Review · Google
Google Pixel 7 Pro Review (2026): 2022 Best Camera Runner-Up, Now Heavily Discounted
Runner-up Best Camera at MKBHD's 2022 Smartphone Awards. The Pixel 7 Pro brought 5x telephoto to Google's lineup. Now $300–$450 used — one of the cheapest paths to a phone with real telephoto reach in 2026.
By SmartphoneAwards Editorial · Published · Updated
Pros
- Runner-up Best Camera at MKBHD's 2022 awards
- 5x telephoto camera at sub-$500 used pricing
- Full Pixel computational photography
- Best Pixel telephoto until the Pixel 9 Pro
Cons
- Updates only through October 2027 (~1.5 years left)
- Tensor G2 thermals are noticeable
- Battery degradation likely on used units
- Older Magic Editor / Best Take features only
Why it placed at MKBHD's 2022 awards
Runner-up to the iPhone 14 Pro Max for Best Camera in 2022. The Pixel 7 Pro's 5x telephoto and Google's then-best computational pipeline were the headline. The 5x reach has since been matched by Pixel 9 Pro and exceeded by Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Display & build
6.7-inch LTPO OLED at 120Hz. Aluminum frame with the iconic Pixel camera bar. Heavier than the standard Pixel 7 but still well-built.
Performance
Tensor G2 + 12GB RAM. Smooth for everyday apps; sustained workloads reveal thermal limits. Roughly 50% slower than current Tensor G4.
Camera
Triple: 50MP main + 12MP ultrawide + 48MP 5x telephoto. The 5x periscope was the headline feature. Stills are excellent — particularly low light and skin tones.
Battery & support
5,000 mAh battery, 23W wired. Real-world (on a used unit): 4.5–5.5 hours of screen-on time. Updates through October 2027.
Verdict · 4.5 / 5
Buy the Pixel 7 Pro used at $300–$450 only if you specifically want telephoto camera under $500 and 1.5 years of remaining support is acceptable. The Pixel 8 Pro at $500–$700 used is a much better long-term buy — newer chip, longer support, and better processing.
🛒 Buy the Google Pixel 7 Pro on AmazonAlternatives to consider
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Pixel 7 Pro still worth buying in 2026?
Only as a sub-$500 used budget pick if you want telephoto camera. Pixel 8 Pro at $500–$700 used is a much better long-term buy with longer remaining update support.
How long will the Pixel 7 Pro be supported?
Through October 2027 — 5-year update commitment from launch. Roughly 1.5 years remaining from mid-2026.
Pixel 7 Pro vs Pixel 8 Pro?
Pixel 8 Pro is meaningfully better — newer Tensor G3, longer support window (through 2030), Magic Editor included. 7 Pro only if you save $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.