Google Pixel 6 smartphone

Photo: Miyako Fujimiya via Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Google

Google Pixel 6

October 28, 2021 9/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Google Pixel 6 is an Android smartphone released in October 2021, notable for being the first phone powered by Google's custom-designed Tensor chip. It features a distinctive design with a horizontal camera bar, a 6.4-inch OLED display, and a powerful 50MP main camera, offering advanced computational photography and AI capabilities.
Display6.4-inch AMOLED, 90Hz refresh rate
ChipsetGoogle Tensor
Main Camera50MP wide, 12MP ultrawide
Battery4614 mAh
Starting from $112

💰 Google Pixel 6 Price

The Google Pixel 6 lowest price is $112, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeAMOLED, 90Hz, HDR10+
Size6.4 inches
Resolution1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~411 ppi density)
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass Victus
FeaturesAlways-on display

Platform

OSAndroid 12, upgradable to Android 17
ChipsetGoogle Tensor (5 nm)
CPUOcta-core (2x2.80 GHz Cortex-X1 & 2x2.25 GHz Cortex-A76 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPUMali-G78 MP20

Memory

Card slotNo
Internal128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM
Storage TypeUFS 3.1

Main Camera

Dual50 MP, f/1.9, 25mm (wide), 1/1.31", 1.2µm, omnidirectional PDAF, Laser AF, OIS; 12 MP, f/2.2, 17mm, 114˚ (ultrawide), 1.25µm
FeaturesDual-LED flash, Pixel Shift, Auto-HDR, panorama
Video4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240fps; gyro-EIS, OIS

Selfie Camera

Single8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm (wide), 1.12µm
FeaturesAuto-HDR, panorama
Video1080p@30fps

Battery

TypeLi-Ion 4614 mAh, non-removable
ChargingFast charging 21W (advertised 50% in 30 min), USB Power Delivery 3.0, Fast wireless charging 21W, Reverse wireless charging

Body

Dimensions158.6 x 74.8 x 8.9 mm (6.2 x 2.9 x 0.4 inches)
Weight207 g (7.30 oz)
BuildGlass front (Gorilla Glass Victus), glass back (Gorilla Glass 6), aluminum frame
SIMNano-SIM and eSIM
IP RatingIP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins)

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, tri-band, Wi-Fi Direct
Bluetooth5.2, A2DP, LE, aptX HD
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS, BDS
NFCYes
RadioNo
USBUSB Type-C 3.1

Launch

AnnouncedOctober 2021
StatusAvailable. Released 2021, October 28

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Excellent camera performance and computational photography
  • Powerful Google Tensor chip for AI and smooth performance
  • Unique and recognizable design
  • Long-term software and security update support
  • Good value for its feature set at launch
  • IP68 dust and water resistance

Cons

  • No dedicated telephoto lens (unlike the Pixel 6 Pro)
  • Battery life can be average for some users
  • No face unlock feature
  • Charging speeds are not as fast as some competitors
  • No charger or headphones included in the box
  • 90Hz display instead of 120Hz found on some rivals and the Pro model
★ Our Verdict

The Google Pixel 6 offers a compelling package with its powerful Tensor chip, excellent camera system, and unique design, providing great value despite some minor compromises, earning high marks from users for its build quality, camera, and performance.

The Google Pixel 6 remains a solid choice for users prioritizing an exceptional camera experience and Google's clean Android interface with timely updates. Its Tensor chip still delivers strong performance for daily tasks and AI features, making it suitable for those who appreciate smart functionalities like Magic Eraser and Live Translate. While newer models exist, the Pixel 6 often presents excellent value in the used or refurbished market, especially for budget-conscious buyers who don't require the absolute latest hardware or a telephoto lens. Consider it if you value software longevity, computational photography, and a distinctive design, but be aware of its 90Hz display and potentially average battery life compared to some flagships.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Google Pixel 6 smartphone
  • USB-C to USB-C cable (1m)
  • Quick Switch Adapter (USB-A to USB-C)
  • SIM tool
  • Documentation (Quick Start Guide, Safety & Warranty Information)

Typically includes a one-year limited manufacturer's warranty.

❓ Questions & Answers

When was the Google Pixel 6 released?

The Google Pixel 6 was officially released on October 28, 2021.

What processor does the Google Pixel 6 use?

The Google Pixel 6 is powered by Google's custom-designed Tensor (5 nm) chipset, marking a significant shift for the Pixel line.

How long will the Google Pixel 6 receive software updates?

The Google Pixel 6 is guaranteed to receive five years of both OS and security updates from its launch date, with support extending through October 2026 and Android 17 QPR1 being its last major update.

Does the Google Pixel 6 have a good camera?

Yes, the Google Pixel 6 features an excellent camera system with a 50MP main sensor and a 12MP ultrawide lens, known for its advanced computational photography capabilities and impressive image quality.

Is the Google Pixel 6 water resistant?

Yes, the Google Pixel 6 has an IP68 rating, meaning it is dust and water resistant, capable of being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes.

What comes in the box with the Google Pixel 6?

The box typically includes the Google Pixel 6 smartphone, a USB-C to USB-C cable, a Quick Switch Adapter, a SIM tool, and documentation. A power adapter and headphones are not included.