Google has raised the prices of its latest Pixel phones, marking the company’s most expensive lineup to date. This move, while somewhat expected, has taken many by surprise as price increases are often spaced out between generations.
Having used the Pixel 8 Pro for nearly a year, I find little incentive to upgrade to the new Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL models, particularly the latter, which is viewed as the direct successor to the Pixel 8 Pro. Instead, I recommend considering the standard Pixel 9.
Google’s decision to implement consecutive year-over-year price hikes is unusual. The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL are perceived as overrated, leading to the Pixel 9 emerging as the top choice this time. Here’s why.
The Pixel 9 should not be overlooked despite lacking the ‘Pro’ label. In my preview comparing the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL, it’s clear that the Pixel 9 is powered by the same Tensor G4 chip as the pricier models. This isn’t a variant or a previous model’s chip; it mirrors Apple’s approach with its standard iPhone variants.
I’m curious about performance differences among the three models, as the Pixel 9 should theoretically perform similarly in benchmarks. It comes with 12GB of RAM compared to the 16GB in its Pro counterparts. This difference is likely to affect the Pixel 9’s ability to retain more apps in memory for convenient recall without having to reload.
While the Pixel 9 doesn’t include a year of free access to Gemini Live, it offers the same AI-assisted photo editing features unveiled at the Made by Google event, such as Add Me, Pixel Studio, and Reimagine. However, it lacks access to Video Boost, Night Sight Video, and Super Res Zoom Video, which are specifically for video functions.
With Pixel Studio, users can create custom sketches and images by simply describing their vision through a text box in the app. I was impressed with both the speed and accuracy of this feature in generating images that matched my requests.
Additionally, the Pixel 9 includes the same main and ultrawide cameras as the Pro versions, featuring a 50MP main camera and a 48MP ultrawide camera with a 123-degree field of view. Unless Google employs different image processing for the Pro models, the Pixel 9 should deliver comparable photo quality.
Although it lacks a telephoto camera, the Pixel 9’s main camera may still capture decent telephoto shots. Google has effectively utilized pixel binning in past models, suggesting the Pixel 9 could handle acceptable shots at 2x or 3x zoom.
The design of the Pixel 9 features flatter edges and a redesigned camera bar at the back. Still, all three models boast the same IP68 rating and durability. While I prefer the matte glass of the Pro versions, the Pixel 9 maintains a high-quality design without compromising on features.
One significant aspect is the cost. The Pixel 9 starts at $799, reflecting a $100 increase from last year’s Pixel 8, making it the most affordable option in the new lineup, compared to the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL, which retail for $999 and $1,099, respectively. The $200 savings make the Pixel 9 appealing, particularly as both models come equipped with 128GB of storage. I’m particularly interested in reviewing battery life in upcoming evaluations; unless the Pixel 9 Pro significantly surpasses the Pixel 9, the latter remains a compelling choice.