Best alternatives to Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL
The newest smartphones from Google, the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, are great choices if you're looking to upgrade. But, you should be aware of all the other enticing options on the market before you decide to buy. Here's how the alternatives stack up.
The best alternatives to the Google Pixel 2
Sony Xperia XZ1 Compact
Introduced at IFA 2017, the XZ1 Compact is a small smartphone (4.6 inches) but it certainly flexes its muscles with its technical sheet. It already has Android Oreo and has even already received October’s security patch. This device has all the qualities of Sony smartphones with the brand’s own design and weather-resistance, and you won’t be disappointed by the camera.
The smartphone’s battery life is excellent and, like the Pixel 2, it has stereo loudspeakers. The XZ1 Compact also has a fun feature which allows you to scan objects in 3D, a feature that the Pixel 2 doesn’t offer.
Sony Xperia XZ1 Compact technical specs
| Sony Xperia XZ1 Compact | |
| Android version | Android Oreo |
| Display | IPS LCD 4.6 inches (Full-HD) |
| Processor | Snapdragon 835 |
| GPU | Adreno 540 |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Internal storage | 32 GB (expandable via Micro SD) |
Samsung Galaxy S8
While the Galaxy S8 doesn’t provide a pure Android experience, it’s still an excellent Android smartphone. In comparison with the Pixel, it offers a more premium design, high quality performances and a bezel-less QHD definition screen. It is also waterproof and has excellent photo quality.
Under the hood, the Galaxy S8 has the latest Snapdragon 835 processor, paired with 4 GB of RAM and a 12 MP main camera. A 3,000 mAh battery ensures the battery life lasts for a full day, even with intensive usage.
Samsung Galaxy S8 technical specs
| Samsung Galaxy S8 | |
| Android version | Android 7.0 Nougat |
| Display | Super AMOLED 5.8 inches (QHD) |
| Processor | Snarpdragon 835 |
| GPU | Mali-G71 MP20 |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Internal storage | 64 GB (expandable via Micro SD) |
LG G6
If you like the design of the Pixel 2 XL, you’ll like the G6. It’s similar, yet more compact. Now available for under the $500 mark at some carriers, you can get this high-performance smartphone with a Snapdragon 821 processor and 4 GB of RAM. Ultimately, it’s the LG UX 6.0 software interface that will disappoint fans of the Pixel 2.
Unlike the Pixel 2, the LG G6 sports a dual camera. Both lenses have a 13 MP resolution and an angle of up to 125°. While images taken with the LG G6 are generally good, they aren’t of the same level that is promised by the Pixel 2.
LG G6 technical specs
| LG G6 | |
| Android version | Android Nougat |
| Display | IPS LCD 5.7 inches (Full-HD) |
| Processor | Snapdragon 821 |
| GPU | Adreno 530 |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Internal storage | 32 GB (expandable via Micro SD) |
The best alternatives to the Google Pixel 2 XL
HTC U11
Despite recently selling part of their activities to Google, HTC is still marketing their own smartphones. Their latest flagship, the HTC U11, is a solid alternative to the Pixel 2 XL as it’s a top range smartphone which deserves its seat among the best Android smartphones of 2017. It's also the same size. Just like the Pixel 2 XL, the HTC U11 has squeezable edges and its interface is close enough to the pure Android experience.
In terms of performance, the HTC U11 offers similar tech specs to those found on 2016 flagships with a Snapdragon 835 processor and 4 GB of RAM. In terms of photos, this phone has a 12 MP camera with excellent photo quality.
HTC U11 technical specs
| HTC U11 | |
| Android version | Android Nougat |
| Display | Super AMOLED 5.5 inches (QHD) |
| Processor | Snapdragon 835 |
| GPU | Adreno 540 |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Internal storage | 64 GB (expandable via Micro SD) |
Moto Z2 Force
The Moto Z2 Force is the alternative which is most like the Google Pixel 2 XL. Its interface is similar to that of stock Android and the updates are quite quick to arrive. Android Oreo should land on this device at the start of next year, according to the manufacturer. The camera app is a little different as it offers functions that can be used to get the most out of the dual camera system.
The Moto Z Force offers a dual camera on the back, with an RGB sensor and a monochrome sensor. It also includes the unique feature of being compatible with Moto Mods.
Moto Z2 Force technical specs
| Moto Z2 Force | |
| Android version | Android Nougat |
| Display | OLED 5.5 inches (QHD) |
| Processor | Snapdragon 835 |
| GPU | Adreno 540 |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Internal storage | 64 GB (expandable via Micro SD) |
Huawei Mate 10 Pro
Huawei recently introduced their new Mate range devices, including the Huawei Mate 10 Pro. Huawei has changed their design policy and opted for glass on both the front and back, and the device is now waterproof.
However, the great strength of the Huawei Mate 10 Pro is without a doubt its artificial intelligence, which can be found in different elements of the device, particularly the camera. This is due to the presence of a NPU chip which should prove its worth in terms of virtual and enhanced reality. A little more than just a phone: it can be used as a computer thanks to an adapter which allows you to view its content on a big screen.
Huawei Mate 10 Pro technical specs
| Huawei Mate 10 | |
| Android version | Android Oreo |
| Display | AMOLED, 6 inches, 2,160 x 1,080 |
| Processor | Kirin 970 |
| GPU | Mali-G72 MP12 |
| RAM | 6 GB |
| Internal storage | 128 GB |
Did you find an alternative you like more than the Pixel 2 in this list? Or will you buy a Pixel after all? If you would like to suggest any other alternatives, feel free to share them with us in the comment section below.
In your article, you say the Moto Z2 force is quick at receiving updates. Last year, I bought a Moto g4, which was promised an update to Android 7. Now, over a year later, my phone hasn't gotten the update, even though their update calender says it should have arrived in March 2017. Moto phones are good phones, but don't buy one if you want, or need, the most recent version of Android.