Google Pixel 3 XL

The Google Pixel 3 XL, a flagship smartphone from the tech giant, is available in Qatar at a price range of QAR 3,300 to QAR 4,199. This pricing puts it in the premium segment, offering high-end features and Google’s renowned camera technology.

While it’s not the latest model in the Pixel lineup, it still holds its ground with impressive specifications and performance.

Google Pixel 3 XL Specifications

Feature	Specification
Display	6.3″ P-OLED QHD+
Resolution	1440 x 2960 pixels
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 845
RAM	4GB
Storage	64GB / 128GB
Main Camera	12.2MP (f/1.8)
Front Camera	Dual 8MP (f/1.8 + f/2.2)
Battery	3430mAh
Charging	18W Fast Charging, Qi Wireless Charging
Operating System	Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 12
Water Resistance	IP68

 

Design and Display

The Google Pixel 3 XL boasts a sleek and modern design, featuring a glass back that enables wireless charging. Its 6.3-inch P-OLED display offers vibrant colors and sharp details with a QHD+ resolution of 1440 x 2960 pixels.

The notch at the top of the screen houses the dual front-facing cameras, which may be a point of contention for some users but allows for wide-angle selfies.

Camera Capabilities

One of the standout features of the Pixel 3 XL is its camera system. Despite having only a single 12.2MP rear camera, Google’s advanced software and AI capabilities produce stunning photos in various lighting conditions.

The Night Sight feature, in particular, excels at capturing clear and bright images in low-light environments. The dual 8MP front cameras offer regular and wide-angle options for selfies, making group shots easier to capture.

Performance and Battery Life

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor and 4GB of RAM, the Pixel 3 XL delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming. The device comes with either 64GB or 128GB of storage, which isn’t expandable, so choose wisely based on your needs.

The 3430mAh battery provides decent all-day battery life for most users, and the inclusion of 18W fast charging and Qi wireless charging adds convenience.

Software and Features

As a Google device, the Pixel 3 XL runs on pure Android, offering a clean and bloatware-free experience. It launched with Android 9.0 Pie and is upgradable to Android 12, ensuring access to the latest features and security updates.

The device also includes Google’s AI-powered features like Google Assistant, which can be activated by squeezing the phone’s sides.

Comparison with Other Pixel Models

When compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 2 XL, the Pixel 3 XL offers improvements in camera quality, processing power, and the addition of wireless charging. However, the differences may not be significant enough for Pixel 2 XL owners to upgrade immediately.

The Pixel 3a XL and Pixel 3a, released after the Pixel 3 XL, offer similar camera quality at a lower price point but sacrifice some premium features like wireless charging and water resistance. They also use a less powerful processor, which may affect performance in demanding tasks.

The Pixel 4 XL, the successor to the 3 XL, introduces features like a 90Hz display, face unlock, and a dual-camera system on the rear. While these upgrades are noteworthy, the Pixel 3 XL still holds its own in terms of camera quality and overall performance.

Comparison with Other Smartphones in the Same Price Range

In the Qatari market, the Pixel 3 XL competes with devices like the Samsung Galaxy S10, iPhone XR, and Huawei P30 Pro. Each of these phones has its strengths:

• The Samsung Galaxy S10 offers a more modern design with a punch-hole camera and a versatile triple-camera setup.
• The iPhone XR provides access to the iOS ecosystem and excellent performance with its A12 Bionic chip.
• The Huawei P30 Pro boasts an impressive zoom capability and low-light performance with its Leica quad-camera system.

While these competitors may offer more modern designs or additional camera lenses, the Pixel 3 XL still stands out for its pure Android experience and exceptional photo quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Is the Pixel 3 XL Still Worth Buying in 2024?

Despite being a few years old, the Google Pixel 3 XL remains a solid choice for users who prioritize camera quality and a clean Android experience. Its ability to capture stunning photos, especially in low light, is still competitive with newer models. The guaranteed software updates from Google also ensure that the device stays current with the latest features and security patches.

However, potential buyers should consider a few factors:

1. The design, with its large notch, may feel dated compared to newer models with punch-hole cameras or under-display sensors.
2. The 4GB of RAM, while sufficient for most tasks, may struggle with heavy multitasking compared to newer phones with 6GB or more.
3. The lack of 5G support means you won’t be able to take advantage of the fastest mobile networks as they become more widespread in Qatar.

Who Should Consider the Pixel 3 XL?

The Google Pixel 3 XL is an excellent choice for:

• Photography enthusiasts who want a powerful camera in their pocket without the complexity of multiple lenses
• Users who prefer a clean, bloatware-free Android experience
• Those who value long-term software support and timely updates
• Consumers looking for a premium smartphone experience at a slightly lower price point than the latest flagships

Who Should Look at Alternatives?

You might want to consider other options if:

• You need the latest and fastest 5G connectivity
• You require a lot of storage space or the ability to expand storage
• You’re a heavy multitasker or power user who needs more RAM
• You prefer a more modern design without a notch

Tips for Buying the Pixel 3 XL

1. Compare prices across different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
2. Check the warranty terms and after-sales support offered by the seller.
3. Consider purchasing a case and screen protector to keep your device in good condition.
4. Look for bundle deals that might include accessories like wireless chargers or earbuds.