I have been using Google phones since 2018, starting with the Pixel XL, then the Pixel 4a, and a month ago I got the Pixel 7. They are aimed at users who focus on pure functionality and want to experience the ultimate Android experience, always having the latest features. But let's get to the point:
I believe that the Pixel 7 series is a worthy upgrade from Google and offers a powerful package. The size of the phone is ideal, neither too small nor too big. It has a sturdy construction with a premium feel. The 90Hz screen is quite smooth, with decent brightness at all times of the day, natural colors, and covers the average user in all conditions. Browsing is very fast in all applications, runs smoothly, and I haven't noticed any lag. The sound is decent, the speakers are designed not to be easily covered. They produce clear and powerful sound, personally I don't need to turn them up to the maximum volume often, and obviously they don't belong to the audiophile category. I would say that they will satisfy the average user and more. Additionally, excellent work has been done on photography and video. Since the beginning of the development of the Google camera, the company has focused a lot on upgrades and the result is exceptional. Knowing the capabilities of the camera already, the result was expected for me, but someone who has not used a Google device before will definitely be impressed.
Charging is at a maximum of 30W, based on competition, one would not say that it has very fast charging. However, I do not consider it a coincidence that the company chooses to keep the charging speed low. Apple does it too, and the reason is purely a balance between usability and battery health over time. It is known that high wattage increases temperatures in the battery and gradually reduces its health. The battery is satisfactory, easily lasting a full day with heavy use. Because there is an algorithm that "reads" usage and optimizes consumption, give it a few days to learn your habits and adapt. It is encouraging that Google is working on it with updates, I have already noticed a difference for the better and optimistic opinions are heard about Android 14, which will come stable in August.
Let's talk about the much-discussed topic of network: although the device supports 5G and all the features that come with it (VoLTE and WiFi Calling), Greek providers do not currently support 5G coverage on Google devices because they are not officially imported and supported by any representative in Greece. Many users have reported missed calls and low network coverage in certain areas. Having read enough, I have concluded that there is no coverage issue in major cities. Personally, I have never had a problem with calls and LTE adequately covers all my needs. However, the provider that the user belongs to also plays a role. The best solution for now is with COSMOTE, which is the only one that officially provides VoLTE. With intervention in the ROM of the operating system, one can activate 5G and WiFi calling, but I have not dealt with it.
Overall, it is a very good and reliable device. Among all the Pixels I have had, none presented any problems and they worked flawlessly until the last day of use. It is still very smart and has many features that make it competitive in the market. Anyone considering the 7 Pro, in my opinion, is worth it only for the better screen, telephoto lens, and slightly better battery. As for the 7a, although it is more modern, it is slightly inferior.
I stand out:
1. The camera and its capabilities exceed expectations compared to most phones in this budget.
2. The user experience and excellent connectivity with all Google apps and features. It is the cleanest option in the Android camp, and Google promises at least 3 years of operating system upgrades and at least 5 years of security updates from the 6 series onwards.
3. Google Assistant. It is proven to be the most advanced and accurate assistant compared to Siri (Apple), Bixby (Samsung), and Alexa (Amazon).
4. The construction and design. It is a sturdy and beautiful phone, and the arrangement of the lenses on the back is unique in the market.
I don't stand out:
1. The fingerprint sensor. Although it has improved, it doesn't always work, and sometimes it is annoying. There is also the option of face unlock, but it still needs some work.
2. The battery. It is not a problem, but it could have a slightly larger capacity. We hope for software updates.
3. The price. For the range of 400 - 500 euros, it is an excellent choice, but at 600+ euros, which is the price in Greece, you will consider other devices.
+ Some additional tips:
For a charger, I recommend Anker's Nano Pro III at 30W.
For cases, I use the Spigen Liquid Air, which is very durable for a budget option. If you are looking for something more premium, the Bellroy case is perhaps the most attractive choice.