Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Galaxy S24 Ultra

Overview

• Pixel 9 Pro XL is Google's flagship for 2024.
• Competes directly with Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra, which many consider the best smartphone this year.
• Focus on whether the Pixel 9 Pro XL can dethrone the Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Size and Display

• Both phones have 6.8-inch displays.
• Dimensions are very close; only 0.1mm difference in thickness.
• Pixel 9 Pro XL weighs 221 grams; S24 Ultra is 233 grams (minimal noticeable difference).
• S24 Ultra has a higher pixel density, slight edge in display quality.
• S24 Ultra uses Gorilla Glass Armor:
  • More durable against drops and scratches.
  • Features an anti-reflective design that enhances clarity.
• Pixel 9 Pro XL uses Victus 2 glass (not as durable as Gorilla Glass Armor).

Chipsets

• Pixel 9 Pro XL: Tensor G4 chip; 15% improvement over G3.
• S24 Ultra: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3; significantly better performance.
  • 40% higher CPU performance in Geekbench tests.
  • 60% higher in AnTuTu (CPU and GPU).
• For casual use (social media, Netflix, light gaming), performance difference might not be noticeable.
• For demanding tasks, S24 Ultra shows clear advantages.

Battery Life

• S24 Ultra lasts up to two days.
• Outlasts the latest iPhone in tests.
• Pixel 9 Pro XL has a slightly larger battery but inferior efficiency due to the Tensor G4 chipset.
  • Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (TSMC) is more efficient than Tensor G4 (Samsung).
• Future Tensor chips in Pixel 10 may close the performance gap.

Advantages of Pixel 9 Pro XL

• More RAM (16GB vs. 12GB); extra RAM is reserved for on-device AI.
• Quicker software updates due to lighter Pixel UI compared to Samsung's One UI.
• Both brands offer seven years of OS updates.

AI Features

• Pixel 9 Pro XL:
  • New AI features like Admi, Auto Frame in Magic Editor, Reimagine, Pixel Screenshots.
• S24 Ultra:
  • Live translate, slow-mo video editing, sketch to image, portrait studio (with Z Fold 6).
• AI features are considered a draw due to collaboration between Google and Samsung.

Unique Features

• Pixel 9 Pro XL:
  • First Android phone with Satellite SOS feature for emergency services without cell service (free for two years).
• Charging speed is slightly faster on S24 Ultra, but not significantly impactful in real-world use.

Pricing

• Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at $1100 (128GB model), $100 less than S24 Ultra.
• For 256GB versions, prices are about the same.
• Google offers trade-in deals; potential for free phone plus Best Buy gift card.

Conclusion

• Pixel 9 Pro XL is a solid upgrade but does not outperform S24 Ultra in key areas (performance, battery life, display).
• S24 Ultra remains the king of Android for 2024.