The Google Pixel Tablet is an Android-based tablet from Google, and it comes with a Charging Speaker Dock that transforms it into a smart display with improved speakers and Nest Hub-like features. The tablet is powered by custom Tensor G2 silicon and features a 10.95-inch LCD display, front and rear 8MP cameras, and a 7,020mAh battery.
The base model of the Pixel Tablet with 128GB storage is priced at $499 in the US, while the 256GB storage variant costs $599. In the UK, it is priced at £599, and in selected European markets, it is priced at €679. You can purchase the Pixel Tablet from the Google Store, Amazon, Best Buy, and other major retailers.
The Pixel Tablet was tested for two weeks, with the review unit purchased by Android Authority. The unique feature of the tablet is its dock, which enhances its functionality as a smart display. However, the dock is the main reason to consider buying the tablet, as it offers a better speaker and a pseudo-Google Nest smart display experience.
When attached to the Charging Speaker Dock, the Pixel Tablet provides a room-filling audio experience. The dock holds the tablet securely with strong magnets, but it loses its functionality when separated from the tablet. The tablet itself has a Google aesthetic with soft-touch aluminum and slim bezels around the screen, making it suitable for both portrait and landscape orientations. The LCD panel is decent for a tablet and provides a good smart display experience.
In terms of performance, the Tensor G2 chip offers enough power for everyday tasks without any issues. However, the tablet’s screen refresh rate is capped at 60Hz, which can make the overall performance feel sluggish compared to other devices with higher refresh rates.
The Pixel Tablet provides the full Pixel experience on a larger screen, running on Android 13. It offers Google apps, Pixel-specific features, and a Material You design. However, some apps may not be optimized for the larger screen, and the absence of an official stylus or keyboard attachment limits their productivity potential.
While the Pixel Tablet aims to excel in smart home integration, its Hub Mode falls short compared to dedicated Nest Hubs. It lacks features like Continued Conversation support and multiple Voice Match users. However, it performs well for basic tasks that require an interface, and the dock-centric setup ensures the tablet is always charged and ready to use.
The battery life of the Pixel Tablet is standard, lasting around 10 hours with typical use. The cameras on the tablet are average, with both front and rear shooters being 8MP and limited to 1080p/30fps video recording.
The Google Pixel Tablet caters to a specific niche, offering a hybrid experience as a portable slate and a smart display. While it may not match the performance and features of other Android tablets or provide a complete Nest Hub experience, it is a suitable option for those on a budget seeking a basic smart display and a user-friendly Android tablet.
