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Pixel 7 vs Pixel 6

Opt for the older model or wait it out? Here's our overview to help you choose
Last Updated on December 1, 2023
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Google has provided us with a sneak preview of the Google Pixel 7. After a teaser at the Google I/O developer conference in May, we know the phone’s aesthetic and that it’s similar to the Pixel 6.

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro introduced a fresh design and processor for Google’s flagship phones last autumn. Since Google has revealed the Pixel 7, users are keen to know if the new Pixel phone will surpass its predecessor. And so are we.

To assist you in deciding which model could be best for you – and whether you should pick up a Pixel 7 at launch – here’s our detailed comparison of the Pixel 7 vs. Pixel 6.

Pixel 7 vs. Pixel 6 pricing

Pixel 7

Google’s Rick Osterloh stated the Pixel 7 would be available in the fall when he unveiled it at Google I/O. That means October if Google follows a plan that resembles other Pixel releases. October 28th saw the release of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, and we’d expect something similar.

The price of the Pixel 7 will be the most critical concern for you if you’re looking forward to its release. The Pixel 7 will be well worth it if Google wants to offer it at the same price as the Pixel 6 series. The regular edition of the Pixel 6 series costs $599 (£599), and the Pro version costs $899 (£849).

Of course, if you consider the possibility that Google will lower the price of the Pixel 6 series after the launch of the new smartphone, it makes the Pixel 6 an even better option.

Pixel 7 vs. Pixel 6 specs comparison

Design

Pic3 pixel 7 color range and pixel 7 pro

Google will continue to use the horizontal camera bar that extends on the device’s back and the Lenses. According to Google, it will be made of recycled aluminum on the Pixel 7, instead of glass on the Pixel 6.

The company appears to have decided to stick with a two-model approach: the Pixel 7 and the Pixel 7 Pro. Although, A third Pixel 7 model with a slightly larger screen than the Pro was mentioned in code that 9to5Google discovered in the Android Open-Source Project. However, it’s unclear if this alleged ‘Pixel 7 Ultra’ will be a part of the Pixel 7 lineup. 

Chip

Another thing about the Pixel 7 that we can be certain of is that it will use a new generation of Google’s Tensor chip. Based on rumors, the new chip won’t differ much in performance but will offer better power management.

Enabling new AI features appears to be a significant focus of Tensor’s upcoming iteration, as on-board machine learning was a major factor in Google’s decision to choose its silicon over Qualcomm chipsets.

Cameras

Pixel 6

The Google flagship’s camera setup significantly changed with the Pixel 6 lineup as the Pro model gained a telephoto lens and the main shooter’s megapixel count increased significantly to 50MP. Google has not yet confirmed that the Pixel 7 will use the same cameras as the current models.

However, it doesn’t matter if nothing changes, because Google frequently concentrates its photographic efforts on image processing and effect software. The Pixel lines frequently competes for the title of best camera phone because of this.

Battery life

Don’t anticipate a significant increase in battery size in the Pixel 7. For the record, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are using different batteries (4,614 mAh and 5,000 mAh respectively).

In tests, both Pixel 6 models came in about two hours behind the average smartphone, so we’re hoping the Pixel 7 makes some advancement, perhaps with a larger battery or better power management.

Moreover, the Pixel 6 is already one of the greatest smartphones available, and if Google decides to enhance the battery in future models, the Pixel 7 will be the best option a smartphone buyer can make.

Software

Similar to how the Pixel 6 debuted with Android 12, the Pixel 7 will launch with Android 13. When Android 13 launches this year, Google will likely update the Pixel 6, given its track record and software support.

If the Pixel 7 continues the Pixel 6’s upgrade policy of three years of Android updates and five years of guaranteed security updates, the device may fall behind Samsung’s new flagships.

Samsung offers four years of Android updates starting with the launch of the Galaxy S22, which might put pressure on Google to be a little more forgiving with the Pixel 7.

Pixel 7 vs Pixel 6 Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, these are the main key differences between Pixel 7 and Pixel 6:

  • The design style is the same, although the details vary.
  • Both are said to have the same camera setup.
  • Possibly the same 90 Hz refresh rate and the same screen size.
  • Old gen Tensor vs. Next-gen Tensor.
  • Google ought to offer both platforms the same Android version.

Now, based on your preferences and what you might use the smartphone for (multitasking, photography, games, etc.), you may want to wait for the Pixel 7.

Overall, the Pixel 7 offers excellent upgrades, and we expect it to outperform the Pixel 6 in terms of features. However, the price may also rise because of the pandemic and chip shortages.

We advise you to hold off on purchasing or pre-ordering this attractive and powerful phone until you’re happy you know what you’re getting.

Farhad has spent the last decade getting hands-on experience with various electronic devices, and is on the hunt for deals for PC Guide.