I recently had the opportunity to put the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL through its paces at the renowned Reading Festival. As a tech enthusiast, I focused on testing seven key features of this flagship device in a real-world scenario. Let’s dive into how this smartphone performed in a festival setting.
Brightening my day
The Pixel 10 Pro XL’s stunning 6.8-inch OLED screen with a peak brightness of 3300 nits proved its worth under the glaring sun and dynamic festival lighting. The high refresh rate of 120Hz ensured a smooth visual experience, setting the stage for an enjoyable festival journey.
A festival-proof design
The festival environment can be harsh, but the Pixel 10 Pro XL’s durable aluminum build, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and robust case provided peace of mind. Its IP68 rating shielded it from dust and water splashes, making it a reliable companion in less-than-ideal conditions.
All-day (and night) battery life
Despite a mishap with a power bank, the Pixel 10 Pro XL’s battery life stood strong throughout the festival. Even with heavy usage, including high brightness, data, and camera use, it managed to last through the weekend, showcasing its endurance.
Amateur turned expert
The camera features of the Pixel 10 Pro XL, including Camera Coach and Night Sight, elevated my photography experience. Camera Coach’s AI suggestions improved my shots, while Night Sight excelled in low-light conditions, capturing clear and detailed images even in near darkness.
Taking the mic
While the device excelled in visuals, its microphones fell short during video recordings at a distance. The audio quality struggled to capture ambient sounds, impacting the overall video experience at the festival.
Distance? What distance?
The Pixel 10 Pro XL’s zoom capabilities shone in shorter ranges, delivering excellent photo quality. However, at higher digital zoom levels, the quality declined, especially beyond 10x. Pro Res Zoom, while innovative, didn’t always deliver satisfactory results in concert settings.
In conclusion, the Pixel 10 Pro XL proved to be a reliable festival companion, excelling in display, design, battery life, and camera performance in most scenarios. Despite its minor drawbacks in audio and extreme zoom levels, it remains a top choice for users seeking a versatile and capable smartphone.
Final Thoughts
The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL’s performance at Reading Festival showcased its strengths and weaknesses, highlighting its suitability for everyday use and occasional photography needs. If you value a vibrant display, durable design, long-lasting battery, and impressive camera capabilities in a smartphone, the Pixel 10 Pro XL emerges as a top contender in the market.