Google’s getting ready to celebrate a major milestone—ten years of Pixel phones. With the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro launching soon, there’s more buzz than usual around these devices. And honestly? There’s good reason for the excitement.
This year feels different. Google isn’t just tweaking last year’s formula. They’re bringing their first completely custom-built processor, adding features we’ve been waiting for, and maybe—just maybe—giving us a clearer choice between the two models.
If you’re trying to figure out which Pixel 10 makes sense for your wallet and your daily life, let’s break down what really matters.
The Big Changes Coming This Year
Google Finally Goes Full Custom with Tensor G5
Here’s something that might not sound exciting but actually changes everything: Google built their own processor from scratch this time. Previous Tensor chips were basically Samsung’s Exynos processors with Google’s tweaks. The new Tensor G5? That’s all Google, manufactured by TSMC using cutting-edge 3nm technology.
What does this mean for you? Potentially better battery life, less heat when your phone’s working hard, and smoother performance overall. Both the Pixel 10 and Pro get this upgrade, so you’re not missing out regardless of which one you choose.
The Standard Model Gets a Zoom Lens
This might be the biggest game-changer. For years, if you wanted a telephoto camera on a Pixel, you had to buy the Pro model. Not anymore. The regular Pixel 10 is getting its own zoom lens.
Sure, it’s not as fancy as the Pro’s periscope telephoto system, but having any zoom lens opens up so many more photo opportunities. Family gatherings, concerts, wildlife shots—suddenly the base model becomes way more versatile.
Design: If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It
Familiar Look, Refined Feel
Google’s keeping the horizontal camera bar that makes Pixels instantly recognizable. Both phones will look nearly identical from the front, measuring roughly the same size. The Pro might be slightly thicker due to its beefier camera system, but we’re talking millimeters here.
You’ll get the same premium build quality on both—aluminum frames, glass backs, and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. The IP68 water resistance rating means both phones can handle your daily adventures without worry.
Color options will likely follow Google’s usual pattern: more playful choices for the standard model, classier tones for the Pro. Either way, you’re getting a phone that feels expensive and looks distinctive.
Screens: Good vs. Great
Both Deliver Smooth Visuals
Here’s where the differences start showing up, but they might not matter as much as you think. Both phones get 6.3-inch OLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates. Scrolling through apps, playing games, watching videos—both will feel buttery smooth.
The Pro edges ahead with a sharper resolution and brighter peak brightness. If you’re constantly using your phone outdoors or you’re particular about pixel density, you’ll notice the difference. For most people? The standard Pixel 10’s screen will look fantastic.
Fingerprint Sensors Get an Upgrade
Both models are expected to finally get ultrasonic fingerprint sensors. If you’ve struggled with the optical sensors on previous Pixels, this should be a welcome change. Faster, more reliable, and works better with wet fingers.
Performance: Where Your Money Shows
Same Processor, Different Supporting Cast
Both phones run on that new Tensor G5 chip, so basic performance will be similar. Where they split apart is in memory and storage.
The regular Pixel 10 comes with 12GB of RAM, which is plenty for most people. The Pro bumps that up to 16GB. If you’re someone who keeps dozens of apps open, does heavy photo editing, or wants your phone to stay snappy for years, that extra RAM matters.
Storage is another differentiator. The base model maxes out at 256GB, while the Pro can go up to 1TB. Think about your photo habits, how many apps you install, and whether you download movies for offline viewing.
Cameras: The Real Decision Maker
Three Lenses vs. Three Better Lenses
This is where things get interesting. Both phones now have triple camera systems, but the Pro’s cameras are simply more capable across the board.
The main camera on the standard Pixel 10 uses a smaller sensor than even the previous generation, while the Pro gets a larger, more advanced sensor. In good lighting, both will take excellent photos—that’s what Pixels do. But when light gets dim or you’re trying to capture fast-moving subjects, the Pro’s larger sensor will consistently deliver better results.
The ultra-wide cameras show an even bigger gap. The Pro’s 48MP sensor will capture more detail and handle low light much better than the standard model’s 13MP sensor.
Zoom Capabilities Tell the Story
Yes, the regular Pixel 10 finally gets a telephoto lens, but it’s an 11MP sensor compared to the Pro’s 48MP periscope system. The Pro will zoom further, maintain quality better, and give you more cropping flexibility later.
If photography is a big part of why you want a Pixel, the Pro is still the clear winner. But if you just want decent zoom occasionally, the standard model finally delivers.
Battery Life: Surprisingly Similar
Same Capacity, Different Charging Speeds
Both phones pack 4,700mAh batteries, so daily usage should be comparable. The Pro’s brighter screen and more powerful cameras might drain slightly more power, but the efficiency gains from the new processor should balance things out.
Charging is where you’ll see a practical difference. The standard model likely caps out around 30W wired charging, while the Pro might support 45W. That could mean 15-20 minutes less time plugged into the wall each day.
Wireless charging remains modest on both models—around 15W. Neither phone will wow you with charging speeds, but both should easily last a full day.
Price: The Reality Check
Budget Considerations
Here’s the uncomfortable truth: both phones might cost $100 more than their predecessors. That could put the regular Pixel 10 at $899 and the Pro at $1,099.
At those prices, you’re looking at flagship territory across the board. The question becomes whether the Pro’s camera improvements, extra RAM, and storage options justify spending another $200.
Making Your Decision
Choose the Standard Pixel 10 If:
- You want flagship Pixel features without breaking $900
- The new telephoto lens covers your zoom needs
- 12GB of RAM and 256GB storage work for your usage
- You’re happy with very good cameras instead of exceptional ones
Go for the Pixel 10 Pro If:
- Photography is genuinely important to your daily phone use
- You want maximum storage and RAM for future-proofing
- Faster charging speeds matter to your routine
- You’re keeping this phone for 4+ years and want it to age well
The Bottom Line
For the first time in years, the standard Pixel model might actually be the smarter choice for most people. That telephoto lens addition changes the game significantly. You’re getting the same processor, the same core Pixel experience, and now a much more versatile camera system.
The Pro is still the better phone on paper—no question about it. But unless you’re really invested in mobile photography or need maximum performance, that extra $200 might be better spent elsewhere.
Google seems to have finally figured out how to make both models appealing without making the cheaper one feel like a compromise. That’s great news for anyone who wants a flagship Pixel experience without the flagship price tag.