Which is preferable: Google/unlocked Pixel 2 or Verizon

[mcostajr]

My apologies if this post exists somewhere else and had already been covered there or should be somewhere else. I'm a Verizon customer and am wondering if there is any advantage to buying a Verizon Pixel 2xl as oppressed to an unlocked Pixel from Google?

Thanks.

 

[libra89]

Your only disadvantage is the locked bootloader on the Verizon model. Otherwise, everything else should be the same.

 

[Almeuit]

Your only disadvantage is the locked bootloader on the Verizon model. Otherwise, everything else should be the same.

This 100%.

 

[1901Madison]

To me, the locked bootloader doesn't matter. But that's an individual decision you'll have to make.

 

[DustBow]

Yeah, this is the first phome I've had from Verizon where I could delete all of their carrier bloat/apps

 

[pankaj981]

My apologies if this post exists somewhere else and had already been covered there or should be somewhere else. I'm a Verizon customer and am wondering if there is any advantage to buying a Verizon Pixel 2xl as oppressed to an unlocked Pixel from Google?

Thanks.

If you're not planning on keeping your device for 3+ years or not planning on rooting it/running custom ROMs then you would be fine with the Verizon variant else get the unlocked variant from Google as that lets you unlock the bootloader (as mentioned above) to run custom recovery/ROMs.

 

[effreyj]

One thing I've noticed is that the resale value of the unlocked phones is a little higher than the carrier phones. On the other hand, you can usually get better deals on the carrier phones, so it balances out.

 

[sulla1965]

One thing I've noticed is that the resale value of the unlocked phones is a little higher than the carrier phones. On the other hand, you can usually get better deals on the carrier phones, so it balances out.

Of course there is no carrier version of the Pixel. Verizon just has the exclusive right to carry the Pixel. As pointed out, except for the bootloader, both the Verizon and play store versions are identical. I just wonder how many still root add rom any more to really matter which one your looking to sell.

 

[mcostajr]

Thanks for the feedback. Much appreciated. I have the Verizon variant but am thinking about returning it and buying the 2 XL straight from Google. Doesn't seem to matter much, though. Thanks again.

 

[SupraLB]

I went with Verizon. Largely because:
1. Its $300 cheaper.
2. I can visit a store if any issues.
3. All the unwanted apps can be deleted
4. Rare verizon phone without verizon logo, so its 100% identical.
5. Can return phone until Jan 15th if I don't like it (only $35 restock fee)

 

[pseudoware]

Of course there is no carrier version of the Pixel. Verizon just has the exclusive right to carry the Pixel. As pointed out, except for the bootloader, both the Verizon and play store versions are identical. I just wonder how many still root add rom any more to really matter which one your looking to sell.

The after-market for Google devices includes developers and others who are interested in an unlocked bootloader. YMMV on how much this might impact resale for a given device, but you can argue demand for such devices is greater, if only slightly. There's also buyer perception. Some people might pass just knowing a device came from a carrier w/o being aware of the details. Not to mention any lingering aftermath of past Google-Verizon efforts going back to the Galaxy Nexus.

 

[Almeuit]

The after-market for Google devices includes developers and others who are interested in an unlocked bootloader. YMMV on how much this might impact resale for a given device, but you can argue demand for such devices is greater, if only slightly. There's also buyer perception. Some people might pass just knowing a device came from a carrier w/o being aware of the details. Not to mention any lingering aftermath of past Google-Verizon efforts going back to the Galaxy Nexus.

Well... Yeah. After market includes everyone so yes some Devs are there. Do I truly think it'll make the device worth 100 bucks more? Eh.. doubtful. I've sold many phones when swapping and never once has bootloader come into the picture.

 

[Mike Dee]

One thing I've noticed is that the resale value of the unlocked phones is a little higher than the carrier phones. On the other hand, you can usually get better deals on the carrier phones, so it balances out.

Key word is little...it's not that much different.

 

[dpham00]

For verizon customers, Verizon will provide warranty exchange for verizon version(you can still go thru Google for the Google version). I like Verizon as i can get a replacement overnight without putting down a deposit.

Verizon also will not insure the non verizon version.

Finally, the non verizon version is considered a non verizon device. Verizon will provide limited support should you have problems with the phone.

 

[Mike Dee]

For verizon customers, Verizon will provide warranty exchange for verizon version(you can still go thru Google for the Google version). I like Verizon as i can get a replacement overnight without putting down a deposit.

Verizon also will not insure the non verizon version.

Finally, the non verizon version is considered a non verizon device. Verizon will provide limited support should you have problems with the phone.

If you bought the Verizon version through Google and like the ability to choose. Will Verizon honor the 2 year warranty?

 

[dpham00]

If you bought the Verizon version through Google and like the ability to choose. Will Verizon honor the 2 year warranty?

Verizon's website lists 2 year warranty for the Pixel 2 XL. But whether or not they will honor warranty after the first year, I am not sure. I do have extended warranty and with that Verizon will cover devices for manufacturers defects for as long as I have the extended warranty on the line. The phone could be 10 years old and Verizon would still cover it. Also Verizon's extended warranty in my state covers pre existing conditions so I could buy a phone with a known manufacturer defect after the warranty period, activate it on my line and Verizon will replace it under extended warranty.

 

[josegb2011]

I'm planning on getting the Verizon version $300 OFF plus a $250 gift card can't beat that.

 

[pankaj981]

I'm planning on getting the Verizon version $300 OFF plus a $250 gift card can't beat that.

The $300 is in bill credits BTW.

 

[TBH AK]

One thing to keep in mind about unlocked phones is you won’t get some carrier items such as volte, or hd voice, etc.

 

[Almeuit]

One thing to keep in mind about unlocked phones is you won’t get some carrier items such as volte, or hd voice, etc.

That is very incorrect in terms of the Pixel. It can handle all except for maybe AT&T because of AT&T.