For the first time ever, Google’s Pixel lineup includes a Pro and Pro XL model. You’ll find that these variants have similar specs but come in different sizes. When choosing a new smartphone, choosing between closely-matched models like the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL can be confusing. But once you know the key differences between the two phones, it becomes clear why some people tend to go for the larger model.
These features of the Pixel 9 Pro XL could be the deciding factor in your decision, whether in terms of performance, display, or even daily usage experience. For me, I prefer the Pixel 9 Pro XL because its larger size gives it some advantages. Let's take a look at them below. Check out the features that the Google Pixel 9 series, Pixel Watch 3, and Pixel Buds Pro 2 bring.
1. Larger screen space
The most obvious difference between Pixel 9 Pro The XL variant is the screen size. While the former has a 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, the latter comes with a 6.8-inch display. Both displays carry the Super Actua branding and can reach a peak brightness of 3,000 nits.
Because the Pixel 9 Pro XL has a larger screen, it can display more information on the screen. That means less scrolling when browsing long articles or emails. The larger screen also makes it perfect for watching videos and playing games.
2. Better thermal performance
Smartphones are getting more powerful every year, which means they generate more heat than ever before. Google is using a vapor chamber cooling system in the Pixel 9 Pro series to improve heat dissipation and ensure sustained performance under load. But it’s hard to beat the laws of physics.
A larger phone has more internal space and can therefore accommodate a larger vapor chamber. So, a larger phone will always provide better heat dissipation than a smaller one. Given that Google’s Tensor processors are notorious for getting hot, opting for the Pixel 9 Pro XL seems like the right move.
3. Longer battery life
The larger body means more internal space for a bigger battery. The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a 5,060mAh battery compared to the Pixel 9 Pro’s 4,700mAh unit. While the difference is only 300mAh, it should be enough to ensure the Pro XL lasts longer than its regular Pro sibling.
A smartphone is only as good as its battery life. When you know your phone can easily last a full day of use, you won’t have to worry about finding a place to charge the battery in the middle of the day. Plus, longer battery life can help charge your other wireless accessories in an instant.
Pixel phones are notorious for their erratic battery life. To avoid any oddities, you’ll want a phone with as big a battery as possible. Longer battery life is one of the main features of the Pixel 9 Pro that I’m looking forward to, and the XL should be even more impressive on that front. Check out why I picked the Pixel 9 Pro over the Pixel 9: A comparison of the two devices.
4. Faster charging
Slow charging speeds have always been an issue with Google’s Pixel lineup. While some Android phones can charge from 0 to 100% in about 30 minutes, the Pixel 8 took nearly 90 minutes.
With the Pixel 9 Pro XL, Google has finally bumped up wired charging speeds to 37W. Unfortunately, that speed increase doesn’t apply to the Pixel 9 Pro — wired charging is still capped at 27W. Google claims the Pixel 9 Pro XL can charge up to 70% in 30 minutes, while the 9 Pro only gets to 55% in the same amount of time.
Fast charging is an essential feature to look for when buying a smartphone, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL meets that requirement. However, since the Pixel 9 Pro XL also comes with a larger 300mAh battery, its 0-100% charging time is unlikely to be noticeably shorter than the 9 Pro.
At $1,099, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is $100 more expensive than its Pro sibling. However, its larger screen, longer battery life, and better thermal performance easily justify the price difference. Here are the Pixel 9 Pro features I’m excited about and looking forward to getting to.
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