Is Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Worth Rs 1.25 Lakh? Full Review and Verdict

Google launched its Pixel 10 series in India last month, with prices starting at Rs 79,999. At the top of the lineup sits the Pixel 10 Pro XL, priced at Rs 1,24,999, targeting premium smartphone buyers alongside Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra and Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max.

The Pixel 10 Pro XL maintains a similar design to last year’s Pixel 9 Pro XL, featuring the signature camera bar and tall form factor. Google has slightly enlarged the rear visor, keeping the overall look familiar to reinforce brand recognition. The device has a matte glass back and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front, weighing 232 grams. While the phone feels heavy, the matte finish provides a comfortable grip.

The display is a 6.8-inch Super Actua LTPO OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. Users can expect bright visuals in varied lighting conditions, including direct sunlight. HDR content, streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube, and social media reels look sharp and smooth. While Samsung’s S25 Ultra panel remains superior, the Pixel 10 Pro XL’s screen ranks among the best in current flagship devices.

Camera performance remains a major highlight. The Pixel 10 Pro XL includes a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 48-megapixel ultra-wide lens, a 48-megapixel telephoto lens with 5x zoom, and a 42-megapixel front camera. AI enhancements, improved stabilization, and ProRes Zoom up to 100x are notable upgrades. Standard photos deliver excellent detail, natural colours, and strong dynamic range. Low-light shots are bright and well-balanced, while selfies are sharp and wide enough for group photos. Video recording, however, still lags behind the competition, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S25 Ultra offering better options for professional videography.

Under the hood, the Pixel 10 Pro XL runs Google’s Tensor G5 chipset, paired with 16GB RAM and 256GB storage. Benchmark scores place it behind Snapdragon 8 Elite and MediaTek Dimensity 9300+, though everyday performance remains smooth for browsing, app switching, and light gaming. Battery life has improved with a 5,200mAh unit capable of lasting a full day under normal use. Fast charging reaches approximately 70 per cent in 42–43 minutes, slightly slower than Google’s claim of 30 minutes.

Software continues to be Google’s strong suit. Android 16 with Material You 3 offers a clean interface, and the company promises seven years of updates, matching Apple and Samsung’s longevity. AI-driven features are a standout, powered by Gemini Nano for on-device processing. ProRes Zoom cleanup, Camera Coach guidance, and near-perfect voice translation enhance daily usability. Magic Cue, designed to provide app-wide suggestions, remains inconsistent and underdeveloped.

In summary, the Pixel 10 Pro XL delivers top-tier camera quality, a bright display, premium build, and advanced AI features, making it a strong choice for photography enthusiasts and AI-focused users. Its shortcomings include weaker raw performance compared to Snapdragon-powered rivals and limited video capabilities. At Rs 1,24,999, the Pixel 10 Pro XL offers a unique Android experience but may not appeal to gamers or professional videographers. For those prioritizing camera, software updates, and AI features, it remains one of the best flagship smartphones in India.