Pixel 2 XL tested: How bad is the big Pixel really?
15.12.2017
Translation: machine translated
Video: Manuel Wenk
After a long wait, we have finally received the XL version of the Pixel 2 series. Our test shows whether the smartphone is really as buggy as we have often read.
Boa, that's a block. After several weeks with the Pixel 2, the Pixel 2 XL feels really bulky when I touch it for the first time. Before that, I had the Pixel XL, which was practically the same size. That's how quickly I got used to the handy 5 inches. Let's see how long it takes for me to get used to it again.
The most important question first: How is the display?
The first thing I consciously take a look at is the display. In the run-up to the launch, the headlines were full of ominous reports - especially regarding the display: pale colours, poor viewing angles, burn-in, corners that don't react properly to touch. Even for an inexpensive entry-level device, these would be serious criticisms. They are even more serious for a smartphone that costs over 1000 francs.
I can give the all-clear in part. Google has counteracted the pale display, which was also criticised on the Pixel 2, with a patch. In addition to the original "enhanced" colour option, there are now two other options: Natural and Saturated. With the latter, you get the usual oversaturated colours that most smartphones have.
The viewing angles are slightly different when you tilt the display. The change is almost imperceptible on the home screen. However, if you look at a white area such as an empty browser tab, you can see relatively quickly how the colour changes as soon as you are not looking straight at the display. If you switch on night mode in the evening, it becomes even more noticeable. However, I have to say that I probably wouldn't have noticed it if I hadn't read about it so often. It doesn't really bother me either, as I always hold the display at the right angle in front of my face anyway. It remains a blemish, but one that shouldn't bother you much during normal use.
Google has also counteracted the alleged display burn-in by making the menu buttons disappear. Whether it was this or something else, I didn't notice any burn-in.
The last point concerns the display edges, which sometimes do not respond properly. The reason is said to lie in the software design, which is supposed to ignore unintentional touches to the display. Apparently, some fine-tuning is needed here and Google has already announced a patch. Nevertheless: I was unable to reproduce the phenomenon.
Other than that, nothing new in the West
Apart from the display issue, the main difference lies in the design. Although the Pixel 2 XL is significantly larger and heavier, it has narrower edges and a slightly rounded display. It looks and feels much more elegant - especially the black version. But my favourite is the white and black version with the orange power button. I wish I could have had this design in a smaller size.
The workmanship is otherwise impeccable. In terms of hardware, the only thing worth mentioning is the larger battery (2700 mAh vs. 3520 mAh), which provides a little more staying power.
On the software side, you can read my review of the Pixel 2. The devices are absolutely identical. The camera is great, everything runs smoothly and Android 8.1 has recently been released. This includes the battery indicator for connected Bluetooth devices, the activation of the secret photo chip, which developers can now use, and Google Lens has been integrated into the Google Assistant. Lens still doesn't offer huge potential, but the fact that I can use it to scan barcodes or QI codes without having to install an extra app has already helped me a few times.
Conclusion
Like its little brother, the Pixel 2 XL is an absolute top smartphone. The various points of criticism either didn't appear on my device or the outcry was simply greater than the actual problem. That doesn't mean that everything is completely fine. The poor viewing angles may not be annoying in everyday use, but in 2017 this should not happen with such an expensive smartphone. If this doesn't bother you, I can fully recommend the Pixel 2 XL. If it's not your first large smartphone, you know what you're getting into. Otherwise, the smaller Pixel 2 offers you significantly better handling at the expense of the design - but that's actually a matter of taste.
And if you prefer it to be smaller
Accessories
Philipp Rüegg
Senior Editor
Philipp.Rueegg@digitecgalaxus.chBeing the game and gadget geek that I am, working at digitec and Galaxus makes me feel like a kid in a candy shop – but it does take its toll on my wallet. I enjoy tinkering with my PC in Tim Taylor fashion and talking about games on my podcast http://www.onemorelevel.ch. To satisfy my need for speed, I get on my full suspension mountain bike and set out to find some nice trails. My thirst for culture is quenched by deep conversations over a couple of cold ones at the mostly frustrating games of FC Winterthur.
Smartphone
Follow topics and stay updated on your areas of interest
21 comments
later