### Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL Review: A New Chapter for Pixel Phones
The Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL represent a major advancement in Google’s range of smartphones. For the first time, Google presents two Pro variants that share identical features except for their size. Both devices provide comparable experiences, loaded with state-of-the-art AI capabilities, an impressive camera system, and a striking new aesthetic. Nonetheless, the Pixel 9 series comes with certain downsides, such as a price hike and performance constraints. Below is a thorough examination of the standout qualities of the Pixel 9 Pro series and its shortcomings.
—
### **Key Features and Conclusion**
**Rating: 4/5**
**Pros:**
– Two size options without compromising features
– Seven years of software updates and support
– Outstanding AI functionalities
– Remarkable camera quality
– Enhanced charging speeds
– Excellent haptic feedback
**Cons:**
– Inconsistent fingerprint sensor, particularly with screen protectors
– Tensor G4 processor underperforms in gaming scenarios and throttles when under strain
– Low PWM dimming rate, which may lead to discomfort for certain users
– Higher price tag compared to earlier models
– Entry-level variant begins with 128GB storage
—
### **Design: A Striking New Aesthetic**
The Pixel 9 Pro series showcases an eye-catching new design that some users will adore, while others might see similarities to the iPhone. Google has chosen flat edges and a sleek aluminum frame, giving the devices a stylish look, though susceptible to fingerprints and smudges. The shiny surface also contributes to the phones being a bit tricky to grip, prompting users to consider a protective case.
The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL come in four color options: Obsidian (black), Porcelain (white), Hazel (grey), and Rose Quartz (pink). Both models nearly mirror each other in design, with size being the sole differentiating factor.
—
### **Display: Bright and Stunning, yet with a Drawback**
The Pixel 9 Pro sports a 6.3-inch Super Actua display, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL features a larger 6.8-inch screen. Both displays can reach brightness levels of 3000 nits and support a 120Hz variable refresh rate. The screens are vibrant, showcasing remarkable color precision and HDR capabilities.
However, the display’s low 240Hz PWM dimming rate could lead to discomfort for users sensitive to screen flickering, particularly in dim lighting conditions. Competing devices from Samsung and Apple provide higher PWM rates that alleviate eye strain.
—
### **Performance: Tensor G4 Lags Behind**
The Pixel 9 Pro series is equipped with Google’s Tensor G4 chip, which, while tailored for AI functions, falls short compared to rivals like Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Apple’s A17 Pro regarding raw performance. The Tensor G4 faces challenges with gaming and tends to throttle under intense use, rendering it less suitable for users who prioritize gaming capabilities.
In routine tasks, the Pixel 9 Pro performs adequately, but it cannot rival the speed and efficiency of its competitors. Benchmark assessments indicate that the Tensor G4 trails behind in both CPU and GPU performance, especially in multi-core operations and gaming scenarios.
—
### **Battery Life: An Unexpected Advantage**
In spite of the lackluster performance of the Tensor G4, the Pixel 9 Pro series shines in battery longevity. The Pixel 9 Pro XL, featuring a 5060mAh battery, easily endures a full day of extensive use. In testing, the device operated from early morning until midnight without dipping below 20% battery. During video playback trials, the Pixel 9 Pro XL discharged at a steady pace, lasting over 13 hours.
Charging speeds have also seen an upgrade, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL accommodating 37W wired and 23W wireless charging. However, the charging rate significantly decreases once the battery hits 50%.
—
### **Cameras: Leading the Pack**
The Pixel 9 Pro series upholds Google’s legacy of providing some of the top smartphone cameras available. The rear triple-camera arrangement features a 50MP primary sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The front-facing camera is a 42MP sensor with a 103-degree field of view, ideal for group selfies.
Google’s AI-enhanced camera functionalities, such as Magic Editor and Reimagine, enable users to effortlessly refine and modify photos. The Pixel 9 Pro excels in low-light settings, portrait photography, and zoom features, making it a prime choice for photography aficionados.
—
### **Software and AI: The Strength of Gemini**
The Pixel 9 Pro series utilizes Google’s most recent AI platform, Gemini. This empowers a variety of new features, including advanced photo editing options, real-time transcription, and improved voice recognition. Gemini Nano, a multimodal AI, can
