The Google Pixel 9 packs a punch in a compact design, boasting impressive durability for a smaller smartphone. During our battery assessment, this device ran for over 16 hours while set at medium brightness. Additionally, Google's commitment to software updates is noteworthy, with the Pixel 9 expected to receive OS upgrades for a remarkable seven years, along with monthly security patches.
Focus on Photography
Historically, the Pixel line from Google has prioritized top-notch photography, establishing itself as a benchmark among "budget" Android phones over recent years. The Pixel 9 impresses with its 50 MP primary camera and f/1.7 aperture, producing photos with neutral colors, as noted in our review. Yet, the 1/1.31-inch sensor, paired with Google's image processing, doesn't particularly stand out from the crowd.
Camera Performance
In the early days of the Pixel, the camera quality was generally above average for its price category. However, since the Pixel 7, Google has elevated its game from the upper mid-range to premium offerings in just two iterations. With a suggested retail price just shy of $800, the Pixel 9 now faces stiff competition from other flagship devices, and it unfortunately falls short in zoom photography, as our tests have shown. Furthermore, the main camera doesn't outperform other smartphones in the same price segment, suffering from issues like noticeable blurriness at the edges.
Comparing Prices
When we look at pricing, one of the Pixel 9's main rivals is the Galaxy S series. The Galaxy S24, which has been available for more than eight months, currently retails for around $620 on Amazon, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the Pixel 9. Additionally, the newly launched Xiaomi 14T Pro is also priced lower than the Google S24.
