Pixel 4 Xl Vs S10 Three Years Later Is The Pixel Still Worth It 2

It’s been over three years since the Google Pixel 4 XL and Samsung Galaxy S10 launched—two flagships that represented their brands at a critical turning point. The Pixel 4 XL showcased Google’s vision for AI-driven photography and minimalist design, while the S10 cemented Samsung’s dominance with versatility, expandable storage, and a refined display. Today, neither phone receives major OS updates, and hardware aging has set in. But for someone considering a secondhand purchase or holding onto one of these devices, the question remains: Is the Pixel 4 XL still worth it?

The answer isn’t just about specs. It’s about real-world reliability, software longevity, camera consistency, and how well each device holds up in daily use when stripped of their original novelty.

Software Support and Update Lifespan

One of the most defining differences between the Pixel 4 XL and the S10 lies in software support. Google promised three years of Android OS updates for the Pixel 4 series. That promise ended with Android 13—the final update rolled out in late 2022. No further major versions will come, and security patches are now sporadic.

Samsung, by contrast, committed to four years of OS updates for the S10, meaning it received Android 13 as well—albeit later than the Pixel. However, Samsung extended its policy retroactively, offering some older models additional security updates beyond expectations. As of 2023, both phones receive only occasional security patches, but the S10’s broader manufacturer support network means better long-term firmware stability.

Tip: If you're using either device today, disable unused background apps to reduce exposure to unpatched vulnerabilities.

“Even without updates, clean software like stock Android can feel more responsive—but security becomes the user’s responsibility.” — Lena Tran, Mobile Security Analyst

Performance and Hardware Longevity

Under the hood, both phones launched with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855. On paper, they’re equals. In practice, thermal management and software optimization create divergent experiences over time.

The Pixel 4 XL, despite its powerful chipset, suffered from aggressive throttling due to a smaller heatsink and lack of sustained performance tuning. After three years of app bloat and system demands, users report noticeable lag in multitasking and app launches—especially with newer versions of Google apps that assume faster hardware.

The S10, with its larger battery (3400mAh vs. Pixel’s 3700mAh), better heat dissipation, and UFS 2.1 storage (vs. slower eMMC in early Pixel units), maintains snappier app loading and smoother transitions. Its dynamic AMOLED panel also ages more gracefully than the Pixel’s OLED, which is prone to slight burn-in over time—particularly around persistent UI elements like the status bar.

Feature	Pixel 4 XL	Samsung Galaxy S10
Processor	Snapdragon 855	Snapdragon 855
RAM	6GB	8GB
Storage Type	eMMC 5.1	UFS 2.1
Battery Capacity	3700 mAh	3400 mAh
Charging	18W wired, 11W wireless	15W wired, 9W wireless
Water Resistance	IP58 (partial)	IP68

The extra RAM on the S10 makes a tangible difference in 2023. With modern apps routinely consuming 1–2GB each, the Pixel’s 6GB fills quickly, forcing frequent reloads. The S10 handles background tasks more reliably, making it feel more “current” despite its age.

Camera Performance in 2023

The Pixel 4 XL was lauded for its camera in 2019. Its 12.2MP sensor combined with Google’s HDR+ and Night Sight algorithms produced stunning photos that often outclassed competitors. Even today, daylight shots retain excellent dynamic range and color accuracy.

But camera performance isn’t static. Over time, lens coatings degrade, sensors accumulate dust, and software optimizations no longer align with current lighting conditions. More critically, Google discontinued support for new computational photography features on the Pixel 4 line. Features like Magic Eraser, Face Unblur, and enhanced Super Res Zoom are unavailable.

The S10’s triple-camera system—wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto—offers more flexibility. While individual shot quality doesn’t match the Pixel in ideal light, the ultra-wide lens remains useful for landscapes and group shots. Samsung continues to optimize its camera firmware through minor updates, preserving usability.

Tip: For best photo quality on either device, shoot in daylight and avoid digital zoom. Clean lenses regularly with a microfiber cloth.

Real-World Example: Travel Photography in 2023

Consider Mark, a budget traveler who bought a used Pixel 4 XL in 2022. He loved the camera at first—vibrant colors, crisp detail, excellent low-light results. But during a trip to Morocco in early 2023, he struggled. The phone overheated in the sun, causing the camera app to crash repeatedly. When he tried capturing narrow alleys with dramatic shadows, the HDR processing over-smoothed textures, losing authenticity.

His friend, using a refurbished S10, captured wider scenes effortlessly thanks to the ultra-wide lens. Though the colors were less punchy, the images required less editing and survived prolonged outdoor use without thermal throttling.

Battery Life and Charging Realities

Battery degradation is inevitable. Both phones now likely operate at 70–80% of original capacity unless the battery has been replaced.

The Pixel 4 XL started with a modest 3700mAh cell and an aggressive 90Hz display mode (“Smooth Display”) that drained power quickly. Many users disabled this feature within months. By 2023, even with adaptive brightness and battery saver enabled, the Pixel struggles to last a full day with moderate use.

The S10’s smaller battery is offset by more efficient power management and a 60Hz display. It consistently delivers better endurance under similar conditions. Additionally, the S10 supports reverse wireless charging—a niche but occasionally useful feature for topping off earbuds or another phone in emergencies.

Step-by-Step: Extending Battery Life on Aging Flagships

1. Replace the battery if capacity is below 80%. Both models have widely available replacement services.
2. Disable always-on display and reduce screen timeout to 30 seconds.
3. Turn off 5G/LTE if not needed; use Wi-Fi whenever possible.
4. Limit background data for non-essential apps in settings.
5. Use dark mode to reduce OLED strain and power draw.

Should You Buy or Keep Either Phone in 2023?

For daily drivers, both phones show their age. App compatibility remains functional, but newer applications—especially games and productivity tools—are increasingly optimized for faster processors and more memory.

The Pixel 4 XL’s appeal now lies primarily in nostalgia and software purity. Stock Android runs cleanly, free of bloatware, and Google services integrate seamlessly. However, the lack of future-proofing, weaker multitasking, and discontinued features make it a hard sell.

The S10 offers better practicality. Expandable storage via microSD, headphone jack, and superior build durability give it an edge for users seeking a reliable backup phone or budget option. Refurbished units are still available at competitive prices.

“The S10 wasn’t the best camera phone in 2019, but it was the most balanced. That balance pays off years later.” — Rajiv Mehta, Senior Editor at Mobile Horizon

Checklist: Is Your Old Flagship Still Usable?

• ✅ Can it run core apps (WhatsApp, Gmail, Chrome) without crashing?
• ✅ Does the battery last at least 6 hours of screen-on time?
• ✅ Are critical security patches still being applied (even if infrequent)?
• ✅ Is storage sufficient for your needs (or expandable)?
• ✅ Do you rely on any proprietary features (e.g., Face Unlock, DeX)?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Pixel 4 XL run Android 14?

No. Google officially ended major OS updates for the Pixel 4 series with Android 13. While custom ROMs like LineageOS may offer Android 14 ports, they come with risks including instability and loss of warranty or safety features.

Is the S10’s ultrasonic fingerprint sensor still reliable?

Yes, generally. Unlike optical sensors, ultrasonic ones degrade more slowly. However, screen protectors can interfere. Use Samsung-approved films for best results.

Which phone holds resale value better?

Neither retains significant value, but the S10 commands slightly higher prices in the secondhand market due to broader appeal and hardware versatility.

Final Verdict: Is the Pixel 4 XL Still Worth It?

In direct comparison, the Samsung Galaxy S10 emerges as the more sustainable choice three years later. Not because it was superior at launch, but because its hardware margins—extra RAM, expandable storage, durable build—provide resilience against obsolescence.

The Pixel 4 XL remains a symbol of Google’s ambition: a pure Android experience driven by computational photography. But ambition fades when unsupported. Without updates, fading battery life, and narrowing software compatibility, it’s no longer a practical recommendation—even at a low price.

If you already own a Pixel 4 XL and it meets your basic needs, keep it as a secondary device. But for anyone shopping today, the S10—or even newer mid-range alternatives like the Pixel 6a or Galaxy A54—offers far better value and longevity.

🚀 Ready to upgrade wisely? Evaluate your needs beyond nostalgia—prioritize battery, RAM, and update history. Share your experience with aging flagships and help others make informed choices.