Choose the perfect Google Pixel 9 for you.
The latest Pixel 9 phones make for a lot of options – so use this 3-step buying guide to find the right one for you

With the varying performance and specs of the all-new Google Pixel 9 phones, you might be wondering – which one’s right for me?This 3-step buying guide that compares the latest Pixel models will help you better decide the best Pixel phone for you.

Step 1:  Understand the core features of the Pixel 9 Series Next-generation design with updated camera bar.

The Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold all feature a revamped, next-generation design. The first thing you’ll probably notice is the rear camera. The rectangular camera bar from previous models has been completely redesigned – it’s now an oval shape inspired by the iconic Google search window. The bezels have been given a facelift as well, thinned down to a uniform width around the display for a more expansive display experience.

The most helpful AI experience yet, powered by the Tensor G4.

In terms of performance, you’ll find the Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL have made big steps forward, thanks to the new and better Tensor G4 chip1 developed specifically to unleash the power of Google's AI, such as: 

  • Gemini AI Assistant2: Akin to a personal assistant to help you navigate life a little more both at home and on the go. Thinking of taking a trip? Gemini can suggest an itinerary. Wading through emails? Gemini can summarise them for you. These are just a few examples – Gemini has plenty of tricks up its sleeve.

  • Auto frame in Magic Editor: This new feature automatically reframes your photo, new or old. It can suggest the best crop and even expand your image to get more of the scene.

  • Reimagine in Magic Editor3: Give your photos a whole new vision – like adding autumnal leaves or greener grass. Just tap the part that you want to change in the photo and type what you want to see. 

  • Add Me: Another new AI feature that combines photos taken by different photographers so everyone can be in your photos.4

90% fast charging in 1 hour with Battery Sharing5

All of the new Pixels can be charged to 90% in approximately one hour using the Google 45W USB-C® fast charger (sold separately)5 - and with Extreme Battery Saver enabled, all three Pixels can last up to 100 hours on a single charge.6

Additionally with Battery Sharing feature available on each of the new Pixel models, you can charge a Qi-compatible smartphone like iPhone or Qi-compatible wireless earphones like the Pixel Buds Pro just by placing them on the back of the Google Pixel. 

7 years of software updates from launch to keep you and your data safe

All three models will get regular security updates, OS updates, and feature drops for at least seven years after launch7 – so your Pixel gets safer and more useful over time. For better security, the new ultrasonic fingerprint sensor makes it easier for you – and only you – to unlock your device or app and authenticate payments. And because it’s ultrasonic, it works even if the screen has a little water, dust, or oil on it.

Step 2:  Meet the Pixel that matches your need

We’ll break down the top distinguishing features between each phone, such as display size, weight, camera quality, battery and more, so you can decide what’s right for you.

Pixel 9: Compact size and high-performance dual camera.

If you’re looking for a powerful everyday device that checks nearly every box – from spectacular photos to advanced AI features – this may be the best Pixel phone for you.

Available in bold and expressive colours with rendition to design finish.

The Pixel 9 introduces a fresh colour palette, expanding on the classic obsidian and porcelain with the addition of vibrant wintergreen and eye-catching peony. Its sleek, matte metal frame and smooth curves elevates the signature Pixel design, layered with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 display glass to help protect against scratches and drops.8

Upgraded hardware to power you through the day

You’ll appreciate the sharp images and rich colours on Pixel 9’s 6.3" Actua display9 that’s also 35% brighter than the Pixel 810, especially if you’re gaming, scrolling, and switching between apps. It’s a smooth experience because the device now comes with 12GB of RAM (up from Pixel 8’s 8GB) and has a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. To improve battery performance, capacity of Pixel 9 has been increased to 4,700mAh10 (versus the Pixel 8’s 4,575mAh).

Outstanding camera performance for incredible shots.

The Pixel 9’s dual-camera has a 50-megapixel main camera and a 48-megapixel ultrawide camera with Macro Focus - the same one built into Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL Compared to the Google Pixel 8, it boasts four times more pixels for better photo detail, and the aperture has been increased from ƒ/2.2 to ƒ/1.7 for brighter, clearer shots.

Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL: Triple camera for stunning Pro level photography.

Pixel Pro 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL are the most powerful Pixel phones available. They share almost all the same features, so choosing between them is a matter of which size Super Actua display suits your needs.

2 sizes, same Pro experience

The Pro now comes in two display sizes: the standard Pro’s screen at 6.3 inches7, the same as Google Pixel 9 so you can get the best camera hardware yet keeping the phone compact, and the 9 Pro XL’s 6.8-inch7 screen (vs Pixel 8 Pro at 6.3-inch) which gives you a more immersive display experience for getting into videos and gaming. A larger size also allows Pixel 9 Pro to hold a larger battery capacity of 5,060mAh, compared to Pixel 9 Pro at 4,700mAh.11

Mobile photography reimagined with advanced camera features

The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL’s triple camera takes it up a notch with a 48 megapixel telephoto camera that supports 5x optical zoom. That’s already going to make for some pretty incredible shots, but pair it with the AI-powered Super Res Zoom you can get up to 30x magnification for capturing subjects even if you’re far away12. And for the up-close shots, there’s Macro Focus, which allows you to take detailed pictures from as close as 2cm away. 

Although the Pixel takes incredible shots on its own, sometimes you want more control. That’s where Pro Controls comes in where you can adjust the shutter speed, the focus, ISO, and sensitivity13. Let’s say you’re shooting the kids’ sports day. By adjusting the shutter speed and focus, you can capture dynamic images in stunning detail. Or maybe you’re shooting at night. You can increase the ISO sensitivity to capture crystal clear starry skies.

Even if you don’t get the shot quite right at the time, you can use the AI-powered Zoom Enhance13to maintain high resolution even if you enlarge or crop part of the photo.

Unlock cinematic quality videos with Video Boost

Imagine capturing breathtaking landscapes on your next road trip, or recording crystal-clear videos of your kids' sports day. With Pixel's upgraded video capabilities, these moments are now within reach. For the first time, Super Res Zoom also supports video, allowing up to 20x zoom shooting on Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL.12

Still not quite perfect? A little dark? Grainy? Shaky? Video Boost, powered by AI, can automatically correct brightness, camera shake, and noise, and now it also supports high-definition videos at 8K/30fps.12 Video Boost also powers Night Sight which allows you to capture clear videos in low light. Whether you're a budding filmmaker or simply capturing life's precious moments, Pixel's advanced video features deliver stunning results.

Pixel Pro Fold: Dual screen for multitasking & hands-free selfies

Flip open the strikingly slim Pixel 9 Pro Fold and it forms a larger screen that’s great for multitasking, photography, gaming, and other entertainment.

Slim and portable

Pixel 9 Pro Fold slips easily into your pocket and comes with two screens: a 6.3" Actua display while folded and an immersive 8" Super Actua Flex display when unfolded, making it an epic portion screen on a foldable device.14 And its luxurious design features a silky matte back with satin metal frame. 

Doing multiple things at once is simple

Like chatting with friends while dragging and dropping images – thanks to Split Screen.15 Enjoy hands-free entertainment with tabletop mode. Embrace your creative side and improve your productivity with Gemini Advanced on your favourite apps, thanks to a one-year Google One AI Premium plan that’s included for eligible users when buy a Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9 Pro XL or Pixel 9 Pro (exclusions apply).16 And if you’re looking for an easy way to chat in a foreign language, Google Translate with dual screen support makes it simple.17 It has the same 16 GB of RAM as Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, for fast and snappy performance.

Your photography assistant with Hands-free photos and helpful AI editing tools

Unfold a world of creativity with the powerful triple rear camera system and advanced features like Pro controls and Video Boost. The second gen Pro Fold also includes AI editing tools like Add Me,18 Magic Editor, Auto Frame, and Reimagine.19 Plus, it can help you get your kids to smile for pictures with Made You Look, and take high-quality selfies and hands-free group photos in tabletop mode. 

So, in a nutshell…

Obviously, there’s a lot to consider when picking the best Google Pixel phone for you and this Pixel comparison chart sums it up:

Step 3: Get your perfect Pixel phone at the best value with Google Store trade-in program

Now that you know the differences between, it’s time to make the purchase at the best value. Explore the full range of Pixel products, including the Pixel Watch and Pixel Buds here.

Takeaways
Each of the new-generation Pixels pack the latest AI-powered features into a smartphone that fits comfortably in your hand.For a smoother, more helpful AI experience, the Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold are powered by the Tensor G4 chip.Both the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL have a triple camera including a telephoto lens. The highest performance model in the series is available in two sizes.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold
An epic display of Google AI.
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  1. Compared to earlier Pixel phones.

  2. Gemini mobile app available on select devices, languages and countries. Works with compatible accounts and some features may not be available based on corporate account settings. Internet connection required. Check responses for accuracy. 

  3. Only available in English. 

  4. Results may vary. Not available for all cameras, apps or modes.

  5. Charging speed based upon testing with device batteries drained to 1% and charged with Google 45W USB-C® Charger (sold separately). Charging testing conducted by Google in early 2024 on pre-production hardware and software using default settings with the device powered on. Charging speed depends upon many factors including usage during charging, battery age and ambient temperature. Actual charging speed may be slower.  

  6. For 'over 24 hours': Estimated battery life based on testing using a median Pixel user battery usage profile across a mix of talk, data, standby and use of other features. For 'Up to 100 hours': Estimated battery life based on testing using a median Pixel user battery usage profile across a mix of talk, data, standby and use of limited other features that are default in Extreme Battery Saver mode (which disables various features, including 5G connectivity). For both claims: Battery testing conducted on a major US operator network in California in early 2024 on pre-production hardware and software using default settings, except that, for the 'up to 100 hours' claim only, Extreme Battery Saver mode was enabled. Tests began with phones fully charged. Battery life depends upon many factors, and usage of certain features will decrease battery life. Actual battery life may be lower.

  7. Pixel updates for seven years from when the device first became available from the Google Store in the US. See g.co/pixel/updates for details.

  8. Designed to comply with dust and water protection rating IP68 under IEC standard 60529 when each device leaves the factory, but the device is not water or dust proof. The accessories are not water or dust resistant. Water resistance and dust resistance are not permanent conditions and will diminish or be lost over time due to normal wear and tear, device repair, disassembly or damage. Phone is not drop/tumble proof and dropping your device may result in the loss of water/dust resistance. Damage from drops, tumbles and other external forces are not covered under the Limited Warranty, and liquid damage voids the Limited Warranty but you may still have certain rights available to you under applicable consumer law. See g.co/pixel/water for details.

  9. Screen has rounded corners. When measured diagonally as a rectangle, the screen is 6.3 inches (for the Pixel 9 Pro) and 6.8 inches (for the Pixel 9 Pro XL). Actual viewable area is less. Dimensions may vary by configuration and manufacturing process.

  10. Peak brightness measured at 5% on-pixel ratio.

  11. Estimate of typical capacity based on testing and expected cell behaviour.

  12. Not available for all cameras, apps or modes

  13. Pro models only. Not available for all cameras, apps or modes. 

  14. Screen has rounded corners. When measured diagonally as a rectangle, external screen is 6.3 inches and internal screen is 8 inches. Actual viewable area is less. Dimension may vary by configuration and manufacturing process.

  15. Requires compatible apps.

  16. The Google One AI Premium, Fitbit Premium and YouTube Premium trial offers are available to eligible users of each service with the purchase and activation of Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold by 1 November 2025 for the Google One AI Premium offer and by 1 January 2026 for the Fitbit Premium and YouTube Premium offers.. Offers expire at 1:29 p.m. IST on 16 November 2025 for Google One AI Premium and 1 January 2026 at 1:29 p.m. IST for Fitbit Premium and YouTube Premium. Valid form of payment required at sign-up, but you will not be charged the ₹1950/mo for Google One AI Premium, ₹99/mo for Fitbit Premium or ₹129/mo for YouTube Premium until the respective trial period expires. Cancel at any time. Return of purchased device may result in cancellation of all subscriptions. Fitbit Premium content and features may change. See youtube.com/premium/restrictions, g.co/fitbitpremium/tos and one.google.com/offer/terms-and-conditions/pixel9pro&profold for full terms.

  17. Live Translate is not available in all languages or countries. See g.co/pixel/livetranslate for more information. Translation may not be instantaneous

  18. Results may vary. Not available for all cameras, apps, or modes. 

  19. Results may vary.