I have been using an iPhone since the 3G models were release in Canada in 2008. I was recently given the opportunity to test Google’s new Pixel 2 XL during my three-week vacation to the east, and after exclusively using the Pixel 2 during my holiday, I think this might be the phone that will break me away from Apple.
If you are in to simplicity, you would probably love how the Pixel 2 XL feels in your hands. The phone is rectangular, and both the back and front edges and corners are curved slightly. Its comfortable and easy to hold even without a case. On the back of the phone is the fingerprint scanner, I would say this is one of the things I like about the Pixel. I find the scanner faster than iPhone and it felt more natural as I can use my index finger to unlock the phone and have my thumbs ready to get to work once the phone is unlock.
Another feature that I like about the Pixel 2 is the rear and front cameras. I used to be okay with the newest camera quality from an iPhone until I used this phone. The Pixel 2 offers a rear 12.2 megapixel image, image stabilization for anyone with shaky hands, dual LED Flash and it can shoot 4K 30fps video. It also has a stellar front 8 megapixel camera, for those perfect quality selfies, and can capture 1080p video. There’s also a portrait mode feature, that converts your images into professional DSLR quality shots, with an effect that blurs the background. Google blew both Apple and Samsung away when it comes to camera quality in my opinion.
Although I did love using the Pixel 2, I would still not switch from the iPhone just YET. Here are the reasons:
1. Everyone in my life has an iPhone, which means iMessage. I do not want to be the only green while everyone is blue, getting left out of group messages. I know a lot of people who are less likely to message you back if you show up as green on their iPhones.
2. The USB/charging port. Pixel 2 uses USB-C for charging and while it does give you seven hours of battery life a speedy fifteen minute charge session, I found it to be a problem when I accidentally forgot to charge the phone. At the time of writing, you might have a hard time finding someone to lend you a USB-C cable. And a lot of the free charging stations in the malls don’t support USB C yet. Transferring files to a computer is also a challenge. You will need to get a USB-C adapter to a regular USB.
In conclusion, Google Pixel 2 XL is a solid phone, it’s pure Google, and provides professional quality images. Before switching, you might want to consider the above few things before leaving the comfort of your iPhone.