If you're unfamiliar, the Pixel is the first laptop Google has ever made. It runs the Chrome Operating System, which is essentially just the Chrome web browser you're used to along with a few extras. The Pixel has a high-resolution touchscreen that's sharper than the Retina display on Apple's new MacBook Pro.
Anyway, here are a few thoughts:
- The design and build quality are absolutely stunning. It feels just as good as a MacBook without blatantly copying the design.
- The screen is gorgeous, although some apps and photos look slightly pixelated because they haven't been updated yet. (The Retina MacBook has the same problem).
- Chrome OS has come a long way over the years. The (sort of) new desktop mode feels much more familiar than being stuck in a Web browser the whole time.
- Many Chrome apps are just websites and weren't designed specifically for Chrome. I was bummed I couldn't use Spotify.
- The 1 TB of free cloud storage on Google Drive is a nice touch. Unfortunately, you can't access your files unless you're connected to the Web.
- The touchscreen works well, but I don't really see the need for it on a laptop. The trackpad is perfect.
- My first reaction after spending a day with the Pixel is, "Wow, I want one of these." But it's hard to justify spending $1,300 on a computer with limited capabilities. No matter how great it looks and feels. If the Pixel sold for $999 or less, I'd probably consider getting one to replace my MacBook Air.
I'll have a full detailed review of the Chromebook Pixel in about a week.