Google Pixel Tablet Review: The Pros and Cons of Docking

The Google Pixel Tablet, released in 2023, represents Google’s latest foray into the tablet market. After a year on the market, it has proven to be a more attractive option than its initial launch suggested. This review will delve into the various aspects of the Pixel Tablet, from its design and build quality to its performance and features.

Design & Build:
The Pixel Tablet features a sleek and stylish design with a unique nano-ceramic coating that provides a tactile texture. The tablet is thin and light, measuring 8.1mm thick and weighing 493g. The device attaches to a docking station, which is covered in fabric and has a rubber base for stability. The tablet and dock are well-made, with over 30% recycled materials used in construction.

The tablet easily snaps onto the dock using magnets, creating a seamless connection. However, removing the tablet from the dock can be a bit tricky, requiring a specific technique to avoid any mishaps. The tablet’s screen angle is more upright than traditional smart displays, which may not be ideal for certain use cases.

For added flexibility, Google offers official accessories such as an adjustable stand and a protective case with a kickstand. The Pixel Tablet is available in two colors in the UK: Porcelain and Hazel, with a third color option, Rose, available in the US.

Screen & Speakers:
The Pixel Tablet features an 11-inch LCD display with a resolution of 2560×1600 and a 16:10 aspect ratio. The display is vibrant and bright, offering an enjoyable viewing experience. While an OLED panel would provide better contrast and color reproduction, the LCD panel on the Pixel Tablet is more than adequate for most users’ needs.

In terms of audio, the tablet boasts a quad-speaker array for immersive sound. The docking station adds a full-range driver for enhanced audio performance. However, the audio quality from the dock is not as impressive as expected, with a focus on bass and mid-range tones. The lack of tone adjustment options may disappoint users looking for a more balanced sound profile.

The Pixel Tablet’s unique selling point is its built-in Google Cast feature, allowing users to stream content from their devices directly to the tablet. This functionality is limited to when the tablet is in Hub Mode, where it acts as a smart display.

Specs & Performance:
Powered by Google’s Tensor G2 chipset and 8GB of RAM, the Pixel Tablet delivers solid performance for daily tasks. The device offers a choice of 128GB or 256GB of storage, with no option for expandable storage via microSD.

The tablet excels in benchmark tests, outperforming premium rivals such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 and OnePlus Pad. The front and rear 8MP cameras provide decent image quality for casual photography needs.

Battery Life & Charging:
The Pixel Tablet houses a 27Wh battery, offering up to 12 hours of video streaming on a single charge. The device’s battery life is impressive, lasting over 14 hours in standard battery tests.

Charging the tablet can be done via the included Charging Speaker Dock or a traditional USB-C port. The dock charges the tablet at a slow 15W rate, providing around 21% charge in 30 minutes. While the charging speed may not be the fastest, the dock serves as a convenient charging solution when the tablet is docked.

Software & Features:
The Pixel Tablet runs on Android 13, with an upgrade path to Android 16. Google has optimized a selection of apps for the Pixel Tablet, including Meet, WhatsApp, Netflix, Spotify, and Google Photos. Users can install additional apps from the Google Play Store to customize their experience.

The tablet features Hub Mode when docked, offering screensavers with weather forecasts and Google Photos integration. While Hub Mode lacks some features found on Google’s smart displays, such as Face Match and Sleep Sensing, it provides a convenient way to use the tablet as a smart display.

Price & Availability:
At launch, the Pixel Tablet was available in two storage capacities, bundled with the docking station. Prices ranged from £599/$499 for the 128GB model to £699/$599 for the 256GB model. In May 2024, Google revamped its pricing strategy, allowing customers to purchase the tablet alone or bundled with the dock at reduced prices.

The current pricing options are as follows:
– Pixel Tablet (128GB) – £399/$399
– Pixel Tablet (256GB) – £519/$499
– Pixel Tablet + dock (128GB) – £499/$499
– Pixel Tablet + dock (256GB) – £619/$599
– Additional dock – £139/$129

Customers can purchase the Pixel Tablet from Google and BestBuy in the US, and Google and Amazon in the UK. While the option to buy additional docking stations provides flexibility, the high cost of the docks may deter some users.

Should You Buy the Google Pixel Tablet?
Despite being almost three years old, the Pixel Tablet remains a compelling option for users seeking a versatile tablet experience. Google’s decision to offer the tablet separately or bundled with the docking station provides more flexibility for customers. While the device has its drawbacks, such as slow charging and mediocre audio quality from the dock, its overall performance and features make it a worthy investment.

With extended software support until June 2028, the Pixel Tablet promises to remain relevant for years to come. For users looking for a capable tablet with the added functionality of a smart display, the Google Pixel Tablet is definitely worth considering.

Overall, the Google Pixel Tablet offers a unique blend of design, performance, and features that set it apart in the tablet market. Whether used as a standalone tablet or as a smart display when docked, the Pixel Tablet delivers a versatile and engaging user experience.