13 Nov
Blog

Google Pixel 6 Review: Don’t Overlook the Cheaper Pixel

Back of the Pixel 6.

Google Pixel 6

RRP $ 599.00

"The Pixel 6 may be thinner and cheaper than the Pixel 6 Pro, but the software, performance, and even the screen and camera come close enough to make it still alluring."

advantages

  • Great camera

  • Screen is colorful and vibrant

  • Latest Android 12 software

  • Years of software updates

disadvantage

  • Flakey connectivity

  • Quick charger not included

The Pixel 6 Pro is Google's big hitter in its new line of smartphones for 2021, but the Pixel 6's lower price tag – $ 599 instead of $ 899 – makes it a lot more enticing to most people. But now that we know how good the Pixel 6 Pro, which was recognized by Digital Trends' Editors ’Choice, does the cheaper version still make sense given the hardware tradeoffs?

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If you just take a cursory look, the Pixel 6 doesn't differ much from the Pixel 6 Pro, especially when both are face down. Take a closer look and it's obvious what it is as the Pixel 6 has a smaller body section above the camera module compared to the 6 Pro. If the light is right, you'll see that the Pixel 6's camera module doesn't contain a periscope zoom camera either.

Back of the Pixel 6.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Pick up the Pixel 6 and the flat-screen design gives it a more "classic" feel in the hand, and it actually gives it a better grip than the curvy Pixel 6 Pro. I didn't have to juggle the Pixel 6 as much as I did the Pixel 6 Pro, and I generally felt that it was less likely to accidentally drop it. However, the Pixel 6 is made of glass and metal, which makes it still slide on many surfaces. At 8.9 mm thick and 207 grams, it's also quite substantial.

In fact, it's barely smaller than the Pixel 6 Pro – just flatter – and that creates a minor problem. While the Pixel 5 was compact by modern standards, no Pixel 6 phones are slim you. It's the Pixel 5a (if you are in the US or Japan) or opt for a different brand.

Pixel 6 from the side.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The color of the phone in my photos is called Seafoam and the mint tone is really very pretty. I've been using the phone for a few weeks now and it has spent time in and out of pockets and bags but hasn't been treated too badly. I noticed a few superficial scratches on the back of the Gorilla Glass 6, which can be felt with the fingertip, but which are only visible when the light falls properly. Oddly enough, the Pixel 6 Pro didn't collect these markings, despite being made of the same materials.

Pixel 6 Pro (left) and Pixel 6 (right).

Pixel 6 Pro (left), Pixel 6 Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Pixel 6 Pro (left) and Pixel 6 (right).

Pixel 6 Pro (left), Pixel 6 Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Aperture comparison of Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro.

Pixel 6 Pro (below), Pixel 6 Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

I would have liked the Pixel 6 to be smaller to really be a clearer choice over the Pixel 6 Pro, but otherwise the design is a winner. It's got character and visual appeal, the body-wide camera module looks cool and the colors are inspired, silly names aside. This time around, it's a very different and welcome approach compared to Google's drab designs on previous Pixels.

screen

The other crucial design aspect of the Pixel 6 is its screen, which is flat compared to the curved Pixel 6 Pro. It measures 6.4 inches and has an aspect ratio of 20: 9 and a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels and a refresh rate of 90 Hz. It supports HDR and has an always-on screen. This is a lower spec than the 6 Pro, but in reality the two aren't that different.

Pixel 6 screen.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Interestingly, before we dive into that, it doesn't seem to suffer from the same issues that I encountered with the Pixel 6 Pro's 120Hz refresh rate. Scrolling is smoother in the apps, which was problematic on the Pixel 6 Pro at 120 Hz, although perhaps not as smoothly as on other phones. It still doesn't feel quite right, but it is significantly better than the Pixel 6 Pro.

The refresh rate issues were the only flaw against the Pixel 6 Pro's screen, which is otherwise glorious. So can the Pixel 6's lower screen keep up? Due to the lower resolution, it is of course not that razor-sharp, but you have to look for the difference. Watching videos reveals that it's a tiny bit cooler than the deliciously natural and warm Pixel 6 Pro screen, but it takes a few minutes of careful study to see the difference.

Video on the Pixel 6.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The screen is really nice and a highlight of the Pixel 6, but it's not flawless. It disappoints with the bezels and overall flatness. There will be those who don't mind the flat screen, but to me (along with the 20: 9 aspect ratio) it looks cheap and aged, and the bezels are quite large, especially on the chin. The automatic brightness can be dull, and the overall brightness is not that high either. I can still see it in sunlight (well, most pathetic sunlight in the UK) but it requires maximum brightness which makes me question its ability when I go to a place with real sun.

Pixel 6 fingerprint sensor.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The in-display fingerprint sensor is more reliable and slightly more accurate than that of the Pixel 6 Pro. I didn't have to re-enroll my fingerprint to make it work more consistently, and I was also able to use the PIN less. Google says that improved security measures make using the sensor slower than some others, but I've had different experiences on both phones so I'm not sure if this is really the case. For me, the Pixel 6's fingerprint sensor is better to use and live with every day than the Pixel 6 Pro's.

camera

If you want the best camera from Google, you have to buy the Pixel 6 Pro, but the Pixel 6 still has the same main camera with 50 megapixels, f / 1.85 aperture and 12 MP wide-angle camera with a 114-degree field of view. It does not have a 48 MP telephoto zoom camera. The selfie camera is also different, with the Pixel 6 getting by with an 8MP camera with fixed focus in the hole punch.

Pixel 6 camera module.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

With the same main camera, you'd expect the photos to be the same between the two phones, but there are some unexpected differences. No better or worse, just a slight change in shade and balance – and not always. In all of my comparisons, however, it was the Pixel 6 Pro that took the better photos, suggesting that there is more to it than just changes in light, angle, or surroundings. Check out the gallery below to see what I mean.

However, there is nothing to worry about as the main camera on the Pixel 6 is superb. You can find more details on this and the wide-angle camera in our Pixel 6 Pro review. The Pixel 6 has the same Action Pan and Long Exposure camera modes as the Pixel 6 Pro, and you can use Magic Eraser in Google Photos too. The lower price means a telecamera is not included; Instead, Google offers up to 7x digital zoom. It's decent for a digital zoom, but the 6 Pro's optical telephoto camera is of better quality, which makes it more versatile.

How about the selfie camera? Despite the technical differences between them, both the 6 and 6 Pro take decent and fairly similar-looking selfies, with the Pixel 6 producing slightly warmer skin tones and higher contrast in general, but both offering a similar level of detail. I prefer the lighter image and wider field of view of the Pixel 6 Pro, but there's little in the Pixel 6's selfie that couldn't be fixed with a filter. The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro's Real Tone feature enhances the way photos of people with darker skin are exposed and balanced, something no other phone camera can claim.

Yes, the Pixel 6 Pro is the smartphone you should buy if you're really into photography, but if you're just looking for a capable camera for everyday snapshots, the Pixel 6 will be more than enough. What is impressive is how precisely and effortlessly great photos are captured that are seldom disappointing, regardless of the situation or time of day. I also compared the Pixel 6 Pro's camera to the Apple iPhone 13 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, so check out how good the camera is.

software

The Pixel 6 has Android 12 and is as up-to-date as Android phones. I speak at length about the software experience in the Pixel 6 Pro review, and I suggest that you look there for insights into the wonderful material you are designing. What I'm going to add here is how much I like the always-on screen, which is very helpful in showing a big clock and notification details, as well as the overall speed of the software.

It's very fast throughout, but it's the bigger buttons, clearer menus, and Google Assistant integration that help you hone your workflow. I even got used to telling Assistant to turn off the phone instead of messing around with the repurposed power button. There are a couple of keyboard shortcuts that speed things up, including a double press of the power button to wake up the camera from the lock screen and Quick Tap where a tap on the back can activate a selected feature. I've used it to bring up Google Assistant accurately and conveniently.

Also of particular note is the Google Assistant Typing, which lets you speak pretty much any message out loud anywhere in the operating system and the phone understands it. You can even send messages with your voice, which is completely hands-free. It's very accurate and very fast, which makes it useful every day.

The Pixel 6 has Android 12 and is as up-to-date as Android phones.

Any Problems? The setup process took a couple of tries to get right, a very unusual process, and when I finally got to Android 12, the performance wasn't entirely right for the first day or so. There were stutters and some errors when opening the app, but everything soon cleared up and I haven't had any problems since then. However, I am also aware that I may have been lucky with my general lack of issues with the Pixel 6. I've received emails and heard anecdotal pointers from people about bugs and other issues that make the Pixel experience less sophisticated than it seems appropriate. This inconsistency is worrying but difficult to quantify, although I seem to have heard more about Pixel 6 software bugs than any other recent version of the phone.

Performance and connectivity

The Pixel 6 contains Google's Tensor processor, plus 8 GB or RAM, which is less than the 12 GB in the Pixel 6 Pro. In everyday use, I didn't notice any difference in speed or when switching between apps, as I got directly from the Pixel 6 Pro to the Pixel 6 even after an hour of playtime.

Asphalt 9 on the Pixel 6.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Much more frustrating is that my phone is plagued with connectivity issues. It's the same issues I had with the Pixel 6 Pro where it doesn't seem to switch between Wi-Fi, 4G, or 5G very effectively. A signal is displayed but the data connection is not working and often even a reboot won't fix it. It's frustrating, and while it seems to get better on its own, I wanted to toss it across the room if it wasn't working.

I use the UK version of the Pixel 6 that connects to a sub-6 5G network, but a version with a mmWave 5G connection is also available in the US. A 5G connection is a necessary addition to a phone as it increases its lifespan, but since coverage is still sparse, you are unlikely to benefit from it every day.

battery

Google says it can expect the 4614 mAh battery in the Pixel 6 to be "beyond 24 hours," and that's about right. If I use the phone normally – emails, messages, calls, photos, and social networks – mostly over WiFi with a little 4G and turn it off overnight, it easily lasts for two full days. I regularly ended the day with about 60% battery remaining after about three hours of screen time.

Charging the Pixel 6.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The Pixel 6 is equipped with wireless charging according to the Qi standard and a 30 watt fast charging option. The charger included in the box doesn't support the fastest charging speeds, so you'll need to buy a 30W USB PD 3.0 charger to get it and even then it falls short of the competition. This is an unfortunate omission as most other manufacturers include wired fast charging for midrange devices as well. WarpCharge from OnePlus, for example, is part of the Nord 2.

Price and availability

The Google Pixel 6 is Now availableeven if it can get tight. It costs $ 599 in the US or £ 599 in the UK.

Our opinion

If the Pixel 6 had been the same overall size as the Pixel 5, it would have impressed me even more than it was. Since it doesn't, all of the design changes (a flat panel display and fewer curves) emphasize that this is just the cheaper, lower-tier version of a better phone. It's not a phone that suits someone with different preferences, just one that appeals to a different wallet. That's okay, but it's also a wasted opportunity. Otherwise, if you want a smaller Google phone, you have the Pixel 5a, but again only in the US and Japan.

If you buy the cheaper Pixel 6 instead of the Pixel 6 Pro, you are actually missing out on the better camera. Otherwise, I've found that the software and performance are essentially the same, issues and everything. The battery life is decent at up to two days, plus it has all the durability and software updates you need for a permanent purchase. The screen may have different specs, but most of the time you won't notice the difference in resolution or refresh rate. Fortunately and perhaps bizarre, the fingerprint sensor somehow manages to be better than that of the 6 Pro.

The Pixel 6 Pro's higher price tag is reflected in its camera, design, and really nice screen. If both of these are within your budget and you're unsure which one to buy, we always recommend the Pixel 6 Pro. The Pixel 6 doesn't lag that far if you're not serious about the camera, however, and at $ 599, it's great value for money. It's a shame that it's not much more compact than its more expensive brother.

Is there a better alternative?

For roughly the same price as the Google Pixel 6, you can choose the Samsung Galaxy S21, the OnePlus 9, or the Galaxy A52 5G. All of them have important advantages, including a high refresh rate screen, quick security methods, quick charging, and good cameras. All three phones are good value for money, even the Galaxy S21, which is available at a lower price than when it launched, but none can rival the Pixel 6's camera.

If you're in the UK, consider the OnePlus Nord 2 if you're looking to spend a little less, and take a look at the Realme GT too. Both have a great design, and the Nord 2 has a fast charge function, while the Realme GT has the top processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 888.

How long it will take?

Aside from the standard one-year warranty, Google's software commitment means the Pixel 6 will receive critical Android updates through October 2024 and security updates through October 2026. This means that if you buy the Pixel 6 (or Pixel 6 Pro) you will get updates longer than any other currently available Android smartphone.

The phone is IP68 waterproof, Gorilla Glass Victus above the screen and Gorilla Glass 6 on the back. The chassis is made of metal. Despite the overall sturdiness these features offer, we recommend a case as the phone is quite slippery and has already suffered minor scratches on the back. If you buy the Pixel 6, you shouldn't have to think about upgrading for the next three years.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. Unless you prioritize the camera or a curved screen, the Pixel 6 does almost everything the Pixel 6 Pro does for less.

Editor's recommendations



09 Nov
Blog

Google Pixel 6 Pro Review: A Fantastic New Era Begins

Google Pixel 6 Pro from behind.

Google Pixel 6 Pro

RRP $ 899.00

"The Pixel 6 Pro has the best camera on a smartphone today, a vibrant screen, the latest and greatest-looking version of Android installed, and enough power and long-term support to keep you going for years."

advantages

  • Incredible camera

  • Fun camera features and editing tools

  • Vivid, colorful screen

  • Android 12

  • Long software support

disadvantage

  • Unreliable fingerprint sensor in the display

  • Cellular connection fluctuates in some situations

  • 120 Hz screen may shake

the Pixel 6 Pro is leading Google's Pixel smartphone lineup in an exciting and much-needed new direction. In the third generation, Pixels had become a boring mid-range smartphone for geeks and photographers. The Pixel 6 Pro, on the other hand, is a flagship with an eye-catching design and new technology inside. Plus, it has a fantastic camera, the latest software, and a price that won't hit your bank account too hard.

Does this make the Pixel 6 Pro a phone for everyone that can really compete with the best from Apple and Samsung? Yes, but not entirely either.

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What a fantastic looking smartphone the Pixel 6 Pro is, with its fashionable color scheme, high quality materials and feel, and unique style that makes it impossible to confuse with anything else. After a stream of boring, purely functional mobile devices, Google gave the Pixel 6 Pro a design that matches its clean and beautiful software. It's up there with the best looking phones released this year.

Google Pixel 6 Pro from behind.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

All done? Nothing but praise? Well no The Pixel 6 Pro is massive and almost identical to the other monster phone of 2021, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra. At 8.9mm thick, it's not slim either, and its 210g weight means you'll always have it in your pocket. It is far from suitable for one-handed operation. The metal and shiny glass don't offer much grip either. So if you don't hold onto it there is a risk of a major, expensive accident.

Even if you do not hold the phone in your hand, it does not eliminate the risk of disaster as the phone has a tendency to slide around on many surfaces due to its slippery nature. A bag is recommended to keep it safe, and I also made sure that it is shielded on surfaces as the large camera module on the back can act as an anchor. The single, raised module strip extends over the entire back and, in the Sorta Sunny version, is framed with black glass and provided with gold decorative stripes in the adjacent pictures. This edge is slightly raised and can prevent the glass and lens from being scratched.

Side view of the Google Pixel 6 Pro.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

That the Pixel 6 Pro is big and slippery isn't unique, but it's a shame the non-Pro Pixel 6 isn't much smaller or less likely to break for freedom since it's made from the same materials. Unfortunately, the similarity in size means that no Pixel 6 phone is ideal for someone who wants a small Google phone. In the past few weeks with the Pixel 6 Pro, I've finally adjusted to the size and weight of the phone, along with the quirk that the power button is too high on the case. If you're coming from a smaller phone, be prepared for the fact that for the first few days the phone won't feel as natural as you might hope it will.

screen

On the Pixel 6 Pro, you'll see a beautiful 6.7-inch AMOLED screen with an aspect ratio of 19.5: 9, resolution of 3120 x 1440 pixels, and refresh rate of 120 Hz, covered with curved Gorilla Glass Victus . This is where it differs from the Pixel 6, which has a smaller, flat screen with a lower resolution and a refresh rate of 90 Hz. The curve is subtle and doesn't bend much of the screen over the sides of the phone and is mostly taken up by noticeable bezels.

Google Pixel 6 Pro wallpaper.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

It's incredibly bright with excellent viewing angles, and you can watch videos with the phone flat on the table without losing quality or color. The viewing experience comes extremely close to that of the iPhone 13 Pro, with only a slight decrease in contrast in a direct comparison. Watching the Carfection video on the Ferrari 250 SWB reveals sublime colors and razor sharpness. The Pixel 6 Pro is a powerhouse for video playback.

The stereo speakers are intelligently placed, with the speaker at the bottom of the phone being accompanied by the main speaker at the top of the screen. Although the sound is pushed forward, it still has a wide sound stage. It's loud but the bass is missing, although the immersion from the clever placement of the speakers still makes the Pixel 6 Pro sound great in almost all situations.

The Pixel 6 Pro is a powerhouse for video playback.

All good so far but there are two serious screen issues that really frustrated me. The first is the in-display fingerprint sensor, which is junk. The problem is that it's slow and unreliable. I've re-registered my pressure several times and it doesn't change the situation. I've unlocked the Pixel 6 Pro with my PIN code more than any other phone, and there's no face unlock to bypass the pesky fingerprint sensor. I got around it a bit with Android's Smart Lock feature, which keeps the phone unlocked when it's in my pocket or when I'm at home. However, it's not particularly reliable either.

One-handed mode on the Google Pixel 6 Pro.One-handed mode Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Second, there's the 120Hz refresh rate. It's switchable between 60Hz and 120Hz instead of being dynamic like the Galaxy S21 Ultra's screen, and while much of the software is very fluid, there are apps that just aren't . Twitter is a great example as scrolling through my feed is like wading through mud compared to the iPhone 13 Pro. I'm pretty sure this is a screen refresh issue because when I manually force a 60Hz rate it scrolls freely, albeit with more blur. High refresh rate screens reduce eye strain and make website viewing and content scrolling more comfortable. At the moment, this is not always the case with the Pixel 6 Pro.

Both issues are at odds with the Pixel 6 Pro's polished exterior design, and not what you'd expect from a new high-end flagship from a company the size of Google. The refresh rate inconsistency could be fixed with a software update, and the fingerprint sensor unreliability could be improved in the same way. For now, however, both are pretty significant drawbacks that set the Pixel 6 Pro apart from its more expensive competitors.

camera

You get a 50-megapixel main camera, a 48-megapixel telephoto camera with 4x optical zoom and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera. The Pixel 6 Pro also uses Laser Detect autofocus, optical image stabilization on the main and telecamera, and records up to 4K videos at 60 frames per second (fps). There's also an 11-megapixel selfie camera in a hole-punch cutout at the top center of the screen.

Google Pixel 6 Pro camera module.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

I've already compared the Pixel 6 Pro's camera directly to the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra and Apple iPhone 13 Pro, and it beat those two established camera superstars. Everything you've heard about the Pixel 6 Pro's camera is true – it really is that good. Stills are full of life, colors and details. I haven't yet found a real situation where a photo is being taken that I need to edit a lot, if at all, before considering sharing, and the range of cameras offers versatility for me to have fun and get creative with .

It's the simplicity with which you can snap stunning photos that makes it so exciting. No matter whether night or day – whether the subject is moving or resting or near or far – the 6 Pro does everything for you. You just press a button and get a brilliant picture.

  • 2.
    Wide angle
  • 3.
    Portrait mode
  • 4th
    Pixel 6 Pro
  • 5.
    Pixel 6 Pro
  • 7th
    Pixel 6 Pro
  • 8th.
    Pixel 6 Pro
  • 10.
    Pixel 6 Pro
  • 11.
    Pixel 6 Pro
  • 12th
    4x optical zoom
  • 13th
    20x digital zoom
  • 16.
    Pixel 6 Pro
  • 17th
    Pixel 6 Pro

There are several exclusive pixel camera modes to try out. Action Pan lets you take photos with a blurry background motion effect, which is great for action shots of cars and other fast-moving things. You just take a photo as usual and Google's software will add the speed effect. Long exposure mode does the same thing and you don't have to track the subject, but I haven't found that many situations where it works compared to Action Pan mode.

Everything you've heard about the Pixel 6 Pro's camera is true – it really is that good.

Found in Google Photos, Magic Eraser is only available on the Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, and it works by digitally removing unwanted things from your photo. It's effective and easy to use, and with a few swipes, random people and objects will disappear from the background of your photos. It even works with old photos and photos that weren't taken with the Pixel 6 Pro. It's part of Google Photo's extensive photo editing suite that goes way beyond optimizing HDR or Saturation. You can even change the look of the sky in your photo with the touch of a button.

Anything that isn't great? The large sensor makes close-ups difficult, and there is no macro mode to make up for this. I've also seen some weird distortion from the main camera where objects appear to be a different shape than they actually are. Aside from that, you get fun photo and video modes, transformative editing tools, and a camera that will capture amazing photos regardless of your skills and the environment. The Pixel 6 Pro's camera is currently the best you can get on a smartphone.

Software and performance

The Pixel 6 Pro uses Google's new custom tensor processor, paired here with 12GB of RAM. There is a choice of 128 GB or 256 GB of storage space. I used the phone normally, spent time playing Asphalt 9: Legends, and took nearly 500 photos over a couple of weeks. Through all of that, the phone was a top performer. I didn't notice any difference with the Tensor-powered Pixel 6 Pro versus a phone with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor when it comes to general everyday life.

Playing on the Google Pixel 6 Pro.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Google used the Pixel 6 phones to launch Android 12. The biggest difference that you will notice with any other Android phone is the material you design. It makes Android cleaner than ever and a little more customizable too, as the accent colors can be set anywhere to match your wallpaper. There are some fairly new widgets of varying uses, with the YouTube Music widget being the most helpful to me and the new clock widgets being the most appealing.

The shortcut keys on the notification shade are bigger, easier to press and have new functions. I can't say they made a significant difference in my daily use, but they are definitely pretty to look at. I like the "bounce" built into vertically scrolling pages in the OS, but the one-handed mode isn't very good as you can't scroll through the OS and instead use a single app. It's not very helpful with a phone this big. I also like the Google Assistant's voice typing mode, which works fully in Messages and WhatsApp, so you can type and send messages hands-free. It's accurate and fast – I use it most days.

Live subtitle mode on the Google Pixel 6 Pro.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The tensor chip is supposed to improve the translation of other languages ​​on the device and is definitely faster than previous versions that I used on older Pixel phones. Live Caption adds text captions to videos in a few other languages ​​including Japanese. While watching one of AKB48's recent YouTube videos, Yuki Kashiwagi, the translation was good enough to understand what was going on, but it takes a while to get started. It will still make mistakes, especially if the conversation is lively, and will completely misunderstand what is being said, but overall it works well and is fast enough to keep up.

Although I've read some comments online about Android 12 having a lot of bugs, nothing was noticed during my time with the phone, at least not in terms of general usage. It is running all of the apps I have installed and has not crashed or done anything that irritates my daily chores. However, I've noticed that the assistant doesn't always give instructions to Google Home and sometimes it responds to the same commands. For example, Assistant stopped playing a YouTube video when I asked Home to stop playing a radio station.

I find Android 12 comfortable and quick to use, but there is a small learning curve. Google doesn't keep popping up cool features after reading the intro guide. The helpful pixel introductory cards that pop up the first time you set up your phone and lead you to notable new features will eventually wear off and you'll have to reach into the settings menu to activate them. It's a shame because you can be missing out if you don't take the time to really learn how to get the most out of Android 12.

Battery and connectivity

Equipped with a 5,000 mAh battery that charges to 50% in 30 minutes with a USB PD 3.0 charger and Qi wireless charging, Google says the Pixel 6 Pro will last around 24 hours before it does needs to be charged. After testing, I expect the Pixel 6 Pro to last at least as long as promised, and I was pretty impressed with the battery life given the size and specs of the screen and the 120Hz always-on refresh rate.

Charging port on the Google Pixel 6 Pro.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

For example, on a single day with three hours of GPS use, a hundred photos, apps open, social networks, and a few other simple tasks, the battery still had around 30% left late in the evening. With light to moderate daily use, it was rare for the battery to drop below 50% by midnight. However, it took the phone about two days and two charges to adjust to my usage before the battery started working much harder. After this adjustment phase was over, the battery life improved significantly.

Side view of the Google Pixel 6 Pro.Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

This is a 5G smartphone that connects to either sub-6 or mmWave networks depending on the version purchased. I am testing the phone in the UK on the 4G and sub 6-5G EE network. I have found that connectivity can be flaky and on several occasions a data connection has not been maintained despite showing a 4G or 5G connection. I've noticed that this is especially the case after driving a car, which may indicate that it is struggling to switch between cell towers and possibly 3G, 4G, and 5G as well. It isn't all the time and can only happen in areas with poor coverage, but there is something to be aware of.

After this adjustment phase was over, the battery life improved significantly.

Otherwise, the call quality is very good, with clear voices and a loud speaker (although finding the sweetspot on the ear is a bit awkward). I also had no issues connecting bluetooth earbuds or streaming YouTube to my TV.

Price and availability

the Pixel 6 Pro starts at $ 899 and is available now through Google's own online store and various networks. In the UK, the Pixel 6 Pro starts at £ 849. However, be prepared to wait if you order one now as demand is high and supply is low.

Our opinion

The only thing stopping the Google Pixel 6 Pro from being a must-have is the in-display fingerprint sensor. It's the only technical feature that lets the whole thing down, and since Face Unlock can't be used instead, getting into the phone takes longer than any other top smartphone currently available. It's a real shame because once inside it's a great experience.

Android 12 looks great, the screen is colorful and vibrant, and the camera is the best I've used on any phone in a while. That you have to resort to hacky workarounds to unlock your phone and gain access to these wonderful things borders on cruelty. Aside from the exaggeration, I was hoping that after the Galaxy S20 and Note 20 Ultra debacle, we had exceeded the level that makes security on smartphones annoying, but unfortunately not. Fortunately, the camera makes up for it. The last camera that I liked as much as the Pixel 6 Pro was on the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, and I think the photos on the 6 Pro are better than those of the S21 Ultra in many ways.

The many advantages of the Pixel 6 Pro mean I've learned to live with the inadequacy of the fingerprint sensor and other relatively minor annoyances, and the price is extremely competitive. even. If I were told it was $ 1,000, I wouldn't think of questioning its worth. It hits 8/10 here, and that will climb to 9/10 if the screen issues are fixed and connectivity improved in an update, but that number may not really reflect how good the rest of the Pixel 6 Pro is, which is why it is is associated with an Editor's Choice Award.

The Pixel 6 Pro is hands down the best Google phone in the past few years, and it's so powerful and well supported that it will last for years.

Is there a better alternative?

If you want the best camera phone available, our tests show that the Pixel 6 Pro is the right phone right now, although the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra and iPhone 13 Pro are still superb and have some unique features that set them apart from others . These two devices are the main competitors of the Pixel 6 Pro, and we appreciate the feature set and beautiful screen of the S21 Ultra, as well as the performance, capability, and excellent software of the iPhone 13 Pro. You won't go wrong with any of these three phones.

How long it will take?

The Pixel 6 Pro's screen is covered with Gorilla Glass Victus, the back is covered with Gorilla Glass 6, and the phone is IP68 water and dust resistant so it can withstand harsh treatment. However, due to the slippery case, I still recommend putting it in a suitcase.

Google promises major Android software updates for the Pixel 6 Pro by October 2024 and security updates by October 2026. This is one of the longest update schedules on any Android phone, and even surpasses Samsung's generous four years of security updates on its latest Galaxy Cell phones. The Google Pixel 6 Pro will easily last three years before you have to consider upgrading, but for many it could easily take five years.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. The fingerprint sensor will annoy you, but the camera and performance are so good, and the price is so cheap, that you will overlook it.

Editor's recommendations



14 Oct
Blog

Google Nest Cam (Wired) Review: Watching With Confidence

Google Nest Cam Indoor Wired on the table.

Google Nest Cam (wired)

RRP $ 100.00

"This is a surveillance camera that, thanks to its intelligent functions, does not require constant babysitting."

advantages

  • Cute, compact design

  • Free three hours of video history

  • Convenient automatic arming / disarming

  • Reliable and accurate warnings

disadvantage

  • Power cord integrated in the camera

  • Limited articulation

Google's range of security cameras has recently expanded to offer more choice than ever before without compromising too much on features. In fact, the introduction of three hours of free video history without a subscription makes this range of Nest Cams much more appealing. However, Google doesn't make it easy for consumers to differentiate its new cameras – both the cordless and wired models use the Nest Cam name.

On the other hand, while the Google Nest Cam (battery) offers additional versatility as it can be used indoors and outdoors, the Nest Cam (wired) is a true indoor solution that has been improved thanks to a lower cost of $ 100. There are plenty of other indoor cameras in this price range, including models from the Ring, Arlo, and Wyze, making it an uphill battle for Google this time around.

draft

Immediately after unpacking, I am amazed at the smaller design of this camera compared to its outdoor sibling. There is one major difference to the Google Nest Cam (wired). It won't overwhelm countertops, tables, and other small corners of the house where you might want to install a security camera.

Google Nest Cam Indoor Wired on the table.John Velasco / Digital Trends

It's also smaller than the previous Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor, but maintains the same modern look that makes Google's cameras cozy and attractive. Consumers will appreciate that it is made from 45% recycled plastic and comes in four colors (snow, fog, linen, and sand). The only complaint I have is the limited posability of the camera – you really can't tilt it up that much when placed on a low surface.

Installation and setup

Similar to the battery-operated version, the Google Nest Cam (wired) only needs to be set up via the Google Home app – it is no longer tied to the dedicated Nest app. That is wonderful, because everything is controlled and accessed via an app. All of the event history is shown in a handy timeline view, but I also like how you can filter it by cameras if you have several from Google.

Once the camera is connected to my home's Wi-Fi network, the camera has very little latency when it is turned on, but it takes about five seconds before I can see the live stream. I suppose it's not that bad, but I can perfectly understand how those five seconds can get critical during an event.

Back of the wired Google Nest Cam Indoor.John Velasco / Digital Trends

Although it should rest on surfaces, there is always the option of mounting it on the wall – also thanks to its long cable. The disadvantage is that the wire cannot be removed. It's built into the camera so if the cable breaks you pretty much have to replace the entire unit.

Camera performance

As for the specification, the camera on the Google Nest Cam (wired) is lukewarm compared to the known cams in space. The 2-megapixel camera sensor records video at 30 frames per second (fps) in 1080p, but there are now cameras that record in 2K and 4K. In general, it produces some reasonable detail, but doesn't get the clarity I've seen with the Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor.

There are some artifacts that are a little distracting and become more noticeable with sudden changes in ambient light. It also tends to saturate colors a little more, making it look unrealistic at times. As night vision goes on, the footage tends to appear low in contrast, which I think is a good thing as it increases the exposure of the shadows.

While the video quality doesn't overwhelm me, I have to admit that the Google Nest Cam (wired) is spot on with detection. So far it has been the right thing to tell between people and my cats that are noted in the app.

privacy

What I really like about the latest Google Nest Cams is that they can all be turned off based on my phone's location – allowing them to turn on and off automatically for more privacy. The camera turns off automatically as soon as I get home, but turns on again when I leave the geofenced area around my apartment. There's no need to manually put the camera in Home or Away mode, so you have one less thing to worry about.

It's a simple camera that is effective in recording events.

There is also a green LED light on the camera that turns on when the camera is active. These are just a few of the privacy features I like about Google's cameras. They also come with up to three hours of free event video history and save those clips for you to review. No subscription is required, but if you want to extend the quota you must subscribe to Nest Aware, which is $ 6 a month and has 10 days of 24/7 video history and 60 days of event video history.

Close-up of the Google Nest Cam Indoor Wired camera lens.John Velasco / Digital Trends

Even if the internet goes down, you can rest assured that the Nest Cam (wired) will continue to store footage locally. Unfortunately, it can't do anything if the power goes out – which makes the battery-powered version more attractive.

Our opinion

Viewed across the product category, Google is not trying to blow the competition out of the water with its offer. It is not necessary as it is a simple camera that is effective in capturing events. At $ 100, it's not overly shoddy as it removes some of the frustrations I have with most security cameras – frequent false positives and manual arming are two of the most glaring points.

Is there a better alternative?

When it comes to indoor cameras, the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera is the closest competitor for the same $ 100 cost. I like it because it actually has a physical privacy shutter that goes over the lens to make sure no one is looking when they shouldn't, unlike Google's software-based privacy feature that turns the camera off.

Another alternative is the Wyze Cam V3, which at under $ 40 is still one of the best security camera deals you can get. With its weatherproof construction, it's designed for indoor and outdoor use, and you get the added convenience of local storage with its microSD slot.

If you're an Alexa user, the Ring Indoor Cam has similar features and performance for $ 60.

How long it will take?

Despite a body made mostly of recycled components, the Google Nest Cam (wired) feels like a well-made, solidly built camera that's well worth the price. There is a one year limited warranty that covers defects.

Should you buy it?

Yes, even if it's not the best deal Google has put on the table. While lacking the sharp clarity of other cameras, it does a wonderful job of actually providing meaningful warnings.

Editor's recommendations



26 Aug
Blog

Google Nest Doorbell Review: When Beauty Meets Intelligence

Google Nest Doorbell (battery) on the outside of the door.

Google Nest doorbell (battery)

RRP $ 180.00

"The Google Nest Doorbell (battery) is intelligent and elegantly designed and offers the complete package."

advantages

  • Beautiful minimalist design

  • Smart alerts

  • Doesn't require a subscription to video history

  • Useful quick answers

disadvantage

  • Fine video details are on the soft side

  • Inconsistent capture rates

It's been a long time since I last checked a video doorbell – six years to be precise. Since that 2015 review of the Ring Video Doorbell, we've seen countless video doorbells spanning the full spectrum with premium features like radar technology and intelligent detection. While I've never seen Nest Hello, it's one of the most popular video doorbells around – and gives Ring competition in the field.

Three years after its publication, we finally have a real successor with the Google Nest Doorbell, which is mainly characterized by the fact that it is battery-operated – in contrast to its predecessor. There's a lot more to like about this one, but with Google in charge this time around it will be interesting to see how its experience differs from its predecessor and if it improves on the competition.

Setup and installation

It's obvious that simplicity is at the heart of the Google Nest Doorbell. While you have the option of wiring it to your existing doorbell port, which takes a few steps and may require a professional if you're unsure of how to do it yourself, setting it up as a wireless, battery-powered doorbell is a breeze. All you have to do is screw the mounting plate to a surface, then slide the doorbell into position – it's that simple.

Google Nest Doorbell (battery) components located on the floor.John Velasco / Digital Trends

I attached the mounting plate to a wooden panel on the outside of my front door, which is a bit easier than installing it on a brick surface, for example. If you are concerned about it being stolen, know that it will take quite a bit of force to get it out of position. I tried to pull it out with my own hands and it didn't move. To remove it when it needs to be charged, you will need to use the unlocking tool that came with it. The only problem here is that I can absolutely imagine losing the release tool, so you should keep it in a safe place.

Note that you won't be using the original Nest app to complete setup. Instead, everything is done through the Google Home app. After scanning a QR code and going through a few menus, the Google Nest Doorbell was up and running in less than 10 minutes.

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If you liked the original Nest Hello design, you'll be amazed what Google did with the new design. The Nest Doorbell is made from 46% recycled plastic and has a minimalist design that looks absolutely beautiful. Don't be fooled by the plastic, because the matte surface ensures that it stays clean and smudge-proof.

Bottom view of the Google Nest Doorbell (battery) on the outside of the door.John Velasco / Digital Trends

Best of all, it doesn't have the purposeful design of other doorbells. The Nest Doorbell is simply one of Google's best designs of all time – and that says a lot!

camera

Google has proven that specifications shouldn't have that much weight in the overall system. For example, just look at the Pixel 4a and 5a, two smartphones that do a lot but don't have big specs. Yes, there's no denying that the Nest Doorbell's specs don't come close to the original Nest Hello, but it doesn't have to be because it's smarter.

The Nest Doorbell is one of Google's best designs of all time.

Let's get the specs out of the way. There is a 1.3 megapixel – inch sensor with a diagonal field of view of 145 degrees that records video with a resolution of 960 x 1280 pixels. It's an odd aspect ratio for sure, but the Nest Doorbell's camera can see the floor below it about a few feet away. This is important because it can recognize when parcels are being dropped off right on the doorstep.

In terms of performance, the Nest Doorbell delivers decent-looking clips that use HDR video to compensate for the exposure of the scene. Highlights are dimmed while shadows are increased to bring out details that would otherwise be lost. There are some artifact elements that showed up the first time you accessed a livestream, but they quickly disappeared after 10 seconds.

Fine details are on the softer side, but I can still see most of the things in the landscape. Oddly enough, the recording rate varies widely from a choppy 9.11 frames per second (fps) all the way up to 31.77 fps. In one case it recorded at 9 fps when it was sunny and clear outside – so who knows why this is happening. Fortunately, night vision is sharp and clear.

characteristics

Doorbells have two main purposes: to keep an eye on who / what is on the doorstep and to keep an eye on what is happening. In my experience so far, the Nest Doorbell excels in both. It was almost perfect at recognizing people, packages and movement and sending notifications on my smartphone. Small details like the LED ring around the doorbell, which lights up when someone approaches, shows how intelligently they perceive their surroundings.

If you're a die-hard Google Assistant user, you'll love how much they're involved with the Google ecosystem. For example, when someone rings the doorbell, not only do I get a notification on my phone, but I also see a live stream on my Google Nest Hub Max smart display showing me who is there.

There are also the Quick Responses to choose from, which come in handy when I'm in a meeting or otherwise busy and can't open the door. While there are only three to choose from at the moment, I appreciate the usefulness of this feature. And when you end up answering a ringtone, the internal microphone ensures that voices can be heard, while the internal speaker emits enough volume and clarity for people to hear my voice.

Google Nest Doorbell (battery) on the outside of the door.John Velasco / Digital Trends

Another major selling point about the Nest Doorbell is that it comes with three hours of free event video. This is noteworthy because normally you would have to subscribe to a service to receive any type of video storage – so there is great immediate value to this offering. Subscribing to Nest Aware extends your video history to 30 days and offers additional security features such as access to emergency services.

battery

Initially, I had the Google Nest Doorbell set to detect any movement, which can obviously drain the battery faster. However, I disabled it and just set it to monitor people and packages. After almost a week of use, the battery life remains constant at 70%. If you're doing the math, it has to be recharged sometime long before the month is up. Changing the detection settings will hopefully produce better results in the coming weeks.

Our opinion

With a sticker price of $ 180, the Google Nest Doorbell (battery) competes in a crowded room. No, it's not the most feature-rich or spec-rich video doorbell, but it works just fine as a smart doorbell. Google designed a beautiful doorbell with the intelligence to keep me updated on what's happening at the front door.

Is there a better alternative?

Alexa users will want to look elsewhere as the Google Nest Doorbell is only compatible with the Google Assistant ecosystem. The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd generation) is an excellent solution for Alexa users and undercuts the Nest Doorbell in the price department.

For those looking for a more advanced video doorbell, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 with radar technology with 3D motion detection technology can show you where someone is on your property.

How long it will take?

The Google Nest Doorbell (battery) has a sturdy construction that feels like it can withstand the elements. Its IP54 rating ensures it can withstand extreme temperatures from -4 degrees Fahrenheit to 104 F. There's a one-year limited warranty that's included to cover any defects.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. It combines beauty and practicality in one package, giving you the peace of mind that it will work whether you are there or not.

Editor's recommendations



25 Aug
Blog

Google Nest Cam (Battery) Review: The Anywhere Home Camera

Google Nest Cam (battery) on the table.

Google Nest Cam (battery) test: The camera for anywhere in the house

RRP $ 180.00

“The Google Nest Cam (battery) is one of the most versatile cameras out of the box. You even get a free video history. "

advantages

  • Works both indoors and outdoors

  • Stores three hours of video history for free

  • Great contrast with HDR video

  • Magnetic plate has a strong connection

disadvantage

  • Bulky design

  • Details are a little soft

It may be surprising to learn that Google has been in the home security business for quite some time. In fact, the original Nest Cam was first released in 2014, long before any of us could have guessed that the Google Assistant would become the brains behind running the smart home. That's quite a long time if you think about it, and the company has released many more cameras – some of which have been well received by users and critics.

However, the latest intelligent surveillance camera is said to be the most ambitious offering to date. The Google Nest Cam (battery) may be the security camera to beat, not just because it works indoors and outdoors, but because it has enough intelligence and power to be the only camera you can count on, when You work you need it. And, oh yes, you don't have to sign up for a subscription service to get access to the best features.

That's not the rule, but I like where it goes.

Setup and installation

Designed to handle both outdoor and indoor situations, I have to admit, I love that you can choose where to place the Google Nest Cam (battery). Thanks to its IP54 protection rating, it can withstand the weather if it is placed outdoors. I chose to keep it as an indoor camera for this review, but it's worth noting that it comes with a wall plate, screws, and anchors if you set it up outdoors. Because it's battery operated, there's no need to run annoying cables around the house – unless it needs to be charged.

Google Nest Cam (battery) with internal stand on table.John Velasco / Digital Trends

While you can buy the optional $ 30 indoor stand that allows the Nest Cam (battery) to stand upright and move around like other indoor cameras, I just put it on the side of a door frame because its magnetic platter is impressively strong. It takes a lot of force to remove until you need two hands to remove it from surfaces.

Another interesting change is that the camera is no longer tied to the Nest app. Instead, everything is set up and managed by the Google Home app. After following the instructions in the app, your Nest Cam (battery) was up and running in less than five minutes.

draft

The new model bears no resemblance to the original Nest Cam from 2014. It actually follows Google's previous line of home surveillance cameras, the Nest Cam IQ series, which has a similarly rounded design with a short connector between the base and the camera body. The Nest Cam (battery) is only available in the snow color, so it would be nice to get at least a few more options. Am i in love with the design? Not really, especially when it's bulkier than other indoor cameras, but I can still appreciate its modern design.

Google Nest Cam (battery) attached to the fridge with a magnetic plate.John Velasco / Digital Trends

Interestingly, I found that if the camera is separated from the magnet base, it will become inoperable. It's a bit strange that its functionality is tied to the connection to the magnetic disk, but Google says it's a privacy protection feature when you're using it outdoors – so it turns off while it's charging indoors . However, you can turn this off by going to the device information settings in the Google Home app. In this way, it works regardless of whether it is connected to the magnetic disk or not.

I'm also not thrilled that it uses a proprietary power connector. I understand the pin connections help keep it weatherproof outdoors, but the proprietary connection means I just can't use any other charging cable I might have lying around. Instead, I would have to go straight to Google.

camera

In terms of specs, the Google Nest Cam (battery) is a small step down from the previous Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor. It has a 2-megapixel 1 / 2.8-inch sensor with a 130-degree field of view that can record video at 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second (fps). In comparison, the Nest Cam IQ Indoor has a decent zoom function that preserves details thanks to its 8 megapixel 4K sensor. With an outdoor camera, the Nest Cam's (battery) field of view is narrower than other all-outdoor cameras, so you'll want to strategically place it in one place to maximize coverage.

Screenshot of the live view of the Google Nest Cam (battery).

Fortunately, the Nest Cam (battery) still offers HDR video, which balances high-contrast scenes well, so the lights and shadows are tinted appropriately to give the entire scene a more neutral contrast. Even so, it doesn't capture nearly the same level of detail and clarity as the Nest Cam IQ Indoor with 4K sensors. Details are a little softer on the Nest Cam (battery). However, its night vision performance is still impressive.

software

As already mentioned, the Google Nest Cam (battery) only works with the Google Home app – unlike previous Nest Cams that could still work with the Nest app. I welcome this change as all of my smart home devices are under one roof. There is an events page through the app that lists all of the event triggers, complete with animated preview clips and detection type.

At first I found the app's navigation a bit confusing as I had to go through other menus to find filter options. Another strange oversight that I noticed while using the app is the ability to quickly take a snapshot or video clip while viewing the video stream live. There are no options for this, which I find quite strange as it is a standard feature on many cameras. I really hope Google will update the camera to enable this basic feature as it comes in handy.

privacy

If Google does one thing perfectly with the Nest Cam (battery), it has to be that they take your privacy seriously. As much as I would have liked to see a kind of privacy shutter over the camera lens itself, the camera can be completely switched off via the Google Home app. You'll find other standard privacy features like motion zones that let you choose which areas the camera should keep an eye on, as well as a green LED on the camera itself to indicate that someone is accessing the live feed.

It's one of the most feature-rich cameras I've come across right out of the box.

Just like the other Nest Cams, I love that you can set up a geofence to turn the Nest Cam (battery) on or off. Using my smartphone's GPS, the Nest Cam (battery) turns off when I enter my apartment – and turns on again when I leave the geofence and leave.

battery

The Nest Cam (battery) has a rechargeable 3.65 V lithium-ion battery with 6 Ah, which cannot be removed and therefore has to be charged at some point using the charging cable supplied. If you're using it as an indoor camera, just keep in mind that the charging cable is about a meter or so – so there is little wiggle room in how far it can be from a power source. Instead, consider picking up the indoor stand as it has a longer wire.

Bottom of the Google Nest Cam (battery) with proprietary connector.John Velasco / Digital Trends

Due to the battery power, the camera can of course be used anywhere. In the short time I've tested, it's still over 85% charged after almost a week of use, which makes me optimistic that it will last over a month on a full charge. This of course depends on how active it is.

characteristics

Many of the features of the previous Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor are locked behind a subscription service. The key feature of the Google Nest Cam (battery) is that it gives you up to three hours of event video out-of-the-box – with no subscription required. This is wonderful news because it captures and stores video of events over the past three hours. If you need more coverage, you'll need to subscribe to Nest Aware for up to 10 days of continuous video recording.

I'm also excited to announce that even in the event of a network failure, the Google Nest Cam (battery) can continue to function normally as it continues to detect events and save clips. I tested this by unplugging my router. This is especially useful as it will not become inoperable if there is a power failure or the Wi-Fi network is interrupted.

Close-up of the Google Nest Cam (battery) camera.John Velasco / Digital Trends

The Nest Cam (battery) will continue to provide intelligent alerts based on what it sees. So far, when it comes to discerning people and pets, it's pretty much right – and alerting me with a notification on my phone. When used outdoors, it also has the ability to detect vehicles. I like that I can customize the notifications through the app, which helps avoid false positives.

And finally, it includes two-way audio for interacting with people. The internal speaker sounds loud and clear enough when used indoors, but I suspect that ambient noise outside could potentially affect its performance.

Our opinion

While there are some minor inconveniences that could easily be resolved with a software update, the $ 180 Google Nest Cam (battery) is a well-rounded security camera that can be effective anywhere. It's a very versatile camera that doesn't hide any advanced features behind a paywall, and one of the most feature-rich cameras I've come across right out of the box.

Is there a better alternative?

When it comes to clarity and detail, the Arlo Pro 4 is hard to beat with its sharp graphics, color night vision, and removable battery. You pay a little more for it, but the extra features and powerful performance back it up.

At the other end of the spectrum is the $ 130 Eufy SoloCam E40. It shares many of the same functions, such as: B. local storage, which eliminates the need to sign up for a subscription service.

How long it will take?

The Google Nest Cam (battery) has a robust construction with a matte outer casing. It is also designed to operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -4 degrees Fahrenheit to 104 F. In the event of a malfunction due to a defect. Google offers a one-year limited warranty that covers this.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. It's rare that you find a security with so much flexibility and smarts out-of-the-box.

Editor's recommendations



18 Aug
Blog

Google Pixel 5a 5G Review: A Slight but Worthwhile Upgrade

Google Pixel 5a functional picture with the screen on.

Google Pixel 5a 5G

RRP $ 449.00

"The Pixel 5a continues to live up to its camera expectations and offers smooth performance, expressive photos and lowlight functions at an affordable price."

advantages

  • Excellent camera performance

  • Smooth, clean software

  • IP67 water and dust resistance

  • Affordable price for its skills

disadvantage

  • Standard, a bit boring design

  • No high refresh display

Google's Pixel 5a 5G was the subject of so many leaks at the time that there are no surprises here – but it never had to be. The Pixel A series has always been cheaper, scaled-down versions of Google's main phones while offering the same high quality camera hardware and software performance. This has not changed with the Google Pixel 5a either.

In terms of hardware, it's a step up from the Google Pixel 4a 5G, with a larger battery and IP67 water and dust resistance. Conversely, it leaves out some of the premium features you get on the Pixel 5, such as the increased RAM and high-resolution 90Hz display. Overall, it continues to deliver exactly what users of the Google Pixel A series want: clean software, a strong camera and no major disadvantages.

Google Pixel 5a from the back.Ajay Kumar / Digital Trends

Design and display

The design of the Pixel 5a 5G is largely unchanged from its predecessor, the 4a 5G, and borders on boredom. It's a standard candy bar design with sleek black plastic, rounded sides, and a screen with narrow bezels. The hole punch selfie camera is located at the top right, and a fast-reacting fingerprint sensor is located on the back. There is a 3.5mm audio jack on top, just like the 4a 5G.

The big change compared to the previous model is not visible, but a significant one. They now have IP67 water and dust resistance, which means the Pixel 5a can withstand full immersion in water, splashes, and rain, as well as a day at the beach. That was missing from previous generations and it is unusual to find even mid-range phones these days that are not waterproof. So it's nice to see that this durability issue has been fixed.

The screen is largely unchanged. It's a 6.34-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 2400 x 1080. That's a slight change from the 6.2-inch screen on the 4a 5G, which gives you an aspect ratio of 20: 9 while the resolution and pixel density remain the same at 413 pixels per inch (ppi). The viewing angles are great both indoors and outdoors, with high maximum brightness. Videos, games, and text look crisp and I didn't notice any pixelation while using it.

The only thing I missed was the Pixel 5's high-resolution 90Hz screen, which allows for smoother scrolling, animations, and transitions. After you get used to the high-resolution 90Hz screen on the Pixel 5 and 120Hz Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, it is difficult to go back to a normal 60Hz refresh rate.

Google Pixel 5a shows apps.Ajay Kumar / Digital Trends

Performance and battery

The Pixel 5a 5G is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor with 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage. This is the same configuration as the Pixel 4a 5G and the same chipset as the Google Pixel 5, so I won't go into too much detail on performance. Everything is smooth enough for everyday use with no noticeable app slowdowns.

It also handles demanding games like Asphalt 9 and Genshin Impact without chugging, although the lack of the high-refresh panel is noticeable. Even so, it will get the job done with no major problems. There's nothing more to say about that.

Battery life is a big step up from the Pixel 4a 5G. With a 4,680 mAh cell, it's one of the more powerful batteries I've seen on a mid-range phone, and significantly more durable than the 3885 mAh cell on the Pixel 4a 5G. I used an average of one and a half to two days of regular use before charging, with normal daily use consisting of surfing, tweeting, gaming, and photography. There's no wireless charging, but the included adapter gives you 18 watts of fast wired charging.

It will get the job done with no major problems.

Over time, the phone's adaptive battery feature also learns your app usage and habits. That means it finds out which apps you use the most and what times you use them (for me it's Twitter and Reddit 24/7), and it makes sure that apps you don't use often aren't Waste of energy in the background. Over time, this feature should be able to learn your habits and optimize performance better to get more juice out.

A powerful camera

Camera features are why you're here for the Pixel 5a 5G and the phone doesn't disappoint in that regard. On paper, the hardware is identical to the Pixel 4a 5G. The main sensor is a 12.2 megapixel (MP) camera with a 16 MP ultrawide camera with a 117 degree field of view. The 8MP front camera works perfectly well for selfies and videos. But it's Google's software chops that really make the sensors glow.

In good lighting, the main sensor takes excellent pictures with lots of detail, without noise or blurring. Despite a brutally bright and sunny day that can often hide the automatic exposure of smaller phones, all the shots I took while walking in the park turned out to be beautiful. The colors were accurate, vivid without being oversaturated, and the greens stood out particularly well in the contrast between sunlight and shadow.

Taking pictures with the ultra-wide 16MP camera gives you a much larger field of view of 117 degrees. It's marked 0.6x in your camera app and allows you to capture a lot more of your surroundings and background. It's useful for landscape photography, and I enjoyed using it to capture the entire perimeter of the fountain and pond in the park.

But it's Google's software chops that really make the sensors glow.

There are some tradeoffs with the ultrawide camera. While the barrel distortion is not significant, some of the finer details in the recording are lost. Zooming in on leaves and branches reveals more artifacts and debris than if you were just shooting with the standard 12.2 MP sensor. And it is also worth noting that there is no telesensor. There is a 2x zoom option in the camera app, but it is a digital zoom, not an optical one, so there is a corresponding loss of quality there as well.

Pixel 5a night vision example.

Google Pixel 5a 5g Review Portrait mode example 1500x1000

Unsurprisingly, lowlight photography is another of the Pixel 5a's strengths. On a cloudy day in my kitchen, the phone automatically activated Night Sight to capture the colors of the slowly ripening banana and the pattern of the granite tabletop behind it. You can also enable night vision in portrait mode, which gives you access to a variety of powerful onboard editing options to control things like background blur and color pop, as well as enable black and white shooting.

Among the other features included, you also get astrophotography, which, like the Pixel 5, lets you take vivid shots of the night sky. For video recording, the phone can process 1080p and 4K at 60 frames per second. The capture of people kayaking in the lake was smooth, with minimal jerking or autofocus panning issues. I was even able to track an airplane flying overhead and take several clear shots.

Pixel 5a camera app.

Pixel 5a portrait mode.

Software and connectivity

The Pixel 5a is running the latest version of Android 11. It's Google's clean version of Android that most people are probably familiar with. The 5a is guaranteed to receive operating system and security updates for three years, so you are sure to receive the upcoming Android 12.

In terms of unique features, there are various smarts and integrations from the Google Assistant. You can identify songs, you can put the Google Assistant on hold for a call using the "Hold for me" feature in your phone app, view calls and identify songs. It also has a built-in recorder that can automatically create transcripts, which I found particularly useful for recording interviews and referencing quotes.

In terms of connectivity, the Pixel 5a 5G supports Sub-6 5G, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0 and NFC. I've tested mine on T-Mobile, but it's compatible with all the major US carriers, Japanese operator SoftBank, and Google's Project Fi.

Price and availability

The Google Pixel 5a 5G will only be available in the US and Japan. In the US, it will be available from the Google Store and Google Fi for $ 449 or through a subscription program for $ 15 per month. In Japan, it will also be available from the Google Store for 51,700 yen.

Our opinion

The Google Pixel 5a doesn't make promises it can't deliver. It's not a generational leap from the Pixel 4a 5G – the differences are pretty minor at best – but it does improve in key areas like waterproofness and battery life. Camera performance continues to be as expected, software is clean, and performance is smooth, so you get a great mid-range phone at a reasonable price.

Is there a better alternative?

If you already own the Google Pixel 4a 5G, the differences are in the IP67 sealing and improved battery life, which isn't worth the upgrade. On the other hand, if you have an older Pixel 4a, you'll also benefit from the faster processor, 5G connectivity, bigger screen, and two rear cameras, making the investment a much more worthwhile investment.

On the high end, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE costs around $ 100 to $ 150 more on average, but it gives you a crisp 120Hz screen, triple rear camera array, wireless charging, and much more powerful processors and specs. There is currently a shortage of other compelling mid-range phone options in the US alongside the non-5G iPhone SE, but there is no shortage of competitive options like the OnePlus Nord 2 5G in the international market.

One last thing to keep in mind is that Google has already announced the existence of the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro that use the new Tensor processor. So if you're willing to wait another year, we expect a future unconfirmed Pixel 6a to have a version of the same new chipset.

How long it will take?

The Google Pixel 5a 5G comes with a one-year warranty as standard, but you can expect it to last a lot longer. Although it shares the same Snapdragon 765G processor, it is guaranteed to receive operating system and security updates for three years to keep it feeling new. It also has IP67 water and dust resistance, which gives it more durability than previous generations.

Should you buy one?

Yes. As a mid-range phone with a great camera, clean software, long-lasting battery, and water resistance, the Pixel 5a doesn't have many comparable competitors. However, if you already own a Pixel 4a 5G, the difference isn't big enough to be worth the upgrade.

Editor's recommendations



04 Apr
Blog

Lenovo Smart Frame Review: Simple With Google Photos in Mind

Lenovo Smart Frame Review Subseries Gallery 2

"No Distraction Here: The Lenovo Smart Frame is about sharing your favorite memories."

  • Photo-realistic display

  • One of the largest picture frames ever

  • Convenient organization with Google Photos

  • Easy wall mounting

  • It is expensive

  • Does not support other photo services

Digital photo frames are nothing new. They've been around almost as long as the first commercial digital cameras. Over the years, arguably, the greatest innovation in digital photo frames has centered on smart displays – how smart displays effectively serve as photo frames and add value to them.

In Lenovo's view, the Photo Frame is again a stand-alone product with the power and help of Google Photos. Unlike other photo frames you've come across, the Lenovo Smart Frame wants to make its presence known with its huge 15 x 24 inch digital canvas. Compared to today's smart displays, it's an undeniable Goliath.

Realistic picture quality

I loved the first digital photo frame I bought in the early 2000s, but when I look back now, it was total rubbish. Not only was it low resolution, but the colors were bleeding through the sides and corners like no other. Of course, with today's digital photo frames, you won't have these worries.

The sheer size of the Lenovo Smart Frame dwarfs the vast majority of digital photo frames in circulation. While most are largely reserved for coffee tables, bedside tables, end tables, and cramped counters, the Lenovo Smart Frame yearns to be wall-mounted – or at least deserves to be propped up on its own pedestal or shelf. This is due to the sizeable 21.5-inch IPS panel. Not only is it significantly larger than other picture frame displays, but its realistic look is enhanced by its anti-glare coating. When viewed directly, this can be confused with a normal picture frame.

While the 1080p resolution works decently from a distance, I can see less detail in the images on closer inspection. This is obviously expected and is not a complete distraction. As long as the original image was captured correctly, it is still pleasing to the eye. The colors are also displayed well, and the viewing angles are excellent and do not distort at wide angles.

Thanks to Google's Ambient EQ technology, the Nest Hub smart displays are among the best for lifelike results. I have to admit, however, that the Lenovo Smart Frame's matte finish makes the display more realistic. Aside from the lack of a higher resolution display, it does it justice when it comes to presenting photos.

Google photos is a must

In order for photos to appear on the Wi-Fi connected Lenovo Smart Frame, you need to set up Google Photos – this is mandatory and the only option. This is a bit limiting and I would have liked wider support for other image services like Shutterfly. However, since this is Google Photos, it comes in handy that I can quickly fill an album to present on the Lenovo Smart Frame by selecting familiar faces. (This works on pets too.) Better to have to go through all of my albums manually.

In addition to showing my Google Photos, which can be shuffled in chronological order or via the Lenovo Smart Frame app, you can set up other “channels” to show other things besides photos. The only other options are the Art Gallery and Clock channels, which show curated graphics and the time, respectively. The latter only have a handful of clock widgets to choose from, but I really wish they could show other important information – like weather and temperature.

Although the Lenovo Smart Frame automatically flips through photos, it has a built-in motion sensor that makes it easy for anyone to scroll through them and the various channels. You have to be patient with these hand gestures because if you're like me and want to scroll through a set in a hurry, it can't keep up.

There are two ways to assemble the frame. I opted for the easy way of putting it on a wall with the power chord behind it, but later I used the included wall mount to mount it properly. While it's still heavier than other frames at 8.26 pounds without the metal frame mount, you don't need to find pins in the wall to attach it to the wall. Once it's on the wall, you can easily remove it by pulling on the switches on the back of the unit. If you have younger children who may be attracted to the power cord, a child-resistant clip is provided to make the cord easy to detach from the device.

Stick to what it does best

We have high expectations for displays these days, especially considering how smart displays are the command centers of some households. One can expect that the Lenovo Smart Frame can do more, e.g. B. Play videos, possibly act as a second screen, or even provide voice control with the Google Assistant. There was also a point where I wished I could have broadcast a video that I was watching on my smartphone. But, you know what? It doesn't do any of them. And who knows if it ever will.

This may be hard to swallow for some, but I understand Lenovo's intent. The company already makes its own line of Google Assistant-based smart displays (like the Lenovo Smart Display 7, which I love). The Smart Frame therefore serves only one purpose: A picture frame that inspires you with some of your favorite memories.

Our opinion

What can also be difficult to accept for some people is the $ 400 cost of the Lenovo Smart Frame. It's way above what you can find anywhere else, even for fancy smart displays that serve as frames for your photo memories and cost around $ 250.

Its size is undoubtedly its greatest asset. Few are ever as tall as 10 inches. So it's a picture frame worth mounting in a high-traffic area of ​​your home for family members and visitors to see. With the integration of Google Photos, you can no longer organize your favorite memories and move them into a picture frame.

How long it will take?

The Lenovo Smart Frame is mainly made of plastic and is solidly built. Since this is a heavy side, extra care should be taken where you place it if you don't plan to mount it on the wall. It comes with a one year limited warranty.

Is there a better alternative?

As mentioned earlier, smart displays like the Google Nest Hub are actually a better investment as they double as picture frames. Therefore, if you want to fill smaller spaces, these are the better option. Conversely, you won't find many picture frames larger than 10 inches. This is one of the few options to consider – especially those over 20 inches.

Should you buy it?

Yes, for its presentation style as the right photo frame that is easy to manage thanks to Google Photos.

Editor's recommendations




30 Mar
Blog

Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) Review: Don’t Hit Snooze

Google Nest Hub (2nd generation)

"The Google Nest Hub (2nd generation) offers accurate sleep tracking without the discomfort of a wearable thanks to its sleep detection function."

  • Accurate sleep tracking

  • Tons of data about your sleep

  • $ 100 starting price

  • Only a few new functions compared to the previous model

The roots of the smart home go back a long way before the Google Assistant ever became a virtual assistant in the home. It wasn't until the arrival of the Nest Hub in 2018 that we got a real hub to control the smart home. Countless smart displays have been released since then, including a big brother in the Nest Hub Max, which had a front-facing camera whose functionality didn't just act as a smart display.

The new Google Nest Hub (2nd generation) differs from all other smart displays through its sleep monitoring function. It's an addition you wouldn't necessarily expect, especially on a smart display. But is it enough to make it a real successor?

Wearable-free sleep tracking

There was a time when I tracked my sleep at night using a fitness tracker or smartwatch. I found the information they gathered useful, but the reason I stopped was limited to two things – they needed to be charged (daily on most smartwatches) and having something on my wrist when I fell asleep was not comfortable . The thought of tracking sleep without physically wearing anything undoubtedly has an immense appeal for me.

Google Nest Hub 2nd generation on the tableJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

This is precisely the main selling point of Sleep Sensing with the Google Nest Hub (2nd generation). Thanks to the Soli technology, which records my movement and breathing, the radar detection system allows me to fall asleep without a wearable device, so I no longer have to worry about other conventional trackers. Best of all, the discreet way it achieves its sleep tracking abilities gets better knowing it works without any interaction on my part.

Surprisingly accurate

At first I was skeptical about how well the Google Nest Hub (2nd generation) could track and monitor my sleep. I found out how surprisingly accurate it is after the first night. After I've activated sleep sensing and entered my typical sleep and wake times, I don't need anything else to make it work – except for sleeping, of course.

Google Nest Hub 2nd generation sleep trackingJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

When I wake up the next morning and ask the Google Assistant how I slept, a dashboard appears on the smart display listing all the important details. I'm even more amazed at some of the stats it got from my sleep, how long I went from falling asleep (it took me 1 hour and 25 minutes on a weekend) and the time it took to fall asleep for me to follow when I wake up from bed (46 minutes). It can even measure my breathing rate, which is considered average at 17 breaths per minute (rpm).

Sleep Sensing also monitors my sleep for snoring, coughing, and restlessness – all to determine my sleep efficiency. Based on the data, I am nowhere near able to get the 85% to 95% efficiency rating that I should be aiming for with my sleep. This makes sense when you consider that the Google Nest Hub (2nd generation) knows that I get out of bed and "wake up" around 5:00 am most days of the week. This is correct because the cats then start trampling me all over the place. This is how I know that the Nest Hub's sleep detection is accurate, even when my fiancé is sleeping in bed next to me.

You can also use the Google Fit app on a smartphone to check all the details. Though I find it a little annoying to have to download another app to view the information. In my opinion, it would be more useful to integrate it with the Google Home app as it is the app that I use to control my smart home devices.

Sleep tracking is not for everyone

If you're like me and have a specific sleep routine, e.g. For example, one where cats wake you up and force you to sleep on the couch, the Nest Hub's sleep tracking feature isn't particularly useful – mainly because the data didn't paint an accurate representation of your sleep. Unless I take the Nest Hub to the couch or something, but who does it? For me, sleep tracking is not a main selling point that I would look for with a smart display.

I'm even more amazed at some of the statistics it contains from my sleep.

Still, I can understand how knowledge is power. There is actually a sleep report that looks at sleep data and offers some tips on how to improve that data. In my case, I am told to stop checking my phone before bed and do it when I wake up instead. After all, sleep monitoring definitely paints an accurate picture of my sleep – something I can't get enough of on weekdays thanks to the cats. Another obvious pattern confirmed by the Nest Hub (2nd Generation) is sleeping on the weekend.

Same age, same age

There's an obvious reason I've spent a lot of time talking about sleep sensors. To be honest, this latest model hardly differs from its predecessor. Everything else about this smart display is no different. From its 7-inch LCD touchscreen, which I will once again admit, is a feast for the eyes because it makes photos realistically lifelike thanks to its Ambient EQ mode, to its compact design with a similar fabric cover for its base nothing terrible about it.

Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen.John Velasco / Digital Trends

Because it's a smart home hub, you can still access and control many of your connected devices at home – both through voice actions using the Google Assistant and by interacting with the various on-screen dashboards. What's missing here is a camera, which I honestly would rather have given the added value it would provide.

Companion at the bed

This brings me to my final point that, due to the lack of a camera, I'm more of a bedside companion. Without one, people will likely still put them in their bedroom, which makes perfect sense since the marquee feature here is sleep tracking. There is a little point in putting it anywhere other than your bed.

Although technically it can live on your desk, kitchen counter or coffee table in the living room like any other smart display with similarly sized displays, you are effectively negating the most notable function.

Our opinion

It's a tough job for the Google Nest Hub (2nd gen), largely because it's practically the same smart display we've seen before when you take sleep detection out of the equation. Thankfully, the start-up cost for this model is $ 100, which is still better than the $ 149 initial cost of the original Google Nest Hub. Unless you sleep adamantly, it's hard to justify choosing this over other current smart displays.

How long it will take?

Google's sustainability efforts are presented here again with the Nest Hub (2nd generation). It's made from 54% recycled plastic, which adds to its lightweight feel. Even so, it feels solid and I'm confident that it can withstand most falls from short heights. There is a one year limited warranty that covers defects.

Is there a better alternative?

Similarly in size and size, the Lenovo Smart Display 7 is the most logical alternative as it covers the basic functions while also including a camera that can be used for video calls. The Google Nest Hub Max remains the undisputed king of smart displays despite its more expensive $ 229 cost, as it can replace three products – a powerful smart speaker, a smart display, and a surveillance camera.

If the Google ecosystem isn't your thing, the Amazon Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 10 (3rd Generation) are perfect solutions if you prefer Alexa.

Should you buy it?

Yes, if sleep is important to you and you don't want to be bothered by annoying wearables, you will fall in love with it. If not, it would be better if you try to find the older model at a discount.

Editor's recommendations




26 Nov
Blog

Google Nest Thermostat (2020) Review: Still the best

Nest thermostat main

“Controlling the temperature of your home should never be a chore. The new Google Nest Thermostat (2020) sets it and forgets it. "

  • Affordable cost

  • Smart functions mean minimal interaction

  • Stylish Apple-like design

  • Easy DIY installation

  • Capacitive controls are only on one side

If Apple were to develop a smart thermostat, it would likely look and function similar to Google's new Nest thermostat (2020). With a slim profile, mirrored face, and simplified controls, this isn't just a pared-down Nest learning thermostat we've seen a few times. Instead, the new Nest thermostat (2020) is a completely redesigned device that offers all the essential functions in one optimized package.

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Smooth design for right-handers

The round shape and the central temperature display of the Nest thermostat tell you the origin of this device at a glance. But take a closer look and the softer, subtle design features will show up. There are no buttons or moving dials. Capacitive touch controls on the right edge of the thermostat allow quick and intuitive navigation through the slimmed-down, yet robust settings. You lose a degree of precision without a mechanical dial. So be ready to pay a little extra attention as you raise the temperature a degree or two.

If Apple developed a smart thermostat, it would likely look and function similar to Google's new Nest thermostat.

In terms of capacitive controls, left-handed people will have problems with Google's approach of only offering them on the right side of the device. For the right winger, this isn't a problem, but it would have been nice if you had the option to choose which side you want for controls – or just have them on both sides. We assume that the decision was made to keep costs as low as possible.

Of course, it will be compared to the Google Nest E thermostat because of the similarities in their designs. While the two may appear fundamentally similar with their circular shapes, the Nest Thermostat (2020) is characterized by a mirrored appearance, which gives it a slightly more polished look.

Full controls for temperature, scheduling and energy monitoring are available through the Google Home app for iOS and Android. It's available in four colors – snow, charcoal, sand, and fog – and it goes with any decor.

DIY installation made easy

Simplicity is the name of the game here. According to Google, the Nest thermostat is compatible with 85% of home heating and cooling systems. Use this compatibility tester before purchasing.

With the device at hand, launch the Google Home app and scan the QR code on the back of the thermostat. and you are set up in no time. The app walks you through each step of the process and is especially helpful for keeping track of the cables you need to connect. The mounting plate has a handy built-in level, and Google was so attentive that it included two sturdy wood / drywall screws. The app can detect and diagnose wiring problems and provide instructions on how to fix them. This is especially useful for anyone who is inconvenient in installing such problems.

When the Nest Thermostat is wall-mounted and plugged in, the app will complete setup when the app will announce your schedule and temperature settings. You can also set up home and away routines to help the nest learn your habits and conserve energy. With the help of a built-in motion sensor and the location of your phone, the Nest detects when nobody is at home and switches to the eco setting.

Sit and forget

The Nest thermostat has lived on my wall for more than a week and I haven't touched it. Other than waking up to show the temperature when someone walks by, it doesn't attract any attention. Most interactions with the Nest Thermostat (2020) will likely involve swiping up or down on the touch capacitive switch to change the temperature setting. Tap the switch and the settings menu will open. From there you can change the heating and cooling mode, hold the temperature and adjust the hardware settings.

In the Google Home app you can access your schedules, manage users and view the energy dashboard to keep track of heating and cooling consumption. If there is a problem with your HVAC system, the Nest Thermostat can detect and notify you through the Home app. This is one of the new features introduced here with the Nest Thermostat (2020) and is helpful in providing users with meaningful data on the overall health of their HVAC system. You can also control the thermostat using the Google Assistant and Alexa.

The Nest Thermostat also lets you create an energy efficient schedule based on your patterns. For example, it might recommend lowering the temperature when you go to bed. If you want to do so, you can accept the suggestion in the Home app. Note that this is not the same level of active learning that is found in the O.G. Nest learning thermostat, but it's effective at reducing your energy bills.

Our opinion

Google's Nest thermostat differs from previous models because of its irresistible price tag. At just $ 130, the Google Nest Thermostat (2020) is hard to miss for home maintenance because of its attractive design, automation, and ease of use – both on the go and on the go.

How long it will take?

It is solidly built, and since it stands against your wall, there is little chance that it will be damaged. In the event that something goes wrong internally due to a defect, Google offers a 1-year limited warranty and extended warranties at an additional cost.

Is there a better alternative?

Given the lower price of this year's model, it's really difficult to recommend anything else. Yes, you could spend the extra cash on the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd generation), but you only get a few more features over this new version.

You should buy it

Certainly. If your system is compatible, the Nest Thermostat is a great choice, especially if you are in the Google ecosystem. Retailing at $ 130, it's one of the most affordable thermostats on the market. Depending on your local utility company's discounts, this price can be as low as $ 30. The flagship Nest Learning Thermostat may have more features, but for most people the new Nest Thermostat is a perfect balance between performance and price.

Editor's recommendations




28 Oct
Blog

Google Chromecast 2020 Review: What We Always Wanted

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Google Chromecast 2020 review: what we always wanted

"Google's Chromecast with Google TV is a huge hit in our book."

  • Affordable

  • Support Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos

  • Slick UI

  • Responsive

  • Integrated Google Assistant

  • Dolby Vision is always activated by default

  • Recommendation algorithm is still learning

I am impressed. The new Google Chromecast with Google TV looked pretty good on paper, but now that I've been using one for the past few weeks I can safely say it's even better than expected.

I never warmed myself to the original Chromecast. You call me old school, but I like a remote control and screen surface – the original Chromecasts didn't have one. I just couldn't handle my phone, tablet, or PC, which was the main controller for my television. The $ 35 Google Chromecast, which has been around for 7 years, was never for me, and the Google Chromecast Ultra's $ 70 4K resolution wasn't enough to attract me. To my surprise, I'm really excited.

However, this doesn't necessarily mean that the Google Chromecast with Google TV is for everyone. Let's examine what this little dongle can and can't do and if it's right for you.

Out of the box

Google Chromecast with Google TV has an unnecessarily long name, although technically it makes sense to distinguish what is different from previous Chromecast versions (more on that in a minute). Fortunately, almost everything else on the device is very simple.

Caleb Denison / Digital Trends

It all starts with the packaging and what's in the box. The packaging appears to be almost entirely recyclable – and there isn't much of it. Inside the box is the Chromecast dongle, a remote control, a small USB-A chip, a USB-A to USB-C cable, and two AAA batteries – and folks, I love the batteries.

Yes, you read that right. The AAA batteries that Google ships with the new Chromecast share the same silky, rubbery silicone casing as the Chromecast dongle, remote control, and power cord. I actually giggled with glee as I slid it out of its plastic cocoon to place in the remote. Nice touch, Google. Win unboxing.

Features and Specifications

As is well known, the original Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra (4K) allow users to find content on their phones and cast it on their TV for viewing on the big screen. The original devices were essentially invisible. The big improvement here is the addition of an on-screen interface and remote control.

The remote has power and volume buttons that you can use to control your TV. Oddly enough, the power button is on the bottom left of the compact remote, but the volume buttons on the side are familiar to anyone who has used a Roku or Amazon Fire TV remote with similar buttons.

There is a circle on the top of the remote that you can click up, down, left, and right with. Below the circle is a Google Assistant button, a back button, a mute button, two hotkeys for accessing YouTube and Netflix, and a home button. The remote feels great, but the button layout took a bit of getting used to, if only because I've been using other streaming remote controls for so long.

Caleb Denison / Digital Trends

The Chromecast dongle plugs directly into the HDMI port on a TV, so there is no need to worry about a high-speed HDMI cable that supports 4K HDR and Dolby Vision.

That brings up two of the most amazing features of the new Google Chromecast, especially for the $ 50 price tag: Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Dolby Vision content libraries are growing rapidly with services like Netflix, Disney +, and Amazon Prime Video. This content looks amazing on a Dolby Vision enabled television. Dolby Atmos surround sound support is also available, but availability varies from streaming app to streaming.

Google doesn't publish much about the new Chromecast's antenna, but in my experience it did an above-average job of getting Wi-Fi signals for steady streaming.

configuration

As easy as it is to use the new Chromecast, it will take some time to set up. This is true of many streaming devices today as they evolve. There are a few hoops to jump through here that are unique to the new Chromecast, however.

If you don't already have the Google Home app for iOS or Android, you'll want to download it. You need to set up the Chromecast. Once the Chromecast with Google TV is on, it will appear as a new device that can be set up in the Google Home app. Just follow the instructions and the device will be connected to your network in no time. Most people will be using Wi-Fi, but there is an ethernet adapter accessor available as an additional purchase.

From there, Chromecast will offer some apps to install (others will have to be installed manually at a later date), test that your TV's power and volume are working, get updates, restart a few times, and set up Google Assistant voice tracking. and finally the device is set up. This will take a while. But wait, there's more.

Caleb Denison / Digital Trends

This is where Google could significantly improve the Google TV experience: By registering users with their streaming apps. Google saves all of my passwords. I am signed in to my apps on my Android phone. It's not a huge challenge for Google to automate the login process. So … please, Google?

Right now, users have to go through the tedious process of entering usernames and passwords for all of the streaming apps they subscribe to. In all fairness, this is probably the most time consuming part of the setup.

One last and very important note: By default, the new Chromecast is delivered with Dolby Vision always active. This means that if your television supports Dolby Vision, everything will be displayed in Dolby Vision and your picture preferences will therefore be limited. Additionally, non-Dolby Vision content will not look right. Even the colors of apps on Google TV don't look right. To fix this, navigate to Settings and under Video Settings select Synchronize content. This ensures that the TV will only switch to Dolby Vision mode when it is playing Dolby Vision content.

The Google TV part

The new Google Chromecast with Google TV is all about the screen surface of Google TV. Although it is very different from Sony's Android TV interface and some Hisense TVs, as well as the Nvidia Shield, it looks familiar with differences despite a few buttons.

Google TV is heavily focused on content recommendations. It learns what you like to see over time and tries to put the focus you want on the content you want. Plus, you don't have to go into a specific app to view it. At least not manually. You just see a place where you can click Captain Marvel, right next to a slide to click Stranger Things. There is no evidence that the content is on HBO Max or Netflix. At least not until the next screen when you press the play button.

Caleb Denison / Digital Trends

If you want to explore content available on a specific platform like Netflix or HBO Max, the apps are all arranged on a strip just below the “For You” section. Whether you need / want to do this may depend on how well Google determines your display settings and habits.

For households with multiple viewers, the support of individual profiles is vital and don't worry, the new Chromecast supports it.

performance

The new Google Chromecast with Google TV works well as streaming hardware. It does a pretty good job of keeping up with my quick clicks and scrolls, although I can certainly tell if I press it hard, much like I did with the Amazon Fire TV Stick and Roku Streaming Stick +.

Apps and content also load quickly. The casting is the same as ever, so there are no changes there. Overall, given its $ 50 price tag, the device is perfectly capable. You'll need to upgrade to an Amazon Fire TV Cube or the new Roku Ultra to get something significantly faster or more powerful.

For me, however, the actual performance metric here is that of the Google TV experience. And on this front I have to say: So far, so good.

Google TV didn't completely set my display preferences, but to be fair, I've only been using it for a few weeks. I also expect Google to throw a few things against the wall to see what sticks with me. The process takes time and I will update this section as I learn more.

Caleb Denison / Digital Trends

I also enjoy having my YouTube suggested videos look the same on my TV as they do on my phone. It's the little things.

The new Chromecast can also be combined with many other smart home devices from Google. This allows you to view video feeds from Google Nest cameras and Google Nest doorbells and act as part of a whole house audio solution. You can also control the new Chromecast using a Google Home or Google Nest speaker.

The Chromecast with Google TV clearly offers more value to Android phone users and fans of Google products in general. If you're a die-hard Apple fan, the Apple TV 4K offers a similar experience – for about three times the cost.

I think the new Google Chromecast with Google TV is a fantastic choice for just about anyone who isn't married to a smart TV platform yet.

Our opinion

The new Google Chromecast with Google TV is a smart step in the right direction for a large tech company that needs a little more presence in the streaming hardware space. The original Chromecast sold well because it was so cheap, but I think this new model will sell even better because it's a device that you can interact with. If Google can evolve its content recommendation engine, it could be the world's best-selling streamer in a matter of months.

Is there a better alternative?

The Roku Streaming Stick + offers a simple streaming platform with its own perks, but doesn't offer the kind of content recommendation that Google TV does. At $ 40 and 4K / HDR capabilities, this is a good option, but I hesitate to call it "better". In comparison, Amazon Fire TV 4K also supports Dolby Vision, is firmly connected to the Amazon universe with Alexa integration and costs 50 US dollars. If the specs are similar, the choice depends on whether you are with Team Google or Team Amazon.

How long it will take?

It's hard to imagine the new Google Chromecast with Google TV going irrelevant within four or five years. This is roughly how long you want to use the device before you get the new latest version.

Should you buy it?

Yes. The new Google Chromecast with Google TV is an outstanding product.

Editor's recommendations




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