Nexus 6P Review!

Camera Specs

The Nexus 6P features a significant upgrade in its camera hardware, boasting a 12-megapixel Sony sensor. This sensor, originally designed for point-and-shoot cameras, includes an f/2.0 aperture and laser autofocus, but lacks optical image stabilization 1. The large pixel size contributes to its improved performance over previous Nexus models. Marques Brownlee notes the camera's speed and wide-angle lens, enhancing user confidence in capturing quality photos 1.

It's pretty solid, definitely way better than any Nexus camera in the past, although that's not a super high bar to clear.

--- Marques Brownlee

The ability to quickly launch the Google Camera app by double-tapping the power button adds to its user-friendly design.

   

Low Light

In low light conditions, the Nexus 6P camera shows its strengths and limitations. While noise removal can soften some areas, using HDR+ mode significantly enhances photo quality by maintaining natural tones and reducing noise 2. Marques Brownlee highlights the absence of optical image stabilization as a drawback, particularly noticeable in 4K video recording 2.

You can tell the camera in the Nexus 6P is really not bad.

--- Marques Brownlee

Despite this, Google's improvements in image processing result in photos that are not overly sharp or processed, offering a more natural look.

   

Photo Quality

The Nexus 6P delivers sharp photos with good detail and color, though it tends to overexpose, affecting dynamic range. Marques Brownlee observes that highlights often get blown out, even when tapping to expose correctly 3. HDR+ mode effectively addresses this issue, restoring highlights and improving overall image quality.

You definitely do get blown out highlights pretty frequently, even if you tap to expose the right place.

--- Marques Brownlee

In low light, the camera compensates for the lack of stabilization by increasing ISO and using fast shutter speeds, resulting in grain-free images with heavy processing to reduce noise.