The Google Pixel is one of the best Android phones you can buy - here's where you can get one

The Google Pixel is fully compatible with GSM networks (AT&T and T-Mobile) as well as CDMA networks (Sprint and Verizon), so your carrier choices aren't limited.

Although Verizon is the "exclusive" carrier for selling the Pixel, you can buy one unlocked and take it to any of the major service providers for activation. This allows you to choose the carrier that's best for you or stick with your current one if you already have a provider you like.

Note that if you buy unlocked, you'll need to pick a carrier anyway in order to use your phone. There's no advantage to buying an unlocked Google Pixel other than that it allows you to activate your device with the service provider of your choice. Reasons for doing this would be because your chosen carrier isn't selling the phone directly or because you found a deal on an unlocked model that is better than any sign-up discounts the carriers might be offering at the moment.

Another option you have with the Pixel is Google Fi, Google's own cellular service. The company, of course, doesn't operate a cellular network itself, but instead "piggybacks" off of other service providers including Sprint and T-Mobile (a common practice among many smaller carriers). Google Fi offers simple and flexible plans — you can check out how it works here — and might be the best way to score a deal on a Google Pixel if you can jump on one of the sales that pop up every so often.

If you want a high-end flagship Pixel phone, your best options are the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL. Those of you who only want the latest and greatest tech should really wait for the Pixel 4 and 4 XL, both of which we expect to see launch in October.

If you like the Pixel 3 or 3 XL, but don't want to pay the high price tag, you should hold out until the Pixel 4 launches, at which point, the Pixel 3 and 3 XL will likely be discounted.

Lastly, budget hunters should pick up the Pixel 3a and 3a XL. These phones have the same camera tech as the more expensive Pixel 3 and 3 XL, plus they have really good specs for the price. You really can't go wrong with the 3a and 3a XL. For most people who aren't super bleeding-edge tech lovers, they're among the best phones you can buy.