Every year, Google and Apple push the limits of what a smartphone can do. With the launch of the Pixel 10 Pro and the iPhone 16 Pro, the battle between Android and iOS has never been closer. Both phones come packed with cutting-edge features, sleek designs, and powerful cameras, but they also have key differences that can sway your decision. This article takes a detailed look at how they compare in design, display, camera performance, battery life, software, and overall value.
Design and Build
Both devices are built to impress, though they follow different philosophies. The Pixel 10 Pro, available in colors like Jade, feels solid in the hand, with a slightly heavier frame compared to Apple’s contender. That extra weight partly comes from Google’s support for Qi2 magnetic accessories, allowing you to attach chargers and mounts without adding bulky cases.
On the other side, the iPhone 16 Pro carries forward Apple’s refined and minimalistic design. It’s lighter than the Pixel, and thanks to the new Dynamic Island, it feels modern and interactive. Apple also includes a dedicated Action Button for shortcuts, a small but meaningful touch for productivity.
Both devices are rated IP68 for dust and water resistance, so durability shouldn’t be a concern. However, Google claims a stronger drop rating with its Class B durability test compared to Apple’s Class C. In short, the Pixel feels sturdier, but the iPhone still holds its edge in sleekness and ergonomics.
Quick Comparison
| General | ||
|---|---|---|
| Released | August 28, 2025 | September 2024 |
| OS | Android 16 | iOS 18 |
| Display | ||
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 10 Pro | 6.3″ LTPO OLED (2856×1280 px, ≈497 ppi), 1–120 Hz, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, up to 3300 nits peak :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} | |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 6.3″ Super Retina XDR OLED (2622×1206 px, ≈460 ppi), ProMotion 120 Hz, Always-On, 1600 HDR / 2000 nits peak :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} | |
| Platform & Memory | ||
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 10 Pro | Tensor G5 (3 nm), 16 GB RAM, 128–1 TB storage, Dual eSIM/Nano-SIM :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} | |
| iPhone 16 Pro | A18 Pro (3 nm), 8 GB RAM, 128 GB–1 TB storage :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} | |
| Rear Camera | ||
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 10 Pro | 50 MP wide + 48 MP ultrawide + 48 MP telephoto (5×) with 100× Pro Res Zoom, 8K video :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} | |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 48 MP wide + 48 MP ultrawide + 12 MP 5× telephoto, ProRes/LOG video, Dolby Vision :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5} | |
| Front Camera | ||
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 10 Pro | 42 MP ultrawide, 4K video support :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6} | |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 12 MP, Cinematic mode, 4K Dolby Vision :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7} | |
| Battery & Charging | ||
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 10 Pro | 4870 mAh, ~30 W wired, 15 W Qi2 wireless (Magnetic) :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8} | |
| iPhone 16 Pro | ~3582 mAh (typical), MagSafe charging (27 W wired/25 W wireless approx.) :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9} | |
| Connectivity & Extras | ||
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 10 Pro | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C 3.2, UWB, Dual eSIM, IP68, 7 yrs updates, Pixelsnap magnets :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10} | |
| iPhone 16 Pro | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C (USB 3 speed), UWB, Action Button, Dynamic Island, IP68, ~6 yrs updates :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11} | |
Disclaimer: Specs are drawn from official sources and trusted reports; availability and regional variants may vary.
Display Technology
Google and Apple offer nearly identical displays at first glance: 6.3-inch LTPO OLED panels with 120Hz refresh rates. Both support variable refresh to balance smoothness and battery life.
The Pixel 10 Pro introduces a feature called Sensitive Eye, raising PWM to 480Hz to reduce flickering. This is a big win for users who experience headaches or eye strain from prolonged screen time.
Apple’s display, however, integrates Face ID seamlessly within the Dynamic Island, offering a futuristic look and intuitive functionality. While the Pixel uses an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner along with face unlock, Apple’s 3D facial recognition remains the gold standard in security.
Overall, it’s a draw: the Pixel emphasizes comfort and accessibility, while the iPhone focuses on style and integration.
Camera Systems
Camera quality is often the deciding factor when buying a flagship, and this is where things get interesting.
The Pixel 10 Pro maintains Google’s signature camera bar with a triple-lens setup. Its wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto sensors are tuned for detail and dynamic range. The telephoto lens especially stands out, offering higher resolution and a larger sensor than Apple’s equivalent. On zoom shots, the Pixel pulls ahead, even extending to an ambitious 100x AI-powered zoom. The results can be impressive when photographing buildings or landscapes, though the AI sometimes invents details that aren’t really there.
Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro, on the other hand, takes a more conservative but consistent approach. Its slightly larger main sensor handles highlights better, especially in bright skies. Video recording is where Apple shines: smoother stabilization, accurate color balance, and advanced formats like 120fps and LOG recording give creators more flexibility.
Selfies are another area of contrast. The Pixel offers a wider front camera, making it easier to capture group shots. The iPhone keeps things simple with a smaller but reliable sensor.
At night, both perform well but with different styles: Pixel tends toward cooler tones while iPhone produces warmer results. For video at night, Apple has the upper hand with steadier and more natural-looking output.
Performance and Hardware
Performance is the biggest divide between the two. Google’s Tensor G5, now built by TSMC instead of Samsung Foundry, is more efficient and reliable than its predecessors. Everyday tasks feel smooth, and the AI-driven optimizations are clear. However, benchmarks tell a different story.
In Geekbench, the iPhone 16 Pro scored around 3500 in single-core and nearly 8900 in multi-core, far outpacing the Pixel’s 2200 and 6100, respectively. Graphics benchmarks like 3DMark Wildlife Extreme also favored Apple by nearly 50%. In simple terms, the iPhone is still the powerhouse, especially for gaming and heavy workloads.
That said, Google has a long-term advantage with software updates. With seven years of guaranteed updates, Pixel 10 Pro is positioned to remain relevant even as apps become more demanding. Apple promises about six years, which is excellent, but slightly shorter than Google’s offer.
Software Experience
Beyond hardware, the real difference lies in software. The Pixel 10 Pro runs Android 16 with Google’s new Material Expressive design. It feels playful, customizable, and full of subtle animations. Features like Circle to Search and Gemini integration show Google’s AI-first approach.
The iPhone 16 Pro introduces iOS 26 with a “Liquid Glass” design. Icons and menus adopt a transparent, futuristic look, signaling Apple’s move toward an augmented reality future with Vision Pro. Apple Intelligence is also deeply embedded, offering smarter suggestions and creative tools.
Both ecosystems now share similarities, like object removal in photos or smart search functions. But Google still offers more powerful AI editing tools in Photos, while Apple excels in tight integration with Macs, iPads, and the broader Apple ecosystem.
Your preference here largely comes down to whether you want the freedom and AI features of Android or the polished consistency of iOS.
Battery and Charging
On paper, the Pixel 10 Pro has a larger battery at 4870 mAh compared to the iPhone 16 Pro’s 3582 mAh. In practice, the difference is modest. After a full day of mixed use, the Pixel often ends around 34% while the iPhone hovers near 30%.
Charging options differ too. The Pixel supports Qi2 magnetic charging without extra cases, offering more flexibility with accessories. The iPhone relies on MagSafe, which is similarly convenient but slightly more polished in execution. Both support fast charging, though not at the level of some Android rivals.
Extra Features
- Pixel 10 Pro: Wider selfie lens, 100x AI zoom, stronger drop protection, seven years of updates.
- iPhone 16 Pro: Dynamic Island, Action Button, superior video formats, unmatched ecosystem integration.
Both are IP68 certified, so water resistance is standard.
Which One Is Right for You?
If you value raw performance, smoother video recording, and seamless integration with other Apple products, the iPhone 16 Pro is the safer choice. It’s especially appealing to creative professionals who rely on features like LOG video or AirDrop workflows.
On the other hand, the Pixel 10 Pro is ideal if you want a versatile camera, more AI-powered tools, and the assurance of seven years of updates. It also gives you a sturdier design and slightly better value for the price.
Ultimately, both devices represent the peak of their ecosystems. Your decision will likely come down to whether you prefer iOS or Android, as both are excellent in their own right.
Price and Availability
The Google Pixel 10 Pro starts at ₹1,09,999 in India, ₨4,49,000 in Pakistan, $1,099 in the US, and around €1,199 in Europe. The larger Pixel 10 Pro XL is slightly higher at ₹1,24,999, $1,199, and €1,299.
Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro begins at ₹1,19,900 in India, $999 in the US, and €1,199 in Europe, with higher storage models reaching up to ₹1,69,900 or €1,829.
Final Verdict
The battle of Google Pixel 10 Pro v iPhone 16 Pro shows just how close the competition has become. The Pixel stands out with its camera versatility, AI features, and longer software support, while the iPhone leads in performance, video recording, and ecosystem polish.
Neither is a wrong choice. The best phone for you depends less on specs and more on which ecosystem fits your lifestyle.
Want a deeper dive? Check out our full comparison of Google Pixel 10 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Pro Max
FAQs
Which phone has the better camera?
Pixel 10 Pro has an edge in zoom and low-light photos, while the iPhone 16 Pro delivers superior video quality.
Is the iPhone really faster than the Pixel?
Yes. Benchmarks show the iPhone is about 50% more powerful, though the Pixel is still smooth for everyday use.
How long will they receive updates?
Google promises seven years, while Apple typically supports its phones for five to six years.
Which has longer battery life?
The Pixel has a bigger battery, but in real use, both last about a full day with little difference.
Should I buy based on software preference?
Yes. If you love iOS and the Apple ecosystem, go with the iPhone. If you prefer Android’s customization and AI tools, choose the Pixel.
