Pixel series and which one suits you
Google keeps a simple line-up, so matching the model to your budget makes used shopping easier.
- ✓Pixel a-series — the affordable Pixels (6a, 7a, 8a) that keep the flagship camera for far less money, ideal on a tight budget.
- ✓Pixel number series — the mainstream flagships (Pixel 6, 7, 8, 9) with bigger screens, better main cameras and the latest Tensor chip.
- ✓Pixel Pro — the top models (7 Pro, 8 Pro, 9 Pro) that add a telephoto lens, higher-refresh displays and more RAM for heavy users.
- ✓Older Pixels (4, 5) — still capable for light use and cheap, but check battery health and remaining update support before buying.
Camera and Google Tensor performance
The camera is the main reason people buy a Pixel, so test it properly on a used unit. Take photos in daylight and low light, try Night Sight and the portrait mode, and check the front camera for video calls. From the Pixel 6 onward the phones use Google’s own Tensor chip, which powers features like Magic Eraser, call screening and on-device voice typing — open the Camera and Assistant to confirm these work. Tensor phones can run a little warm under heavy load, so feel for excessive heat during camera use or gaming and make sure the phone stays responsive.
Software updates and clean Android
Pixels run stock Android with no bloatware and receive updates directly from Google, which is a big advantage on the used market. Newer Pixels (8 and 9 series) are promised up to seven years of OS and security updates, while Pixel 6 and 7 get several years too — open Settings then System then Software update to see the current Android version and how long support remains. Crucially, make sure the phone is signed out of the previous owner’s Google account and that no factory-reset protection lock remains, otherwise you may not be able to set it up.
What to check on a used Pixel
A focused set of checks helps you avoid common Pixel buying mistakes.
- ✓Google account removed — confirm the phone is logged out and factory-reset protection is cleared before you pay.
- ✓Battery health — Tensor Pixels are known for average battery life, so test that it comfortably lasts and charges normally.
- ✓Camera bar and lenses — inspect the rear camera bar for cracks and test every lens including the telephoto on Pro models.
- ✓Display — check for tint, green lines or dead spots, an issue reported on some early Pixel 6 units.
- ✓IMEI and PTA status — verify the IMEI on the PTA DIRBS portal to confirm approval or any pending tax.
PTA status and value in Faisalabad
Because Pixels are not officially sold in Pakistan, most units in Faisalabad are imported, so PTA status matters a lot. An approved Pixel runs on Jazz, Zong, Telenor and Ufone without restrictions, while a non-PTA unit is cheaper up front but may need DIRBS tax to keep accepting local SIMs after the grace period. Ask clearly whether a quoted price is PTA-paid or not, compare a few similar listings on Mehfoz to judge a fair value, and add any pending tax to work out your true total cost before agreeing a price.