When Google first unveiled the Pixel 6, it stood out with a bold new design, the debut of the Google Tensor chip, and major camera upgrades. But while specs and features shine at launch, a phone's true value reveals itself over time. So, after using the Pixel 6 as my daily driver for over a year, is it still worth buying in 2025?
Let’s dive deep into my real-world experience—what impressed me, what disappointed me, and whether the Pixel 6 can still compete in today’s market.
Design: Unique but Divisive
The horizontal camera bar makes the Pixel 6 instantly recognizable. Personally, I found the design refreshing at first, but over time, the phone started collecting dust and fingerprints more than I expected. It’s a solid, heavy phone (207g), and while it feels premium, using it with one hand isn’t the most comfortable experience.
Performance: Google Tensor’s Real Test
Powered by Google’s first custom chip, Tensor, the Pixel 6 delivers a smooth daily experience. App switching, multitasking, and games like Call of Duty Mobile run without major hiccups. However, the phone does get warm under heavy loads like prolonged gaming or video editing.
The performance is reliable for most users, but it's not the powerhouse that rivals like Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 devices offer.
Battery Life: Decent, but Not a Standout
Initially, battery life was solid—enough for a full day with moderate use. But after 12 months, I’ve noticed some degradation. On heavy days, I need to recharge by early evening.
Charging is capped at 30W, and without a charger included in the box, it's a slight hassle. There’s wireless charging, but it’s relatively slow compared to competitors.
Camera: Where Pixel Truly Shines
This is the Pixel 6’s strongest area. Photos come out sharp, vibrant, and true to life almost every time. The Night Sight mode still leads the pack for low-light photography, and Google’s image processing continues to be top-tier.
I especially loved using the “Magic Eraser” feature—it works great in many situations, though it can struggle with complex backgrounds.
Software & Updates: Clean and Constant
One of the best perks of owning a Pixel is the clean, bloat-free Android experience. The Pixel 6 receives monthly security patches and feature drops directly from Google. In my usage, I’ve experienced minor bugs, but they were usually addressed quickly in updates.
Still Worth Buying in 2025?
Yes—if your priorities align with what the Pixel 6 offers.
- Great for: camera lovers, stock Android fans, and those who want a balanced phone at a now-lower price.
- Not ideal for: gamers, power users, or those who need ultra-long battery life.
Given current discounts on the Pixel 6, it’s still a strong contender in the mid-range space—especially for those who prioritize camera performance and timely updates.
Conclusion
The Pixel 6 may no longer be the newest kid on the block, but it still delivers where it counts. It’s not flawless, but it offers a distinctive experience that many Android phones lack. If you can find one at a good price in 2025, it’s definitely worth considering.
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