As the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL prepares to make its official debut, leaked benchmark scores have already ignited debate across the tech community. Powered by the new Tensor G5 chipset, the device has posted impressive CPU gains but surprisingly underwhelming GPU results. With an overall AnTuTu score of 1,140,286, the Pixel 10 Pro XL clearly outpaces its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, which scored 983,628. However, the breakdown of these numbers reveals a more nuanced story—one that raises questions about Google’s hardware priorities and the future of its custom silicon strategy.
Let’s unpack what these benchmark scores actually mean, and what they suggest about the Pixel 10 Pro XL’s real-world performance.
CPU Performance: A Giant Leap Forward
The most striking improvement comes from the CPU. The Pixel 10 Pro XL scored 313,500 in CPU tests, a massive 73% increase over the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s 181,033. This leap suggests that Google has finally addressed one of the most persistent criticisms of its Tensor chips: raw processing power.
The Tensor G5 appears to be fabricated using TSMC’s second-generation 3nm process, which likely contributes to this efficiency. The chip reportedly features a configuration of one core at 3.78 GHz, five cores at 3.05 GHz, and two cores at 2.25 GHz, indicating a balanced architecture designed for both high-performance tasks and power efficiency.
This kind of CPU uplift means faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and better performance in compute-heavy tasks like video editing, AI-driven features, and real-time translation. For users who rely on their phones for productivity, this is a major win.
GPU Performance: A Curious Step Back
While the CPU gains are impressive, the GPU score tells a different story. The Pixel 10 Pro XL scored 393,695 in GPU tests, which is 12% lower than the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s 447,118. This is unexpected, especially for a next-generation flagship device.
The Tensor G5 is said to use Imagination Technologies’ PowerVR DXT-48-1536 GPU, a shift from previous designs. While this GPU may offer advantages in power efficiency or AI acceleration, its raw graphical performance appears to lag behind not only its predecessor but also competing chips like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and MediaTek Dimensity 9400, both of which post scores well above 2 million on AnTuTu.
This drop in GPU performance could affect gaming, high-frame-rate video playback, and other graphics-intensive applications. It’s possible that the benchmark results stem from early software or outdated drivers, but for now, the numbers suggest that Google may be prioritizing AI and efficiency over graphical horsepower.
Memory and UX Scores: Solid but Unremarkable
The Pixel 10 Pro XL shows notable improvement in memory performance, thanks to its use of LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. These upgrades contribute to faster data access, smoother app transitions, and reduced load times.
However, the UX score remains largely unchanged from the Pixel 9 Pro XL, with only a marginal decline noted. This suggests that while the hardware is more capable, the software experience hasn’t seen a dramatic overhaul—at least not in ways that affect benchmark metrics.
That said, Google’s strength has always been in software optimization, and it’s likely that Android 16, which ships with the Pixel 10 series, will bring refinements that aren’t fully captured in synthetic benchmarks.
Geekbench Results: Multi-Core Muscle
Complementing the AnTuTu scores are leaked Geekbench 6 results, which show a single-core score of 2,296 and a multi-core score of 6,203. Compared to the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s scores of 1,889 and 4,247 respectively, this represents a 21% improvement in single-core and a 46% jump in multi-core performance.
These gains reinforce the narrative that the Tensor G5 is a major step forward in processing capability. Multi-core improvements are especially important for tasks like rendering, multitasking, and background processing, which benefit from parallel execution.
Real-World Implications: Beyond the Numbers
Benchmark scores offer a snapshot of performance, but they don’t always translate directly to user experience. The Pixel 10 Pro XL’s CPU gains will likely result in faster and more responsive performance across the board. However, the GPU dip could be felt in gaming and high-end graphical applications.
Google’s Tensor chips have always leaned heavily into AI and machine learning, powering features like Magic Eraser, Live Translate, and Call Screening. These capabilities rely more on TPU (Tensor Processing Unit) performance than GPU strength, which may explain Google’s design choices.
Still, for a device priced at a premium and marketed as a flagship, users expect excellence across all categories. The GPU results may not be a deal-breaker, but they do raise questions about Google’s long-term strategy in custom silicon development.
Community Reaction: Divided Opinions
Online forums and Reddit threads have been buzzing with reactions to the leaked scores. Some users are excited about the CPU improvements and memory upgrades, while others are disappointed by the GPU regression.
Comments range from skepticism—“They found an even cheaper one they could use”—to cautious optimism—“Probably old drivers on the demo unit.” Others point out that benchmarks are only part of the story, and that Google’s focus on AI and software features may justify the trade-offs.
There’s also speculation that the final retail units will perform better, as software optimization often continues up to launch day. For now, the community remains divided, waiting to see how the Pixel 10 Pro XL performs in real-world usage.
Conclusion: A Flagship with Focused Priorities
The benchmark scores for the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL paint a picture of a device that excels in processing power and efficiency but stumbles slightly in graphical performance. The Tensor G5 chipset marks a significant leap in CPU capability, addressing long-standing concerns about speed and responsiveness. However, the GPU results suggest that Google may be prioritizing AI and battery life over gaming and graphics.
For users who value Google’s software ecosystem, camera innovations, and AI-driven features, the Pixel 10 Pro XL remains a compelling choice. But for those who demand top-tier gaming performance or graphical fidelity, the benchmark scores may prompt a closer look at competing devices.
Ultimately, the Pixel 10 Pro XL reflects Google’s vision of what a smartphone should be: smart, efficient, and deeply integrated with AI. Whether that vision aligns with user expectations will be revealed in the days following its official launch.
