****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
Google Pixel 6 Pro is an amazing device. I opted for the unlocked version to use with Spectrum Mobile, and 256GB since I sometimes had more than 128GB on my last phone (photos, videos, downloaded maps for Google Maps and outdoors apps,etc.).First, let's address 5G service: It is hit-or-miss. It ain't the phone's fault, it's just the nature of 5G. It has very short range from towers (that's why 5G towers are popping up in subdivisions, city streets, etc.) and can't penetrate buildings like earlier services. So, don't blame the phone if 5G don't work where you are. 4G and LTE are your reliable friends. Also, even if you do have 5G showing on the phone, don't expect blazing speeds. I've tested speeds with 5G on and off while sitting in restaurants, doctors offices, city traffic (as a passenger) and at home. Sometimes 5G is 200mbps or better, and sometimes it is slower than 4G/LTE. It depends on distance from the tower, signal strength and traffic on the tower. Don't write negative reviews for any phone based on unrealistic 5G wishes.Now, about the Pixel 6 Pro:Here's what I like:1. The very large screen lets me read without always using reading glasses.2. Battery life seems to be very good for the amount and types of usage. I try to stay between 20-80% charge for longevity sake.3. The cameras (3 of them) are very good. I opted for the 3-camera 6 Pro for the cameras, allowing me to capture travel scenes without the added weight and hassle of the Nikon plus it's lenses, charger, etc. We just returned from Aruba, and I didn't miss the Nikon at all. I use the wide angle (0.7x) and telephoto (4x) a lot, and it's pretty good when you use digital zoom at 20x. I use the photosphere feature often when traveling, and it's a great way to share the experiences. And, the night and astrophotography capabilities are way better than expected. Get a mini tripod and try those sometimes (astrophotography shots can take 4 minutes). As a guy that used manual film cameras before digital was possible, I would like more control of the camera functions, but there are apps for that. After your images upload to Google Photos, try the Magic Eraser editing tool you've heard about to get rid of unwanted people or cars from a scene. It ain't totally automatic, but it sure beats the old ways of doing it. I don't shoot many videos, but I might now that I have better capabilities. If concerned about scratching the cameras, apply a tempered glass protector for the camera. It's cheap and easy. And they have a cutout for the flash and microphone.4. Phone calls are reliable and clear. No problems with dropped calls.5. Google's Spam Filters prevent most calls from getting through. If an unwanted call (or one you can't answer immediately) rings, flip the phone face-down to shush it. Better yet, turn the ringer off before church service starts.6. The fingerprint reader works fine for me. Take time to train it for more than one finger, and increase sensitivity before applying a screen protector.7. There are many useful settings, so take your time and explore them.8. International use was easy. All I had to do was call Spectrum Mobile to enable international use, then take off. They charge per minute for calls, per text message, and per MB for data (please turn off mobile data roaming). It was super easy and reliable in Aruba, although we did get a welcome to Jamaica message.Now, what I don't like: Nothing. I did my research and knew what to expect. Who would order a phone costing over $1000 (taxes, accessories, etc.) without knowing what they're getting? I could gripe that it's too tall for most shirt pockets, but I specifically wanted a big screen, so it ain't Google's fault. I could gripe about the swiping gestures, but I like them after learning how they work. There are many other smartphones out there, so do your own homework and buy one you like.Would I buy this phone again? Yes. Absolutely. But I was hoping the 7 Pro could be available before I killed my Pixel 3. Oh well, that's neither phone's fault.
