Thinking about buying a used Pixel 3 XL in 2024? This is a common question for many people. The Pixel 3 XL was a great phone when it first came out in 2018. But now, it’s several years old. So, is it still worth buying today? Let’s find out.
The Pixel 3 XL is a smartphone made by Google. It was released in October 2018. Back then, it had many top features. It came with a big screen, a good camera, and a pure Android experience. Many people loved it for its smooth performance and clean software. However, as time goes by, technology changes quickly. New phones come out with better features.
Reasons to Buy a Used Pixel 3 XL
There are several reasons why you might want to buy a used Pixel 3 XL. Here are a few:
1. Cost
A used Pixel 3 XL is much cheaper than a new phone. If you’re on a budget, this can be a big plus. You can get a high-quality phone without spending a lot of money. Many people find this very appealing.
2. Good Camera
The Pixel 3 XL has a very good camera. Even in 2024, it takes great pictures. If you love taking photos, this is a big advantage. The phone has special software that makes pictures look better. It’s known for taking good photos even in low light.
3. Pure Android Experience
The Pixel 3 XL comes with pure Android. This means there are no extra apps or changes added by other companies. Many people like this because it makes the phone run smoothly. It also gets updates directly from Google. This can make the phone more secure and up-to-date.
4. Solid Build Quality
The Pixel 3 XL is built well. It feels sturdy and premium. This is important if you want a phone that lasts. Many users have found that it holds up well over time.
5. Regular Updates
Google phones get regular updates. The Pixel 3 XL has received many updates over the years. Even though it might not get the latest updates in 2024, it still benefits from the ones it received. This makes it more secure than some other older phones.
Reasons to Avoid a Used Pixel 3 XL
While there are good reasons to buy a used Pixel 3 XL, there are also reasons to avoid it. Here are some things to consider:
1. Battery Life
The Pixel 3 XL is several years old now. Over time, phone batteries degrade. This means the battery life might not be as good as it once was. You might need to charge it more often. Some used phones might have replaced batteries, but this is not always guaranteed.
Here’s our detailed guide to improving battery life on old Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones.
2. Limited Updates
As time goes on, the Pixel 3 XL will stop getting updates. This includes security updates. Without these, the phone can become less secure. It’s important to have a phone that gets regular updates to stay safe from new security threats.
3. Outdated Hardware
Technology moves fast. The hardware in the Pixel 3 XL is now several years old. Newer phones have better processors, more RAM, and better screens. This means they can run apps faster and more smoothly. The Pixel 3 XL might struggle with newer apps and games.
4. Lack of New Features
Newer phones come with new features. These can include things like better cameras, new software features, and better connectivity options. The Pixel 3 XL won’t have these. If you want the latest features, a newer phone might be a better choice.
5. Wear and Tear
A used phone might have signs of wear and tear. This can include scratches, dents, or other damage. It’s important to check the condition of a used phone before buying it. Make sure it works properly and looks good.
Comparing the Pixel 3 XL to Newer Models
When deciding whether to buy a used Pixel 3 XL, it’s helpful to compare it to newer models. Let’s look at how it stacks up against some of the latest phones.
Pixel 8 and 8 Pro
The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are much newer than the Pixel 3 XL. They come with many improvements. These include better cameras, faster processors, and bigger batteries. They also have a new design and more features. However, they are more expensive than a used Pixel 3 XL.
Other Mid-Range Phones
There are many new mid-range phones available in 2024. These phones often come with good features at a lower price. Some examples are the Samsung Galaxy A series, the OnePlus Nord series, and the Google Pixel A series. These phones might offer better performance and features than a used Pixel 3 XL at a similar price.
What to Check When Buying a Used Pixel 3 XL
If you decide to buy a used Pixel 3 XL, there are a few things to check. This can help you avoid problems and get a good phone.
1. Battery Health
Check the battery’s health. You can do this by using apps that show battery information. A healthy battery should have a good capacity and not drain quickly.
2. Screen Condition
Look for any scratches, cracks, or dead pixels on the screen. A damaged screen can affect your experience. Make sure it looks good and works well.
3. Camera Quality
Test the camera. Take a few pictures and videos. Check for any issues with focus, color, or clarity. The camera should work smoothly.
4. Software Updates
Check the software version. Make sure it has the latest updates. This can improve security and performance.
5. Overall Condition
Look for any signs of wear and tear. Check the buttons, ports, and body of the phone. Make sure everything is in good condition.
6. Seller Reputation
Buy from a trusted seller. Check reviews and ratings. This can help you avoid scams and get a good phone.
What to buy instead of a used Pixel 3 XL?
If you’re not sure about buying a used Pixel 3 XL, there are other options. Here are a few alternatives to consider:
1. Newer Pixel Models
Consider newer Pixel models like the Pixel 4a, Pixel 5, or Pixel 6. These phones offer better performance and features. They also get the latest updates from Google.
2. Other Android Phones
There are many good Android phones from other brands. Look at phones from Samsung, OnePlus, or Xiaomi. These brands offer a range of models with different features and prices.
3. Refurbished Phones
Consider buying a refurbished phone. These phones are checked and fixed to work like new ones. They often come with a warranty. This can be a good way to get a reliable phone at a lower price.
4. Budget Phones
There are many new budget phones available. These phones offer good performance at a lower price. Some examples are the Moto G series, Nokia phones, and the Samsung Galaxy A series.
Conclusion
So, should you buy a used Pixel 3 XL in 2024? It depends on your needs and budget. The Pixel 3 XL offers good features at a lower price. It has a great camera, pure Android experience, and solid build quality. However, it also has some drawbacks. These include battery life, limited updates, and outdated hardware.
If you are on a budget and need a reliable phone, the Pixel 3 XL can be a good choice. Just make sure to check its condition and buy from a trusted seller. However, if you want the latest features and better performance, consider newer models or other alternatives.
Think about what is most important to you in a phone. This will help you make the best decision. Remember, technology changes quickly. What is great today might not be the best tomorrow. But with careful consideration, you can find a phone that meets your needs and fits your budget.
