Pixel 10 Series: A Detailed Guide to Storage Options by Color

If you’re planning to upgrade to Google’s latest smartphone lineup, the Pixel 10 series, there’s something new you need to consider beyond screen size and camera features — color-specific storage limits. In a surprising move, Google is tying certain storage capacities to particular color variants across the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pro XL, and the foldable Pro Fold models. That means your favorite color might not come with the storage size you need.

Let’s break down exactly what’s available and help you decide which combination best suits your style and storage needs.

Pixel 10: The Entry-Level Model

The standard Pixel 10 is expected to launch in four colors: Obsidian, Frost, Indigo, and Lemongrass. All of them will only be available in 128GB and 256GB storage options. This makes it the simplest model in terms of configuration, but also the most limited for those looking for more space.

Pixel 10 Pro: More Variety, More Options

The Pixel 10 Pro expands both storage and color choices:

• Obsidian: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB

• Porcelain: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB

• Moonstone: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB

• Jade: 256GB only

Obsidian stands out here as the only color that supports the full range up to 1TB. Jade, while visually striking, is limited to just 256GB — which may not work for users with heavier storage needs.

Pixel 10 Pro XL: Premium Build, Selective Options

For those opting for the larger XL model, the configurations tighten slightly:

• Obsidian: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB

• Porcelain: 256GB, 512GB

• Moonstone: 256GB, 512GB

• Jade: 256GB only

In this model, the 128GB base tier is again exclusive to Obsidian, pushing buyers of other colors to start at a higher price point.

Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Style Meets Storage

The foldable Pixel 10 Pro Fold brings cutting-edge design and powerful specs, with color and storage options as follows:

• Moonstone: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB

• Jade: 256GB, 512GB

Obsidian isn’t part of the foldable lineup at launch, and only Moonstone offers the high-capacity 1TB option.

Why Google’s Color-Based Storage Strategy Matters

This is the first time Google has tied storage sizes directly to color choices in such a restrictive way. It’s clearly a logistical move to streamline manufacturing and perhaps steer consumers toward certain configurations.

• Obsidian offers the most flexibility — across every model, it supports more storage tiers

• Jade looks appealing but is the most limited, never exceeding 256GB

• Porcelain and Moonstone sit in the middle range, maxing out at 512GB unless you’re buying the Fold

Speed Differences: UFS 3.1 vs UFS 4.0

Another important factor is speed. Reports suggest that 128GB models may use the older UFS 3.1 storage, while 256GB and up will likely benefit from the faster UFS 4.0 standard. This affects app launch times, file transfers, and system responsiveness — something worth keeping in mind if you’re buying the base model.

Pricing and Availability

Google will unveil the Pixel 10 series during its Made by Google event on August 20, 2025, with availability expected to begin on August 28.

Here are the estimated starting prices in Europe:

• Pixel 10 (128GB): €899

• Pixel 10 (256GB): €999

• Pixel 10 Pro (128GB): €1,099

• Pixel 10 Pro (1TB): €1,589

• Pixel 10 Pro XL (256GB): €1,299

• Pixel 10 Pro XL (1TB): €1,689

• Pixel 10 Pro Fold (1TB): €2,289

Key Takeaways Before You Buy

• If you want maximum freedom in storage and performance, go with Obsidian

• If color is more important than space, Jade might still work — just be aware of its storage cap

• Avoid 128GB models if you care about having the latest and fastest storage performance

• Consider your future storage needs — especially for photography, 4K video, and gaming

Google’s approach to linking storage with color adds a new layer of decision-making for consumers. While it may frustrate some buyers, understanding these constraints ahead of time will help you choose wisely and avoid compromises after the purchase.