Pixel 3XL Review 2025: Why This Classic Phone Still Has A Place

Table of Contents

Introduction

In an age where smartphones are launching faster than ever, it’s refreshing to look back and appreciate a device that stood the test of time. The Pixel 3XL, Google’s flagship from 2018, is one such device that continues to attract attention. With clean software, exceptional camera performance, and a minimalist design, the Pixel 3XL remains relevant even in 2025.

For those seeking a dependable device without the distractions of newer, bloatware-filled phones, the Pixel 3XL offers a compelling alternative. Whether you’re a student, a casual user, or a tech enthusiast nostalgic for simplicity, this phone still has something valuable to offer.

Pixel 3XL Design: Timeless and Functional

At first glance, the Pixel 3XL’s design may not scream modern, but it speaks volumes through its simplicity. The glass-and-aluminum construction provides a premium feel, while the two-tone finish adds visual character. The matte texture on the back resists fingerprints, which many newer phones still struggle with.

It has a 6.3-inch OLED screen that, while featuring a prominent notch, remains vibrant and sharp. Even today, this display is more than sufficient for media consumption, reading, and casual browsing. The IP68 water and dust resistance makes it a durable companion in everyday life—something that isn’t always guaranteed in modern mid-range phones.

Pixel 3XL Camera: A Lens That Redefined Mobile Photography

What really set the Pixel 3XL apart from its competitors at launch—and what still holds up—is its camera. Google proved that software matters more than hardware when it comes to mobile photography. The phone uses a single 12.2MP rear lens, but thanks to computational photography, it outshined many dual- and triple-lens competitors of its time.

Features like:

Night Sight for exceptional low-light photos
Top Shot to automatically pick the best frame
Super Res Zoom for lossless digital zoom

All these made it a favorite among amateur photographers and social media users. In 2025, it may not rival high-end multi-sensor setups, but it still performs admirably against current budget and mid-range devices.

Performance and Software: The Pixel Advantage

The Pixel 3XL runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 845 chip, paired with 4GB of RAM. By 2025 standards, these numbers may seem outdated—but real-world usage tells a different story.

Why? Because of Google’s pure Android experience.

The absence of bloatware, minimal skin customization, and deep integration with Google services make it a smooth performer for day-to-day tasks. App launching, multitasking, and even moderate gaming remain stable. It’s also worth mentioning that the device once offered unlimited photo storage on Google Photos—a feature dearly missed in current Pixel phones.

Display Quality: Still a Visual Treat

The OLED display is one of the unsung heroes of the Pixel 3XL. With vibrant colors, deep blacks, and HDR support, it delivers a high-quality viewing experience even today.

Watching Netflix, scrolling Instagram, or reading eBooks is a comfortable experience. The large screen offers just enough real estate without feeling like a tablet in your hand. The front-facing stereo speakers complement the screen beautifully, providing balanced and loud audio for media consumption.

Battery and Charging: Reliable, Not Revolutionary

The Pixel 3XL packs a 3430mAh battery. While this is modest by 2025 standards, efficient battery management in Android allows it to last through a day of moderate use. Key power-saving features like Adaptive Battery and app background control stretch battery life further.

Charging is fast and convenient:

18W Fast Charging via USB-C
Wireless charging support via Pixel Stand

These features, although standard now, were impressive at launch and still offer decent convenience in 2025.

Security and Updates: Still Safe with a Little Effort

Although official Android version support ended after Android 12, Google continued to provide security patches for some time. In 2025, the Pixel 3XL is no longer receiving updates directly from Google, but that doesn’t make it obsolete.

The developer community is very active. Custom ROMs like:

LineageOS
GrapheneOS
Pixel Experience

can be installed to breathe new life into the device. These alternatives allow users to stay updated, secure, and even experiment with the latest Android features.

Ecosystem Integration and Accessories

One of the main advantages of using a Pixel phone is seamless integration into the broader Google ecosystem. The Pixel 3XL continues to work perfectly with:

Google Assistant
Nest smart home products
Chromecast
Google Photos
Google One services

Accessories like cases, screen protectors, USB-C headphones, and wireless chargers are still widely available. This makes owning and maintaining the phone easy and practical.

Environmental Impact: A Greener Choice

In today’s world, e-waste is a growing problem. Opting for a refurbished Pixel 3XL is a small but meaningful step toward sustainability. With a solid build and long-lasting performance, it doesn’t need to be replaced annually—unlike many modern low-cost smartphones.

Tech-savvy consumers are increasingly considering their environmental footprint. Choosing a durable, already-manufactured phone like the Pixel 3XL aligns well with this growing trend.

Real-World Use Cases in 2025

Despite its age, the Pixel 3XL remains a viable option for many real-world scenarios:

Secondary device for travel or emergencies
Minimalist phone for those wanting fewer distractions
Budget phone for students or first-time users
Photography practice device for content creators
Custom ROM experimentation for developers and tinkerers

If your priorities are simplicity, camera quality, and stock Android, this phone still holds great value.

Final Verdict: Does the Pixel 3XL Still Matter?

The Pixel 3XL may not come close to today’s 5G powerhouses in benchmarks or specs, but it nails the basics—clean software, stellar camera, and reliable daily performance. These are features that many new mid-range phones still struggle to perfect.

In a world chasing flashy features, foldable screens, and endless camera lenses, the Pixel 3XL is a breath of fresh air. It reminds us that the best phone isn’t always the newest—it’s the one that just works.