A lot can change in a year. When viewed from the back, you might be tempted to think the Pixel 2 XL looks similar to last year’s Pixel XL, but flip them around, and that’s where you’ll noticed the biggest change.
The Pixel 2 XL’s display is not only edge-to-edge, but the device features front-facing stereo speakers, something not often seen in high-end flagships. The design reminds me in a lot of ways of the Nexus 6P, a device that’s still held in high regard.
There’s also a high level of polish to the Pixel 2 XL that was missing from the Pixel XL. The rear glass panel is now smaller, while the curves and shape of the Pixel 2 XL simply looks better and more ergonomic. And even though the Pixel 2 XL’s display is larger, the device remains a comfortable size.
Other big changes include the Pixel 2 XL’s active frame, revamped launcher, improved camera, and more powerful specs. Twelve months between releases doesn’t typically warrant an upgrade, but there’s just so much to like about the Pixel 2 XL.
The one big thing last year’s Pixel XL holds over the Pixel 2 XL, however, is a headphone jack. Whether you believe wireless headphones are the future or not, companies are clearly following Apple’s lead. Seeing Google get cozy with the trend is a big deal.
You can see how these devices compare on paper in the table down below.
Google - Pixel 2 XL | Google - Pixel XL | |
---|---|---|
Display Size | 6-inch, 1440 x 2880 pixel display (537 ppi) | 5.5-inch, 1440 x 2560 pixel display (534 ppi) |
Resolution X | 1440 | 1440 |
Resolution Y | 2880 | 2560 |
Display Type | QHD+ pOLED | AMOLED QHD |
Operating System | Android 8.0 (at launch) | Android 7.1 (at launch) |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 |
RAM | 4GB | 4GB |
Storage |
|
|
External Storage | No | No |
Main Camera (Back) | 12.2MP | 12.3MP |
Secondary Camera (Front) | 8MP | 8MP |
Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Bluetooth 4.2 |
Battery | 3520mAh | 3450mAh |
NFC | Yes | Yes |
Connectivity |
|
|
Sensors |
|
|
GPS |
|
|
Height | 6.2 inches (15.75 cm) | 154.72 mm (6.09 inches) |
Width | 3 inches (76.2 mm) | 75.74 mm (2.98 inches) |
Depth | 0.3 inches (7.6 mm) | 8.58 mm (0.34 inches) |
Weight | 6.2 oz (176 g) | 168 g (5.93 oz) |
Colors | Black, Blue, White | Black, Blue, Silver |
Supported Audio Formats | N/A | N/A |
Supported Video Formats | N/A | N/A |

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