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| The Pixel 11 Pro XL doesn't quite make it to the top in the DxOMark camera analysis. |
The latest Pixel flagship earns a respectable DxOMark score but can't quite dethrone the competition
Google's newest flagship smartphone, the Pixel 11 Pro XL ($1,418 on Amazon), has arrived with what can only be described as iterative camera improvements. While the upgrades may seem modest on paper, they've resulted in a noticeable boost in performance that places the device among the top-tier camera phones on the market.
What's New Under the Hood?
The Pixel 11 Pro XL's camera system features three minor but meaningful upgrades from its predecessor. The 42-megapixel f/2.2 selfie camera remains unchanged from the previous model, but the rear camera array has received some attention.
The 50 MP f/1.7 main camera gets a new sensor, though it maintains the same 1/1.3-inch format as before. More significant changes come to the 48 MP f/2.8 periscope telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom and the 48 MP f/1.7 ultra-wide-angle camera – both have been equipped with new, slightly larger sensors that promise improved light capture and image quality.
DxOMark Scores and Ranking
These upgrades are clearly paying dividends. The Pixel 11 Pro XL scored 168 points in DxOMark's comprehensive camera analysis – five points higher than the Pixel 10 Pro XL. This places Google's flagship at number 5 on the leaderboard.
While Google can't quite match the photographic prowess of the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra, Vivo X300 Pro and Ultra, or the Oppo Find X9 Ultra, the Pixel 11 Pro XL achieves the same impressive score as both the Oppo Find X8 Ultra and the Apple iPhone 17 Pro. For selfie enthusiasts, the phone earns 151 points, outperforming all competitors except the Apple iPhone 17 Pro, which edges ahead with 154 points.
For a detailed breakdown of the testing methodology and full results, check out the official DxOMark Pixel 11 Pro XL camera test.
The Telephoto Shines Brightest
According to DxOMark's in-depth analysis, the telephoto camera represents the most significant upgrade to the Pixel 11 Pro XL. The improved optics and larger sensor enable more detailed images with better clarity when zooming in on distant subjects.
The review team particularly praised the wide dynamic range, vibrant colors, and natural skin tones when capturing photos. These strengths make the Pixel 11 Pro XL an excellent choice for portrait photography and everyday shooting scenarios.
However, not every aspect of the camera system receives equal praise. The ultra-wide-angle camera is described as the weakest of the three rear cameras, capturing photos with comparatively few details and excessive contrast.
Video and Selfie Performance: Room for Improvement
When it comes to video recording, the Pixel 11 Pro XL shows some limitations. Issues with image stabilization, motion rendering, and low-light performance mean that video quality can't quite keep up with the Apple iPhone 17 Pro.
The selfie camera, while outperforming most competitors, isn't without its quirks. DxOMark notes that faces appear over-sharpened, low-light conditions lead to a loss of detail, visible image noise, and color casts, and the depth of field isn't always sufficient for group selfies.
Final Verdict
All things considered, DxOMark's smartphone testing team describes the Pixel 11 Pro XL as a solid all-around performer. It may not claim the crown, but for users who prioritize still photography with natural colors and excellent dynamic range, Google's latest offering delivers a compelling package.
You can find the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL currently available for purchase on Amazon for $1,418.
The Pixel 11 Pro XL proves that sometimes, small improvements can add up to a meaningful upgrade – even if it doesn't quite revolutionize smartphone photography.
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| The telephoto camera is the most significant upgrade to the Pixel 11 Pro XL. |
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| The front camera cannot always capture everyone in focus when taking group selfies. |