Pixel 2

The Google Pixel 2 price in Qatar starts at around QAR 2400 for the base 64GB model. This flagship device from Google, released in 2017, offers a compelling mix of high-end features and pure Android experience.

While it’s no longer the latest model, the Pixel 2 still holds its own in terms of performance and camera quality, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers in Qatar looking for a premium smartphone experience.

Google Pixel 2 Specifications

Design and Build Quality

The Google Pixel 2 boasts a sleek and minimalist design that stands out in the crowded smartphone market. Its aluminum body with a glass accent on the back gives it a premium feel, while the relatively compact size makes it comfortable to hold and use with one hand.

The phone is available in three colors: Just Black, Clearly White, and Kinda Blue, offering options to suit different tastes.

One of the standout features of the Pixel 2’s design is its IP67 water and dust resistance rating. This means the device can withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, providing peace of mind for users who might accidentally expose their phone to water.

Display

The Pixel 2 features a 5.0-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. While it may not have the bezel-less design of some newer smartphones, the display offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, adding an extra layer of durability against scratches and minor drops.

One of the notable features of the display is its Always-On functionality, which shows the time, date, and notifications even when the screen is off. This feature is particularly useful for quickly checking information without having to wake up the entire phone.

Camera

The camera is where the Google Pixel 2 truly shines. Despite having only a single 12.2-megapixel rear camera, it produces stunning photos that can rival or even surpass those taken by dual-camera setups on other flagship phones. This is largely due to Google’s advanced image processing algorithms and the use of dual-pixel autofocus technology.

The Pixel 2’s camera excels in various lighting conditions, including low-light scenarios. It also features optical and electronic image stabilization, ensuring sharp and steady shots even when your hands aren’t perfectly still. The Portrait Mode, which creates a bokeh effect by blurring the background, works impressively well with just a single lens.

On the front, there’s an 8-megapixel selfie camera that also performs admirably, producing clear and detailed self-portraits. It too can create a bokeh effect for more professional-looking selfies.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Google Pixel 2 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor, paired with 4GB of RAM. While these specs might seem modest by today’s standards, the Pixel 2 still delivers smooth and responsive performance for most tasks, including multitasking and running demanding apps.

One of the biggest advantages of the Pixel 2 is its pure Android experience. As a Google phone, it runs stock Android without any bloatware or unnecessary modifications. This not only contributes to its smooth performance but also ensures that it receives the latest Android updates and security patches promptly.

The Pixel 2 launched with Android 8.0 Oreo and is upgradable to Android 11, giving users access to the latest features and improvements Google has to offer. This longevity in software support is a significant selling point for the Pixel 2, especially for those who value having the most up-to-date software on their devices.

Battery Life and Charging

The Google Pixel 2 is equipped with a 2700mAh battery, which might seem small compared to some other smartphones. However, thanks to the efficient Snapdragon 835 processor and optimized software, the Pixel 2 can easily last a full day on a single charge for most users.

When it comes to charging, the Pixel 2 supports fast charging through its USB-C port. Using the included 18W charger, you can get several hours of use from just 15 minutes of charging, which is particularly useful for quick top-ups during the day.

Special Features

The Pixel 2 comes with several unique features that set it apart from other smartphones:

1. Active Edge: By squeezing the sides of the phone, you can quickly launch Google Assistant or silence incoming calls and alarms.
2. Google Lens: This AI-powered feature can identify objects, landmarks, and text in photos, providing additional information or translation.
3. Now Playing: The phone can automatically identify songs playing in the background and display the title and artist on the lock screen.
4. Unlimited Google Photos Storage: Pixel 2 users get unlimited free storage for original quality photos and videos on Google Photos.

Comparison with Other Models

When compared to its predecessor, the original Pixel, the Pixel 2 offers several improvements. These include a better camera, water resistance, and the addition of features like Active Edge and Now Playing. The design is also more refined, with a more premium feel.

The Pixel 2 XL, released alongside the Pixel 2, offers a larger 6.0-inch display with a higher resolution and a bigger battery. However, the core features and performance are largely the same between the two models.

Compared to the Pixel 3, which was released a year later, the Pixel 2 holds up surprisingly well. While the Pixel 3 does offer some improvements in camera performance and processing power, the differences are not as significant as one might expect, making the Pixel 2 a still-viable option, especially considering its lower price point.

When looking at other smartphones available in Qatar in a similar price range, the Pixel 2 stands out for its exceptional camera quality and pure Android experience. While it may not have the latest processor or the most modern design, it offers a balanced package that can still satisfy many users’ needs.

Is the Google Pixel 2 Still Worth Buying in Qatar?

Despite being a few years old, the Google Pixel 2 still offers excellent value for money in the Qatari market. Its camera capabilities remain impressive even by today’s standards, and the pure Android experience ensures smooth performance and timely updates.

However, potential buyers should consider a few factors:

1. Battery Life: While adequate for most users, heavy users might find the battery life lacking compared to newer models with larger batteries.
2. Storage Options: With no expandable storage, users need to choose between the 64GB and 128GB models carefully.
3. Future Updates: While the Pixel 2 has received updates up to Android 11, it may not receive further major updates.
4. 5G Compatibility: The Pixel 2 does not support 5G networks, which might be a consideration for those looking to future-proof their device.

Where to Buy Google Pixel 2 in Qatar

The Google Pixel 2 can be found in various electronics stores and online marketplaces in Qatar. Some popular options include:

1. Jarir Bookstore
2. Lulu Hypermarket
3. Carrefour
4. Souq.com (now Amazon.ae)
5. Noon.com

When purchasing, be sure to check the warranty terms and after-sales support offered by the seller. It’s also worth comparing prices across different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Tips for Buying a Used Google Pixel 2 in Qatar

If you’re considering purchasing a used Google Pixel 2 to save even more money, keep these tips in mind:

1. Check the phone’s physical condition thoroughly.
2. Ensure all features, including the camera and Active Edge, are working properly.
3. Verify the battery health, as older devices may have reduced battery capacity.
4. Check if the phone is still receiving security updates.
5. Confirm that the device is not carrier-locked if you plan to use it with a different network.