I put the new Pixel 11 Pro XL astrophotography mode to the test against this $3,000 proper astro camera setup — and the difference is surprising
A recent comparison tested the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL's new astrophotography mode against a $2,500 OM SYSTEM OM-3 Astro camera setup. The Pixel's updated Night Sight engine allows for automated, high-quality star photography without requiring manual adjustments. The results of the side-by-side test were surprisingly close, highlighting the smartphone's advanced computational capabilities.
- ▪The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL features an updated Night Sight engine that captures images up to 4.5 times faster than previous generations.
- ▪The comparison involved a $2,500 OM SYSTEM OM-3 Astro mirrorless body paired with a fast Olympus 12mm f/2 lens.
- ▪Using the Pixel for astrophotography requires only a tripod and a single tap, as the phone handles all processing automatically.
- ▪Dedicated astro cameras like the OM-3 require manual dialing of exposure, ISO, and focus, unlike the automated smartphone experience.
- ▪The side-by-side results between the smartphone and the specialized camera setup were described as surprisingly close.
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| Publication time | Fri, 25 Sep 2026 04:30:00 +0000 |
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Phones Android Phones Google Phones I put the new Pixel 11 Pro XL astrophotography mode to the test against this $3,000 proper astro camera setup — and the difference is surprising Features By John Velasco Published 25 September 2026 You don't need to be a pro with the Pixel When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: John Velasco / Tom's Guide) Copy link Facebook X Reddit Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter Ever since the Pixel 9 Pro XL, Google’s flagships have consistently impressed me with their astrophotography performance — and the latest Pixel 11 Pro XL is shaping up to be no exception.
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