Google Pixel 3 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Revealed

Google Pixel 3: A Comprehensive Overview

Design and Build

The Google Pixel 3 features a minimalist design with a balanced blend of aesthetics and functionality. It is crafted with a glass front and back, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, delivering a sophisticated look while ensuring durability. The aluminum frame adds a sleek touch to the overall design. Weighing just 148 grams and measuring 145.6 x 68.2 x 7.9 mm, this smartphone offers a compact and lightweight experience, making it comfortable to hold and carry.

Display

The Google Pixel 3 comes with a 5.5-inch P-OLED display, which offers vibrant and sharp visuals, thanks to its high resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels. With a pixel density of approximately 443 ppi, users can expect crisp and clear images. The HDR support further enhances the viewing experience, delivering richer colors and dynamic contrasts. The display-to-body ratio of about 77.2% ensures minimal bezels, maximizing screen space for content.

Performance

Under the hood, the Pixel 3 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 chipset, paired with an octa-core CPU and Adreno 630 GPU. This configuration ensures smooth performance whether you're multitasking, gaming, or streaming videos. The device is equipped with 4GB of RAM, which, while perhaps modest by today's standards, was more than sufficient at the time of its release to handle daily tasks efficiently.

Storage

Google offers the Pixel 3 in two storage variants: 64GB and 128GB. Despite lacking a card slot for expandable memory, the available storage options should satisfy most users' needs, particularly those who make ample use of cloud services like Google Photos for media storage.

Camera

The standout feature of the Google Pixel 3 is its camera capabilities. The main camera is a single 12.2 MP sensor with an aperture of f/1.8, featuring dual pixel phase detection autofocus (PDAF) and optical image stabilization (OIS). It excels in capturing high-quality images with accurate colors and excellent dynamic range, even in low-light conditions, thanks to Google's advanced image processing algorithms. The camera supports 4K video recording at 30fps and offers a range of modes including panorama, HDR, and dual-LED flash.

The front-facing camera is dual-lens, comprising an 8 MP wide-angle lens and an 8 MP ultrawide lens, allowing for versatile selfie options. The front camera setup is ideal for group selfies and video calls, providing clear and detailed images.

Battery Life

The Pixel 3 is equipped with a 2915 mAh battery, which, although not the largest capacity by today's standards, delivers a respectable endurance rating. The device supports 18W fast charging as well as wireless charging, making it convenient for users to power up their phone quickly and efficiently. On a single charge, the phone can last a full day of moderate use.

Software and User Experience

Originally launched with Android 9.0 Pie, the Pixel 3 is upgradable to Android 12, ensuring users have access to the latest features and security updates. As a Google device, it offers a pure Android experience without bloatware, allowing for a smooth and intuitive user interface. The Pixel series is known for its early and regular updates directly from Google, ensuring the device stays current over its lifespan.

Network and Connectivity

The Google Pixel 3 supports a wide range of network technologies, including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE, making it compatible with most carriers worldwide. It also features fast mobile data speeds thanks to LTE Cat16 support. For wireless connectivity, it offers dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD support, NFC for contactless payments, and is equipped with GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO for precise geolocation services. The presence of a USB Type-C port facilitates fast data transfer and charging.

Sound and Audio

The Pixel 3 includes stereo speakers that deliver clear and loud sound quality, enhancing the multimedia experience when watching videos or playing games. However, it lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, a common trend among more recent smartphone designs. Users will need to rely on USB-C headphones or wireless options for audio connectivity.

Sensors and Security

The device is equipped with a variety of sensors, including a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking, an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, compass, and a barometer. These sensors enhance the device’s functionality for different applications and services, from navigation to fitness tracking.

Color Variants and Pricing

The Pixel 3 is available in a variety of colors, including Clearly White, Just Black, and Not Pink, providing options for users to express their personal style. At launch, the device was priced at approximately 450 EUR, positioning it as a premium mid-range smartphone with flagship-level features, particularly in the camera department.

Conclusion

The Google Pixel 3, despite being several years old, remains a highly regarded device particularly for its camera performance and pure Android experience. It offers a balanced combination of design, performance, and features that cater to a wide range of users. Its continued software support and updates keep it relevant, making it a viable option for users who value a reliable and efficient smartphone experience.