Google’s Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL are now out and customers who pre-ordered it have started receiving their units. If you’re as yet undecided then perhaps this Google Pixel 3 XL durability test will make the decision easier for you. YouTuber Zack Nelson from JerryRigEverything, the go-to channel for smartphone durability tests, has put the latest Google flagship through its paces.
The Pixel 3XL didn’t exhibit flexing in Nelson’s signature bend test for the device. This means that the device gets great marks for endurance but the same can’t be said for its scratch resistance.
You can see in the video that the rear fingerprint sensor is susceptible to scratching and then faces problems registering fingerprints once it has been badly scratched. The lower part of the back, the non-glossy one, is a bit of a scratch magnet as well.
It can get all scratched up quickly so some precautions will certainly go a long way. Limit the device’s exposure to keys and coins so don’t just chuck it in your bag or in your pocket without being careful. You could get rid of the aggravation and just buy a good case for the Pixel 3 XL to use it with. That should be enough to address the scratching problem.