Google Pixel Tablet
Verdict
A tablet that doubles as a smart display with a charging dock, but lacks productivity features.
Key specs
Critic consensus
“If you utilize it as mostly a general-purpose tablet for streaming and occasionally as a smart home display, however, the Google Pixel Tablet could still be a solid value. It handles the most common tablet tasks, like watching videos, with better-than-average performance. Its speaker dock and magnetic charger proved handy for keeping the tablet ready to go. It is a solid start, but only a start.”
“The Google Pixel Tablet is a good tablet to have around the house — especially with its speaker dock/charging station. But you’ll want to look elsewhere if you’re looking for a laptop replacement.”
“For the most part, Google didn't try and reinvent the wheel with the Pixel Tablet. As an Android tablet, it's pretty much the perfect tablet for almost everything. But it really flexes its muscles when attached to the included Charging Speaker Dock, transforming it into a supercharged smart home display. There are a few quirks here and there, but honestly, it's nothing that's earth-shattering.”
“Google fundamentally had a unique idea with the Pixel Tablet. Get people to use Android on large screens more by appending the beloved photo gallery-showing Smart Display form factor. Buying the first generation of any product, especially from Google, can be a gamble. However, the Pixel Tablet is fundamentally a good Android tablet with a Nest Hub add-on that is well executed. There’s room for improvement in future models, but this is a better start for Google compared to past form factor debuts.”
Watch before you decide
In Depth
Design
The Google Pixel Tablet has an aluminum frame with a soft, nano-ceramic coating that feels pleasant to hold. Reviewers found it comfortable and well-balanced. The dock, wrapped in recycled plastic fabric, securely holds the tablet with strong magnets. The tablet’s large bezels and sturdy, rubber-bumpered base enhance grip and stability.
Christina Bonnington of PCMag noted, ‘It feels well-balanced and comfortable,’ and Michael Prospero from Tom’s Guide appreciated the non-slip texture. Both reviewers mentioned the ease of viewing from the dock’s slight angle.
Display(s)
The Pixel Tablet features an 11-inch display that shines with a 2,560 x 1,600 resolution. This provides sharp and clear visuals, making it a joy to use for video streaming and web browsing.
Its wide viewing angles allow you and a companion to enjoy content comfortably from different positions. This is especially beneficial for shared movie sessions or video calls with family.
While the screen performs well indoors, it may struggle a bit in bright sunlight. Reviewers noted that it reaches 500 nits, making it visible, but not the brightest in the market.
Performance
The Google Pixel Tablet performs well for regular tasks such as web browsing and streaming videos. It’s powered by Google’s Tensor G2 chip, which ensures apps load quickly and multitasking stays fluid.
However, compared to other tablets, the Pixel Tablet doesn’t shine in benchmark tests. Reviewers noted a delay when switching from landscape to portrait mode and occasional heating during extended gaming sessions.
If you’re looking for a device for heavy gaming or video editing, you may notice a slight drop in responsiveness. Still, for everyday use, the performance remains satisfactory.
Software & Storage
The Pixel Tablet uses Android 13, providing the latest features and a smooth experience with active widgets and split-screen multitasking. Using the same powerful chip as Google’s flagship phones, it offers handy extras like photo editing and speech recognition.
You’ll enjoy at least five years of software updates, which means the tablet won’t go out of date soon. Reviewers at Tom’s Guide appreciated the ‘ability to drag things from one app to another,’ making it practical for both work and play. Parents can also create child profiles with filters and time limits, giving peace of mind.
So whether you need it for productivity or family use, the tablet’s interface is designed to adapt well to your daily needs.
Cameras
The Google Pixel Tablet includes an 8MP lens on both the front and back, which both have an aperture of f/2.0. They can record video in 1080p at 30 fps.
The rear camera captures sharp photos, good enough to read small text, and the front camera is excellent for video calls.
Unlike some other tablets, the Google Pixel Tablet does not offer 4K video recording, limiting its use for high-quality video capture.
Experts at Tom’s Guide appreciate the sharpness of the rear camera but note that the 1080p video recording is below par compared to competitors like the iPad.
Battery
The Google Pixel Tablet’s battery life is decent but not exceptional, lasting nearly 12 hours in web browsing tests. This ensures you’ll get through most of the day without needing a charge, which is useful for at-home use.
Charging options include a USB-C port and an included dock. While the dock adds convenience by doubling as a speaker, it charges the tablet more slowly than the USB-C port.
According to PCMag, ‘Using the included charger, the Pixel Tablet recharged from 0 to 100% in 2 hours and 40 minutes. The Dock took a little longer, at 2 hours and 50 minutes.’
Audio
You’ll find the audio setup on this tablet notable for its fullness and clarity. Reviewers highlight how docking the tablet activates the dock’s powerful speaker, resulting in enhanced bass and an overall more satisfying audio experience for entertainment.
Attempts to make hands-free calls have offered mixed results. While the speaker and multiple microphones provide clear audio, holding the tablet can sometimes cover the speakers, muffling the sound significantly.
Experts from Tom’s Guide mentioned, ‘The dock’s speaker adds a layer of bass that’s very satisfying to hear.’ This underlines the effective design for media consumption at home.
The Bottom Line
This device is best for home use, with a speaker dock that enhances audio and can act as a smart home hub. It features a clear display, useful for watching videos and browsing. The practicality drops if you need it for typing or face productivity-focused tasks, as it lacks keyboard support. While the charging dock is handy, it’s limited when the tablet is undocked, making the dock feel underutilized in certain situations.
Consider what you’ll use it for most before deciding. Other tablets might better suit productivity needs.
What people actually want to know
When was the Google Pixel Tablet released?
The Google Pixel Tablet was released on June 20, 2023.
How long will the Google Pixel Tablet receive software updates?
Google typically provides 7 years of security updates for its devices.
After security support ends, the tablet keeps working. It just won't receive fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities.
How long does the battery last on the Google Pixel Tablet?
The Google Pixel Tablet has a 27 mAh battery.
Does the Google Pixel Tablet have a headphone jack?
No, the Google Pixel Tablet does not have a headphone jack. You'll need wireless headphones or a USB-C adapter.
Does the Google Pixel Tablet have NFC?
No, the Google Pixel Tablet does not have NFC. Contactless payments and tap-to-pair will not be available.
Where can I get support for the Google Pixel Tablet?
Visit Google's official support page for warranty info, repairs, and troubleshooting.
Questions & answers
Have a question about the Google Pixel Tablet? Ask it here and we'll email you as soon as someone answers. Readers have answered 5,000 questions across PhoneCompass.
Finish the security check above to post your question.
Your name shows with your question.
✓ Question submitted. We'll notify you when someone answers.
We sent a verification link to . Click it to publish your question.
Can't find it? Check your spam folder.
How it compares
Compare new, refurbished, and carrier deals with the true 24-month cost calculated.