The Pixel 9 had a vastly improved modem and the 10 switched to TSMC for their Tensor SoC, resulting in better performance and better battery life/less heat.

It's true that the SoCs are not that great for an expensive flagship phone, but the trick is buying a Pixel halfway the cycle, when the prices go to mid-range. For instance, currently in my country:

- Pixel 10 is 350 Euro off (currently 549 Euro).

- Pixel 10 Pro is 360 Euro off (currently 739 Euro).

- Pixel 10 Pro XL is 360 Euro off (currently 939 Euro).

- The Pixel A series are less interesting currently, because it's still early in the cycle, but the 9a is 200 Euro off (349) and the 10a is 120 Euro off (428). It's a shame that they switched to last-gen SoCs and modems now on the A-series now.

I know that the Pixel 100 is coming soon-ish, but the 10 series have floated around those price points since 5-6 months after the release.

the 10 is eSIM only

Looking at my P10P with physical SIM. I guess you are in the US?