With the release of the Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL in August 2024, consumers are faced with a tough decision: which model is the better buy? Both phones feature impressive specifications, including Google’s latest Tensor G4 chipset, vibrant OLED displays, and advanced camera systems. However, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 differ in key areas, such as size, storage options, battery capacity, and camera configurations, which may make one more suitable than the other based on your preferences and needs. In this comparative buying guide, I’ll break down the differences to help you decide which Pixel 9 model best suits you.
Design and Build: Premium Quality on Both
Both the Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL are crafted with premium materials, featuring Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back, and an aluminum frame. They’re also both IP68-rated for dust and water resistance, which means they can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes.
The main difference between the two models in terms of design comes down to size and weight. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is the larger and heavier option, measuring 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm and weighing 221g. In contrast, the Pixel 9 is more compact, with dimensions of 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm and a lighter weight of 198g. If portability and one-handed use are priorities for you, the Pixel 9 may be the better choice, while those who prefer a larger screen might lean toward the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Display
When it comes to display quality, both the Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL feature OLED panels with 120Hz refresh rates, making for smooth scrolling and an overall fluid user experience. However, the Pixel 9 Pro XL comes with a larger, higher-resolution display. It sports a 6.8-inch LTPO OLED screen with a resolution of 1344 x 2992 pixels, boasting a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, making it excellent for outdoor visibility and HDR content. The Pixel 9, on the other hand, has a smaller 6.3-inch OLED display with a 1080 x 2424 resolution and a peak brightness of 2,700 nits.
The larger, more vibrant display on the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL makes it ideal for watching videos, gaming, and general media consumption. If you value screen real estate and brightness, the Pro XL will serve you well. However, if you prefer a more compact device with a solid display, the Pixel 9 offers a great viewing experience as well, albeit slightly less immersive.
Performance: Similar Power Under the Hood
Both the Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL are powered by Google’s custom Tensor G4 chipset, an octa-core processor that promises robust performance across the board. With this latest chipset, you can expect smooth multitasking, enhanced AI capabilities, and faster overall processing speeds, making both devices ideal for demanding applications such as gaming, photo editing, and running multiple apps at once.
The difference comes in RAM configuration. The Google Pixel 9 comes with 12GB of RAM, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts 16GB of RAM. For most users, the 12GB of RAM in the Pixel 9 will be more than enough for everyday tasks and even intensive use. However, if you’re a power user who frequently pushes your phone to the limit with resource-heavy applications, the extra 4GB of RAM in the Pro XL may provide a noticeable performance boost.
Camera System
One of the biggest differences between the two models lies in their camera systems. Both phones feature a 50MP wide-angle main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) and dual-pixel phase detection autofocus (PDAF). However, the Pixel 9 Pro XL steps things up with a more versatile triple-camera setup, while the Pixel 9 sticks with a dual-camera system.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a 48MP periscope telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, which is a significant advantage for users who frequently take zoomed-in shots without sacrificing image quality. Additionally, the Pro XL features a 48MP ultrawide camera for expansive landscape shots and group photos.
The Google Pixel 9, on the other hand, offers a 48MP ultrawide camera but lacks the periscope telephoto lens. While the Pixel 9’s camera system will still deliver excellent results, particularly for wide-angle and standard shots, the Pro XL provides more flexibility for users who prioritize photography, especially when it comes to zoom and versatility.
Selfie Camera
For selfie enthusiasts, the Google Pixel 9Pro XL has an advantage with a 42MP front-facing camera, compared to the Pixel 9’s 10.5MP selfie camera. The higher resolution on the Pro XL means clearer, more detailed selfies, especially in good lighting conditions. Both phones, however, offer features like Auto-HDR and panorama modes, and they can record 4K video at up to 60fps, making them both capable devices for front-facing photography and video calls.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is another important factor to consider. The Pixel 9 Pro XL packs a larger 5060mAh battery, while the Pixel 9 has a slightly smaller 4700mAh battery. With the Pro XL’s larger display and higher resolution, the additional battery capacity is necessary to keep up with power demands, and users can expect slightly longer usage times on the Pro XL. That said, the Pixel 9’s battery should still comfortably last through a full day of moderate use.
In terms of charging, the Pixel 9 Pro XL supports faster 37W wired charging, whereas the Pixel 9 supports 27W charging. Both models feature wireless charging, with the Pro XL supporting 23W wireless charging compared to the Pixel 9’s 15W. If fast charging is a priority, the Pro XL’s advantage in both wired and wireless charging speeds makes it a more convenient option for users who are always on the go.
Storage Options
When it comes to storage, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers more variety. It comes in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and even 1TB configurations, all paired with 16GB of RAM. On the other hand, the Pixel 9 offers only two options: 128GB and 256GB, both with 12GB of RAM.
If you tend to store large amounts of media, apps, or files on your phone, the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s 1TB option could be particularly appealing. For users with more modest storage needs, the Pixel 9’s 256GB variant will likely be sufficient.
Pricing
Price is another critical factor to consider. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is priced at $1,099 / €1,199 / £1,099, while the Pixel 9 is more affordable at $785 / €899 / £799. The $300+ price difference between the two models reflects the Pro XL’s superior features, such as the larger display, additional RAM, better camera system, and bigger battery.
Which Pixel Is Best to Buy?
The Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL both offer excellent performance, but the best option for you depends on your priorities. The Google Pixel 9 is a great choice for those who want a high-performance phone in a more compact form factor at a lower price. It delivers excellent performance, a solid camera, and enough storage for most users.
However, if you’re a power user who needs more RAM, a larger, higher-resolution display, better cameras (especially for zoom), and faster charging, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is the better choice despite its higher price tag. The Pro XL caters to users who want the best Google has to offer in terms of performance, photography, and display.
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