’s ecosystem and services
It may be less appealing for users who prioritise gaming performance or ultra-fast charging, but for the majority of users, the Pixel 10 strikes an excellent balance.
FAQs About Google Pixel 10
Is the Google Pixel 10 an Android phone?
Yes, the Pixel 10 runs Android and receives updates directly from Google.
Are Google Pixel phones good?
Yes. Pixel phones are widely praised for camera quality, clean software, and long-term support.
Which Google Pixel is best right now?
The Pixel 10 offers the best balance of features and price for most users, while Pro models cater to power users.
Is the Pixel 10 better than the Pixel 9?
Yes, though the improvements are incremental rather than revolutionary.
Final Verdict
The Google Pixel 10 is not about dramatic change — it is about refinement. Google has delivered a smartphone that focuses on what actually matters to most users: dependable performance, excellent photography, intelligent software, and long-term reliability.
For buyers looking for a well-rounded Android flagship in 2025, the Pixel 10 stands out as one of the safest and smartest choices available.