Google Pixel 4 Review: A Great Camera Isn’t Enough to Justify the High Price
Google’s Pixel series has always been known for its incredible camera performance and pure Android experience. The Pixel 4 was highly anticipated, as enthusiasts expected a solid addition to the lineup. While, indeed, the phone packs some impressive features – particularly the camera – it falls short in justifying its hefty price tag.
Design and Build Quality
The Pixel 4 sports a refreshed design, moving away from the two-tone back of previous generations. It features a matte finish on the sides and back, making it comfortable for everyday handling. Although the phone looks modern and sleek, it is nothing groundbreaking compared to other flagships on the market.
Display and Performance
The Pixel 4 offers a 5.7-inch Full HD+ OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, resulting in smooth animations and transitions throughout the user interface (UI). The colors are vibrant, and the brightness is satisfactory in most scenarios.
Under the hood, you’ll find a Snapdragon 855 chipset paired with 6GB of RAM. This combination provides fast performance for most tasks and can handle gaming sessions without noticeable hitches. However, it’s worth noting that other flagships pack better processors at similar or lower price points.
Camera Performance
Here’s where the Pixel 4 shines. The device comes with a 12.2 MP primary lens and a 16 MP telephoto sensor equipped with Google’s computational photography magic. Photos taken with this phone exhibit an impressive level of detail and dynamic range, even in low-light conditions. The telephoto lens allows for sharp optical zoom without significant loss of quality.
Battery Life
The battery life is amongst one of the major downsides of this phone. The small capacity battery combined with the power-hungry display often struggles to last through a full day of typical use. You may find yourself looking for charging options by the end of the day, which is a deal-breaker for many consumers.
Software Experience
Despite its shortcomings, the Pixel offers the purest and most up-to-date Android experience available. It receives timely updates and security patches directly from Google, making it an
excellent choice for those who prioritize software support.
Price Considerations
Starting at $799, the Google Pixel 4 is undeniably pricey. While its camera performance is top-notch, many users may find that the exceptional photography capabilities don’t fully justify the high price tag – especially considering other potential drawbacks such as battery life and average design.
In conclusion, the Google Pixel 4 boasts an impressive camera that sets it apart from competitors. However, in light of battery life woes and a steep cost, it may be difficult to justify its place among other flagship offerings. The device is perfect for photography enthusiasts who value software updates but might fall short for those seeking a more well-rounded package.