The DAC does amplify the volume, assuming you have high impedance headphones, and the quality is top notch. Only beaten by the V30! The software support that's hit or miss depending on the carrier. For example mine has the September security updates (Android 7), while others still on March or even older. Now when it comes to the Camera, the pixel two has the newer sensor so there's only so much you can do. But if you know how to tweak the manual mode, it can get really close! And the HDR from Google can be used if you install the google camera app. As for the wide angle... It's really cool when you need to capture more of the frame but you can't go back any further, it's a fun feature. For the pixel 2 xl you better wait they sort of the the screen issues. Some people say they have screen retention on their v20s (I haven't experienced it myself, and my phone is nearly a year old), but looks like the pixel is suffering from a mix of both screen retention and screen burn-in (screen burn-in being permanent). So, I say you can't go wrong with any. If I were you I'll wait for the pixel two situation to be sorted out and go with it, simply cuzz it's a newer device, I don't like buying one year old models lol. Or the V30 is good option. Don't get me wrong, I really like my V20 but if I didn't already had it, I doubt I'll purchase it.