Pixel 10's Performance: A Closer Look

Google's latest Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro XL phones have been put to the test against some of the best smartphones on the market. The results show that these new models, powered by the Tensor G5 processor, are not leading the pack in terms of performance. The Pixel 10, priced at $799, and the Pixel 10 Pro XL, priced at $1, 199, were compared to other high-end phones. The tests included CPU performance, graphics, and overall system performance. The Pixel 10's Tensor G5 processor was found to be at the bottom of the pack in CPU performance tests. It performed similarly to the Nothing Phone 3, which has a Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor. However, it lagged behind the iPhone 16 and phones with the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. In graphics tests, the Pixel 10 also fell short. Its new PowerVR GPU initially performed well but couldn't maintain peak performance over time. This resulted in lower stability scores compared to last year's model. The Nothing Phone 3's GPU also outperformed the Pixel 10's, partly due to better cooling in its larger chassis. The Pixel 10 Pro XL faced similar challenges. Despite higher clock speeds and a more aggressive middle-core CPU arrangement, it still couldn't match the performance of Apple's and Qualcomm's custom cores. The gap is significant, and it's unlikely that Google will close it in the next generation or two. When it comes to gaming, the Pixel 10 Pro XL's performance is hampered by higher temperatures and lower stability. While it's not the hottest phone, it's not the coolest either. The benefits of its new manufacturing node seem to have been used to push performance rather than improve power efficiency and thermals. So, what does this mean for the Pixel 10 series? It's a familiar story for Pixel fans. Google's focus on AI features and unique tools often comes at the cost of raw performance. The Tensor G5 is a good fit for the baseline Pixel 10, which offers decent performance for its price. However, for the Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL, the performance argument is tougher to make. These models are still good for AI tools and photography, but they may not be the best choice for power users who need top-notch performance.