Pixel 9 Pro XL is a bigger version of Pixel 9 Pro. First of all, I will tell you at the beginning of this Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review that this phone does not have special camera features or extra RAM for better performance. It has a big screen and a big battery.
This means the Pixel 9 Pro is an even better choice this year. You can pick your phone based on the size you prefer, not the features you need.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Pricing
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is now available for pre-order at $1,099 / £1,099 / AU$1,849. It will hit stores on August 22, alongside the Pixel 9. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Fold will arrive on September 4.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is almost identical to the Google Pixel 9 Pro. But, phone makers like Apple and Samsung often save special features for their biggest phones. So, if you want the best cameras and features, go for the biggest phone.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL has all the features of the Pixel 9 Pro, including the 5x zoom camera. It has two advantages over the Pixel 9, but these are not entirely clear. Both are related to its larger size.
Pixel 9 Pro XL review display advantages
The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a bigger 6.8-inch Super Actua display. It’s larger than the 6.3-inch screen from the Pixel 9 Pro. It also has more pixels for a higher resolution.
But, is the Pixel 9 Pro XL screen better? Not really. Both screens can get as bright as 3,000 nits. They use LTPO technology for a low-power, always-on display that runs at 1Hz. They also have the same specs for color and contrast.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL has more pixels, but the pixels on the smaller screen are packed tighter. This makes the smaller screen a bit sharper. But the difference is tiny and hard to see.
In reality, the difference is too small for most people to notice. Both phones have screens that are sharper than any iPhone or Galaxy phone. Google makes the best smartphone displays, whether you choose the big or small one.
The camera is the same on the Pixel 9 Pro.
The main choice between the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL is the screen size. You don’t have to worry about the zoom difference like with the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL has better ‘power’
When I asked Google about the differences between the Pixel 9 Pro and XL, they mentioned the display and “power.” I thought it meant a bigger battery, but there’s more to it.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL indeed has a bigger battery, around 5,060mAh. The Pixel 9 Pro has a 4,700mAh battery and the same as the Pixel 9.
Charging speed is now 45W, making these phones charge faster than before. But, you’ll need to find a fast charger because one isn’t included.
The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro can also use a 45W charger. They charge up to 55% in about 30 minutes. The Pixel 9 Pro XL charges up to 70% in the same time.
Google claims the Pixel 9 Pro XL charges more than 3,500mAh in 30 minutes with the same charger. I’m curious to see how this works in my full review.
Pixel 9 Pro XL: Bigger Screen, Same Great Phone
There’s no other difference between the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Pixel 9 Pro. This makes the Pixel 9 family easier to explain to potential buyers.
You can learn more about the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL in my hands-on review. The Pixel 9 misses out on some new AI video features and the 5x zoom lens. It also doesn’t get Google’s Gemini Live Conversation tool.
If you’re thinking about the Pixel 9 Pro XL, it’s a simpler choice this year. You don’t have to spend more just for the best cameras. If you only wanted the best cameras, you can save money with the smaller Pixel 9 Pro.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL is great for those who want a big screen. It has a bright and colorful display. Plus, it has low-power LTPO features.
There was no XL model last year, but the Pixel 8 Pro went on sale quickly. This year’s Pixel 9 family launches early, but expect big sales before the year ends. If you don’t need it now, waiting for a deal might be smart.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Pros
- Stunning new design that’s both durable and sleke
- massive RAM ensures future-proof performance.
- Larger display, longer battery life, and blazing-fast charging.
Cons
- Reliance on Google AI raises privacy concerns.
- High price point compared to other flagship options.
- Fast charging but no included charger.
