All four Pixel 10 phones have the new Tensor G5 chipset, which Google says is on average 34 percent faster than its predecessor. The imaging signal processor has been upgraded for improved image and video quality, and Tensor G5 runs the latest Gemini Nano model, powering more than 20 on-device generative artificial intelligence experiences.
They’re also the first to launch with Android’s new Material 3 Expressive design language, which includes more fluid, springy animations, smoother interactions, and emphasized typography.
Now let’s look at where things start to diverge.
Pixel 10
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
The colors on all the Pixel 10 phones are more muted this year, except for the Indigo Pixel 10, which is designed to resemble the “Really Blue” on the original Pixel. (Really Really Blue would have been a better name.) The handset also comes in Frost, Obsidian, and Lemongrass.
The most notable upgrade on Google’s cheapest Pixel 10 is the inclusion of a 5X telephoto camera, meaning you’re finally getting a triple-camera system to rival the likes of Samsung’s Galaxy S25. (It’s one of the only phones at this price to have a 5X optical camera.) But before you rejoice, Google had to make some concessions to keep the price under $800.
The wide and ultrawide image sensors are smaller than on the Pixel 9, and while that doesn’t necessarily mean worse photos, there’s a chance for some minor loss in detail. The trade-off might be worth it for folks who prefer having a zoom lens. The specs line up with the Pixel 9a’s cameras, but Google says the Pixel 10 has a more powerful imaging pipeline with the Tensor G5 chip, which should offer better results in color, texture, noise, and autofocus. It also has a faster multizone laser-detect autofocus.
Otherwise, the 6.3-inch screen is brighter, and the top speaker has been upgraded to deliver better bass and overall richer audio quality. It costs $799 and is available for preorder now. Official sales kick off on August 28.
Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Google hasn’t changed the camera sensors on the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL over the Pixel 9 Pro series. However, the company still claims to have improved the 2X digital zoom option to be even more like an optical zoom. The telephoto camera sensor is the same, but Google says the lens has been upgraded for better image quality.
