Google’s Pixel smartphones couldn’t impact the Android phone market until the Google Pixel 6 arrived in 2021. With its launch, the Google Pixel 6 soon became one of the best Android smartphones in the price range of around $600. A year later, the Google Pixel 7 arrived on October 13, 2022. Both Google Pixel 6 and 7 have similar features and usage. However, when you delve deep, you will find some key differences that can influence your buying decision. Hence, we are comparing Google Pixel 7 vs. Pixel 6 to find which is better.
Specs showdown
Both the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 were introduced at a $600 price point. However, the Pixel 7 offers more bang for your buck with some incremental upgrades. The question remains: is it worth making the switch from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 7?
Chipset and performance
The Pixel 7 and Pixel 6 have similar tech specs, but the Pixel 7 takes the lead with its new Google Tensor G2 SoC. This upgraded chipset is expected to enhance the phone’s overall performance, making it a more compelling option for those who prioritize speed and efficiency.
Operating system: Android 13 vs. Android 12
The Pixel 7 comes preloaded with Android 13, offering features like Material You UI, improved audio, and enhanced multitasking capabilities. In contrast, the Pixel 6 runs on Android 12, which may lack some of the latest software perks.
| Specs | Google Pixel 7 | Google Pixel 6 |
|---|---|---|
| SoC | Tensor G2 | Tensor |
| RAM | 8 GB LPDDR5 | 8 GB LPDDR5 |
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB |
| Display Resolution | 1080 × 2400 pixels | 1080 × 2400 pixels |
| Pixel Density | 418 ppi | 411 ppi |
| Display Type | OLED | OLED |
| Front Camera | Single 10.8 MP f/2.2, Ultra-Wide Angle camera | Single 8 MP f/2.0, Wide-Angle camera |
| Rear Cameras | Dual camera setup50 MP f/1.85, Wide Angle, primary camera12 MP f/2.2, Ultra-Wide Angle, secondary camera | Dual camera setup50 MP f/1.85, Wide Angle, primary camera12 MP f/2.2, Ultra-Wide Angle, secondary camera |
| Battery Size | 4355 mAh | 4614 mAh |
| Weight | 197 grams | 207 grams |
| OS | Android 13 | Android 12 |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz |
| Security | Optical in-display fingerprint scanner and face unlock | Optical in-display fingerprint scanner |
| Price | $600 | $600 when launched, currently available at $359 |
As outlined in the above table, Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 6’s tech specs are almost similar, similar to their prices at launch.
When it comes to the front camera, the Pixel 7 sports a 10.8 MP f/2.2 lens, a slight improvement over the Pixel 6’s 8 MP f/2.0 lens. This could make a difference in capturing better selfies and utilizing features like cinematic blur.
Fine-tuning over flashy upgrades
It’s worth noting that the Pixel 6 already brought several new features and upgrades compared to its predecessor. Therefore, Google’s focus with the Pixel 7 seems to be more on fine-tuning existing features rather than introducing groundbreaking changes.
- Battery Life and Charging: Both phones support wireless and reverse wireless charging, but there’s no significant difference in battery life.
- Display and Brightness: Both models feature an OLED display, but the Pixel 7 offers slightly better peak brightness.
- Connectivity: Both phones support LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, ensuring you stay connected wherever you go.
- Build and Durability: The Pixel 7 continues to use Gorilla Glass Victus for its frame, offering durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Color Options: The Pixel 7 introduces a new color, Obsidian, adding to the aesthetic choices available to consumers.
Camera capabilities
Hardware
When it comes to rear cameras, both the Pixel 7 and Pixel 6 are equipped with dual-camera setups featuring a 50 MP primary and a 12 MP secondary sensor.
However, the Pixel 7 takes a leap forward with its front-facing camera, boasting a 10.8 MP sensor compared to the Pixel 6’s 8 MP selfie camera. This makes the Pixel 7 one of the best Android phones for selfie enthusiasts.
Software enhancements: Power of Tensor G2
The real game-changer lies in the software and processing capabilities of the Pixel 7, thanks to its Tensor G2 chip. Google has introduced Super-Res Algorithms that work in tandem with Tensor G2’s computational power.
This feature significantly improves digital zoom quality. For instance, when you zoom in 2x on a subject, the Pixel 7 utilizes all available pixels in that sensor area to deliver a more detailed and crisp image.
New features: Photo Unblur and more
One of the standout features of the Pixel 7 is the upgraded Photo Unblur tool. This allows you to remove blur from any photo, even those taken with previous phone models. It’s like having a magic eraser for your photos, making the Pixel 7 a flagship phone worth considering.
Price comparison: Is the Pixel 7 worth the extra cost?
Launch prices
Both the Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 6 were launched with identical price tags: $599 for the 128 GB model and $699 for the 256 GB variant. However, the landscape has changed since the Pixel 6’s release.
Current market prices
As of now, the Pixel 6 is available at a discounted price of $359, making it a more budget-friendly option. This price drop can be found at major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, increasing its availability to a wider audience.
While the Pixel 7 doesn’t offer a plethora of upgrades, it does come with a slightly more advanced Tensor chip and processor. This could make a difference in performance, especially for those who are particular about speed and efficiency.
Screen size and other considerations
Interestingly, the Pixel 7 comes with a slightly smaller screen compared to the Pixel 6. Whether this is a pro or a con could be a matter of personal preference.
Given the minimal upgrades and the current price of the Pixel 6, it seems to offer better value for your money. However, if you’re looking for the latest processor and are willing to pay the full price tag, then the Pixel 7 could be the better option for you.
Final thoughts
Google Pixel 7 has not received any major upgrades. Hence, there are only a few reasons to upgrade to the Pixel 7 if you own a Google Pixel 6 device, especially with the Google Pixel 8 around the corner. If you are not facing any issues with your Pixel 6, there’s no point in upgrading. However, it is still true that the Pixel 7 is a little better than its predecessor.
