I was thrilled to discover that the Google Pixel 10 boasts a significantly improved and versatile camera system for 2025. While the cameras on the Pixel 9 were commendable, the absence of a telephoto lens placed the device at a disadvantage compared to its pricier counterparts. This limitation made it challenging for photography enthusiasts to select the Pixel 9, even when it offered excellent performance at a lower price point. To truly test the capabilities of the Pixel 10's camera, I decided to photograph one of the most elusive subjects — a cat. If anyone could showcase the advanced features of the Pixel 10’s lenses, it was sure to be the unpredictable and energetic feline. I snapped 100 cat photos with the Google Pixel 10, and here’s what I discovered about its camera performance.
The inclusion of a telephoto lens in the Google Pixel 10 makes a remarkable difference. I appreciate the versatility that a telephoto lens provides. While some users might prefer an ultrawide lens if limited to just one additional sensor, Google has wisely equipped the Pixel 10 with all three lenses this year. I found myself zooming in more frequently than I normally would, and I was particularly pleased to discover that it offers a full 5x optical zoom, surpassing the 3x zoom typically found on less expensive smartphones. This feature is invaluable for wildlife photography or capturing moments from a distance at events where seating may not be ideal. Additionally, it allowed me to take stunning cat photos that I might have missed otherwise; getting too close to my feline friend could send them scampering away, especially when they’re engaged in something adorable.
The 10.8MP telephoto lens on the Google Pixel 10 captures those fleeting moments with the clarity and detail I expect from a flagship device. Unlike some competitors, Samsung has yet to perfect the elimination of unwanted blur in their images, which can be particularly frustrating when photographing children or pets. Typically, there’s a noticeable gap in quality between a primary lens and a telephoto lens, but with the Pixel 10, the degradation is minimal. The transition from the 48MP primary lens to the 10.8MP telephoto is smooth, and you won’t experience the loss of color saturation or detail that often plagues other smartphone camera systems.
Google’s advancements in computational photography are once again on display with the Pixel 10. This year, the company has made remarkable progress in color reproduction. Although the photos still exhibit a slightly starker contrast compared to Samsung, the colors are warmer than those typically produced by previous Pixel models. This change is refreshing, and I believe the Pixel 10 effectively captures the world as I see it. I maintain that if you take 100 point-and-shoot photos with a Pixel device, you will be more satisfied with the results than with any other smartphone on the market. This holds true even for cat photography.
Black cats, known for their challenging photographic qualities, were beautifully captured by my Google Pixel 10, which managed to highlight each strand of fur on my cat, Xavi. The device handles light exceptionally well, ensuring I don’t end up with washed-out images when he’s basking in an afternoon sunbeam. Micah, my gray cat, also provided a challenge, yet the Pixel 10 excelled in capturing the intricate details of his fur, resulting in stunning photographs. This year is the first time I feel that purchasing the entry-level Pixel flagship does not mean compromising on quality. The photos produced by the Pixel 10 are impressive and meet the high standards expected from a Google smartphone.
Another noteworthy feature of the Google Pixel 10 is its ability to handle motion capture with ease. Samsung devices have long struggled with motion blur in photographs, particularly when capturing active subjects like children or pets. However, my experience with the Pixel 10 was different. Cats make excellent test subjects due to their unpredictable movements, and despite Xavi’s constant activity, most of my photos turned out remarkably well. While excessive movement will inevitably blur an image, minor shifts do not result in unusable photos.
Moreover, the Night Sight mode on the Pixel 10 continues to be the best low-light photography feature available on any smartphone. I was amazed at how well the Pixel 10 performed in challenging lighting conditions. In some instances, I could barely see Micah in the viewfinder, yet the Pixel 10 still managed to produce usable images. For anyone who frequently takes nighttime photos, the Pixel 10 remains an outstanding choice.
In conclusion, I am genuinely excited about the addition of a telephoto lens to the Google Pixel 10. This feature addresses a significant gap left by the Pixel 9, making the Pixel 10 a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers who refuse to compromise on camera quality. Owners of Google Pixel smartphones have a keen interest in photography, and purchasing the Pixel 10 does not mean sacrificing exceptional camera performance, even when opting for a less expensive model. If you’re a cat owner or simply someone who appreciates high-quality photography, the Pixel 10 is definitely worth considering.
