What Google Pixel 9 Phone Is Best to Buy Right Now?

The only right answer here is that it really depends on your preference. The harder question is, what exactly are you after?

Statistically, people change their phones for software, performance, and battery upgrades, mostly because these significantly affect productivity. So if you’re looking for a Pixel 9 phone to suit your professional needs, for example, you should opt for a faster, bigger device for multitasking.

Below are major factors that affect the users’ decision to upgrade their phones.

Performance, Battery, and Software

All Pixel 9 models share a powerful Google Tensor G4 chip, ensuring smooth performance. Battery life is commendable across the range, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL offering the longest runtime:

• Pixel 9 has the typical 4700 mAh battery

• Pixel 9 Pro has a 4700 mAh battery

• Pixel 9 Pro XL has 5060 mAh battery

• Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a 4650 mAh battery

All devices run on Android 15, providing a clean and intuitive user experience.

Camera Capabilities

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the impressive camera systems on all Pixel 9 models. Only the standard Pixel 9 comes with a dual-camera system: 50 MP wide and 48 MP ultrawide with Macro Focus.

The Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold have triple rear camera lenses.

Camera-wise, there isn’t much difference in terms of specs between the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL. Both share the following rear camera specs:

• 50 MP wide

• 48 MP ultrawide with Macro Focus

• 48 MP 5x telephoto lens

Meanwhile, the Pixel 9 foldable has:

• 48 MP wide

• 10.5 MP ultrawide with Macro Focus

• 10.8 MP 5x telephoto lens

Size and Design

Besides keeping up to date, people also like to keep up with the trend. The base Pixel 9 offers a comfortable 6.3-inch screen, perfect for one-handed use. The Pixel 9 Pro mirrors this size, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a larger 6.8-inch display for those who prefer a more immersive experience.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold, of course, takes things to the next level with its foldable design. Plus, there are more fun color options available than the typical black and white.

Dive in for more details on the ninth-gen Pixels in the following sections.

The Pixel 9 is the entry point to the Pixel 9 series. It offers excellent value for money with a strong focus on AI-powered features and a user-friendly interface. It's ideal for casual users who prioritize a good camera, smooth performance, and a compact device without breaking the bank.

For the base price of $799, you can enjoy a phone with 12 GB RAM, which is already pretty good value for its price. However, the Pixel 9 may lack storage options and Gemini Advanced support compared to the Pro models.

Here are the Pixel 9 storage options: 128 GB | 256 GB.

For users demanding the best from their phones with the largest storage option, this one is for you. The Pixel 9 Pro builds upon the foundation of the standard Pixel 9 but with enhanced features and performance.

While the Pixel 9 Pro shares the same battery capacity as the standard model, its optimized hardware and software often results in longer battery life. Many tech pros say this is the recommended phone, meeting in the middle among all the new Pixels.

The Pixel 9's base price is also not bad, at $999. This flagship and its XL variant offer the largest storage options (up to 1TB), operating in 16 GB RAM: 128 GB | 256 GB | 512 GB | 1TB.

For the first time, an XL variant of the Pixel 9 Pro was released. It’s safe to assume that it’s a Pro Max counterpart. If you simply want your Pro phone to be bigger, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is the way to go. It offers the same powerful performance and camera system as the standard Pro model but with a more expansive screen.

The notable difference between the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL is their battery capacity. In fact, the Pro XL has the biggest battery among the new Pixels, at 5060 mAh. It's important to note that the larger size might compromise portability for some users. This is exactly why this phone is best for people who prefer it that way (or with bigger hands).

Either way, it’s a great choice for immersive viewing and user experience. It shares the same 16 GB RAM and storage options with the Pixel 9 Pro: 128 GB | 256 GB | 512 GB | 1TB. You can enjoy these upgrades for $1,099, a hundred bucks more than the standard Pro model.

There’s a lot more to the Pixel 9 devices than their hardware. Born in the Gemini era, they are packed with AI integration that can make your life easier. Google Pixel provides more opportunities to learn, express, and create to enhance your Android experience.

Here are some more things Google promised:

• Advanced camera systems: Capture stunning photos and videos with innovative features like Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and Night Sight.

• AI-powered image processing: Enhance your shots with intelligent algorithms that optimize color, contrast, and detail.

• Clean and intuitive interface: Enjoy a streamlined Android experience without unnecessary bloatware.

• 7 years of OS and security updates: Stay up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.

• Tensor G4 chip: Experience smooth multitasking, fast app launches, and efficient performance.

• Gemini AI: Benefit from advanced AI capabilities that enhance various aspects of your phone's functionality.

• Optimized power management: Enjoy extended usage without constant charging.

• Fast charging technology: Quickly replenish your battery when needed.

• Call Screen: Intelligent call filtering to protect you from spam and unwanted calls.

• Live Translate: Real-time translation for seamless communication.

• Google Assistant: A helpful virtual assistant at your command.

The Made by Google event showcased impressive features and potential for the new Pixel phones. However, it’s still worth noting that a few expectations were let down.

All Pixel 9 models lack Qi2 wireless charging. Additionally, MagSafe is not officially supported, so you'll need to rely on other MagSafe wireless charging options, such as a third-party Google Pixel 9 MagSafe case.

Thinborne offers the slimmest, barely-there aramid fiber case with Apple-inspired built-in magnets to add the full functionality of the MagSafe ecosystem to your Android device. Using a case also extends a level of protection to your device from scratches, bumps, and everyday wear and tear.

You can still experience the improved alignment and efficiency of the Qi2 wireless charging standard with a MagSafe case. Here's what it looks like for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.