The Google Pixel 6 Pro was released in October 2021 as Google’s first flagship powered by its own custom Tensor chip. With a distinctive design, powerful cameras, and a pure Android experience, it was positioned as a competitor to high-end devices from Apple and Samsung. Now in 2025, is the Pixel 6 Pro still a viable option? Let’s explore its specifications, features, and real-world performance.
Design and Display
The Pixel 6 Pro introduced a bold new design with a horizontal camera bar that set it apart from other smartphones. The phone features a glass back and an aluminum frame, giving it a premium feel. It is also IP68-rated, making it resistant to dust and water.
The 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED display supports a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, delivering smooth animations and a responsive experience. With a 1440 x 3120 pixel resolution, the screen is sharp and vibrant, making it great for watching videos, gaming, and browsing. The display is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus, adding durability against scratches and drops.
Performance and Hardware
At launch, the Google Tensor chip was marketed as an AI-focused processor designed for better speech recognition, image processing, and smart features. While it didn’t outperform Apple’s A-series or Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon chips in raw speed, it delivered solid real-world performance.
The Pixel 6 Pro comes with 12GB of RAM, allowing smooth multitasking. It is available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage variants, but does not support expandable storage, so users must choose wisely when purchasing.
In 2025, the Pixel 6 Pro still holds up in day-to-day tasks, but its processor is now showing its age compared to newer flagship devices. Gaming performance remains decent, but the latest graphically intensive titles may not run as smoothly as on newer smartphones.
Camera System
The Pixel series has always been known for its excellent camera performance, and the Pixel 6 Pro was no exception. It features a triple-camera setup:
- 50 MP main sensor with optical image stabilization for sharp and detailed photos, even in low light
- 48 MP telephoto lens with 4x optical zoom and up to 20x digital zoom
- 12 MP ultrawide lens for capturing wider shots
The main 50 MP sensor delivers exceptional image quality with great dynamic range. Google’s computational photography features, such as Night Sight, HDR+, and Magic Eraser, further enhance images by improving lighting and removing unwanted elements. The 48 MP telephoto lens allows for 4x optical zoom, though some competitors now offer 10x zoom or more. The ultrawide sensor performs well, though it lacks autofocus.
The front camera is 11.1 MP and supports 4K video recording, making it suitable for selfies and video calls.
In 2025, while the Pixel 6 Pro’s camera system is still competitive, newer Pixel models have improved processing, better low-light performance, and enhanced zoom capabilities. However, for casual users, the Pixel 6 Pro remains a solid photography tool.
Software and User Experience
The Pixel 6 Pro launched with Android 12 and has since been updated to Android 14, with Google’s software support extending until at least 2026. This ensures that it remains secure and up to date with the latest features.
The phone runs stock Android, free from bloatware, and offers exclusive Pixel features such as Call Screen, Live Translate, and Assistant Voice Typing. Android’s Material You design allows for a personalized UI experience, adapting system colors based on the chosen wallpaper.
The in-display fingerprint sensor, however, was a weak point at launch, with users reporting it to be slower and less reliable than competitors. Later software updates improved its responsiveness, but it still lags behind newer flagships in speed and accuracy.
Battery Life and Charging
The Pixel 6 Pro comes with a 5003 mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate users. However, battery optimization has been inconsistent, and some users experience faster-than-expected drain, especially under heavy use.
It supports 30W wired charging, but Google did not include a charger in the box. Wireless charging is available at 23W when using the Pixel Stand, and the device also supports reverse wireless charging for accessories like Pixel Buds.
By 2025, the battery performance may have degraded, depending on usage. Users who have had the phone for several years might experience shorter battery life and may need a replacement battery to maintain full-day usage.
Connectivity and Other Features
The Pixel 6 Pro supports 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring fast wireless performance. It includes stereo speakers for immersive audio and Google Assistant integration for hands-free operation.
One downside is that the haptic feedback and vibration motor are not as refined as those on premium smartphones like the iPhone or Samsung Galaxy Ultra models.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent camera performance with Google’s advanced computational photography
- Sharp and vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display
- Pure Android experience with fast updates
- AI-powered features that enhance daily usability
- Premium build quality with IP68 water resistance
Cons
- In-display fingerprint scanner is slow and inconsistent
- Battery performance has been inconsistent over time
- No charger included in the box
- Only 4x optical zoom, while competitors offer 10x or more
Is the Google Pixel 6 Pro Still Worth It in 2025?
The Pixel 6 Pro was a great flagship in 2021, and while it still offers a good display, solid performance, and excellent cameras, it faces strong competition in 2025. The Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8 Pro, and upcoming Pixel 9 series offer better performance, improved battery life, and refined camera technology.
If you already own a Pixel 6 Pro, it can still be a good device for another year or two, thanks to Google’s software support. However, if you are considering buying a used or refurbished Pixel 6 Pro in 2025, it may not be the best long-term investment unless available at a significantly lower price.
For those who want the latest technology, upgrading to a newer Pixel or another flagship smartphone would be a smarter choice. However, if you can find a Pixel 6 Pro at a discount and don’t mind slightly older hardware, it remains a decent option for everyday use.