Pixel 11 Pro Review: Google's Best Pocket Camera Goes Customisable 2026

In our Pixel 11 Pro review, we find Google's latest flagship aims to prove it has the best camera on a smartphone while embracing customisation that lets you alter the look and feel of your photos far beyond simple filters—even if that means making them technically worse. The Pixel 11 Pro packs Google's best hardware and software into a still-pocketable frame, instantly making it a contender for best smaller phone of the year.

Design and Display: Familiar but Refined

The Pixel 11 Pro continues Google's polished design language with minor tweaks. It's 0.1mm smaller in all directions and 3g lighter than its predecessor, yet retains the same 6.3in OLED screen, polished aluminium and glass body, and the distinctive camera bar. This attractive design has aged well, offering a premium feel without being bulky.

One notable change is the replacement of the temperature sensor with a coloured HiLight LED. This LED functions as a camera flash and notification light, glowing when you talk to Gemini or pulsing with one of five colours for favourite contacts. However, it doesn't work for other notifications, which feels like a missed opportunity.

Camera: Customisable Brilliance

The headline feature is the camera system, which Google claims is the best on any smartphone. The Pixel 11 Pro introduces advanced customisation options that let you adjust colour profiles, contrast, and even simulate different film stocks. This goes beyond typical filters, offering granular control over the final image. While purists might argue that some settings degrade technical quality, the creative freedom is unparalleled.

In our testing, the main sensor captured stunning detail in various lighting conditions. The ultrawide and telephoto lenses also performed admirably, with the latter offering 5x optical zoom. Google's computational photography remains top-notch, delivering accurate skin tones and impressive dynamic range.

Performance and Battery

Powered by the new Tensor G5 chip, the Pixel 11 Pro handles everyday tasks with ease. Gaming and multitasking are smooth, though it may not match the raw power of some competitors. The 4,500mAh battery easily lasts a full day with moderate use, and 30W fast charging gets you to 50% in about 30 minutes.

Price and Value

The Pixel 11 Pro starts at £1,079 (€1,199/$1,099/A$1,849), £80 more than last year. It offers double the storage but less RAM due to rising memory costs. Here's how it compares to key rivals:

Key Takeaways

• Best-in-class camera with extensive customisation options.
• Compact and premium design that's easy to handle.
• Tensor G5 delivers smooth performance for daily tasks.
• Price increase may deter some, but double storage helps justify it.
• HiLight LED is a fun addition but limited in functionality.

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