After months of anticipation and numerous leaks, Google has finally unveiled the Pixel 9 series, the latest addition to its flagship smartphone lineup. This year, the series includes four models: the standard Pixel 9, the new foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and two Pro variants—the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL. With more options than ever, choosing the right Pixel can be a bit overwhelming. If you’re eyeing one of the Pro models, here’s why the Pixel 9 Pro might be the better choice over its larger sibling, the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Price Difference: A More Affordable Option
In recent years, Google has steadily increased the prices of its Pixel devices. What started as a line of affordable flagship phones has gradually become more expensive. For instance, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 launched at a reasonable $599, but prices have crept up with each new release. The Pixel 8 series saw a jump, and now the Pixel 9 series continues that trend. The standard Pixel 9 starts at $699, the Pixel 9 Pro at $999, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL at $1,099. with the price of each model increasing by $100, this is surely a significant increase from previous models.
For those looking to upgrade without breaking the bank, the Pixel 9 Pro offers a more budget-friendly option compared to the Pixel 9 Pro XL. While $999 is still a considerable investment, it’s $100 less than the larger model, making it a more appealing choice for those who want top-tier features without the highest price tag. Putting both devices side-by-side, you would realize that you can clearly do away with the extra $100 without losing much in terms of features. Plus, the money saved could be used to purchase accessories like a protective case or additional storage, enhancing your overall experience with the device.
Compact and Easy-to-Handle Design
Not everyone prefers a large smartphone, and for those with smaller hands or who simply enjoy the convenience of a more compact device, the Pixel 9 Pro is a great option. Handling larger phones like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or the iPhone 15 Pro Max can be challenging for some users, especially when trying to use the device with one hand.
Google has recognized this and, for the first time, offers a smaller Pro model with all the high-end features previously reserved for larger phones. The Pixel 9 Pro is about 12% smaller than the Pixel 9 Pro XL in overall dimensions, making it more pocketable and easier to use on the go. Despite its smaller size, the Pixel 9 Pro still boasts a 6.3-inch display, providing ample screen space for streaming, gaming, and everyday tasks. If you value portability and ease of use, the Pixel 9 Pro is an ideal choice.
Pixel 9 Pro VS XL: A Slight Display Advantage
In terms of displays, there is a common statement that goes like “the bigger the better” right? well, that may not always be the case, especially when you consider it from a technical point of view. Technically, when you have two displays with the same technology, the smaller display tends to have a slight edge over the larger display when it comes sharpness. This technology is called “Pixels Per Inch (PPI)). A typical example of such comparison is the Pixel 9 Pro and the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
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When it comes to the display, the Pixel 9 Pro actually has a slight edge over the Pixel 9 Pro XL, even though the difference might be subtle. The Pixel 9 Pro features a smaller 6.3-inch screen compared to the XL’s 6.8-inch display. Both models offer the same 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection, up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness, and 24-bit depth for 16 million colors.
However, the Pixel 9 Pro has a higher pixel density of 495 PPI (pixels per inch) due to its resolution of 1280 x 2856, compared to the XL’s 486 PPI. While this difference is minor and might not be noticeable to the average user, those with a keen eye for detail might appreciate the slightly sharper display on the Pixel 9 Pro.
Pixel 9 Pro VS XL: Same Great Camera System
In previous Pixel generations, opting for the larger model often meant getting a better camera setup. This year, Google has leveled the playing field by equipping both the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL with the same impressive camera system. Both models feature a 50MP primary camera, a 48MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 48MP telephoto lens capable of 10x optical zoom. The selfie camera is also identical on both models, sporting a 42MP sensor.
This means that whether you choose the Pixel 9 Pro or the Pixel 9 Pro XL, you’ll be getting the same top-tier photography experience. The choice between the two models comes down to factors like screen size and battery life rather than camera quality, making the Pixel 9 Pro an attractive option for photography enthusiasts who prefer a more compact device.
Pixel 9 Pro VS XL: Nearly Identical Features
Aside from the slight differences in size and battery capacity, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL share nearly all the same features. Both models boast the same build quality, IP68 dust and water resistance, seven years of software updates, 16GB of RAM, the latest Tensor G4 processor, new Gemini AI features, and Satellite SOS. The main difference lies in battery size, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL offering a larger 5,060 mAh battery compared to the Pixel 9 Pro’s 4,700 mAh. However, this difference is understandable given the larger screen on the XL model.
The Verdict: Better Value with the Pixel 9 Pro
If you’re considering upgrading to a new smartphone, the Pixel 9 Pro offers a compelling package. It’s more affordable than the Pixel 9 Pro XL, easier to handle, and still packs all the flagship features you’d expect from a high-end Google device. While the Pixel 9 Pro XL is also a great option, especially for those who prefer larger screens, the Pixel 9 Pro provides better value for your money, making it the smarter choice for most users.
If you still prefer the larger screen of the Pixel 9 Pro XL, it’s available for preorder now and will hit stores ahead of the Pixel 9 Pro on August 22, 2024. However, for those who want a powerful, feature-rich smartphone without the added bulk or cost, the Pixel 9 Pro is the way to go.
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