Pixel 3 Xl Vs Galaxy S7 Is Upgrading Still Worth It Or Is My Old S7 Good Enough

If you’ve been holding onto a Samsung Galaxy S7 for years—maybe even since its 2016 release—you might be wondering whether it’s finally time to upgrade. After all, the device was once a flagship powerhouse, praised for its sleek design, solid camera, and water resistance. But technology moves fast. The Google Pixel 3 XL arrived in 2018 with AI-driven photography, clean Android software, and long-term update support. So, if you're comparing the two today, is making the jump from the S7 to the Pixel 3 XL—or even just questioning whether your S7 still holds up—still a worthwhile move in 2024?

The answer isn’t just about specs. It's about real-world usability, app compatibility, security, and whether your phone can handle the demands of modern digital life. Let’s break down the key differences and realities of using each device today.

Performance and Hardware: A Generational Gap

The Galaxy S7 runs on either the Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 (in most regions) or Samsung’s Exynos 8890, depending on the market. At launch, this was top-tier performance. However, by 2024 standards, both chips struggle with multitasking, app loading times, and newer games or AR applications. The device has 4GB of RAM—a respectable amount at the time—but modern apps are far more memory-hungry.

In contrast, the Pixel 3 XL uses the Snapdragon 845, a chip that brought significant improvements in CPU and GPU efficiency over its predecessor. Paired with 4GB of RAM (or 6GB in some variants), it handles current apps much more smoothly. While not cutting-edge by today’s standards, the 845 remains functional for everyday tasks like browsing, messaging, and streaming.

Tip: If your S7 feels sluggish, try disabling animations, clearing cached data, and uninstalling unused apps to reclaim performance.

Storage is another consideration. The S7 launched with 32GB or 64GB options and supports microSD expansion, which helps. The Pixel 3 XL offers 64GB or 128GB but lacks expandable storage. However, Google compensates with free unlimited original-quality photo backups to Google Photos—until January 2021. Today, only high-quality (compressed) uploads are free.

Software and Security: Where the S7 Falls Behind

This is perhaps the most critical difference. The Galaxy S7 received three major Android updates (up to Android 8.0 Oreo) and security patches until early 2019. That means it hasn’t seen a security update in over five years. Using an unpatched device in 2024 exposes you to vulnerabilities, especially when handling banking apps, logins, or sensitive data.

The Pixel 3 XL, meanwhile, was guaranteed three years of OS updates and four years of security patches. It reached end-of-life in late 2021, so it no longer receives official updates. Still, it shipped with Android 9 and was updated to Android 12—meaning it runs a significantly more modern version of the OS than the S7.

“Phones older than five years often can’t defend against modern phishing attacks or exploit-based malware due to outdated OS frameworks.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Mobile Security Researcher at CyberShield Labs

Modern Android features like Dark Mode, improved permissions, Digital Wellbeing, and better biometrics are absent on the S7. Even basic functionality—like properly supporting newer versions of WhatsApp or banking apps—can fail on outdated systems.

Camera Comparison: Innovation vs. Legacy

The Galaxy S7 had a strong 12MP rear camera with large pixels (1.4µm) and an f/1.7 aperture, delivering excellent low-light performance for its time. Its image processing was tuned for natural colors and dynamic range. In 2016, it was among the best mobile cameras available.

The Pixel 3 XL changed the game with computational photography. Despite using a similar 12.2MP sensor, Google leveraged machine learning for HDR+, Night Sight, Top Shot, and Portrait Mode—all software-driven enhancements. Night Sight, introduced in 2018, allowed the Pixel to capture usable low-light photos without flash—something the S7 simply cannot match.

In daylight, both phones produce decent images, but the Pixel delivers more consistent exposure, better dynamic range, and superior detail processing. For selfies, the Pixel 3 XL’s dual front cameras (wide + standard) offer flexibility the S7 lacks, though the S7’s 5MP shooter was serviceable in good light.

Real-World Example: Low-Light Photography

Consider Sarah, a long-time S7 user who upgraded to a used Pixel 3 XL in 2023. She frequently takes photos at her child’s indoor soccer games. On the S7, her shots were dark, grainy, and lacked focus. With the Pixel 3 XL, she enabled Night Sight and captured bright, clear images—even under poor arena lighting. “I didn’t realize how much I was missing,” she said. “It felt like getting a new hobby, not just a new phone.”

Battery Life and Charging: Diminishing Returns

The Galaxy S7 packs a 3000mAh battery, while the Pixel 3 XL has a slightly smaller 3120mAh cell. However, battery health degrades over time. After eight years, even a well-maintained S7 likely has a battery capacity below 70%, leading to frequent charging and potential shutdowns under load.

The Pixel 3 XL supports wireless charging and adaptive battery learning, which prioritizes apps you use most. It also features fast charging (though the charger wasn’t included in-box). The S7 supports fast charging too, but finding compatible accessories today may be harder.

Tip: Replace aging batteries. A new battery in an S7 can restore 80%+ of original performance and extend usability by 1–2 years.

Detailed Comparison Table

Feature	Galaxy S7	Pixel 3 XL
Release Year	2016	2018
Processor	Snapdragon 820 / Exynos 8890	Snapdragon 845
RAM	4GB	4GB / 6GB
Storage	32/64GB + microSD	64/128GB (no SD)
OS at Launch	Android 6.0 Marshmallow	Android 9 Pie
Final OS Version	Android 8.0 Oreo	Android 12
Rear Camera	12MP, f/1.7	12.2MP, f/1.8, HDR+, Night Sight
Front Camera	5MP, f/1.7	8MP wide + 8MP standard
Battery	3000mAh	3120mAh (wireless charging)
Security Updates	Ended 2019	Ended 2021
Water Resistance	IP68	IP68

Is Upgrading Worth It? A Practical Checklist

Before deciding, ask yourself the following:

• Does your S7 struggle with daily tasks? Frequent app crashes, slow loading, or freezing indicate hardware limits.
• Are apps no longer compatible? Some services now require Android 8.1 or higher.
• Have you replaced the battery recently? An old battery undermines performance regardless of software.
• Do you value photo quality? The Pixel 3 XL’s camera is a generational leap in low light and consistency.
• How important is security? Unpatched devices are riskier for online banking and personal data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Galaxy S7 still run modern apps?

Some apps still work, but many—including newer versions of Instagram, Google Maps, and banking apps—either run poorly or refuse to install due to OS requirements. Performance will be noticeably sluggish.

Is the Pixel 3 XL safe to use in 2024?

While it no longer receives updates, it runs Android 12, which is significantly more secure than Android 8. Avoid installing unknown apps, keep Google Play Protect enabled, and consider using a privacy-focused browser for added safety.

Should I upgrade directly from the S7 to a newer phone instead?

Absolutely. Phones like the Pixel 6a, Samsung Galaxy A54, or iPhone SE (2022) offer modern processors, current Android/iOS versions, and multi-year update promises—making them far better long-term investments than even the Pixel 3 XL today.

Conclusion: Time to Move On?

The Galaxy S7 was a landmark device, but eight years in smartphone years is an eternity. While it may still power on and make calls, its limitations in performance, security, and app compatibility make it impractical as a primary device in 2024.

The Pixel 3 XL represents a meaningful upgrade—better software, vastly superior camera intelligence, and more responsive performance. But even the Pixel 3 XL is now outdated. If you’re considering this upgrade path, think bigger: investing in a current mid-range or budget flagship will serve you far better for the next few years.

Technology should empower you, not frustrate you. If your S7 is slowing you down, causing app errors, or failing to capture moments clearly, it’s not just worth upgrading—it’s necessary.

🚀 Your phone should keep up with your life—not hold you back. Whether you choose a Pixel, Samsung, or another brand, take the step forward. Share your upgrade story or ask questions in the comments below.