Google Pixel 7

The overriding feeling of using the Pixel 7 is that not much has really changed since the previous model. Yes, there are enhancements to some of the features and a slimming down of the body, and that does make a difference, but the essence of Pixel remains the same. It's essentially like using a slightly better, more grown up version of the Pixel 6.

The extra features that don’t quite land are just that — extras. They might one day evolve into something that makes the Pixel a smarter smartphone than the competition, but for now, the 7 and 7 Pro are just plain competitive. For anyone looking for an alternative to the two biggest players in the US, “competitive” is just what we need.

For the Pixel 7, even without much in the way of new hardware, you're getting a phone with a great screen, even better battery life and one of the best software packages around — now with new perks like an improved Direct My Call and enhanced photo processing. But most importantly, with a starting price of just $599, it's a way better value than the basic flagships from Apple and Samsung.

The Google Pixel 7 is the best $600 Android phone you can buy, particularly if you want flagship features and performance on a budget.

The Google Pixel 7 sticks with what made the Pixel 6 a success, down to design, camera setup, and processor choice. The refinements across the board make it a worthy upgrade, though, and a continuation of Google's excellent in the smartphone department. This is the phone to get when you want Google's vision for Android.

The Pixel 7 builds on the Pixel 6's success with the usual stellar cameras and a more advanced Tensor chipset. It's not going to dethrone the iPhone 14 or Galaxy S22, but the Pixel 7 certainly puts up a good fight.

You feel the absence of features that are exclusive to the Pixel 7 Pro, but what the standard Pixel 7 does offer – from its distinct design to its creative and capable camera and intelligent user experience – make it a great value-for-money flagship buy.

Google's new Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro look and feel better than their $599 and $899 prices suggest. Every time I have one in my hand, I feel like I've just stepped off the runway. Every time I use one, it feels like somebody put the smart back in smartphone. No need to shell out $1,000 to get a superior mobile experience. Heck, at $599, the Pixel 7 feels like a downright steal.

The Pixel 7 doesn’t make huge upgrades on the amazing Pixel 6, but it makes some impressive refinements that give the phone a far more polished feel. While you wouldn’t miss much by going with last year’s model to save a few hundred dollars, the upgraded Tensor G2 SoC may yet prove its worth as the phone gets more updates in the future.