I’ve just published my Google Pixel 2 XL review and, if you’re a regular reader of this blog, you’ll know I am already a pretty big fan of the handset, despite some of its teething OLED issues.
My review unit was the black model, AKA the dullest-looking one of all, and while I do still like the phone quite a bit, I definitely think I’d prefer it in a louder color option.
The Google Pixel 2 and Google Pixel 2 XL are available in a few different colour options, however, some of these are just on the regular Pixel 2, while others are just on the Pixel 2 XL. The regular sized Pixel 2 can be had in Just Black, Clearly White, or Kinda Blue. Meanwhile, the Pixel 2 XL comes in either Just Black or Black & White; all of the colour choices are dual-tone but that final Pixel 2 XL one is a uniquely high-contrast one with plenty of pop, the others are more subtle "tone-on-tone".
I think my overall favourite would be the Pixel XL 2's Black & White option - the one I sadly didn't get for my review - simply because it looks really smart, especially with the cool-looking accents on it.
Second would be the Kinda Blue variant, as it is quite unusual in the phone space – a few other OEMs make blue phones including Nokia, HTC, and Samsung, but I think it's a good look wherever it comes from. This does limit me to the regular size Pixel, however, which means a smaller display and battery cell. Personally, I prefer the Pixel XL 2 model, so for me this really narrows it down to the Black & White version.
Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL?
If you’re seriously looking at Google’s new Pixel 2 phones, the biggest question you have to ask yourself is which model you go for – the Google Pixel 2 or the Pixel 2 XL.
I have both – or will do, the Pixel 2 Review is coming next week – and while both models are decent, I personally would go with the Google Pixel 2 XL every day of the week and twice on a Sunday.
Why? Simple, it has a bigger battery and a larger display. I’ve always preferred phablet devices over smaller phones, as I like to do pretty much everything on my phone. I seldom use tablets for this reason.
So for me, it’s a no-brainer You might feel differently, however, and if you prefer smaller phones, Google has you covered with its Pixel 2 lineup, as the smaller model retains all the USPs of the big model, save for the display and battery. But you can get it in blue or white, which is neat. Everything else is the same, meaning you get the same CPU, GPU, software, and camera tech.
Having also tested the iPhone 8 recently, I can tell you that Google’s approach to phones is far superior, as it gives the end-user everything they need and does not penalise them for using a smaller version of the phone.
The iPhone 8 compared to the iPhone 8 Plus is simply a no contest; the Plus model wipes the floor with it. And the iPhone X wipes the floor with the iPhone 8 Plus model. Go figure.
But when you go for a Pixel, you’re getting all the latest tech and performance regardless of what size handset you go for. And that, my friends, is how it should ALWAYS be.
Best Place To Buy The Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL
If you’re in the UK, the best place – IMHO – to preorder the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL is Carphone Warehouse.
Why? Simple: they offer a range of deals from a range of networks. You can also opt to buy the handset outright and then shop around for the best possible deal for your data and minutes.
Have a gander at what’s on offer now; prices start from £44 a month with a £59.99 upfront fee.
How To Buy Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL In the US?
No, bother – Verizon has you covered. The carrier has a ton of options for those looking to pre-order the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL.
You can buy the phone outright for $849.99 or go on a contract where prices start at $35.41 a month.
