Will I regret buying from Google Store Online

pugpack

Will I regret buying an unlocked Pixel 10 from the Google Store online as opposed to buying in the store? Knowing the later is preferable I am wondering what I sacrifice by doing the former? Thanks for any insight.

nandohyphen1

pugpack Will I regret buying an unlocked Pixel 10 from the Google Store online as opposed to buying in the store?

Idk, will you? I think thats a question for yourself. Will you regret buying an Unlocked Pixel 10 from the Google Store? Theres pros and cons to buying from the Google Store.

Pros;
You are for sure getting an OEM Unlockable phone

If theres a problem, you can reflash Stock OS and send it back

Cons;
You need a Google Account

You need to provide Google with information (like address, phone number, etc.)

You are directly supporting Google (a con for me)

Depending on where you live, my personal favourite place to buy a phone from is Best Buy.

de0u

pugpack If you're OK with Google knowing you bought a Pixel, and which particular device... warranty processing may be better, and there is a smidgen of phone support. Prices might be a bit lower elsewhere.

Vincent96

It's half the price on sites like eBay.

neel

My brother bought a Pixel 10 from the Google Store, but he doesn't run GrapheneOS. He linked it to the family's T-Mobile account during purchase, and my mom got a text last December.

My mom thought I bought a new phone, but I told her it wasn't me and my Pixel 10 Pro was back in August. I buy phones from Best Buy and never tie my account to the purchase until after it's in my hands and OEM unlocked.

Blastoidea

I haven’t, but you’re free to decide for yourself.

I’m not sure anyone can answer for you.

gMan

Blastoidea are you in the U.S.? if so, how'd you like a 'free' Pixel (well, almost)?

Cape will knock $500 off your bill over 6 months if you use them as your carrier (no contracts) and i personally think they are a far better choice for a carrier than any other i'm aware of - spend some time with their website - if this interests you, you might want to read: Finally, the 100% hack-proof super-private smartphone!

gristle-cause

The only meaningful distinction (besides price) will be anonymity. Buying it online, the IMEI will be associated with your identity. Whereas buying it in store, you can use cash & walk out with a somewhat anonymous purchase

This should only really matter if nationstate actors are adversaries in your threat model. Your average data broker or hacker won't be able to associate data between Google, your cell carrier, and other online activities