I tested every Google Pixel this year, and the best one wasn't even a phone

Affiliate links on Android Authority may earn us a commission. Learn more. I tested every Google Pixel this year, and the best one wasn't even a phone 11 minutes ago Over the course of 2025, I’ve had my hands on every new Pixel-branded gadget that Google has released. From the Pixel 9a to the four Pixel 10 models, as well as the Pixel Buds 2a and the Pixel Watch 4 , I’ve tried, tested, used, and continue to use many of these in my everyday life. The Pixel 10 Pro XL has been my primary phone for a few months, the Watch 4 has been on my wrist since its release, and the Buds 2a stay in my backpack any time I get out of the house. Of all of these, I expected the Pixel 10 Pro XL to be my favorite, especially with its new Pro Res Zoom appealing to the avid photographer in me. And while I do like the phone a lot, I’ve found that my absolute favorite Pixel of 2025 is the Watch 4. Here’s why. What's your favorite Pixel of 2025? Google did everything right with the Pixel Watch 4 When Pixel Watch 4 leaks started popping up, it seemed like Google was just reiterating on the existing Watch 3. Same design, same features, and same sizes. But the reality turned out to be much more interesting than that. The Pixel Watch 4 was practically rebuilt from the ground up to accommodate two major changes: a domed display under the domed glass, and a more repairable body that allows for easy battery, display, and module replacements. Both of these are significant in their own right. The moment I unboxed the Pixel Watch 4, my Watch 3 felt immediately outdated in comparison. I love looking at this watch on my wrist. I love its display, and I love how sleek the smaller bezels appear in person. No amount of still photos can capture how good this design is, and how minimalist and nearly invisible the bezels really are. And if you think about it, a smartwatch is the most personal gadget ever since we wear it on our own bodies the whole time, so it might as well be the nicest, most elegant gadget out there. Couple that design with Material 3 Expressive, and everything on this watch looks lively and fun. The color-matching UI elements, animations, rounded buttons, playful shapes, and bold fonts all take on a different impact on the tiny display of a watch versus a phone. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Material 3 Expressive looks more at home on the Watch 4 than it does on a Pixel 10. They’re a match made in heaven. A gorgeous new display with smaller bezels, proper usable battery life, and a repairable design make this watch a massive upgrade. Despite the more intricate display, Google managed to fix the biggest complaint we had about previous Pixel watches: repairability. I still worry...

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