The Google Pixel 3 is now available for purchase across the United States, and if you want the best Android phone money can buy in 2018, it needs to be at the very top of your shopping list.
Both the Pixel 3 and 3 XL are outfitted with vastly improved displays compared to last year's models, refined designs, and damn impressive cameras. If you want to buy one, here's everything you need to know.
Verizon
Once again Verizon is the "exclusive" carrier for the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL in the U.S. That's, of course, a bit of a misnomer because that exclusivity only reaches as far as buying from a carrier goes. Still, that means Verizon is the only one of the big four U.S. carriers to offer the phone directly.
Pricing is set at $799 for the Pixel 3 ($33.33/month for 24 months) and $929 for the Pixel 3 XL ($38.74/month for 24 months). Add $100 to each to jump to 128GB of storage. Available colors include Just Black, Clearly White, and Not Pink.
Right now, Verizon's running a buy one, get one promo where you'll receive a 64GB Pixel 3 for free (or $799.99 off another Pixel 3 or 3 XL model) after buying one Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL on a monthy installment plan. You will need to add a new line of service and the credit is applied as a $33.33/month credit for 24 months.
Project Fi
Remember that whole "exclusive carrier" thing? Well, you can buy the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL from Google's own carrier, Project Fi. When you do, you're basically just getting a phone as if it were purchased from the Google Store, but it comes ready to rock with your Project Fi account if you have one already. If you're starting a new Project Fi line, the phone's ridiculously easy to get set up thanks to its eSIM — you just power it up and follow a few prompts.
Pricing is set at $799 for the Pixel 3 and $899 for the Pixel 3 XL. Add $100 to each to jump to 128GB of storage. Once again, colors include Just Black, Clearly White, and Not Pink.
For a limited time, Project Fi is offering a $799 service credit when you buy two Pixel 3 or 3 XL phones and add a new member to an existing group/family plan.
Best Buy
Best Buy is a massive retailer partner to have on board for the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, but unfortunately, the partnership is only to sell the phones as "Verizon" devices. The phones are actually unlocked and will work on any carrier of your choice, be it one of the big four or a prepaid carrier, but chances are you won't be able to get Best Buy to sell you one unless you have a Verizon account.
Pricing is set at $799 for the Pixel 3 and $899 for the Pixel 3 XL. Add $100 to each to jump to 128GB of storage.
Best Buy's latest offer? You'll receive a free $100 Best Buy gift card with a qualified activation of either the Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL.
Google Store
If you're buying a Google phone, there's a seamless experience to be had buying from the Google Store directly. When you do, you'll be able to take advantage of Google's trade-in offers, which could be as high as $400, as well as its 24-month no-interest financing options that mirror those offered by carriers. Google even offers "Preferred Care" plans for an extended warranty and extra support.
Should you choose to buy a Pixel 3 from the Google Store, you'll be able to snag 6 months of YouTube Music Premium for free (a $60 value).
Pricing is set at $799 for the Pixel 3 and $899 for the Pixel 3 XL. Add $100 to each to jump to 128GB of storage.
