When it comes to the smaller models in the Google Pixel 7 series, they not only feature a more compact design compared to the flagship models but also make some compromises in terms of technology. What exactly are they, and how noticeable are they in day-to-day use? Let’s find out in our review.
With the release of the Pixel 7, Google didn’t abandon last year’s smartphone concept and provided a direct successor to it. Similar to the Pixel 6, this smartphone is even more compact than the pricier Pixel 7. This is reflected in the smaller display, which also runs at a lower refresh rate. Additionally, the Pixel 7 has less RAM, no optical zoom in the camera, and a smaller battery.
In terms of internal storage, Google has made positive progress. While it’s still not expandable via microSD card, you can now purchase a model with 256GB of storage for an additional cost of 100 euros (103 USD). The base model with 128GB is available for 649 euros (665 USD).
The Pixel 7 features a sleek design similar to its predecessor. The camera bump is now made of a matte aluminum frame, enhancing its appearance. It comes in three color options: Obsidian (Black), Snow (White), and Lemongrass.
Thanks to the large camera cutout, the smartphone doesn’t wobble on flat surfaces, but it tilts enough to be noticeable even on a slight incline. This is mainly due to the smooth surface of Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, which adorns the front and back of the device.
The Pixel 7 has excellent build quality, giving a high-quality impression and a good feel in hand. Overall, the device is well-crafted, with no noticeable gaps between the frame, front, and back. However, on our test device, the back wasn’t always uniform, especially in the transition area from glass to aluminum. In contrast, the SIM card slot aligns flush with the frame.
The battery of the Pixel 7 is non-removable, and users cannot replace it. The device has an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
Protection Case – Clever Combination of Aluminum and Glass in the Pixel 7
Pixel 7 Color Variants Pixel 7 Color Variants
The Pixel 7 has a similar design to its predecessor, featuring a matte aluminum frame and glass on the front and back. The camera bump is now made of integrated matte aluminum, enhancing its appearance. The smartphone is available in three colors: Obsidian (Black), Snow (White), and Lemongrass.
Software – Android Smartphone with Long Update Cycle
The Pixel 7 comes with Android 13 and is expected to receive three versions of upgrades, including Android 16. After that, security patches will continue to be distributed for at least two more years. Google provides further information on a dedicated page, which can be found here: https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/4457705.
The Pixel 7 doesn’t come with bloatware, only pre-installed Google applications. It also offers Pixel-exclusive features such as real-time translation and Now Playing. Additionally, in December, the Pixel 7 will receive free Google VPN.
Communications and GNSS – Sub-6GHz 5G and Wi-Fi 6E in the Pixel 7
The Pixel 7 supports all common mobile network standards, including Sub-6GHz 5G. It has excellent reception characteristics with carriers like Deutsche Telekom and Vodafone in urban areas.
Regarding Wi-Fi connectivity, there is an issue similar to the Pixel 7 Pro, as this smartphone cannot detect the 6GHz frequency band of our Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000 reference router. However, this will likely be resolved through an update. Once this happens, we will recheck the corresponding measurements. Nevertheless, we were able to achieve very high and stable transfer rates on the 5GHz frequency using Wi-Fi 6.
GPS Testing – Outdoor and Indoor Accuracy
The Pixel 7 uses dual-frequency GNSS to determine its location and supports all common networks. It works quickly and accurately for satellite positioning outdoors. Indoors, it takes a bit longer but still functions accurately.
We conducted a short bike trip with the Pixel 7 and a Garmin Venu 2. Both devices determined the route almost identically. Only upon examining the detailed route records, slight differences could be noticed. The Pixel recorded the covered route more accurately when circumventing a lake, but the smartwatch was more precise during turns.
Phone Functionality and Call Quality
The Google Pixel 7 is a dual SIM smartphone that accommodates a physical nano-SIM card and an eSIM card. Dual eSIM support will be available through an update in March 2023. It supports features like VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling but doesn’t support SIP account control on the system side.
During our testing, we were very satisfied with the call quality. When placing the Pixel 7 to the ear, it reproduces the user’s voice naturally. Background noise is minimal and filtered out, ensuring no loss in quality. The Pixel 7 even handles busy environments reasonably well, although occasional background noise and a slightly hollow sound from the user can be noticed, which becomes amplified in noisy environments.
Camera – Capturing Attractive Photos with Google’s Dual Cameras
Selfie with the Pixel 7 (Photo mode). Selfie with the Pixel 7 (Photo mode).
The front camera is the same as the one on the Pixel 7 Pro. It offers a 10MP resolution without autofocus. Videos can be recorded in UHD at 60fps in the highest setting. However, using HDR limits the frame rate to 30fps. Wide-angle mode allows for capturing large scenes. Overall, we are very satisfied with daytime shots, and in low-light conditions, Night Sight mode can be activated.
In addition to the 50MP main camera, Google has included an extra 12MP ultra-wide camera on the back of the device, which performs just as well as the one on the Pro model. The coverage angle of this additional camera seems to be slightly narrower at 114°. The difference in image quality between them is hardly noticeable, and the edges of the ultra-wide shots on the Pixel 7 appear slightly soft.
The main camera delivers particularly good results, especially at close distances. Objects further away exhibit some background noise, and there’s a slight decrease in depth of field. Image zoom is achieved only digitally. The smartphone reaches its limits at 8x zoom, with the quality varying from average to mixed. However, zooming in at two to three times still looks quite good.
In optimal conditions, videos are recorded in UHD at up to 60fps and can be stabilized using various stabilization options to prevent camera shake. This often comes with limitations. For capturing fast-moving scenes, the Action mode is limited to Full HD. Although the Cinematic mode is available in 4K, it runs at a lower frame rate.
