Pixel 2 Vs S10 Is Upgrading Worth It Or Is The Pixel 2 Still Good Enough 2

The Google Pixel 2 launched in 2017 with a reputation for excellent camera quality and clean Android software. The Samsung Galaxy S10 followed in 2019, bringing flagship power, a high-resolution display, and modern hardware features. Today, both phones are several generations old—but for users still relying on a Pixel 2, the question remains: Is upgrading to an S10 (or a phone of that era) actually worthwhile? Or can the Pixel 2 still handle daily tasks in 2024?

This article dives deep into real-world performance, software support, camera capabilities, battery life, and long-term usability to help you decide whether holding onto your Pixel 2 makes sense—or if it's time to move on.

Performance and Hardware: A Generational Gap

The Pixel 2 ran on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835, a top-tier chipset in 2017. It came with 4GB of RAM and storage options up to 128GB. In its prime, this configuration delivered smooth performance for most apps and multitasking. However, by today’s standards, the 835 struggles with heavier apps, newer games, and background processes common in modern Android versions.

In contrast, the Galaxy S10 featured the Snapdragon 855 (or Exynos 9820 in some regions), paired with 8GB of RAM and UFS 2.1 storage. This translates to significantly faster app launches, better multitasking, and improved thermal efficiency. The S10 also supports expandable storage via microSD, a feature absent from the Pixel 2.

Real-world usage shows the S10 handling complex workflows—like photo editing, video streaming, and split-screen multitasking—with ease, while the Pixel 2 often stutters or reloads apps when switching between them.

“Hardware isn’t just about specs—it’s about headroom. The S10 has enough processing power to stay usable even as apps grow more demanding.” — David Lin, Mobile Performance Analyst at TechPulse Insights

Tip: If your current phone feels sluggish, check how many background apps are running. Closing unused apps can temporarily improve responsiveness.

Camera Comparison: Pixel Magic vs Samsung Versatility

The Pixel 2 was renowned for having the best smartphone camera of its time, thanks to Google’s computational photography. Its single 12.2MP rear sensor produced vibrant, well-exposed photos with exceptional dynamic range and low-light performance through HDR+ and Night Sight (added later).

The Galaxy S10 introduced a triple-camera system: a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP telephoto lens, and a 16MP ultra-wide. This setup allows for optical zoom, depth effects, and wider-angle shots—something the Pixel 2 cannot match physically.

While the S10 offers more flexibility, Google’s software optimization still gives the Pixel 2 an edge in certain lighting conditions. In daylight, both produce excellent results, but the Pixel 2 often renders more natural skin tones and better shadow detail. At night, Night Sight on the Pixel 2 outperforms the S10’s default Night Mode in pure darkness, though the S10 catches up with firmware updates.

For selfies, the S10’s 10MP front camera with autofocus and portrait mode clearly surpasses the Pixel 2’s 8MP fixed-focus shooter.

Feature	Pixel 2	Galaxy S10
Rear Cameras	Single 12.2MP	Triple: 12MP + 12MP + 16MP
Front Camera	8MP, fixed focus	10MP, autofocus, dual pixel
Low-Light Mode	Night Sight (via update)	Dedicated Night Mode
Zoom	Digital only	2x optical, up to 10x digital
Video Recording	4K @ 30fps	4K @ 60fps, HDR10+

Battery Life and Charging: A Clear Winner

The Pixel 2 shipped with a 2,700mAh battery—small even for its time. With moderate use, it lasted a full day, but heavy users often needed a midday charge. It supported 18W fast charging but only came with a 10W charger in the box.

The Galaxy S10 boasts a 3,400mAh battery and significantly better power efficiency due to its more advanced processor and adaptive display. Users report consistent 1.5-day battery life under normal conditions. It supports 15W fast charging, 9W wireless charging, and even reverse wireless charging—a novelty that lets you power accessories like earbuds.

If battery anxiety is a concern, the S10 is a major upgrade. Even after years of charging cycles, its larger capacity and smarter power management provide a noticeable difference.

Tip: Replace aging batteries. A degraded Pixel 2 battery may only hold 60–70% of its original capacity, drastically reducing usable life.

Software and Long-Term Support

Google officially ended software support for the Pixel 2 in 2020, meaning no further OS upgrades or security patches. While it launched with Android 8.0 Oreo and received updates up to Android 11, it now runs outdated software vulnerable to emerging threats.

The Galaxy S10, released in 2019, received four major Android upgrades (up to Android 13) and monthly security patches until 2023. Samsung’s longer support window means the S10 remained secure and compatible with newer apps much longer.

Modern apps like banking platforms, messaging services, and productivity tools increasingly require newer Android versions. On a Pixel 2, you may encounter compatibility warnings or missing features in apps like Google Pay, Zoom, or even Chrome.

Mini Case Study: Maria’s Experience

Maria used her Pixel 2 for daily commuting, email, and social media until early 2023. She noticed apps started crashing more frequently, and her bank app stopped supporting her device. After upgrading to a used Galaxy S10 for $120, she found the screen brighter, maps loaded faster, and her video calls on WhatsApp were smoother. Most importantly, her banking app worked again without workarounds. “It felt like going from dial-up to broadband,” she said.

Is Upgrading Worth It? A Practical Checklist

Before deciding whether to upgrade, consider these factors:

• Does your Pixel 2 struggle to open apps or freeze during use?
• Have you experienced security warnings or app incompatibility?
• Is the battery dead by noon, even with light use?
• Do you want better photos, especially wide-angle or zoomed shots?
• Are you using the phone for work, banking, or communication where reliability matters?

If three or more apply, upgrading is likely worth it—even to a device like the S10.

📋 Upgrade Decision Checklist:

1. Test current performance: Can it run YouTube, Maps, and Messages smoothly?
2. Check Android version: Anything below Android 10 lacks modern security.
3. Assess battery health: If it drops below 80%, replacement or upgrade is advised.
4. Evaluate app needs: Do essential apps still support your device?
5. Compare cost: A used S10 costs $80–$150; weigh that against repair or frustration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Pixel 2 still be used safely in 2024?

Possibly, but not recommended for sensitive tasks. Without security updates, it’s vulnerable to exploits. Use it only for offline activities or as a secondary device.

Is the Galaxy S10 still available new?

No, the S10 is discontinued. However, certified refurbished units are widely available on platforms like Swappa, Amazon Renewed, and Best Buy Outlet, often with warranties.

Will the Pixel 2 get Android 12 or later?

No. Google guarantees three years of OS updates for Pixels, and the Pixel 2 reached its end-of-life in 2020. Custom ROMs exist (e.g., LineageOS), but they lack official support and may compromise security.

Conclusion: Time to Move On—But Smartly

The Pixel 2 was a landmark device in smartphone history, praised for its camera and software purity. But technology moves quickly. By 2024, its hardware limitations, lack of updates, and declining battery performance make it impractical as a primary phone.

Upgrading to a Galaxy S10—or any device from the 2019–2020 era—brings tangible improvements: longer battery life, faster performance, better cameras, and crucially, extended software support. For less than the cost of a new case, you gain years of reliable use.

If you're clinging to your Pixel 2 out of loyalty or budget concerns, consider a gently used S10 or similar model. The leap in daily usability is significant. Don’t let nostalgia compromise functionality.

🚀 Ready to upgrade wisely? Research refurbished marketplaces, check battery health on your current device, and take the step toward a smoother, safer mobile experience today.