Google's Pixel 10 has earned the top spot in a new comprehensive Android phone buying guide, beating out flagship devices from Samsung and other manufacturers. The $799 device impressed reviewers with its Qi2 wireless charging, AI features, and new telephoto camera, marking a significant win for Google in the competitive Android market.
The Android phone landscape just got a definitive ranking, and Google's Pixel 10 is sitting pretty at the top. In a comprehensive buying guide covering the current Android ecosystem, tech reviewers have crowned Google's $799 flagship as the best overall choice for most users, beating out premium offerings from Samsung and other major manufacturers.
The Pixel 10's victory comes down to execution over flashiness. While Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra packs more features and commands a higher price, the Pixel 10 delivers what reviewers call the "just right" Android experience. The device features a 6.3-inch OLED display, Google's Tensor G5 processor, and notably, Qi2 wireless charging with built-in magnets - no case required.
What sets this year's model apart is the addition of a dedicated 5x telephoto lens, a first for the non-Pro Pixel line. However, the main and ultrawide cameras represent a step back from last year's model, though reviewers note most users won't notice the difference in everyday photography.
The guide's AI assessment offers a reality check for the industry's current favorite buzzword. According to the analysis, AI features on phones - including Google's Magic Cue and Samsung's real-time call translation - remain more promise than paradigm shift. "Best not to put too much stock in any company's AI claims just yet," the review warns, suggesting the transformative impact tech companies keep promising hasn't materialized.
Samsung still dominates several categories in the guide. The Galaxy S25 Ultra earned the "maximalist phone" crown with its dual telephoto cameras, built-in S Pen, and 6.9-inch display. But the review notes this year's Ultra feels less distinctive than previous generations, with software features being the primary updates rather than hardware innovations.
For users seeking smaller devices, the Samsung Galaxy S25 (6.2-inch) was deemed "basically the last of its kind" - a full-featured phone that's not huge. The guide positions this as the final holdout for users who want flagship performance without the bulk that's become standard in the Android market.
The competitive landscape reveals some interesting dynamics. OnePlus earned recognition for the OnePlus 13's exceptional battery life - capable of two days of moderate use - and 80W charging speeds that put other flagships to shame. Meanwhile, Google's Pixel 10 Pro Fold took the foldable category with its IP68 rating, making it the first foldable with full dust and water resistance.
