Pixel 10 Pro XL vs Galaxy S26 Ultra

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is the better Android phone for most people.

• It's faster, it charges faster, and it lasted longer in the same lab's web test (16 h 10 min against 14 h 20 min), even though the Pixel carries the bigger 5,200 mAh battery.
• Reviews found Google's Tensor G5 well behind Snapdragon in CPU and graphics benchmarks, so gamers should not hesitate.
• Samsung also adds a 10MP 3x lens next to its 5x telephoto, a 200MP main sensor, Privacy Display and the S Pen.
• The Pixel 10 Pro XL fights back in specific places.
• Its Qi2 magnets are built in, so MagSafe-style chargers, stands and wallets snap on without a case.
• Its 6.8-inch panel is rated brighter, its 42MP selfie camera far outresolves Samsung's 12MP, and Google's photo processing still has fans.
• Both promise seven years of updates, but the Ultra launched about six months later, so its support clock runs longer.
• The display round is a draw.
• Pick the Pixel for selfies, magnets and Google's take on photos.
• Pick the Ultra for everything else.