Pixel 11 Pro XL Leaves Last Year's Model in the Dust

Google's latest flagship smartphone, the Pixel 11 Pro XL, has left writer Stephen Radochia in awe. After testing it against last year's model, the Pixel 8 Pro, he found significant improvements that make it harder to resist upgrading.

The Pixel 11 Pro XL boasts a gorgeous 6.8-inch display that is noticeably brighter and more vibrant than its predecessor. The phone's design has also been refined, feeling lighter in the hand while still being a premium flagship. Radochia appreciates the matte finish and color-matched aluminum frame, which he found to be an upgrade from last year's model.

Despite some criticisms about gaming performance, the Pixel 11 Pro XL shines with its improved cameras and battery life. The phone's triple camera setup is better than ever, capturing sharp and detailed photos with a touch more saturation. Night Sight processing has also been improved for faster results.

Battery life has been a long-standing concern for Google phones, but the Pixel 11 Pro XL has finally surpassed expectations. Radochia was able to easily make it two days on a single charge, and even stretched it into a third day if needed. The phone's battery is just over 5,100mAh, which does the job admirably.

While some may argue that the Pixel 8 Pro still has its own merits, Radochia concludes that the Pixel 11 Pro XL is more than worth the upgrade. With a price tag of around $1,300, it's clear that Google has outdone itself in terms of quality and features.

For those on a budget or looking for an entry-point to the Pixel series, Radochia recommends considering last year's model instead. The Pixel 8 Pro still offers great value at under $400, with years of support left and running well.