Google Pixel 10 Pro vs. iPhone 16 Pro: I’ve used both handsets, and there’s a clear winner

After the success of launching 4 flagship telephones final 12 months, Google is about to proceed the pattern with the brand new Pixel 10 sequence.

The Google Pixel 10 Pro stands out as probably the most suitable choice for many individuals. With a beginning value of $999, it gives a compelling mix of premium options borrowed from its dearer sibling, all within the extra manageable measurement of the usual Pixel 10.

Additionally: Everything announced at Made by Google 2025: Pixel 10 Pro, Fold, Watch 4, and more

The Pixel 10 Professional enters a crowded area, competing instantly with the iPhone 16 Professional and the Galaxy S25 Plus.

Having used the iPhone 16 Professional as my each day driver for the previous 12 months, I’ve examined it towards the brand new Pixel 10 Professional to see how these two flagship telephones evaluate.

You should purchase the Google Pixel 10 Professional if…

1. You need the most effective of Google AI

The Pixel telephone lineup unsurprisingly gives the most effective of Google’s Gemini AI options. And it’s only getting higher with the Pixel 10 Professional. The corporate is offering a 12 months of Google AI Pro service totally free alongside the acquisition for Pixel 10 Professional and Pixel 10 Professional XL. So, you get Gemini Professional, together with NotebookLM for productiveness and Veo 3 text-to-video era mannequin. 

The Google Pixel 10 Professional can be getting a contextual and personalised AI function known as Magic Cue. Theoretically, it could actually “assist join the dots throughout your digital life by anticipating your wants and proactively suggesting related info and useful actions based mostly on the context in your telephone.” 

Additionally: The best Android phones to buy in 2025

As an illustration, should you name an organization’s helpline, your related particulars (like a flight ticket) shall be surfaced robotically. 

You possibly can nonetheless obtain the Gemini app to entry Google’s AI in your iPhone, however you will not get the seamless Pixel AI expertise. If you happen to rely on Google apps to get work performed and have all of your digital life saved on Google’s platforms, the Pixel 10 Professional is the higher choice.

2. You need a greater telephoto digicam

The Google Pixel 10 Professional includes a 48MP Quad PD telephoto digicam with 5x optical zoom, as in comparison with a 12MP telephoto sensor (additionally 5x optical zoom) on the iPhone 16 Professional. Nevertheless, megapixels do not solely outline a digicam. The Pixel 10 Professional sports activities an even bigger sensor than its Apple counterpart. On paper, it’s able to letting extra mild in and snapping better-looking pictures.

Additionally: I replaced my Pixel 9 Pro with the 9a for a month – here’s my buying advice now

The 12MP 5x tele digicam on iPhone 16 Professional is not arduous to beat. It struggles in something lower than shiny daylight and lacks the zoom capabilities of its Chinese language rivals. I am wanting ahead to utilizing the Google Pixel 10 Professional for my zoom photographs and count on it to beat the iPhone.

3. You need a cool-looking Professional telephone

The iPhone 16 Professional sequence is missing in enjoyable colours. It is available in Black Titanium, White Titanium, Pure Titanium, and Desert Titanium — all of which really feel a bit lifeless. The final Professional iPhone colour I really liked was Sierra Blue on my iPhone 13 Professional Max. 

Whereas rumors recommend the iPhone 17 Professional would possibly carry again extra playful finishes, Google has already beat Apple to the punch with the Pixel 10 Professional sequence.

Additionally: I went hands-on with every Google Pixel 10 model – and was surprised by the one I loved most

The brand new Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Professional can be found in traditional Obsidian and Porcelain, in addition to bolder Moonstone and Jade choices. 

So, should you’re spending $1,000 on a telephone, you do not have to accept one thing boring. Plus, you get Google’s distinct design, full with the enduring digicam bar—which, in my view, nonetheless seems to be extremely cool.

4. If you happen to’ve been envious of this iPhone function

The Pixel 10 Professional includes a MagSafe-like function known as PixelSnap. It’s based mostly on Qi2 charging, which gives magnetic accent help for energy banks, chargers, and extra. If you happen to’ve been on the iPhone for some time and wish to change platforms, that is the most effective time to return to the Android facet. 

Additionally: How to add MagSafe to your Android phone (and why you’ll love it)

All of your MagSafe equipment ought to technically work with the Pixel 10 Professional (relying on magnet energy), so you do not have to purchase new equipment alongside your new telephone.

You should purchase the Apple iPhone 16 Professional if…

1. You need a lighter Professional telephone

The Google Pixel 10 Professional would possibly look higher on paper, but it surely’s almost 10 grams heavier than the iPhone 16 Professional. Particularly, the Pixel weighs 207 grams in comparison with the iPhone’s 199 grams.

Additionally: Buy the iPhone 16 or wait for iPhone 17? Here’s how I help friends and family decide

That eight-gram distinction won’t appear to be a lot, however with each telephones that includes flat, unergonomic sides, each gram counts — particularly throughout prolonged use. If you happen to common greater than six hours of display time a day, the iPhone 16 Professional may very well be the extra snug selection.

2. You need the most effective social media expertise

Whereas Android has made vital progress, iPhones nonetheless maintain a bonus in stability and app optimization. That is notably noticeable with social media apps like X and Instagram, the place the person expertise stays smoother on Apple gadgets. 

Modifying and posting pictures and movies from an iPhone to social media platforms can be extra seamless and environment friendly for anybody who often creates content material.

Additionally: Best iPhone 2025: I tested the top models and found the best options for you

If you happen to’re leaning towards an iPhone as a substitute of the Pixel 10 Professional, I strongly suggest ready just some weeks. Apple is predicted to launch its new iPhone 17 sequence in early September. It is good to carry off in your choice till after the standard September tenth launch occasion to ensure you get the most recent mannequin.