Was Google’s decision to offer two Pro models in 2024 excessive or a sign of confidence? I’m going with the latter.
As a smartphone manufacturer, Google has historically been running in third place. Samsung has been quicker and slicker with the Galaxy models for years, and Apple still offers the most seamless OS experience. Then you’ve got strong competition from both Oppo and Nothing. But the distinction has been tricker in recent years. Google has picked up speed with the Pixel series, to the point where I’d now confidentially say that the company is running side by side with its fruity competition.
It’s the top Android experience out there. That used to be only true from a software perspective, but Google’s compelling leaps with hardware have been unquestionable.
And yes, splitting the 9 Pro into two versions does seem like a play of confidence. The 8th generation won Google plenty of new users, so it makes sense that the company would try new options to bring even more into the ecosystem. Is that confidence justified? Read on for our full long-term Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review to find out.
Design
The only meaningful difference between the 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL is the size of both the display and the battery. I’ve tested both phones and while my hands prefer the 9 Pro proper, the XL is the perfect “big” size where it doesn’t feel unwieldy to hold but offers markedly different tactility at 6.8 inches. That’s the same size as the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max is 6.7 inches.
The squared aluminium frame helps the 9 Pro XL feel a bit like a tablet in the hands, more like an Apple than a Galaxy—if we’re playing the comparison game. I’ve had several people mistake this for an iPhone when they see it from the front.
Look at it from the back, however, and there’s no mistaking this for an Apple product. Google likes that futuristic look for the camera and I think it works quite well having a curvy pill-like horizontal strip as opposed to Apple’s camera square. It helps the build feel both genuinely premium and progressive while taking it forward from Google’s signature horizontal strip.
Smartphone manufacturers are constantly finding ways to introduce more sustainability efforts into the build process without compromising on a premium look. It’s impressive when you think about the 9 Pro XL’s overall design with a 100% recycled aluminium outer frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 used for both the front and rear panels. The balance between a super protective build and one that easily ticks all the aesthetic requirements is admirable, even if Google have resisted to use of lightweight titanium to keep in step with competitors.
Google certainly hasn’t skimped with this panel. The beautiful display has a massive boost in max brightness of 1198 nits and I didn’t notice any shifting or distortion at any time. And I could enjoy content without straining in bright settings. The 1-120Hz adaptive resolution rate works beautifully with the Super Actua OLED panel, offering a great visual experience that doesn’t clunk up even with those more data-intensive apps like everyone’s favourite video editor, Capcut.
The body has that sturdy aluminium frame and glass back, but I’d suggest using this one with a case. The glossy finish tends to attract quite a bit of fingerprints
Performance
Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by Google’s Tensor G4 chip, paired with 16GB of RAM. This combination ensures a smooth and responsive experience when multitasking or running demanding applications. During my time testing the phone in Chicago, I used the device to navigate the city’s extensive public transit system, stream music, and edit photos on the go. Not even a noticeable lag. The Pixel handled everything with ease, without any slowdowns, which is a noticeable improvement from the 8 Pro.
However, it’s worth noting that the device did warm up during extended sessions of 8K video recording so I tended to shy away from that. While not a deal-breaker, it’s something to be aware of if you plan on using the camera extensively. In terms of storage, the base model comes with 128GB, which might feel limiting given the large file sizes of 8K videos and high-resolution photos. Opting for the higher storage variants would be a wise choice for power users.
Camera
The camera system on the Pixel 9 Pro XL is nothing short of impressive. Especially when it comes to video. It features a triple-lens setup, including a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. This versatile array allowed me to capture a wide range of scenes, but I found it particularly good for architecture. The iPhone 16 Pro can’t pick up details quite as well as this, which I would imagine comes from Google’s constantly refined post-production.
That said, there are still some issues. Shadows are brightened efficiently which can throw off contrast if you’re trying to shoot in more varied patches of light. I’ve been frustrated on more than just a few occasions, but Google’s adjustments do work well.
One standout feature is the ‘Add Me’ function, which enables you to take a photo and then seamlessly insert yourself into it. This was particularly useful for solo travel, allowing me to be part of group photos without handing my phone to strangers. It’s not quite there if you want photos to look perfectly natural, but their improvements can’t be ignored.
Low-light performance has also seen significant improvements. Capturing the neon glow of Tokyo’s streets at night resulted in sharp, vibrant images with minimal noise. The front-facing 42MP camera ensures that selfies are detailed and well-exposed.
For videographers and social media users, the refined Pan mode is a game-changer. I’d say it’s my favourite video feature when shooting for content now, placing this heads and tails above both Samsung and Apple when it comes to shooting those smooth, stable recordings that look good in any lighting situation. Surprisingly, it looks even better at night, with video Night Mode great at picking up details the iPhone 16 Pro wouldn’t.
Pan mode was introduced a few generations back but it’s never been more valuable than now. The improvements in the camera mean that these slow, steady pans truly look cinematic and consistent. This is especially valuable for TikTok and Instagram Reels creators, as it allows for professional-quality videos without needing external stabilisers.
Battery
Battery life is a critical factor for travellers, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL doesn’t disappoint. Equipped with a 5,060mAh battery, it comfortably lasted through a full day of heavy use. Compare this to the 4700mAh cell in the 9 Pro proper, and all Google needed to do was include a chip that could make genuine claims about energy efficiency.
Nailed it.
The battery life is the single best thing about the XL and it easily outlasts any phone I own right now, including the iPhone 16 Pro.
When it did come time to recharge, the 37W fast charging capability was a welcome feature. I was able to get up to 70% charge in just 30 minutes, which was particularly handy during short breaks between sightseeing. Additionally, the device supports fast wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, allowing me to top up my wireless earbuds on the go.
AI Features
Google’s Gemini AI is deeply integrated into the Pixel 9 Pro XL, enhancing the user experience in meaningful ways. But its full potential isn’t there yet. Planning my itinerary while travelling became a breeze; I could simply ask, “Hey Google, draft an itinerary for a day in Shinjuku,” and receive a tailored plan complete with restaurant recommendations and sightseeing spots. Good ones too.
The AI’s image-generation capabilities are also noteworthy. For instance, I was able to generate images based on specific prompts, which came in handy when visualizing different travel scenarios. Translation features are robust, allowing for real-time transcription and translation of conversations—a lifesaver when navigating language barriers in Tokyo.
Value
Priced from $1,699, the Pixel 9 Pro XL positions itself in the premium segment of the market. The premium over the standard Pixel 9 Pro gets you a larger display and a bigger battery, which are significant upgrades for power users and travellers. But aside from the bigger battery, you’re paying a few hundred more for pretty much the same phone.
I do think this is the best phone Google has made to date. And while I much prefer the smaller form factor of the 9 proper, I’m glad Google has offered two sizes this generation, competing quite fiercely with the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
2024 was Google’s year in my opinion, so I’m hoping this pushes both Apple and Samsung to step up their game in 2025.
FOUR AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Highlights: Video recording is the best on the market right now; doesn’t feel too bulky in the hand, has excellent battery life and energy efficiency, great for watching content.
Lowlights: Expensive, is a bit of a fingerprint magnet
Price: From $1,699
