Pixel 9 or Pixel 9 Pro? Which Google Flagship Fits You Best?

Google's ninth iteration of the "Made by Google" event saw the launch of the Pixel 9 series, and we have to say that they are nothing short of impressive. For the first time, users have four options, including the new Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL alongside the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The XL features a bigger screen and battery, while the regular Pro shares many traits with the standard Pixel 9. It can get confusing. Don't worry! Our Google Pixel comparison will clarify everything for you. However, this comparison will focus on the standard Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro.

Are there any essential differences since they have the same display and battery specs? Let's take a look.

Google Pixel 9 VS Pixel 9 Pro - Design and Display

The Pixel 9's updated design adds to its appeal. The signature camera visor, a staple since the Pixel 6, is still here but now features a sleeker, pill-shaped look. Rest assured, it's unmistakably a "Pixel." You definitely will distinguish this phone from any other.

The Google Pixel 9 weighs 198g, while the Pixel 9 Pro is just a bit heavier at 199g. Both phones are slim, measuring 8.5mm thick. In size, the Pixel 9 is 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm, which is the same as the Pixel 9 Pro. They have rounded edges and a flatter back, giving them a more modern look.

The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro share the same screen size: 6.3 inches. However, the displays themselves set them apart. The Pixel 9 Pro boasts a Super Actua display, which offers a sharper resolution and better brightness than the standard Pixel 9. The Pixel 9 Pro can switch its refresh rate between 1Hz and 120Hz depending on the content on the screen, while the Pixel 9 has an adaptive range from 60Hz to 120Hz. The Pixel 9 Pro also reaches a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits, compared to 2,700 nits on the Pixel 9. While the Pixel 9 Pro is brighter, the Pixel 9 still performs well enough for visibility in direct sunlight.

Color options for the Pixel 9 include Obsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen, and Peony. The Pixel 9 Pro shares the Obsidian and Porcelain colors but adds exclusive shades like Hazel and Rose Quartz.

Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 9 Pro: Release Date and Price

The Pixel 9 series is the most expensive Google Pixel phone to date. However, the enhancements and new features might justify the higher price for some buyers. The standard Google Pixel 9 prices start at A$1,349, while the Google Pixel 9 Pro price starts at A$1,699. It makes sense that these phones come at such different price points. After all, the more you pay, the more powerful and capable your device will be!

The Google Pixel 9 release date fell on August 22, while the Pixel 9 Pro was launched on September 9, 2024

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Camera

Google has gained a reputation for delivering some of the best camera smartphones, and we are happy to say that these two devices are consistent with this. Both devices have a 50MP primary lens and a 48MP ultrawide camera with a new Macro mode for detailed close-up shots. However, the Pixel 9 Pro ups the ante with a 48MP periscope telephoto lens capable of a 5x optical zoom. Also, thanks to Google's Super Res Zoom, the telephoto lens can support up to 30x digital zoom, compared to the 8x maximum on the standard Pixel 9.

The Pixel 9 Pro sports a high-resolution 42MP front camera for selfies, while the Pixel 9 has a 10.5MP front camera.

The new Add Me feature makes it easier for photographers to join group photos. It combines two pictures taken right after each other into one image. First, the photographer takes a photo and then passes the camera to someone else in the group for the next shot. An augmented reality overlay shows you where to stand to get in the picture.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Performance and Software

The Google Pixel 9 series runs on the same processor: the Tensor G4 chip. However, Google gives the Pro models a bump in terms of RAM as they feature 16GB RAM compared to the 12GB RAM in the standard Pixel 9. This is a 4GB boost all around. The additional RAM does make the Pixel 9 Pro better at multitasking. But this doesn't mean that the standard model is a slouch in comparison. It should perform well in most use cases. Plus, it's worth noticing that the Pixel 9 supports most of the same AI features as the Pixel 9 Pro, such as Pixel Studio, Pixel Screenshots, and Call Notes. This is quite a considerable feat given that Google originally planned to restrict specific AI features to the Pixel 8 Pro because the standard model has a smaller 8GB RAM. 

Both models have the Gemini AI assistant, which helps you keep track of your schedule and manage tasks. If you get the Pixel 9 Pro, you also get a subscription to Gemini Advanced, which offers more features for demanding tasks. The Pixel 9 Pro offers up to 1TB of storage, while the Pixel 9 tops at 256GB.

Additionally, Google promises seven years of software updates for both phones, so they will stay current for a long time. Whether you pick the Pixel 9 or the Pixel 9 Pro, you'll have a robust smartphone that offers a great experience.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Battery Life

The battery life and charging times are identical for both phones, which have 4,700 mAh. This is quite the upgrade from the Pixel 8, which came with a 4,575 mAh. However, if you want more power, the Pixel 9 Pro XL might be a better choice as it has a 5,060 mAh battery.

The Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro can charge up to a 45W capacity if you use the Google 45W USB-C charger. Google claims that the phones can charge up to 55% in 30 minutes. The two devices do differ in terms of wireless charging, though. The standard model offers 15W wireless charging, while the Pro can get up to 21W.

Verdict

So, which Google Pixel 9 phone should you choose? It depends. The standard model is a great all-around phone that works well for most users. However, you must admit that the Pixel 9 Pro could also be a great buy, as it combines all the top-end hardware of the Pixel 9 Pro XL in a smaller, more manageable form factor. You'll enjoy extended battery life, solid performance, software updates for seven years after the release, and a host of the latest AI features. Plus, a one-year subscription to Gemini Advanced comes included, giving you access to the impressive Gemini Live conversational AI assistant.

While it may not be cheap at A$1,699, this price is typical for a premium smartphone. Nevertheless, if you want to save some cash, consider opting for refurbished Google Pixel phones instead.