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Google Pixel 2 XL Smartphone Review

No reference. The Pixel 2 XL is visually a high-end smartphone from 2017 and has a POLED display in the 2:1 format. Visually, the relation to the LG V30 cannot be denied, but it has taken a different path in terms of the camera. Furthermore, there is ample battery power.

For the original German review, see here.

The Google Pixel 2 XL is visually very different than its smaller sibling and has a 6-inch (15.24 cm) POLED display in the 2:1 format with QHD+ resolution. Added to this are more storage in the base model, a new camera, and a fast Snapdragon 835. With ac-WLAN and LTE Cat. 15, the communication modules are also up-to-date. As in the previous year, Google continues to refrain from including any microSD card storage extension. The two front speakers, which are supposed to provide a better audio experience in landscape mode, are new. The 64-GB version of the Pixel 2 XL starts at 939 Euros (~$1117; $849 in the US). Anyone who prefers to have more storage has to pay a hefty 110 Euros (~$131) extra to double it. As with the predecessor, you can store any pictures and videos recorded with the Pixel in full resolution on Google Drive, but this is now only for a limited period of time. The only differences compared to the smaller Pixel 2 are really the display and battery, the basic technical equipment is the same.

Google's XL high-end smartphone has to face the gathered competition, which include the Samsung Galaxy Note 8, the Huawei P10 Plus, the Apple iPhone 8 Plus, the LG V30, the Sony Xperia XZ Premium, the HTC U11, and the OnePlus 5 among others. 

Google Pixel 2 XL (Pixel 2 Series)
Processor
Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 (8998) 8 x 2.5 GHz, Kryo 280
Graphics adapter
Memory
4 GB 
, LPDDR4x
Display
6.00 inch 2:1, 2880 x 1440 pixel 537 PPI, capacitive touchscreen, P-OLED, Corning Gorilla Glass 5, 3D Arc Glass, glossy: yes
Storage
64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash, 64 GB 
, 53.78 GB free
Connections
1 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, Audio Connections: USB, 1 Fingerprint Reader, NFC, Brightness Sensor, Sensors: Active Edge, proximity, halleffect, acceleration, Android, and G sensors, barometer, magnetometer, Wifi Direct, BeiDou, Galileo, eSIM
Networking
802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 5.0, GSM/GPRS/Edge (850, 900, 1.800 und 1.900 MHz), CDMA EVDO Rev A ( BC0/BC1/BC10), UMTS/HSPA+ (Band 1, 2, 4, 5 und 8), LTE Cat. 15 (Band 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 32, 66 (FDD); 38, 40, 41 (TDD)), LTE, GPS
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 7.9 x 157.9 x 76.7 ( = 0.31 x 6.22 x 3.02 in)
Battery
3520 mAh Lithium-Ion
Operating System
Android 8.1 Oreo
Camera
Primary Camera: 12.2 MPix (1,4 μm, f/1.8, OIS and EIS, autofocus with laser and dual-pixel phase recognition, 2160p video)
Secondary Camera: 8 MPix (Fixfocus, 1,4 μm, f/2.4, 1080p video, EIS)
Additional features
Speakers: front stereo speakers, Keyboard: virtual, charger, Quick-Switch, USB-C to 3.5-mm earphone adapter, short instructions, Google Lens, 12 Months Warranty, USB Type-C, IP67 certified, aptX HD, unlimited online storage for photos and videos, fanless
Weight
175 g ( = 6.17 oz / 0.39 pounds), Power Supply: 82 g ( = 2.89 oz / 0.18 pounds)
Price
939 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

As with most other high-end competitors of 2017, the Google Pixel 2 XL also has particularly small bezels. The visual relation to the LG V30 cannot be denied. The case is made from an aluminum alloy, and only part of the back is covered by glass. The front is protected entirely by Corning Gorilla Glass 5.

The workmanship of the Google Pixel 2 XL is on a high level. It shows itself as very robust and cannot be twisted, and due to the OLED technology, pressure on the panel cannot lead to any wave formation. The gaps are very tight and exact. The aluminum feels good in the hands. The display-to-surface ratio is very good, even though the bezels are even smaller in the Galaxy Note 8.

The SIM slot is flush with the case and can accept a Nano-SIM card. Furthermore, the smartphone is protected against dust and water according to the IP67 standard, which means that it can be submersed in water up to 1.5 meters (~5 ft) deep for up to half an hour without getting damaged. Accordingly, the battery is built-in and cannot be changed by the user.

The Google Pixel 2 comes in completely black color and black and white. In the latter version, the power button is orange. We are already familiar with such color accents from the Huawei P10 Plus, and while it is a matter of taste, we really like it.

Size Comparison

162.5 mm / 6.4 inch 74.8 mm / 2.94 inch 8.6 mm / 0.3386 inch 195 g0.4299 lbs158.4 mm / 6.24 inch 78.1 mm / 3.07 inch 7.5 mm / 0.2953 inch 202 g0.4453 lbs157.9 mm / 6.22 inch 76.7 mm / 3.02 inch 7.9 mm / 0.311 inch 175 g0.3858 lbs156 mm / 6.14 inch 77 mm / 3.03 inch 7.9 mm / 0.311 inch 191 g0.4211 lbs154.7 mm / 6.09 inch 75.7 mm / 2.98 inch 8.5 mm / 0.3346 inch 168 g0.3704 lbs153.9 mm / 6.06 inch 75.9 mm / 2.99 inch 7.9 mm / 0.311 inch 169 g0.3726 lbs154.2 mm / 6.07 inch 74.1 mm / 2.92 inch 7.25 mm / 0.2854 inch 153 g0.3373 lbs153.5 mm / 6.04 inch 74.2 mm / 2.92 inch 7 mm / 0.2756 inch 165 g0.3638 lbs151.7 mm / 5.97 inch 75.4 mm / 2.97 inch 7.3 mm / 0.2874 inch 158 g0.3483 lbs148 mm / 5.83 inch 105 mm / 4.13 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 1.5 g0.00331 lbs

Connectivity

As a cable connection, the Google Pixel 2 XL has USB 3.1 (Gen. 1, Type-C). NFC and Bluetooth 5.0 are also on board. The latter also supports aptX and aptX HD for high-resolution music content.

Moreover, it is again possible to store all the pictures and videos in full resolution on Google Drive for free. There is no storage limitation for this until January 15, 2021. Thereafter, the offer is limited to high-quality pictures. According to Google, this is supposed to make the storage expansion via microSD card unnecessary, so there is no built-in slot.

There is also no infrared transmitter, no radio, and no ability to wirelessly charge the smartphone.

Top: Microphone
Top: Microphone
Left side: SIM
Left side: SIM
Right side: Power, volume
Right side: Power, volume
Bottom: USB
Bottom: USB

Software

The Google Pixel 2 XL is delivered with pure Android 8.0 Oreo and is supposed to get software and security updates until October 2020.

The smartphone also has the new Google Lens, which is initially limited to the Pixel 2 models and will later be also made available to other devices. With Lens, recorded pictures can be analyzed by Google, and in this way buildings, landscapes, artwork, books, and CD covers can be recognized and then Google can provide the corresponding information via Google Assistant. In addition, it can simply take mail addresses or phone numbers from a flyer. 

In addition, the Pixel smartphone always listens in and shows the artist and title on the always-on display, when music is recognized. This function can be optionally deactivated. In general, Google Assistant is supposed to be integrated more into the world of the user and can also be started with a simple press of the smartphone, similar to how you can already do in the HTC U11.

The update to Android 8.1 Oreo has been available since December 5th 2017. 

Google Pixel 2 XL
Google Pixel 2 XL
Google Pixel 2 XL
Google Pixel 2 XL

Communication and GPS

Mobile Internet connections on the Google Pixel 2 XL are established via LTE Cat. 15 and numerous bands are supported. The Huawei Mate 10 Pro is currently the best smartphone in this respect if you require even more coverage. We used the Pixel 2 in the mobile networks of O2 as well as Vodafone, and we did not encounter any issues.

The smartphone supports the IEEE 802.11 standards a/b/g/n/ac in 2.4 as well as 5.0 GHz mobile networks. We can determine decent transfer rates in combination with our reference router Linksys EA8500, but the manufacturer has done without the MIMO antenna technology this time, so the Pixel 2 XL is much slower than its predecessor. This is hard to understand when you consider the high price. The dampening in direct proximity to the access point fluctuates between -32 and -40 dBm (2.4 GHz) and is increased to -82 dBm (5.0 GHz) two storeys higher, but HD video streaming from YouTube was still smooth.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
LG V30
Adreno 540, SD 835, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
703 MBit/s +152%
Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
Mali-G71 MP20, Exynos 8895, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
656 MBit/s +135%
OnePlus 5T
Adreno 540, SD 835, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
650 MBit/s +133%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
Mali-G72 MP12, Kirin 970, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
627 (490min - 666max) MBit/s +125%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
Mali-G72 MP12, Kirin 970, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
225 MBit/s -19%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
Adreno 540, SD 835, 64 GB UFS 2.0 Flash
494 MBit/s +77%
Google Pixel XL 2016
Adreno 530, SD 821, 32 GB eMMC Flash
435 MBit/s +56%
Apple iPhone 8 Plus
A11 Bionic GPU, A11 Bionic, Apple 256 GB (iPhone 8 / Plus)
374 MBit/s +34%
Google Pixel 2 XL
Adreno 540, SD 835, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
279 MBit/s
iperf3 receive AX12
Apple iPhone 8 Plus
A11 Bionic GPU, A11 Bionic, Apple 256 GB (iPhone 8 / Plus)
914 MBit/s +282%
LG V30
Adreno 540, SD 835, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
657 MBit/s +175%
Google Pixel XL 2016
Adreno 530, SD 821, 32 GB eMMC Flash
515 MBit/s +115%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
Adreno 540, SD 835, 64 GB UFS 2.0 Flash
501 MBit/s +110%
OnePlus 5T
Adreno 540, SD 835, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
386 MBit/s +62%
Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
Mali-G71 MP20, Exynos 8895, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
368 MBit/s +54%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
Mali-G72 MP12, Kirin 970, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
355 (105min - 550max) MBit/s +49%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
Mali-G72 MP12, Kirin 970, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
338 MBit/s +41%
Google Pixel 2 XL
Adreno 540, SD 835, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
239 MBit/s
GPS Test: In the basement
GPS Test: In the basement
GPS Test: Outdoors
GPS Test: Outdoors

The specification sheet of the Google Pixel 2 XL lists support for the satellite networks GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, and Galileo. The satellite fix at the basement window did not work, but we got a signal within a few seconds outdoors with an accuracy of down to 3 meters (~10 ft).

We had to perform our practical test by foot this time due to the bad weather, but we still compared the performance of the smartphone with the Garmin Edge 500. The overall deviation is surprisingly high at around 180 meters (~590 ft, and both devices are slightly off the actual track in the area with many houses. A closer look at the recorded data shows the Pixel 2XL does not locate the position as frequently as the professional device, so the accuracy drops. This is particularly noticeable around the lake, but there should not be any limitations in terms of everyday navigation purposes.

Garmin Edge 500
Garmin Edge 500
Garmin Edge 500
Garmin Edge 500
Garmin Edge 500
Garmin Edge 500
Google Pixel 2 XL
Google Pixel 2 XL
Google Pixel 2 XL
Google Pixel 2 XL
Google Pixel 2 XL
Google Pixel 2 XL

Telephone Functions and Voice Quality

Phone app of the Google Pixel 2 XL
Phone app of the Google Pixel 2 XL

Google's phone app has a simple structure and not many features. The Pixel 2 XL also supports Voice over LTE (VoLTE) or Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWifi), respectively, in general, but it requires support from the provider. This was not the case for O2 at the time of the review.

The voice quality is good when you hold the smartphone to your ear: The voice of the other person is clear and easy to understand, while the Pixel user is a bit too quiet and appears to be quite far away. This impression is even enhanced when the speaker is active, which introduces some echoes. The sound from the Pixel is more artificial and less clear as well, so the overall impression is just average. The noise suppression is pretty reliable.

Cameras

Portrait mode front camera Google Pixel 2 XL
Front camera

The cameras are identical on both new Pixel 2 phones. At the front we find an 8 MP shooter with fixed focus and electronic image stabilization. Its nominal aperture of f/2.4 is quite common for front-facing cameras, although its large pixel size of 1.4 µm promises decent light sensitivity; which we found to be accurate during our tests at the launch event. Fortunately, the Pixel 2 supports its portrait mode feature that applies a bokeh effect to the background for selfies as well. The images are actually pretty convincing, even though the Portrait is quickly at its limit if the contours are uneven. The pictures are comparatively detailed and sharp.

The phone’s main rear-facing camera is referred to by Google as the best smartphone camera ever. Its 12.2 MP sensor with f/1.8 aperture and 1.4 µm large pixels is supported by laser autofocus and dual-pixel phase detection. The latter not only results in blazingly fast focusing - in combination with Google’s own machine learning algorithm, it also means that portrait mode is supported despite the lack of a second camera. The results of the main camera are better for the portrait mode compared to the front camera. The daylight pictures generally capture many details with a decent dynamic range. The sharpness is on par with the Mate 10 Pro, while the iPhone X falls a bit behind. The Pixel 2 also performs well in low-light conditions and beats the two rivals noticeably; it performs even slightly better than the Galaxy Note 8. There is no criticism for the fast trigger speed, but the camera could include more features. You do not get a manual mode for the camera, and you cannot take RAW pictures either.

The video mode is also light in terms of features. Users can only choose between three resolutions (UltraHD, Full HD, HD), all the other settings are handled by the camera. You get an optical as well as electronic image stabilization in return, which ensures smooth camera pans in particular.

Image Comparison

Choose a scene and navigate within the first image. One click changes the position on touchscreens. One click on the zoomed-in image opens the original in a new window. The first image shows the scaled photograph of the test device.

Scene 1Scene 2Scene 3
click to load images
ColorChecker: The target color is displayed in the lower half of each patch.
ColorChecker: The target color is displayed in the lower half of each patch.

We had a closer look at the camera performance of the Google Pixel 2 XL under controlled lighting conditions. We check the color performance with the ColorChecker Passport. Many colors are over-saturated, only cyan and lilac are a bit pale. The field for the light skin color suffers from a slight red hue.

The picture of the Test chart supports our impression of the sharp and detailed pictures. There is not much fray at the dark letters on the dark background either, and the overall sharpness only takes a small hit towards the edges. All in all, the camera performance is very good.

Accessories, Warranty & Daydream View

Google ships the Pixel 2 XL with a two-year warranty, which cannot be extended. Please see our Guarantees, Return Policies & Warranties FAQ for country-specific information. The scope of delivery includes a so called Quick-Switch cable, which is supposed to make the smartphone switch easier, a modular power adapter (USB-C, 18W), a SIM tool as well as an audio adapter from USB to 3.5 mm stereo jack.

Google offers additional accessories for the smartphone on its website, especially covers, cables, and power adapters. We also received the current Google Daydream View (2017) for the review. As with all other VR headsets, it is important to put them directly in front of your eyes to avoid blurry areas. This works pretty well with the Daydream View after some practice, but you have to attach it firmly, otherwise it can easily move. The set-up is easy and the compact controller is comfortable to use. However, we would appreciate more content. The VR headset is not only compatible with the Pixel models, but also smartphones from other manufacturers. Google provides a list of compatible devices on its website.

Daydream View (2017)
Daydream View (2017)

Input Devices & Handling

The 6-inch touchscreen of the Google Pixel 2 XL recognizes up to ten inputs simultaneously. Inputs are also executed quickly and accurately. It is not surprising that Google uses its own GBoard keyboard layout, but you can also download and install any other layout from the Play Store.

The physical buttons for the volume as well as the power button are made of metal and sit firmly in the chassis. Travel is short and the pressure points crisp, but the tactile feel is unfortunately identical except for the different size.

The fingerprint scanner at the back unlocks the smartphone reliably, but moist fingers will affect the detection rate. The input surface does not support additional gestures.

Display

In the Google Pixel 2 XL, a 6-inch (15.24 cm) POLED display from LG is used. It has a 2:1 (18:9) format and with 2880x1440 pixels, it offers an even higher pixel density than the smaller Pixel 2 model. Compared to the Pixel XL (16:9, 83.39 cm²), the panel area is noticeably larger, reaching 92.9 cm².

The first impression was convincing. In steep viewing angles we did not notice any color veils and the colors did not appear too saturated. As expected, the contrast ratio was excellent. However, this display will also use pulse width modulation (PWM).

The polarized glass will be an advantage when using it outside, since it promises a very low degree of reflections. In the LG V30, which uses the same display type, we criticized the too frugal regulation of the brightness by the brightness sensor. We are curious whether Google does a better job.

Subpixel array POLED display Google Pixel 2 XL
Subpixel array

You can easily notice the relationship with the panel of the LG V30 when you look at the measurements, which are almost identical. The maximum luminance is reached in the manual mode at 420 nits on average, and the brightness distribution is even at 87%. The brightness is increased to 562 nits in the center with an even distribution of bright and dark surfaces (APL 50). This sounds like a lot, but is not really overwhelming within the comparison group. Smartphones such as the Galaxy S8+ (up to 781 nits) or the Mate 10 Pro (up to 897 nits) manage even higher values with activated ambient light sensors.

The brightness of OLED panels is controlled via pulse-width modulation (PWM), and this is also the case for the Google Pixel 2 XL. The amplitude characteristic is flat, but there can quickly be eye strain or even headaches for sensitive users.

397
cd/m²
399
cd/m²
444
cd/m²
403
cd/m²
415
cd/m²
455
cd/m²
401
cd/m²
406
cd/m²
456
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 456 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 419.6 cd/m² Minimum: 4.42 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 87 %
Center on Battery: 415 cd/m²
Contrast: ∞:1 (Black: 0 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 2.7 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 3.3 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
Gamma: 2.36
Google Pixel 2 XL
P-OLED, 2880x1440, 6.00
Google Pixel XL 2016
AMOLED, 2560x1440, 5.50
LG V30
OLED, 2880x1440, 6.00
Apple iPhone X
Super AMOLED, 2436x1125, 5.80
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
OLED, 2160x1080, 6.00
Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
Super AMOLED, 2960x1440, 6.20
OnePlus 5T
AMOLED, 2160x1080, 6.01
Screen
-31%
-35%
39%
32%
31%
13%
Brightness middle
415
402
-3%
432
4%
600
45%
629
52%
560
35%
425
2%
Brightness
420
408
-3%
428
2%
606
44%
636
51%
562
34%
423
1%
Brightness Distribution
87
85
-2%
87
0%
94
8%
94
8%
93
7%
92
6%
Black Level *
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
2.7
4
-48%
4.18
-55%
1.2
56%
1.7
37%
1.7
37%
2.1
22%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
4.3
10.1
-135%
8.53
-98%
3
30%
3.6
16%
3.4
21%
3.4
21%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.3
3.2
3%
5.3
-61%
1.6
52%
2.4
27%
1.6
52%
2.5
24%
Gamma
2.36 93%
2.19 100%
2.33 94%
2.23 99%
2.15 102%
2.13 103%
2.32 95%
CCT
6787 96%
7037 92%
7487 87%
6707 97%
6337 103%
6435 101%
6455 101%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
81.57
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
99.87

* ... smaller is better

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM detected 242.7 Hz

The display backlight flickers at 242.7 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) .

The frequency of 242.7 Hz is relatively low, so sensitive users will likely notice flickering and experience eyestrain at the stated brightness setting and below.

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18110 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

We check the picture quality of the POLED display in the Google Pixel XL 2 with the spectrophotometer and the professional software CalMAN. Google's calibration is better than LG's on the V30. The Pixel smartphone features three different picture profiles. The default mode Saturated offers the widest color gamut. Contrary to the statement during the launch, DCI-P3 is not covered completely, but the panel is closer to AdobeRGB with a slightly enhanced gamut for red. The Natural mode offers the most natural color presentation.

The grayscale performance is pretty similar in all three modes. Deviations are usually not visible with the naked eye, but the Google Pixel 2 XL does not provide very wide viewing angles (more on that later). The color accuracy is the lowest in the Natural mode at an average DeltaE of 2.7, which is basically invisible to the human eye. Some individual colors exceed the DeltaE mark of 3; we record the highest deviation for autumnal green (foliage) at 4.3.

Grayscale (Profile: Saturated, target color space: AdobeRGB)
Grayscale (Profile: Saturated, target color space: AdobeRGB)
ColorChecker (Profile: Saturated, target color space: AdobeRGB)
ColorChecker (Profile: Saturated, target color space: AdobeRGB)
Colorspace (Profile: Saturated, target color space: AdobeRGB)
Colorspace (Profile: Saturated, target color space: AdobeRGB)
Saturation Sweeps (Profile: Saturated, target color space: AdobeRGB)
Saturation Sweeps (Profile: Saturated, target color space: AdobeRGB)
Grayscale (Profile: Natural, target color space: sRGB)
Grayscale (Profile: Natural, target color space: sRGB)
ColorChecker (Profile: Natural, target color space: sRGB)
ColorChecker (Profile: Natural, target color space: sRGB)
Colorspace (Profile: Natural, target color space: sRGB)
Colorspace (Profile: Natural, target color space: sRGB)
Saturation Sweeps (Profile: Natural, target color space: sRGB)
Saturation Sweeps (Profile: Natural, target color space: sRGB)
Grayscale (Profile: Boosted, target color space: sRGB)
Grayscale (Profile: Boosted, target color space: sRGB)
ColorChecker (Profile: Boosted, target color space: sRGB)
ColorChecker (Profile: Boosted, target color space: sRGB)
Colorspace (Profile: Boosted, target color space: sRGB)
Colorspace (Profile: Boosted, target color space: sRGB)
Saturation Sweeps (Profile: Boosted, target color space: sRGB)
Saturation Sweeps (Profile: Boosted, target color space: sRGB)

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
4 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 2 ms rise
↘ 2 ms fall
The screen shows very fast response rates in our tests and should be very well suited for fast-paced gaming.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 10 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
4.4 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 2 ms rise
↘ 2.4 ms fall
The screen shows very fast response rates in our tests and should be very well suited for fast-paced gaming.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 10 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

The Google Pixel 2 XL benefits from its high contrast ratio outdoors and the luminance is usually sufficient for most situations. However, the panel will reach its limitations in bright environments and especially under direct sunlight. Some competitors perform much better in this respect thanks to brighter panels.

Google Pixel 2 XL outdoors (overcast)
Google Pixel 2 XL outdoors (overcast)

You expect wide viewing angles from every direction from an OLED panel. However, the POLED screen in the Google Pixel 2 XL cannot completely meet this requirement. There are no color inversions, but you can quickly see a color cast even with slight shifts of the viewing angle. The color therefore always appears to be a bit distorted, which is particularly annoying on contents with large white surfaces.

Viewing angle stability Google Pixel 2 XL
Viewing angle stability Google Pixel 2 XL

Performance

In the Google Pixel 2 XL, the current high-end SoC from Qualcomm is used: the Snapdragon 835. It is accompanied by 4 GB of LPDDR4x RAM memory. The smartphone is available with 64 or 128 GB of internal storage. The graphics calculations are performed by the Qualcomm Adreno 540.

The test model is particularly impressive in the system benchmarks and just beats the Huawei Mate 10 Pro as well as the HTC U11. The vanilla Android solution has a positive effect and ensures a very fast system launch (just seven seconds) since version 8.1 Oreo. The CPU performance is on the expected level, just like the results in the GPU benchmarks. There are no major outliers and the test model is only clearly beaten by the iPhone in some tests.

AnTuTu v6 - Total Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
166151 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
138641 Points -17%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
173997 Points +5%
HTC U11
175032 Points +5%
OnePlus 5T
172124 Points +4%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
173403 Points +4%
LG V30
173749 Points +5%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
177341 Points +7%
Apple iPhone X
197851 Points +19%
PCMark for Android
Work performance score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
8258 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
4739 Points -43%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
6084 Points -26%
HTC U11
8295 Points 0%
OnePlus 5T
7739 Points -6%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
7695 Points -7%
LG V30
6854 Points -17%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
8439 Points +2%
Work 2.0 performance score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
6994 Points
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
5096 Points -27%
HTC U11
6828 Points -2%
OnePlus 5T
6595 Points -6%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
6433 Points -8%
LG V30
5603 Points -20%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
6932 Points -1%
BaseMark OS II
Overall (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
3351 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
2378 Points -29%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
3338 Points 0%
HTC U11
3034 Points -9%
OnePlus 5T
3678 Points +10%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
3506 Points +5%
LG V30
2702 Points -19%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
3147 Points -6%
Apple iPhone X
3737 Points +12%
System (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
5914 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
3889 Points -34%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
5308 Points -10%
HTC U11
5570 Points -6%
OnePlus 5T
5872 Points -1%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
5857 Points -1%
LG V30
4238 Points -28%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
5244 Points -11%
Apple iPhone X
10281 Points +74%
Memory (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
2927 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
1677 Points -43%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
3095 Points +6%
HTC U11
2085 Points -29%
OnePlus 5T
3845 Points +31%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
3444 Points +18%
LG V30
2091 Points -29%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
4142 Points +42%
Apple iPhone X
1219 Points -58%
Graphics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
6142 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
5017 Points -18%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
6121 Points 0%
HTC U11
5976 Points -3%
OnePlus 5T
6100 Points -1%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
6045 Points -2%
LG V30
5949 Points -3%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
3657 Points -40%
Apple iPhone X
9248 Points +51%
Web (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
1186 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
977 Points -18%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
1235 Points +4%
HTC U11
1221 Points +3%
OnePlus 5T
1329 Points +12%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
1239 Points +4%
LG V30
1009 Points -15%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
1234 Points +4%
Apple iPhone X
1682 Points +42%
Geekbench 4.4
64 Bit Single-Core Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
1916 Points
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
2028 Points +6%
HTC U11
1906 Points -1%
OnePlus 5T
1962 Points +2%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
1904 Points -1%
LG V30
1900 Points -1%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
1898 Points -1%
Apple iPhone X
4265 Points +123%
64 Bit Multi-Core Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
6253 Points
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
6744 Points +8%
HTC U11
6443 Points +3%
OnePlus 5T
6670 Points +7%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
6491 Points +4%
LG V30
6078 Points -3%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
6792 Points +9%
Apple iPhone X
10255 Points +64%
Compute RenderScript Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
7568 Points
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
8310 Points +10%
HTC U11
8281 Points +9%
OnePlus 5T
8000 Points +6%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
7881 Points +4%
LG V30
8016 Points +6%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
8572 Points +13%
3DMark
1280x720 offscreen Ice Storm Unlimited Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
39456 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
27766 Points -30%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
32399 Points -18%
HTC U11
40014 Points +1%
OnePlus 5T
42022 Points +7%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
32302 Points -18%
LG V30
34139 Points -13%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
30590 Points -22%
Apple iPhone X
64169 Points +63%
1280x720 offscreen Ice Storm Unlimited Graphics Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
54156 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
32652 Points -40%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
36807 Points -32%
HTC U11
55725 Points +3%
OnePlus 5T
58097 Points +7%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
52358 Points -3%
LG V30
55271 Points +2%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
34008 Points -37%
Apple iPhone X
112489 Points +108%
1280x720 offscreen Ice Storm Unlimited Physics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
20233 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
18222 Points -10%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
22829 Points +13%
HTC U11
20140 Points 0%
OnePlus 5T
21348 Points +6%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
13800 Points -32%
LG V30
14601 Points -28%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
22629 Points +12%
Apple iPhone X
25633 Points +27%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
4831 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
3180 Points -34%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
3414 Points -29%
HTC U11
4744 Points -2%
OnePlus 5T
4816 Points 0%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
3407 Points -29%
LG V30
4738 Points -2%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
3239 Points -33%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Graphics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
5856 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
3935 Points -33%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
3928 Points -33%
HTC U11
5877 Points 0%
OnePlus 5T
5791 Points -1%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
5107 Points -13%
LG V30
5895 Points +1%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
3353 Points -43%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Physics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
2995 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
1902 Points -36%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
2342 Points -22%
HTC U11
2832 Points -5%
OnePlus 5T
3031 Points +1%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
1574 Points -47%
LG V30
2808 Points -6%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
2896 Points -3%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
3646 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
2560 Points -30%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
2584 Points -29%
HTC U11
3590 Points -2%
OnePlus 5T
3758 Points +3%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
2895 Points -21%
LG V30
3635 Points 0%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
2850 Points -22%
Apple iPhone X
3138 Points -14%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Graphics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
3872 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
2820 Points -27%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
2661 Points -31%
HTC U11
3883 Points 0%
OnePlus 5T
4016 Points +4%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
3723 Points -4%
LG V30
3903 Points +1%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
2844 Points -27%
Apple iPhone X
3463 Points -11%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Physics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
3028 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
1935 Points -36%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
2346 Points -23%
HTC U11
2841 Points -6%
OnePlus 5T
3068 Points +1%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
1628 Points -46%
LG V30
2931 Points -3%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
2871 Points -5%
Apple iPhone X
2361 Points -22%
GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7
T-Rex Onscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
59 fps
Google Pixel XL 2016
55 fps -7%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
59 fps 0%
HTC U11
58 fps -2%
OnePlus 5T
60 fps +2%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
60 fps +2%
LG V30
60 fps +2%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
60 fps +2%
Apple iPhone X
59.4 fps +1%
1920x1080 T-Rex Offscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
112 fps
Google Pixel XL 2016
91 fps -19%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
105 fps -6%
HTC U11
91 fps -19%
OnePlus 5T
113 fps +1%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
109 fps -3%
LG V30
113 fps +1%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
112 fps 0%
Apple iPhone X
177.4 fps +58%
GFXBench 3.0
on screen Manhattan Onscreen OGL (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
35 fps
Google Pixel XL 2016
30 fps -14%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
38 fps +9%
HTC U11
29 fps -17%
OnePlus 5T
53 fps +51%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
46 fps +31%
LG V30
35 fps 0%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
56 fps +60%
Apple iPhone X
58.5 fps +67%
1920x1080 1080p Manhattan Offscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
59 fps
Google Pixel XL 2016
48 fps -19%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
51 fps -14%
HTC U11
51 fps -14%
OnePlus 5T
60 fps +2%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
47 fps -20%
LG V30
59 fps 0%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
54 fps -8%
Apple iPhone X
88.2 fps +49%
GFXBench 3.1
on screen Manhattan ES 3.1 Onscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
20 fps
Google Pixel XL 2016
17 fps -15%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
23 fps +15%
HTC U11
15 fps -25%
OnePlus 5T
37 fps +85%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
37 fps +85%
LG V30
19 fps -5%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
38 fps +90%
Apple iPhone X
44.1 fps +121%
1920x1080 Manhattan ES 3.1 Offscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
41 fps
Google Pixel XL 2016
32 fps -22%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
42 fps +2%
HTC U11
33 fps -20%
OnePlus 5T
41 fps 0%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
35 fps -15%
LG V30
40 fps -2%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
37 fps -10%
Apple iPhone X
48.9 fps +19%
GFXBench
on screen Car Chase Onscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
13 fps
Google Pixel XL 2016
11 fps -15%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
13 fps 0%
HTC U11
13 fps 0%
OnePlus 5T
23 fps +77%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
25 fps +92%
LG V30
13 fps 0%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
22 fps +69%
Apple iPhone X
27.7 fps +113%
1920x1080 Car Chase Offscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
24 fps
Google Pixel XL 2016
19 fps -21%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
25 fps +4%
HTC U11
24 fps 0%
OnePlus 5T
25 fps +4%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
23 fps -4%
LG V30
24 fps 0%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
21 fps -12%
Apple iPhone X
31.8 fps +33%
Lightmark - 1920x1080 1080p (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
37.71 fps
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
30.86 fps -18%
HTC U11
36.58 fps -3%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
21.49 fps -43%
Basemark X 1.1
Medium Quality (sort by value)
Google Pixel XL 2016
34695 Points
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
43464 Points
HTC U11
44696 Points
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
39033 Points
High Quality (sort by value)
Google Pixel XL 2016
30724 Points
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
41022 Points
HTC U11
38752 Points
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
25922 Points
Basemark ES 3.1 / Metal - offscreen Overall Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 2 XL
853 Points
Google Pixel XL 2016
621 Points -27%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
1295 Points +52%
HTC U11
812 Points -5%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
788 Points -8%
Apple iPhone X
1702 Points +100%
Epic Citadel - Ultra High Quality (sort by value)
Google Pixel XL 2016
56.2 fps
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
59.7 fps
HTC U11
60 fps
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
59.7 fps

Legend

 
Google Pixel 2 XL Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 (8998), Qualcomm Adreno 540, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
 
Google Pixel XL 2016 Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 MSM8996 Pro, Qualcomm Adreno 530, 32 GB eMMC Flash
 
Samsung Galaxy Note 8 Samsung Exynos 8895 Octa, ARM Mali-G71 MP20, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
 
HTC U11 Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 (8998), Qualcomm Adreno 540, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
 
OnePlus 5T Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 (8998), Qualcomm Adreno 540, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
 
Sony Xperia XZ Premium Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 (8998), Qualcomm Adreno 540, 64 GB UFS 2.0 Flash
 
LG V30 Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 (8998), Qualcomm Adreno 540, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
 
Huawei Mate 10 Pro HiSilicon Kirin 970, ARM Mali-G72 MP12, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
 
Apple iPhone X Apple A11 Bionic, Apple A11 Bionic GPU, 64 GB eMMC Flash

Web browsing is a smooth experience on the Google Pixel 2 XL and even complex websites are quickly loaded. The benchmark results are also good and the test model is always in the upper third of the comparison chart, only the Mozilla Kraken score is comparatively low.

JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
Apple iPhone X (IOS 11.1.1)
224 Points +246%
HTC U11 (Chrome 58)
69.5 Points +7%
OnePlus 5T (Chrome 63)
66.5 Points +3%
Google Pixel 2 XL (Chrome 62)
64.7 Points
Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus (Samsung Browser 5.2)
62.2 Points -4%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium (Chrome 59)
61.5 Points -5%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro (Chrome 61)
56.6 Points -13%
Google Pixel XL 2016 (Chrome 53)
55.4 Points -14%
LG V30 (Chrome 62)
52.9 Points -18%
Octane V2 - Total Score
Apple iPhone X (IOS 11.1.2)
35255 Points +212%
Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus (Samsung Browser 5.2)
14050 Points +24%
OnePlus 5T (Chrome 63)
12509 Points +11%
HTC U11 (Chrome 58)
11781 Points +4%
Google Pixel 2 XL (Chrome 62)
11308 Points
Sony Xperia XZ Premium (Chrome 59)
10672 Points -6%
LG V30 (Chrome 62)
10506 Points -7%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro (Chrome 61)
10406 Points -8%
Google Pixel XL 2016 (Chrome 53)
8690 Points -23%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
LG V30 (Chrome 62)
3630 ms * -6%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro (Chrome 61)
3591 ms * -5%
Google Pixel 2 XL (Chrome 62)
3434 ms *
Sony Xperia XZ Premium (Chrome 59)
3199 ms * +7%
OnePlus 5T (Chrome 63)
3096 ms * +10%
HTC U11 (Chrome 58)
2760 ms * +20%
Google Pixel XL 2016 (Chrome 53)
2654 ms * +23%
Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus (Samsung Browser 5.2)
2237 ms * +35%
Apple iPhone X (IOS 11.1.2)
718 ms * +79%
WebXPRT 2015 - Overall
Apple iPhone X (Safari Mobile 11.0)
354 Points +82%
Google Pixel 2 XL (Chrome 62)
194 Points
OnePlus 5T (Chrome 63)
181 Points -7%
HTC U11 (Chrome 58)
162 Points -16%
Huawei Mate 10 Pro (Chrome 61)
158 Points -19%
Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus (Samsung Browser 5.2)
154 Points -21%
Sony Xperia XZ Premium (Chrome 59)
149 Points -23%
LG V30 (Chrome 62)
138 Points -29%
Google Pixel XL 2016 (Chrome 53)
126 Points -35%

* ... smaller is better

The Google Pixel XL was still equipped with eMMC storage, while the Google's Pixel 2 is shipped with modern UFS 2.1 storage. All the benchmark results are very good, only the writing performance of small data blocks is not so great. The Mate 10 Pro in particular is better in this respect.

You can either get a 64 or 128 GB version of the Google Pixel 2 XL. After the initial launch of our 64 GB model, we still had about 54 GB at our disposal. As with the previous model, you get unlimited storage for your own pictures and videos in Google's cloud. However, this service is a bit limited by now and only allows the storage of original quality pictures until January 15th 2021. All pictures will be limited to "high quality" after this date.

Google Pixel 2 XLGoogle Pixel XL 2016LG V30Sony Xperia XZ PremiumSamsung Galaxy Note 8Huawei Mate 10 ProHTC U11
AndroBench 3-5
-48%
-28%
-18%
-9%
201%
76%
Sequential Read 256KB
760
258.2
-66%
669
-12%
687
-10%
797
5%
732
-4%
717
-6%
Sequential Write 256KB
195.3
83.4
-57%
193.2
-1%
194
-1%
205.9
5%
208.7
7%
206.4
6%
Random Read 4KB
170.6
87.7
-49%
78.2
-54%
74.1
-57%
122.5
-28%
132.3
-22%
91.4
-46%
Random Write 4KB
17.84
14.56
-18%
10.21
-43%
17.2
-4%
14.55
-18%
164.4
822%
80
348%
Sequential Read 256KB SDCard
62.8
36.79 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M401)
67.9 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
68.8 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M401)
Sequential Write 256KB SDCard
47.2
33.31 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M401)
59.3 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
46.25 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M401)

Games

The graphics unit Adreno 540 in the Google Pixel 2 is very fast and supports all modern graphics APIs. All titles from the Play Store run smoothly at the highest quality settings, which is supported by our benchmarks.

The two front-facing speakers are well positioned, but you can easily cover them with the hands in landscape mode. Both the sensors as well as the touchscreen are very precise and does not give any cause any criticism.

Star Wars Pinball
Star Wars Pinball
Asphalt 8: Airborne
Asphalt 8: Airborne
Asphalt 8: Airborne
 SettingsValue
 high30 fps
 very low30 fps
Dead Trigger 2
 SettingsValue
 high59 fps

Emissions

Temperature

GFXBench Battery Test: T-Rex (OpenGL ES 2.0)
T-Rex
GFXBench Battery Test: Manhattan (OpenGL ES 3.1)
Manhattan

The surface temperatures of the Google Pixel 2 XL are very low and not critical at all, even under load.

The situation is a bit different under the hood during the GFXBench battery tests. The T-Rex test, which uses the graphics API OpenGL ES 2.0, shows a steady performance for quite a while, and there is only a small drop (not even up to 6%) after the 20th run. The Manhattan test, which is more challenging for the SoC, results in a bigger performance drop. We can see a deficit of up to 20% after just five runs. However, the limitation should not be noticeable during everyday tasks.

Max. Load
 32.7 °C
91 F
32 °C
90 F
30.6 °C
87 F
 
 33.1 °C
92 F
32.6 °C
91 F
30.8 °C
87 F
 
 32.9 °C
91 F
33.3 °C
92 F
30.7 °C
87 F
 
Maximum: 33.3 °C = 92 F
Average: 32.1 °C = 90 F
31.2 °C
88 F
33.3 °C
92 F
33.1 °C
92 F
31.3 °C
88 F
33.2 °C
92 F
34.2 °C
94 F
30.9 °C
88 F
33.1 °C
92 F
33.2 °C
92 F
Maximum: 34.2 °C = 94 F
Average: 32.6 °C = 91 F
Power Supply (max.)  27.7 °C = 82 F | Room Temperature 20 °C = 68 F | Voltcraft IR-260
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 32.1 °C / 90 F, compared to the average of 32.7 °C / 91 F for the devices in the class Smartphone.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 33.3 °C / 92 F, compared to the average of 35 °C / 95 F, ranging from 21.9 to 56 °C for the class Smartphone.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 34.2 °C / 94 F, compared to the average of 33.8 °C / 93 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 27.6 °C / 82 F, compared to the device average of 32.7 °C / 91 F.

Speakers

The Google Pixel 2 XL is equipped with two front-facing speakers. They are not just really loud at up to 88 dB(A), but they also sound comparatively good. Only the slight drop in the range around 2 kHz is a bit unfortunate. The smartphone cannot produce any bass, but the lower mids are well represented and create at least a somewhat powerful sound.

The Pixel 2 XL performs well for a smartphone, but there is unfortunately no stereo jack, so you either need USB-C headphones or the provided adapter for wired headphones. A pair of Bluetooth headphones is the better solution because the Pixel models support aptX HD. 

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2035.246.42532.941.93137.237.74031.736.85039.640.56328.330.38027.330.310026.928.112526.732.2160244520020.952.125020.957.131519.558.540018.562.650017.570.963017.574.780015.778.5100015.876.9125016.676.2160015.873.4200015.473.6250015.575.531501679.9400015.880.150001676.5630016.374800016.374.91000016.271.41250016.458.21600016.442SPL28.688.4N1.176.2median 16.4median 73.6Delta2.210.231.635.825.440.125.335.532.931.933.631.631.638.928.433.82727.220.828.62236.421.342.620.851.521.258.619.465.719.571.417.770.717.968.317.870.717.370.317.462.516.760.817.258.318.265.317.967.817.672.417.770.617.871.517.97318.164.518.249.33081.41.351.2median 17.9median 65.31.410.635.237.832.934.237.235.631.737.139.64028.327.927.32626.924.326.723.72433.420.941.220.951.919.551.218.560.317.55617.555.915.755.115.865.716.669.515.874.215.47715.574.91673.315.870.41670.816.373.116.372.916.273.516.468.816.455.828.684.41.154.7median 16.4median 65.72.210.8hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseGoogle Pixel 2 XLHTC U11Huawei Mate 10 Pro
Google Pixel 2 XL audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (88.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 28.1% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (9.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 3.2% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (5.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3.1% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (19.6% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 23% of all tested devices in this class were better, 8% similar, 69% worse
» The best had a delta of 12%, average was 38%, worst was 134%
Compared to all devices tested
» 43% of all tested devices were better, 7% similar, 49% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

HTC U11 audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (81.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 24.5% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (13.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4.1% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (7.4% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 5.1% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (6.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (22.1% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 39% of all tested devices in this class were better, 7% similar, 54% worse
» The best had a delta of 12%, average was 38%, worst was 134%
Compared to all devices tested
» 59% of all tested devices were better, 7% similar, 35% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Huawei Mate 10 Pro audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (84.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 28.1% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (10.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | reduced mids - on average 7.4% lower than median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (9.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 7% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (3% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (25.9% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 59% of all tested devices in this class were better, 7% similar, 34% worse
» The best had a delta of 12%, average was 38%, worst was 134%
Compared to all devices tested
» 76% of all tested devices were better, 5% similar, 19% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Frequency Comparison (Checkboxes select/deselectable!)

Battery Runtime

Power Consumption

The Google Pixel 2 XL has a slightly larger battery capacity at 3520 mAh compared to the previous model (3450 mAh). We are rather surprised by the high idle consumption, because the smartphone pulls more than 1W from the socket even at the lowest brightness setting.

The charging time of the Pixel 2 XL, which supports QuickCharge, was 152 minutes running Android 8.0. However, it takes more than four hours after the update to Android 8.1. We believe this will be fixed with an update soon. Unfortunately, the smartphone does not support wireless charging.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.02 / 0.38 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 1.28 / 1.87 / 1.89 Watt
Load midlight 3.73 / 8.08 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
Google Pixel 2 XL
3520 mAh
Google Pixel XL 2016
3450 mAh
LG V30
3300 mAh
OnePlus 5T
3300 mAh
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
4000 mAh
Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
3500 mAh
Apple iPhone X
2716 mAh
Power Consumption
24%
21%
21%
19%
27%
-1%
Idle Minimum *
1.28
0.53
59%
0.72
44%
0.58
55%
0.85
34%
0.68
47%
1.03
20%
Idle Average *
1.87
1.07
43%
1.37
27%
1.44
23%
1.15
39%
1.13
40%
2.4
-28%
Idle Maximum *
1.89
1.12
41%
1.41
25%
1.53
19%
1.23
35%
1.16
39%
2.6
-38%
Load Average *
3.73
5.53
-48%
3.46
7%
3.17
15%
4.12
-10%
4.69
-26%
2.96
21%
Load Maximum *
8.08
6.26
23%
7.83
3%
8.54
-6%
8.42
-4%
5.24
35%
6.6
18%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Runtime

The battery runtime is decent, despite the increased power consumption, and should easily last a normal day. However, the competition lasts even longer, and sometimes with smaller batteries.

We also had the chance to test the Google Pixel 2 XL with both Oreo versions. We compared the results of our WLAN test at an adjusted luminance of 150 nits. The Pixel 2 XL actually loses a few minutes with the latest Android 8.1 Oreo and only lasts about nine hours.

Once the battery runs low, you can activate the power-save mode (manually or automatically), which will limit the functionality of the smartphone to the essentials.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
28h 26min
WiFi Websurfing (Chrome 62)
9h 41min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
11h 12min
Load (maximum brightness)
5h 02min
Google Pixel 2 XL
3520 mAh
Google Pixel XL 2016
3450 mAh
LG V30
3300 mAh
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
4000 mAh
Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
3500 mAh
Apple iPhone X
2716 mAh
Sony Xperia XZ Premium
3230 mAh
Battery Runtime
-21%
14%
28%
5%
-18%
5%
Reader / Idle
1706
1333
-22%
1914
12%
1744
2%
1565
-8%
1292
-24%
1754
3%
H.264
672
505
-25%
822
22%
929
38%
742
10%
634
-6%
802
19%
WiFi v1.3
581
505
-13%
774
33%
818
41%
736
27%
564
-3%
695
20%
Load
302
230
-24%
267
-12%
398
32%
275
-9%
180
-40%
236
-22%
PCMark for Android - Work 2.0 battery life
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
596 min +5%
Google Pixel 2 XL
567 min
Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
533 min -6%
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
495 min -13%
HTC U11
476 min -16%

Pros

+ fast SoC
+ modern Android with long update cycle
+ excellent camera
+ good speakers
+ fast LTE
+ aptX HD
+ free cloud storage for pictures and videos
+ IP67

Cons

- display could be brighter
- very limited viewing angle stability
- no dual-SIM
- no microSD slot
- PWM
- no more MIMO-WLAN

Verdict

In review: Google Pixel 2 XL. Test model courtesy of Google Germany.
In review: Google Pixel 2 XL. Test model courtesy of Google Germany.

Google’s focus and the main selling point of its latest smartphones is the combination of hardware, software, and artificial intelligence that these two constitute. The Google Pixel 2 XL is certainly a very good smartphone, but there is still quite a lot to criticize, especially at the high price point.

The biggest drawback of the smartphone is the display. Our measurements are performed from a vertical position onto the display, so the results are actually really good. However, even small shifts of the viewing angle will result in a visible color cast, so the picture always looked a bit distorted. Furthermore, the POLED screen is also too dark among the high-end competition, which is especially problematic under direct sunlight. We cannot understand why Google opted to remove the MIMO-WLAN technology, either.

The Google Pixel 2 XL is a great smartphone, but the display is a serious drawback.

One of the highlights is the camera of the Pixel 2 XL, which leaves a great impression in all lighting conditions and Google Lens is a great additional feature. The rating is a bit lower due to the missing Pro mode and the lack of video features, but we think the pure picture quality of the Pixel 2 XL is even slightly ahead of Samsung's Galaxy S8 models.

The long update cycle (until October 2020) of the new Pixel models is another major advantage. If you plan on using the device for a long time and want a smartphone with a modern OS, the Pixel 2 XL is hard to ignore.

Google Pixel 2 XL - 12/20/2017 v6(old)
Daniel Schmidt

Chassis
88%
Keyboard
70 / 75 → 94%
Pointing Device
96%
Connectivity
42 / 60 → 70%
Weight
90%
Battery
92%
Display
80%
Games Performance
65 / 63 → 100%
Application Performance
67 / 70 → 95%
Temperature
93%
Noise
100%
Audio
72 / 91 → 79%
Camera
87%
Average
80%
88%
Smartphone - Weighted Average

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Daniel Schmidt, 2017-10- 6 (Update: 2020-05-19)