Kerry Wan/ZDNET
After the success of launching four flagship phones last year, Google is set to continue the trend with the new Pixel 10 series.
The Google Pixel 10 Pro stands out as potentially the best option for many people. With a starting price of $999, it offers a compelling blend of premium features borrowed from its more expensive sibling, all in the more manageable size of the standard Pixel 10.
Also: Everything announced at Made by Google 2025: Pixel 10 Pro, Fold, Watch 4, and more
The Pixel 10 Pro enters a crowded field, competing directly with the iPhone 16 Pro and the Galaxy S25 Plus.
Having used the iPhone 16 Pro as my daily driver for the past year, I’ve tested it against the new Pixel 10 Pro to see how these two flagship phones compare.
You should buy the Google Pixel 10 Pro if…
Joseph Maldonado/ZDNET
1. You want the best of Google AI
The Pixel phone lineup unsurprisingly offers the best of Google’s Gemini AI features. And it is only getting better with the Pixel 10 Pro. The company is providing a year of Google AI Pro service for free alongside the purchase for Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL. So, you get Gemini Pro, including NotebookLM for productivity and Veo 3 text-to-video generation model.
The Google Pixel 10 Pro is also getting a contextual and personalized AI feature called Magic Cue. Theoretically, it can “help connect the dots across your digital life by anticipating your needs and proactively suggesting relevant information and helpful actions based on the context on your phone.”
Also: The best Android phones to buy in 2025
For instance, if you call a company’s helpline, your associated details (like a flight ticket) will be surfaced automatically.
You can still download the Gemini app to access Google’s AI on your iPhone, but you won’t get the seamless Pixel AI experience. If you depend on Google apps to get work done and have all your digital life stored on Google’s platforms, the Pixel 10 Pro is the better option.
2. You want a better telephoto camera
The Google Pixel 10 Pro features a 48MP Quad PD telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom, as compared to a 12MP telephoto sensor (also 5x optical zoom) on the iPhone 16 Pro. However, megapixels don’t solely define a camera. The Pixel 10 Pro sports a bigger sensor than its Apple counterpart. On paper, it is capable of letting more light in and snapping better-looking photos.
Also: I replaced my Pixel 9 Pro with the 9a for a month – here’s my buying advice now
The 12MP 5x tele camera on iPhone 16 Pro isn’t hard to beat. It struggles in anything less than bright daylight and lacks the zoom capabilities of its Chinese rivals. I’m looking forward to using the Google Pixel 10 Pro for my zoom shots and expect it to beat the iPhone.
3. You want a cool-looking Pro phone
The iPhone 16 Pro series is lacking in fun colors. It comes in Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, and Desert Titanium — all of which feel a bit lifeless. The last Pro iPhone color I truly loved was Sierra Blue on my iPhone 13 Pro Max.
While rumors suggest the iPhone 17 Pro might bring back more playful finishes, Google has already beat Apple to the punch with the Pixel 10 Pro series.
Also: I went hands-on with every Google Pixel 10 model – and was surprised by the one I loved most
The new Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro are available in classic Obsidian and Porcelain, as well as bolder Moonstone and Jade options.
So, if you’re spending $1,000 on a phone, you don’t have to settle for something dull. Plus, you get Google’s distinct design, complete with the iconic camera bar—which, in my opinion, still looks incredibly cool.
4. If you’ve been envious of this iPhone feature
The Pixel 10 Pro features a MagSafe-like feature called PixelSnap. It is based on Qi2 charging, which offers magnetic accessory support for power banks, chargers, and more. If you’ve been on the iPhone for a while and want to switch platforms, this is the best time to come to the Android side.
Also: How to add MagSafe to your Android phone (and why you’ll love it)
All your MagSafe accessories should technically work with the Pixel 10 Pro (depending on magnet power), so you don’t have to buy new accessories alongside your new phone.
You should buy the Apple iPhone 16 Pro if…
Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET
1. You want a lighter Pro phone
The Google Pixel 10 Pro might look better on paper, but it’s nearly 10 grams heavier than the iPhone 16 Pro. Specifically, the Pixel weighs 207 grams compared to the iPhone’s 199 grams.
Also: Buy the iPhone 16 or wait for iPhone 17? Here’s how I help friends and family decide
That eight-gram difference might not seem like much, but with both phones featuring flat, unergonomic sides, every gram counts — especially during extended use. If you average more than six hours of screen time a day, the iPhone 16 Pro could be the more comfortable choice.
2. You want the best social media experience
While Android has made significant progress, iPhones still hold an advantage in stability and app optimization. This is particularly noticeable with social media apps like X and Instagram, where the user experience remains smoother on Apple devices.
Editing and posting photos and videos from an iPhone to social media platforms is also more seamless and efficient for anyone who regularly creates content.
Also: Best iPhone 2025: I tested the top models and found the best options for you
If you’re leaning toward an iPhone instead of the Pixel 10 Pro, I strongly recommend waiting just a few weeks. Apple is expected to launch its new iPhone 17 series in early September. It’s smart to hold off on your decision until after the typical September 10th launch event to make sure you get the latest model.
