Google Pixel 4 XL In 2022! (Still Worth It?) (Review)

TL;DR

The Google Pixel 4 XL remains an interesting phone in 2022, but it has notable limitations.

Transcript

welcome back everyone let's go and take a look at the google pixel 4 xl and see how this phone holds up in 2022 now what i'll definitely tell you about this specific device is that it is a very very interesting phone and back in 2019 google actually sent me this phone which i was very happy about and i'll be honest i've already re-bought like three... Read More

Key Insights

• ☠️ The Google Pixel 4 XL features a 6.3-inch pOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals compared to similar models released in 2019.
• 😎 Its unique glass back design offers a tactile experience that distinguishes it from other smartphones on the market, adding to its premium feel.
• 💋 Despite its strong performance at launch, the absence of high-capacity storage options and an ultra-wide camera lens has drawn criticism, marking it as a flawed flagship.
• 🎥 The camera, while boosted by software, struggles compared to competitors, with limitations in 4K video recording capabilities.
• 😤 Software support remains a highlight, with future updates and custom ROM availability ensuring long-term usability.
• 👶 Standout performance is overshadowed by advancements in newer processors, with the Snapdragon 855 perceived as less capable by 2022 standards.
• 🤘 Battery life, although acceptable during its release, shows signs of degradation and may not meet the expectations of current smartphone users.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the standout features of the Google Pixel 4 XL?

The Google Pixel 4 XL features a 6.3-inch pOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors and smooth scrolling. It comes with a premium build quality and unique glass back that provides a distinct tactile experience. Despite these positives, the camera and storage options are seen as significant drawbacks.

Q: How does the camera performance of the Pixel 4 XL hold up today?

The camera performance, while praised during its release, shows limitations when compared to current standards. With only a dual-camera setup that lacks an ultra-wide lens and the ability to shoot 4K video at 30fps, it pales against competitors that offer more advanced camera technologies today.

Q: In terms of software support, how does the Pixel 4 XL fare?

The Pixel 4 XL is expected to receive software updates for a few more years, which is a strong point for the device. Google’s commitment to security patches and the vibrant custom ROM community make it a solid choice for those interested in long-term software support.

Q: How does the performance of the Pixel 4 XL compare to newer phones?

Using the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor, the Pixel 4 XL performs adequately for everyday tasks. However, newer phones equipped with more advanced processors, such as the Snapdragon 888 and above, offer significantly superior performance, especially for gaming and multitasking scenarios.

Q: What are the concerns regarding the battery life of the Pixel 4 XL?

The Pixel 4 XL features a 3,700 mAh battery, which was decent at launch but falls short compared to newer phones with larger batteries. Users may experience degraded battery health over time, limiting the device's longevity and daily usability.

Q: Why might someone consider buying the Pixel 4 XL today?

Someone might consider buying the Pixel 4 XL today due to its unique design, solid display, and decent software support. It can be a good option for users who prioritize budget-friendly devices but should be aware of its limitations in camera capabilities and overall performance.

Q: What issues did the Pixel 4 XL encounter that impacted its reputation?

The lack of sufficient storage options, with a maximum of 128 GB, and the absence of an ultra-wide camera significantly impacted its reputation. Additionally, the camera's video recording capabilities lagged behind competitors, contributing to a mixed reception regarding its flagship status.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Google Pixel 4 XL, despite its initial promise in 2019, shows limitations such as insufficient storage capacity and the absence of an ultra-wide camera, impacting its appeal as a flagship model.

• Its design and display quality are commendable, featuring a premium feel and a decent 6.3-inch 90Hz pOLED panel, which holds up well against competitors from the same era.

• While it offers a solid software support experience and good performance with the Snapdragon 855, its battery life and camera specifications are not competitive with newer models on the market.