Review · Google
Google Pixel 7 Review (2026): 2022 Phone of the Year, Now $200 Used
Won Phone of the Year at MKBHD's 2022 Smartphone Awards. Now $200–$300 used. Remaining update window is short (through 2027), but for buyers who want a full Pixel experience under $300 used, it's the strongest pick.
By SmartphoneAwards Editorial · Published · Updated
Pros
- MKBHD's 2022 Phone of the Year winner
- Under $300 used or refurbished
- Full Pixel computational photography
- Pixel UI experience
Cons
- Updates only through 2027 (~3 more years)
- Tensor G2 thermals are noticeable
- Battery degradation likely on used units
- Trails Pixel 8/9 on AI features
Why it won Phone of the Year
MKBHD's 2022 Phone of the Year. The Pixel 7 was the most rounded recommendation of the year — full Google computational photography in a competitive price range, refined design, and the best AI features at the time.
Display & build
6.3-inch OLED at 90Hz, ~1,400 nits peak. Aluminum frame with the Pixel camera bar. Handsome but visibly older than 2025-era flagships.
Performance
Tensor G2 + 8GB RAM. For everyday apps it's still fine; sustained workloads (gaming, video editing) reveal thermal limits. Roughly 50% slower than current Tensor G4.
Camera
Dual: 50MP main + 12MP ultrawide. Same fundamental pipeline as Pixel 8. Stills are excellent — particularly low light and skin tones. Magic Eraser supported but newer features (Magic Editor, Best Take) are not.
Battery & support
4,355 mAh battery. Real-world: 4.5–5.5 hours of screen-on time on new units; less on used. 5-year update commitment means support through October 2027 — 1.5 more years from mid-2026.
Verdict · 5.0 / 5
Buy the Pixel 7 used at $200–$300 only if budget is the top constraint. The Pixel 8 at $400–$500 used is a much better long-term buy — newer chip, longer update support, and Magic Editor included. The Pixel 7's MKBHD 2022 Phone of the Year status is real but the device is showing its age in 2026.
🛒 Buy the Google Pixel 7 on AmazonAlternatives to consider
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Pixel 7 still worth buying in 2026?
Only as a sub-$300 used budget pick — the Pixel 8 at $400–$500 used is a much better long-term buy. Pixel 7 won MKBHD's 2022 Phone of the Year but is now showing its age.
How long will the Pixel 7 be supported?
Through October 2027 — 5-year update commitment from launch. Roughly 1.5 years remaining from mid-2026.
Pixel 7 or Pixel 7a in 2026?
Pixel 7a — newer release date, longer support window (through 2028), and slightly more refined chassis. Pixel 7 only if you can find it for less than $200.
How we rate
Our editorial score is anchored to outcomes from MKBHD's annual Smartphone Awards (2014–2025), then refined for everyday usability. Phone of the Year winners earn 5/5; category winners 4.5/5; runners-up 4/5; otherwise we score on merit. We earn a commission on purchases via our retailer links — at no extra cost to you.