The Pixel 9 Pro XL emerges as the successor to the Pixel 8 Pro, featuring a refined design, improved brightness, and enhanced performance with the Tensor G4 chip. While both models share similar specifications and camera capabilities, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a better selfie sensor and slightly longer battery life. With a price difference of around 300 euros, the choice between the two may hinge on design preferences and the need for upgraded performance.
Don’t let the change in naming conventions mislead you: the Pixel 9 Pro XL is truly the next iteration of the Pixel 8 Pro. This latest model introduces an additional designation, paving the way for a more compact Pixel 9 Pro while maintaining the same impressive technical specifications. So, how does this newly released smartphone stack up against the Pixel 8 Pro? Read on to uncover our detailed comparison and find out which smartphone reigns supreme.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at a price of 1199 euros, while the Pixel 8 Pro can currently be purchased for approximately 750 euros.
Technical Specifications of Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro
A Distinctive Design Evolution
The Pixel 9 Pro XL refreshes its design without losing the essence of its legacy. It features sharper contours compared to its predecessor, which had a more rounded appearance. A notable change is in the camera bar: while it remains horizontally aligned, it no longer spans the entire width of the device.
This new model is slightly heavier than the Pixel 8 Pro, weighing in at 221g versus 213g, but this difference is hardly noticeable during everyday use. Fortunately, the dimensions are nearly identical, which is a relief given the already substantial size of the device.
When it comes to durability, users can rest assured. Both models carry an IP68 rating and are equipped with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, ensuring robust protection.
Stunning Displays!
Both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Pixel 8 Pro are equipped with OLED screens that support a refresh rate of 120 Hz, with an option for QHD+ resolution. However, by default, the devices are set to Full HD. Users have the flexibility to switch to QHD+ for a sharper display, but this may impact battery life.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a significant advantage in brightness, measuring over 2500 nits in our tests, compared to 1777 nits for the Pixel 8 Pro. This enhanced brightness translates to superior outdoor visibility, which is a crucial feature for many users.
In terms of color performance, both smartphones shine equally with excellent color accuracy and coverage. Google Pixels come superbly calibrated out of the box, eliminating the need for adjustments.
Operating System with a Future Focus
It’s clear that both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro run on the same Android version and will benefit from an impressive software support period of seven years, as promised by the manufacturer. Consequently, the software support for the Pixel 8 Pro will conclude a year earlier than that of its successor, making both devices long-lasting options.
Both models offer a pristine Stock Android experience, prominently featuring Google’s applications and services. The integration of Gemini, Google’s artificial intelligence, is a core aspect of the user experience, and this is unlikely to change. If privacy is a primary concern for you, these devices may not be the best fit. However, for those interested in AI, Google is at the forefront of smartphone integration alongside Samsung.
In terms of photography and automatic translation, both smartphones are equipped with similar advanced features, and they will regularly receive updates through Google’s Feature Drops.
Enhanced Performance with the Pixel 9 Pro
Google has never prioritized raw performance. While its smartphones handle typical tasks efficiently, they may lag behind rivals featuring the latest Snapdragon processors, especially in GPU performance.
With the advancements in technology, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, powered by the Tensor G4 chip, naturally outpaces the Tensor G3 found in the Pixel 8 Pro. Benchmarks indicate that the latest model is, on average, 30% faster than its predecessor for similar tasks.
Exceptional Camera Capabilities
When it comes to the camera systems, the differences between the two smartphones are minimal. The most notable upgrades include a brighter lens on the ultra-wide camera and an improved selfie sensor in the new model.
Both smartphones deliver a similar visual output, with Google’s digital processing ensuring warm and high-contrast images that stand out without going overboard.
While the increase in brightness for ultra-wide shots enhances low-light performance and reduces noise, the impact may be subtle on a smartphone display without closely examining details. Both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Pixel 8 Pro excel in wide-angle photography, and the f/1.7 lens should not be the sole factor in your buying decision.
Algorithmic improvements on the telephoto lens in the Pixel 9 Pro XL may yield better results when using digital zoom (up to 30x), but for everyday use, both smartphones perform exceptionally well.
Battery Life: A Slight Edge
While neither Pixel model is known for exceptional battery endurance, they do manage to last. Cautious users can expect approximately a day and a half of usage, which is quite decent.
Our automated tests indicate that the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a modest improvement in battery life, lasting 13 hours and 50 minutes, compared to one hour less for the Pixel 8 Pro. That’s a win for the newer model!
As for charging, Google claims compatibility with chargers up to 37W, but you can expect about 1 hour and 20 minutes to fully charge the Pixel 9 Pro XL. This is only a slight improvement over the Pixel 8 Pro, which takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to charge from 0 to 100%.
Which to Choose: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Pixel 8 Pro?
The Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL present two smartphones with closely matched technical specifications. The Pixel 8 Pro already boasts an “AI Ready” designation. However, the new model’s attractive design and impressive brightness make it particularly enticing.
In terms of photography, both devices are equally competent, but if you prioritize selfie quality, the enhanced selfie sensor in the Pixel 9 Pro XL may be a deciding factor.
Finally, the superior performance of the Pixel 9 Pro XL is a significant consideration for power users. Whether this justifies the price difference of just over 300 euros is ultimately up to your personal preferences and needs!