Google Pixel 3 XL smartphone

Photo: Kazuhisa OTSUBO from Tokyo, Japan via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

Google

Google Pixel 3 XL

October 2018 7/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Google Pixel 3 XL, released in October 2018, was Google's flagship large-screen smartphone, known for its exceptional single-lens camera system and pure Android experience. It featured a vibrant P-OLED display, a powerful Snapdragon 845 processor, and introduced wireless charging to the Pixel lineup. Despite its strengths, it was notable for its prominent display notch and 4GB of RAM.
Display6.3-inch P-OLED with 1440 x 2960 resolution
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 845
Main Camera12.2 MP with OIS and dual pixel PDAF
Battery3430 mAh with 18W fast and wireless charging
Starting from $134

💰 Google Pixel 3 XL Price

The Google Pixel 3 XL lowest price is $134, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeP-OLED, HDR
Size6.3 inches, 100.0 cm2 (~82.8% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution1440 x 2960 pixels, 18.5:9 ratio (~523 ppi density)
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 5

Platform

OSAndroid 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 12
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 845 (10 nm)
CPUOcta-core (4x2.5 GHz Kryo 385 Gold & 4x1.6 GHz Kryo 385 Silver)
GPUAdreno 630

Memory

RAM4GB
Internal Storage64GB, 128GB
Card SlotNo

Main Camera

Single12.2 MP, f/1.8, 28mm (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
FeaturesDual-LED flash, Pixel Shift, Auto-HDR, panorama
Video4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120fps, 720p@240fps

Selfie Camera

Dual8 MP, f/1.8, 28mm (wide), PDAF + 8 MP, f/2.2, 19mm (ultrawide), no AF
FeaturesAuto-HDR
Video1080p@30fps

Battery

TypeLi-Po 3430 mAh, non-removable
Charging18W wired, USB Power Delivery 2.0; 10W wireless (Pixel Stand); 5W wireless (Qi-certified)

Body

Dimensions158.0 x 76.7 x 7.9 mm (6.22 x 3.02 x 0.31 in)
Weight184 g (6.49 oz)
BuildGlass front (Gorilla Glass 5), glass back (Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame
SIMNano-SIM and/or eSIM
IP RatingIP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins)

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA, hotspot
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX HD
GPSYes, with A-GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO
NFCYes
USBUSB Type-C 3.1

Launch

AnnouncedOctober 9, 2018
ReleasedOctober 18, 2018 (US)

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Outstanding camera performance, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Clean and bloatware-free Android experience with guaranteed software updates.
  • Sharp and vibrant P-OLED display.
  • IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
  • Supports both fast wired and wireless charging.

Cons

  • Features a large and prominent display notch.
  • Limited to 4GB of RAM, which could impact multitasking performance.
  • Battery life was considered only average by many users.
  • Lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • High launch price compared to some competitors.
★ Our Verdict

While offering an exceptional camera and a pure Android experience, the Pixel 3 XL was held back by its prominent notch, limited RAM, and only average battery life.

The Google Pixel 3 XL, while an older model, can still be a compelling option for those prioritizing camera quality and a clean Android experience on a budget. Its Snapdragon 845 chipset remains capable for everyday tasks, and the camera, even by today's standards, delivers impressive results thanks to Google's computational photography. However, be mindful of its prominent notch, the relatively small 4GB of RAM, and potentially diminished battery health in used units. Consider it if you find a good deal and value software updates (though they have officially ended) and photography over cutting-edge performance or a notch-less display. It's best suited for users who don't demand heavy multitasking or all-day battery life without a top-up. For longevity, ensure the device is in good condition and understand that official software support has concluded.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Google Pixel 3 XL smartphone
  • USB-C Pixel Earbuds
  • USB-C to USB-A Quick Switch Adapter
  • 18W USB-C Power Adapter
  • USB-C to USB-C Cable
  • USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Adapter
  • SIM tool
  • Quick Start Guide & Safety/Warranty booklet

The Google Pixel 3 XL typically came with a standard one-year manufacturer's warranty from the date of purchase.

❓ Questions & Answers

When was the Google Pixel 3 XL released?

The Google Pixel 3 XL was officially announced on October 9, 2018, and released on October 18, 2018.

Does the Google Pixel 3 XL have a good camera?

Yes, the Google Pixel 3 XL is renowned for its excellent single-lens 12.2 MP main camera, which utilizes Google's computational photography to produce outstanding photos, especially in low-light conditions.

Is the Google Pixel 3 XL waterproof?

The Google Pixel 3 XL has an IP68 rating, meaning it is dust and water resistant. It can withstand immersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes.

Does the Google Pixel 3 XL support wireless charging?

Yes, the Google Pixel 3 XL supports wireless charging. It can charge at up to 10W with the Google Pixel Stand and 5W with other Qi-certified wireless chargers.

What operating system does the Google Pixel 3 XL run?

The Google Pixel 3 XL launched with Android 9.0 (Pie) and was upgradable to Android 12.

Does the Google Pixel 3 XL have a headphone jack?

No, the Google Pixel 3 XL does not feature a 3.5mm headphone jack. Users need to use USB-C headphones or a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter.