Google Pixel XL Price in Kenya
The Google Pixel XL price in Kenya is Kes 24,000 for the 128 GB 4 GB RAM storage variant at Silkroom Electronics. Launched in October 2016, this larger sibling to the original Pixel continues to impress with its durable build, flagship-toy display, and excellent Google camera software—all at a highly attractive price point for value-seeking buyers.
Bold Display & Reliable Performance
Experience vivid visuals on the 5.5-inch AMOLED display with a sharp 1440×2560 resolution (~534 ppi), making it perfect for streaming TikToks, browsing, or viewing photos under Nairobi’s sunshine. Inside, it runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 821 chipset paired with 4 GB RAM, offering smooth navigation, casual app use, and reliable day-to-day performance even years after release.
Flagship-Era Camera with Google Smarts
Despite its age, the Pixel XL shines in mobile photography thanks to its 12.3 MP rear camera (Sony IMX378), featuring fast autofocus, digital stabilization, and Google's advanced HDR+ and Night Sight modes. Whether it’s low-light snaps or scenic shots, this camera still delivers stunning detail and color. The front features an 8 MP selfie camera for sharp video calls and portraits.
Durability & Everyday Practicality
Though built with an aluminum and glass mix—not water-resistant like newer models—it features a solid design and a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. A 3,450 mAh battery (on the XL) offered full-day use at launch, and still holds up well for general browsing and media . You’ll also find stereo front speakers, NFC, and smooth integration with the latest Android features from Google’s ecosystem.
Why the Google Pixel XL Still Matters
Even in 2025, the Pixel XL remains a compelling value at under Kes 25K. With its crisp AMOLED display, top-tier Google camera software, solid performance, and compact design, it’s a reliable choice for first-time smartphone buyers, backup-phone users, or anyone looking for classic Pixel quality without the premium price.
Google Pixel XL Full Specifications
Overview
Launched in October 2016, the Google Pixel XL delivers flagship-level performance with a Snapdragon 821 chip, 4 GB RAM, and a 5.5″ QHD AMOLED display. Starting on Android 7.1 Nougat and upgradeable to Android 10, it offers smooth software support. With a crisp 12.3 MP rear camera featuring laser autofocus and PDAF, and an 8 MP front cam, it delivers quality imaging experiences. A 3,450 mAh battery supports 18 W USB‑PD fast charging, and the phone includes a headphone jack, fingerprint sensor, NFC, and durable build—making the Google Pixel XL full specifications suitable for buyers seeking longevity and performance.
Display
Type: 5.5″ AMOLED, QHD 2560 × 1440 px (~534 ppi)
Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 4
Aspect Ratio: 16:9 (~71% screen-to-body)
Performance
Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 (14 nm)
CPU: Quad‑core – 2×2.15 GHz Kryo + 2×1.6 GHz Kryo
GPU: Adreno 530
RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4; Storage: 32 GB / 128 GB UFS 2.0 (no microSD)
Camera
Rear: 12.3 MP (f/2.0, 1.55 µm, PDAF, Laser AF), Dual-LED flash
Video: 4K@30 fps; 1080p@60/120 fps; 720p@240 fps (gyro-EIS)
Front: 8 MP (f/2.4, 1.4 µm); Video 1080p@30 fps
Battery & Charging
Capacity: 3,450 mAh non-removable
Charging: 18 W wired fast charging (USB‑PD)
Operating System & Updates
OS: Android 7.1 → upgradeable to Android 10
Support: 3 years of OS and security updates
Connectivity & Network
2G/3G/4G LTE (Cat11), VoLTE
Wi‑Fi: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac dual-band, Wi‑Fi Direct, DLNA
Bluetooth: 4.2, A2DP, LE, aptX
GPS: GPS, GLONASS
NFC: Yes
USB: Type‑C 3.0 (OTG)
SIM: Nano‑SIM
Headphone Jack: Yes (3.5 mm)
Build & Design
Dimensions: 154.7 × 75.7 × 8.5 mm; Weight: 168 g
Materials: Glass front (Gorilla Glass 4), aluminum/glass back, aluminum frame
Color Options: Quite Black, Very Silver, Really Blue
Sensors & Extras
Fingerprint: Rear-mounted
Sensors: Accelerometer, Gyro, Proximity, Compass, Barometer
Other: Water-repellent coating; Always-on display
Audio & Multimedia
Stereo loudspeakers
3.5 mm headphone jack
USB‑C audio support
Explore the full hardware features of the Google Pixel XL full specifications—a well-built phone offering excellent display, reliable camera, and dependable performance that still stands strong today.
Google Pixel XL Compare & Alternatives
Why Choose the Pixel XL?
The Google Pixel XL stands out as a true Android phablet pioneer, launching with a 5.5″ Quad‑HD AMOLED display (2560×1440, ~534 ppi) protected by Gorilla Glass 4, and housed in a refined aluminum and glass body with IP53 durability. Powered by the Snapdragon 821 and paired with 4 GB RAM, it delivers a smooth, responsive user experience—a top choice for those after a clean stock‑Android feel and day‑to‑day reliability.
🔋 Battery & Everyday Performance
The 3,450 mAh battery surprised reviewers with exceptional endurance—lasting over 24 hours with typical use (calls, browsing, media playback), and reaching up to 26 hours in mixed usage tests. Charging is fast: 50% in about 30 minutes, and a full charge around 1 hr 45 min. The Snapdragon 821 chipset keeps things mostly cool, even under moderate use or gaming. Additionally, its weight of 168 g and comfortable dimensions make it more pocketable than many modern large phones.
📸 Camera & Imaging Performance
Equipped with a 12.3 MP rear camera (Sony IMX378) and 8 MP front camera, the Pixel XL excels in daylight and low light thanks to HDR+ and Google's signature processing. Despite using electronic stabilization instead of OIS, its image quality rivals newer phones, delivering details, dynamic range, and sharp colors consistently—truly one of the best camera phones of its time.
🔄 Alternatives to Pixel XL
- Google Pixel 2 XL: Same Snapdragon 835, larger 6.0″ QHD+ P‑OLED, bigger 3,520 mAh battery—ideal if you prefer a more modern screen and longer use on a single charge.
- Google Pixel 3a XL: Snapdragon 670, 6.0″ OLED, headphone jack, 3,700 mAh battery—same exceptional camera with wireless charging at a mid‑range price.
- Google Pixel 6a: Tensor chipset, 6.1″ OLED, wireless charging, and longer software support—excellent for those wanting futureproof AI features, albeit with a smaller battery and no headphone jack.
🧭 Which One Should You Pick?
- Choose Pixel XL if you want a vintage yet powerful phablet with an outstanding AMOLED screen, flagship camera, long battery life, and a compact design compared to today's larger models.
- Pick Pixel 2 XL for a balance of modern display and improved battery at the expense of compactness.
- Go for Pixel 3a XL if you prioritize wireless charging, longer battery, and headphone jack at a friendly price.
- Opt for Pixel 6a to enjoy AI-enhanced performance, up-to-date Android, and future-proof support.
Still Not Sure? We’re Here to Assist
Curious about how the Pixel XL compares in camera quality, charge speed, or software feel? Silkroom Electronics Kenya is ready to help—just WhatsApp us or visit our Nairobi showroom for a hands-on demo and expert advice to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main specifications of the Google Pixel XL?
The Pixel XL features a 5.5″ QHD AMOLED display (1440×2560) with Gorilla Glass 4, driven by a Snapdragon 821 chipset, 4 GB RAM, and comes in 32 GB or 128 GB storage options (non-expandable). It launched in October 2016 with Android 7.1, officially upgradable to Android 10, and includes a removable water-repellent coating on its aluminum-glass frame.
Does the Pixel XL support 4G and Wi‑Fi connectivity?
Yes—the Pixel XL supports a broad range of 4G LTE bands (Cat11), dual-band Wi‑Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth 4.2, NFC, GPS, and a USB‑C port (3.0) alongside a 3.5 mm headphone jack, making it well-equipped for connectivity.
How is the camera and audio performance?
It has a 12.3 MP rear camera with laser autofocus, OIS, and 4K video, plus an 8 MP front camera capable of 1080p30 video. Audio-wise, it features stereo loudspeakers and retains the 3.5 mm headphone jack for wired listening.
What’s the battery capacity and charging speed?
Packed with a 3,450 mAh non-removable battery, the Pixel XL supports 18 W wired fast charging via USB‑PD, delivering robust endurance for everyday use.
Are there common hardware or software issues?
Yes, many aging Pixel XL units experience:
- Ghost touch—erratic screen inputs, often linked to firmware bugs; fixes include enabling accidental touch protection or updating software.
- Text messaging delays and microphone problems—often tied to background Doze features and hardware faults; fixes include optimizing battery settings or contacting support.
- Wi‑Fi switching between networks—Smart Network Switch may force toggling; users can disable it in settings to stabilize connectivity.
- Speaker distortion at high volume—initial firmware patches addressed clip/crackling issues; ensure you're on the latest OS version.
How can I fix or mitigate these problems?
- Ghost touch: enable “Accidental touch protection”, update firmware, or factory reset if needed.
- Messaging mic issues: disable battery optimization for voip apps, restart, or factory reset; persistent mic faults may need repair.
- Wi‑Fi/data switching: disable Smart Network Switch under Wi‑Fi settings.
- Speaker distortion: update to the latest Android build to apply Google’s fix.
Does the Pixel XL support official software updates?
It shipped with Android 7.1 and officially received updates up through Android 10, including three years of security patches. After that, no further official patches are available from Google (it’s now discontinued).
Is it still worth buying in 2025?
The Pixel XL offers a compact form, clean Android experience, decent camera, and headphone jack. However, aging hardware may exhibit touchscreen and mic issues, and it no longer receives official updates. For a more reliable, long-term option, consider newer models like the Pixel 4a or 6a—which offer better support, battery life, and fewer hardware concerns.