Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro smartphones review

Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro Smartphone Review – In 2018, we tested the Pixel 3 phone, and after six years, we are testing the new Pixel 9 series phone. Over the years, Google developed the Pixel line with great care. At first, they were camera-centric phones. But today, they are starting to become a complete package for everyone. The recent Pixel 9 and 9 Pro were the highlights with their unique features and functions.

As far as the first impression is concerned, the new Pixel 9 series looked pretty good with its original design. Moreover, the company also added a Pixel 9 Pro XL version that brings a bigger display and more battery. Apart from this, the Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro bring an amazing integration of AI advantages, a long-lasting battery, and support for high-end cameras. All those factors add charm to this smartphone. However, it would be great to check other details before buying any device.

Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro smartphones review

Highlights

1. The Google Pixel 9 comes with a 6.3-inch OLED panel, while the Pro model has the same screen size but with the LTPO OLED panel.
2. In terms of the software interface, both devices are equipped with Android 14 and support up to 7 major Android updates.
3. Under the hood, the phones are powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset with improved performance.
4. The Pixel 9 features a dual-camera setup, while the Pixel 9 Pro features a 50MP triple-camera setup.
5. Last but not the least, both phones pack a 4,700mAh battery setup with 27W wired charging support.

Design and exhibition

The design of the Google Pixel 9 looks beautiful with its mesmerizing color options, including Obsidian, Porcelain, Winter Green, and Peony. As for the Pro variant, you get additional paint jobs in Rose Quartz and Hazelnut. All of these phones look quite attractive at first glance, while the aesthetic camera module catches the attention of many people. On the non-Pro model, the phone brings a smaller notch, while the Pixel 9 Pro has a slightly larger notch on the back panel.

As for the build quality, both models resist damage without any issues thanks to the IP68 certification. At the same time, the Pixel 2 has a curved body and a lightweight build. Normally, the Pixel 2 has a compact build, but in recent years the company has increased the screen size to some extent, but that hasn’t affected the overall viewing experience of users.

On the other hand, the Google Pixel 9 sports a standard 6.3-inch OLED display with above-average brightness and FHD+ resolution. However, the Pro variant receives the same screen size as the LTPO OLED display. With this, users will get fine control over the refresh rate and HDR. As for the touch response, both models can support a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, which is considerably good for gaming and other activities. The Pixel 9 has a brightness of 2700 nits, while the Pro variant has a brightness of 3000 nits.

Memory and internal

From a hardware performance perspective, the Google Tensor G4 chipset turns out to be a decent choice. Through this chipset, both devices can multitask, support advanced gaming, and ensure impressive screen-on time. Compared to the previous Tensor chipset, the processing speed of the eight cores has improved exponentially. Now, these Google phones will fully support overclocking and have less thermal throttling.

Apart from those factors, the chip will deliver adequate visuals with a decent GPU configuration. But, the highlight of these phones would be the latest Android 14 interface. Unlike other mobile interfaces, these devices are equipped with Gemini AI. Also, there are Pixel-exclusive AI features that you can explore. It includes a new browsing experience with a wide range of customization under the hood.

Apart from the integration of various customization attributes, the company also ensures that users receive frequent system updates. With Google’s new schedule, it is possible to get up to 7 major updates on the Pixel 9 series. As for the storage unit, the non-Pro variant offers 12GB RAM with 128GB to 256GB of internal storage. Next, the Pro variant comes with a base 16GB RAM that will be accompanied by UFS 3.1 space ranging from 128GB to 1TB.

Camera

There’s no doubt that a typical Pixel phone is all about the camera. In fact, it’s true that the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro feature the most advanced Pixel camera yet. Moreover, the camera module ensures that users can utilize the triple camera for every situation. As far as specifications are concerned, the Pro variant gets an additional 48MP periscopic telephoto lens with 5X digital zoom capability, while the rest of the camera specifications are identical to the non-Pro mode.

There are three factors you need to consider if you want to get good results from any phone’s camera. The first is daylight results – super-deep colours give stunning results. The 50MP main sensors can capture immersive details, while the 48MP ultra-wide ensures accurate colours. After using both phones side-by-side, the image quality is no different, with the native camera app delivering stunning colours, contrast and saturation.

The second factor would be the low light, which happens to be the main selling point of both Pixel phones. These devices come with a fabulous night mode technology that reduces noise and graininess in photos and turns your boring photos into something interesting. Lastly, the video recording aspect won’t disappoint content creators as the camera app provides adequate stabilization support.

Moreover, there are several features that you can try out in the meantime. Usually, an average Android phone will offer limited features and filters. But that is not the case with the Pixels 9 series phones. Users will get advanced privileges like Pixel shit, Ultra HDR photos, Best Take, Zoom Enhance, and different laser autofocus modes. All those factors help the camera department to deliver attractive results.

Battery and others

The Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro come with a 4,700mAh lithium-ion battery that can support up to 6 hours of screen-on time. Overall, both devices achieve up to two days of battery life in battery saver mode. You can use wired chargers up to 27W on both devices, while they also support wireless charging. If you purchase the Pixel stand, the Pro model can offer 21W output. While the standard variant will only have 15W wireless charging support.

As for the added protection, the fingerprint-resistant coating is present. Not to forget, the device offers Ultra-Wideband support, satellite SOS services, and even the circle feature for searching. Apart from this, the phones are well-equipped with the necessary WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, 5G, and other sensors. The Google Pixel 9 will be priced at $775 (Rs 64,999 in India) approximately for the starting variant. While the Google Pixel 9 Pro gets a price tag of $999 (Rs 83,800 in India) approximately.

Pros and cons of the Google Pixel 9 Pro

Detailed specifications of the Google Pixel 9 Pro

Below you can see the Full specifications of Google Pixel 9 Pro smartphone.

Conclusion

With the launch of the new Pixel phones, we were pretty excited and happy to recommend the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro. Unlike the previous years, the company shifted its focus to provide a well-rounded experience to the users. The jump in the performance aspect is worth highlighting. Also, the battery life is something we expected, while the camera aspect was phenomenal as always. You can opt for the Pro variant to get additional support for telephoto lenses, while the non-Pro model is a good value for money option.

But it would be great if you also looked for an alternative. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra can be a great option, but you need to pay a bit more. There’s no denying that the viewing experience was impressive on the Pixel phones. However, if you can overlook some camera annoyances, the flagship Galaxy S24 Ultra would still be on top. Still, we want you to choose a phone based on your needs. So, look into other options and find the best deal accordingly.