In 2021, Google introduced two flagship smartphones that redefined the Pixel lineup: the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Years later, in 2025, these devices still hold their ground in the mid-range market and remain a compelling option for users who want clean Android, solid cameras, and an overall polished software experience. But which of the two is the better buy? Let’s break it downstarting with one major issue.
The Design
Right off the bat, the Pixel 6 Pro presents a polarizing design choice: deeply curved edges. While the visual appeal is undeniable, the ergonomics are not. Typing near the edge of the screen can be awkward, demanding precision that just doesn’t suit daily use. Unlike the subtle curves of some modern flagships, the Pixel 6 Pro’s curves echo older devices like the Galaxy S6beautiful, but frustrating in practice.
The Pixel 6, in contrast, sticks to a flat display, offering a more usable and tactile experience. It’s easier to hold and type on, and it doesn’t suffer from the screen warping or refracted light issues that plague the 6 Pro.
Both phones are built with Gorilla Glass Victus, feature IP68 dust/water resistance, and include an aluminum frame, but the Pixel 6 Pro is slightly taller, heavier, and more slippery in the hand. You’ll definitely want a case, but be cautioussome third-party cases (especially soft silicone ones) can make the phone feel squishy or even cheap.
In-Display Fingerprint Scanner
No matter which Pixel 6 series device you choose, the under-display optical fingerprint sensor is a weak link. On the Pixel 6 Pro, it’s slower and less reliable, likely due to the curved edges interfering with finger positioning. The regular Pixel 6 performs slightly better, thanks to the flat screen, but both still lag behind what Samsung and Apple offer.
Display
The Pixel 6 Pro sports a 6.7-inch QHD+ LTPO AMOLED panel with a dynamic 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and excellent brightness (up to 846 nits). This screen is objectively more advanced than the Pixel 6’s 6.4-inch 1080p 90Hz AMOLED panel, but does that extra resolution and refresh rate matter?
In daily use, 90Hz already feels smooth. Unless you’re coming from a 120Hz device, you won’t miss it. And the pixel density difference? Unless you’re pixel-peeping with a magnifying glass, you’ll find both screens to be sharp, vibrant, and color-accurate.
So, unless you’re watching high-res HDR videos all day or gaming competitively, the Pixel 6 display holds its own just fine.
Cameras: The Only Big Win for the Pixel 6 Pro
Let’s get this straightboth devices shoot excellent photos. They share the same 50 MP wide camera and a 12 MP ultra-wide sensor. Daylight, low-light, HDR, and portrait shots look rich, contrasty, and clean across the board.
However, the Pixel 6 Pro adds one significant feature: a 48 MP telephoto lens with 4x optical zoom. This isn’t just a gimmick, it delivers sharp, punchy images from a distance and outperforms even the iPhone 13 Pro in some zoom scenarios.
The selfie camera also sees an upgrade: the Pro offers an 11.1 MP front-facing ultrawide versus the Pixel 6’s more modest 8 MP shooter. While not a deal-breaker for most, it’s something to consider for those who take a lot of selfies or video calls.
Video Quality
Google made strides in video capture, supporting 4K at 60fps on both rear and front cameras. But video sharpness can sometimes look over-processed, especially when moving. Artifacts like pixel shimmer or moiré can occasionally appear. Apple still leads in mobile video, but the Pixel 6 series is no longer far behind.
Software & Performance: Tensor Shows Its Potential
Both devices debut Google’s custom Tensor chip, and while it doesn’t outperform the Snapdragon 888 or Apple’s A15 Bionic in synthetic benchmarks, it delivers fluid real-world performance. Whether you’re multitasking, gaming, or simply scrolling through apps, both phones feel snappy.
More importantly, Google now controls both hardware and software, which allows for tight integration and long-term support up to five years of major Android updates. This is rare in the Android space.
Both the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro shipped with Android 12 and are now upgradeable to Android 15, complete with features like Material You, one-handed mode, and enhanced privacy dashboards.
Google Assistant
Voice processing on these phones is next-level. Tensor enables ultra-fast voice recognition, allowing the Google Assistant to respond before you even finish your command. Dictation, transcription, and voice controls are far superior to Siri and most other assistants.
AI Features
The Pixel 6 and 6 Pro include Magic Eraser, which lets you remove unwanted elements from photos with surprising accuracy. While not Photoshop-perfect, it’s remarkably effective for a smartphone. Other features like Motion Mode, Real Tone, and Face Unblur push the AI-powered photography experience to new levels.
Battery Life
Contrary to some early reviews, battery life on both phones is excellent. The Pixel 6 Pro packs a 5003 mAh cell, while the Pixel 6 gets a slightly smaller 4614 mAh battery.
In real-world usage, both comfortably deliver 6.5 to 7 hours of screen-on time, often ending the day with 30–40% left in the tank. It’s not quite iPhone 13 Pro Max territory, but it’s more than enough for a full day’s use.
Charging speeds aren’t groundbreaking23W wired and wireless on the Pro, and slightly slower wireless charging on the base model. Reverse wireless charging is included, though rarely used by most.
Audio, Connectivity & Extras
Both phones feature stereo speakers, which sound great, though still fall slightly behind the iPhone and Galaxy in terms of richness and bass.
There’s no headphone jack or SD card slot, but you get Wi-Fi 6e, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) support on the Pixel 6 Pro (not available on the regular 6).
Fingerprint authentication, while underwhelming, is consistent across both devices, as is 5G connectivity and excellent GPS support.
Pricing in 2025: Mid-Range Gold
Prices have dropped dramatically since launch:
- Pixel 6 Pro: ~$189 USD
- Pixel 6: ~$157 USD
At these prices, both devices are bargains. But let’s talk value:
- Do you need 4x optical zoom, a slightly better front camera, and 120Hz? Get the Pixel 6 Pro.
- Do you want the best bang-for-buck experience with almost the same performance and camera quality? Go with the Pixel 6.
For $30 more, the Pixel 6 Pro does give you extra RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB), better display specs, and better camera hardware. But is it $30 better? Yes. Is it $300 better (as at launch)? Absolutely not.
Final Verdict: Pixel 6 for Most, Pixel 6 Pro for Some
If you’re buying in 2025 and want a premium Android experience under $200, both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are fantastic choices.
Choose the Pixel 6 if:
- You prefer flat screens
- Want a more compact and practical device
- Need a great camera at a budget
Go for the Pixel 6 Pro if:
- You love curved glass (or can tolerate it)
- Zoom photography is important to you
- You want the best display and selfie camera
Either way, you’re getting some of the best that Android has to offer even four years after launch.
FAQs
Is the Pixel 6 Pro worth the extra money over the Pixel 6?
In 2025, the price difference between the two is minimal around $30 in many markets. If you care about the better zoom camera, larger display, and smoother 120Hz refresh rate, the Pro is definitely worth it. Otherwise, the regular Pixel 6 still offers excellent value.
Does the Pixel 6 Pro take better photos than the Pixel 6?
Only when zoom is involved. Both phones use the same main and ultrawide cameras, but the Pixel 6 Pro adds a 48MP telephoto lens with 4x optical zoom, which can make a real difference in travel or portrait shots.
Are the curved edges on the Pixel 6 Pro annoying?
Honestly, yes for some users. They look premium, but they can be uncomfortable when typing near the edge or using swipe gestures. If you prefer usability over aesthetics, the flat screen on the Pixel 6 is the better option.
How’s the fingerprint scanner on both phones?
Not great on either model. It’s an optical under-display scanner and can be a little slow or inconsistent. Some updates improved it, but it’s still behind other flagships.
Can I get good battery life from the Pixel 6 or 6 Pro?
Definitely. Both devices easily last a full day with moderate use. The Pixel 6 Pro has a larger battery and slightly better efficiency thanks to its LTPO screen, but the Pixel 6 is no slouch either.
Are both phones still good in 2025?
Yes. Even in 2025, the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro run Android 15 smoothly, get regular security updates, and handle everyday tasks like a breeze. For under $200, they’re arguably some of the best Android phones in that range.
Does the Pixel 6 Pro support faster charging?
Technically, yes up to 23W wired and wireless. But in real-world use, both phones take over an hour to fully charge. It’s not blazing fast, but still decent.
Is there a difference in display quality?
Yes. The Pixel 6 Pro has a 6.7-inch 120Hz QHD+ display, while the Pixel 6 has a 6.4-inch 90Hz 1080p screen. The Pro feels smoother and sharper, but many users may not notice unless comparing side by side.
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