Google Pixel 6: Top-notch even without the highest score

Compared with its predecessor, the Pixel 5, the Google Pixel 6 emerges from the mid-range and aims to conquer the premium segment. In the process, Google opts for a successful mix of an unusual design, a strong dual-camera setup, a fast high-end SoC, a large battery, and a bright and color-accurate OLED panel that works at up to 90 Hz. Last but not least, Google offers major updates for its smartphone for at least three years and security patches for at least five years.

But then why wasn't it able to get a very good rating? There are several reasons. The camera loses a few points when it comes to natural color reproduction and its weak zoom capabilities, since optical zooming is reserved for the Pro model and digital magnification reaches its limit at 7x. Furthermore, the runtimes in our real-world Wi-Fi battery test are still good, but some competitors last much longer in this area. The comparatively high weight also brings the rating down a bit, so that the overall rating is "only" good, even though this "good" is pretty close to "very good".

Last but not least, update cycles haven't been included in the rating system so far, which is certainly a big plus for the Pixel 6. It also supports wireless as well as reverse wireless charging and is both resistant to dust and water according to IP68. This means that it's not only protected against unfavorable conditions, but it also promises a long product cycle, which is something unusual for an Android smartphone at the moment.

All in all, we would definitely recommend buying the Google Pixel 6. Google has succeeded in creating a smartphone that its owner will be able to enjoy for a long time.