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Best alternatives to Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL

google pixel 2 vs pixel 2 xl
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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.

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The XZ1 Compact is small but mighty. © NextPit

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.

AndroidPIT Samsung Galaxy S8 2087
The Samsung Galaxy S8 is one of the market’s benchmarks. © NextPit

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.

AndroidPIT LG G6 9285
The LG G6 is a great value. © NextPit

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.

AndroidPIT HTC U 11 4601
The HTC U11 has squeezable sides, just like the Pixel 2.  © NextPit

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.

AndroidPIT motorola moto z2 force 8095
The Moto Z2 Force is a smartphone with an interface similar to stock Android.  © NextPit

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.

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The Huawei Mate 10 Pro is all about artificial intelligence. © NextPit

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.

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Pierre Vitré

Pierre Vitré
Head of Content

Pierre has a strong passion for new technologies and mobile since its first StarTac. Android user since 2011, Pierre became totally hooked. He never leaves his smartphone and smartwatch and still believes in the success of Google Glass. That's why he joined AndroidPIT.fr to be the head of content.

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  • Finn Shadow 1
    Finn Shadow Oct 23, 2017 Link to comment

    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.