Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Pixel 8 Pro: A Comprehensive Comparison Based on the Latest Hands-On Leaks [Gallery]

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Pixel 8 Pro: A Comprehensive Comparison

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro are the latest additions to Google’s flagship smartphone series. Both devices have been subjected to numerous hands-on leaks, revealing several similarities and differences. In this comparison, we will delve into the aspects where these devices stand out.

Design

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: The design of the Pixel 9 Pro XL is expected to feature a large 6.7-inch curved OLED display, with minimal bezel and a sleek finish. The device is rumored to adopt a metal frame with a glass back for improved durability and wireless charging capabilities.

Google Pixel 8 Pro: The design of the Pixel 8 Pro is expected to be quite similar, with a slightly smaller 6.5-inch flat OLED display and a metal frame with a glass back. Both phones are predicted to have an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.

Display

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: The large 6.7-inch display is expected to offer a resolution of 3120 x 1440 pixels, resulting in a high pixel density and vibrant colors. The curved design is said to offer improved viewing angles and reduced glare.

Google Pixel 8 Pro: The Pixel 8 Pro’s smaller 6.5-inch display may have a lower resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels but is still expected to provide excellent color accuracy and viewing angles due to its OLED technology.

Camera

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: Leaks suggest that the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s camera setup will consist of a primary 12.3-megapixel sensor, an ultra-wide angle lens with a 16-megapixel sensor, and a telephoto lens with a 8-megapixel sensor. The device is rumored to offer improved low-light capabilities and advanced computational photography features.

Google Pixel 8 Pro: The Pixel 8 Pro is expected to feature a similar camera setup, with some slight improvements in terms of image processing and software optimizations. However, the main difference may lie in the hardware, as the Pixel 8 Pro might use a newer generation of sensors for enhanced performance.

Performance

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: The device is predicted to be powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and come with up to 12GB of RAM. This configuration should ensure smooth performance for even the most demanding apps and multitasking.

Google Pixel 8 Pro: The Pixel 8 Pro is expected to feature a slightly less powerful processor but still offer ample performance for most users. With up to 10GB of RAM, the device should handle multitasking and heavy apps with ease.

Battery

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: The large display and powerful components will require a substantial battery. Leaks suggest that the device will come with a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day usage and fast charging capabilities.

Google Pixel 8 Pro: The smaller display and less power-hungry components will allow the Pixel 8 Pro to get by with a slightly smaller battery, estimated to be around 4500mAh. Fast charging capabilities are also expected for this model.

I. Introduction

Brief overview of Google Pixel series

The Google Pixel series, initially launched in 2016, represents Google’s foray into the smartphone market with their own branded devices. These phones are known for their superior camera quality, innovative features, and a focus on software optimization over hardware specs. Each new model brings improvements to the table, setting new standards and raising expectations for what’s next.

Importance of comparing new models to their predecessors

Comparing new Google Pixel models to their predecessors is crucial for understanding the progression of this series. It allows us to identify key improvements, assess the value of upgrades, and evaluate Google’s commitment to maintaining their market position. By focusing on the differences between models, we can gain a deeper understanding of the evolution of the Pixel line and anticipate future developments.

Explanation of the focus on the latest hands-on leaks for this comparison

For an accurate and comprehensive comparison, we will primarily be focusing on the latest hands-on leaks of the upcoming Google Pixel models. These leaks provide valuable insights into the anticipated features and improvements, allowing us to make informed comparisons with their predecessors. By analyzing these details, we can determine whether the upgrades are significant enough to justify an upgrade and anticipate the potential impact on the smartphone market as a whole.

Design and Display: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Pixel 8 Pro

Size comparison and dimensions

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and its predecessor, the Pixel 8 Pro, share some similarities in terms of design aesthetics. However, there are significant differences in their sizes and dimensions that set them apart.

Height, width, depth, and weight

The Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a slightly larger display compared to its predecessor. With a height of 168.9 mm, width of 75.2 mm, depth of 8.95 mm, and weight of around 210 g, it is noticeably larger than the Pixel 8 Pro, which has a height of 158.6 mm, width of 74.1 mm, depth of 8.59 mm, and weight of approximately 193 g.

Factors affecting size differences

The primary reason for the size difference lies in their displays. The Pixel 9 Pro XL comes with a larger 6.7-inch QHD+ AMOLED display, whereas the Pixel 8 Pro offers a 6.7-inch FHD+ OLED screen. The increased display size necessitated an expansion in the overall device dimensions, particularly in height and width. Additionally, the bezels of the Pixel 9 Pro XL have been minimized to provide a more immersive viewing experience.

Materials and build quality

Both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro share a common design language, with an aluminum frame encasing a glass back. The materials used for their construction ensure a premium build quality and a comfortable grip in the hand.

Display comparison

One of the most significant differences between the two devices is their display specifications.

Differences in technology and potential improvements

The Pixel 9 Pro XL sports a QHD+ (3120 x 1440 pixels) resolution display, while the Pixel 8 Pro features a lower FHD+ (2345 x 1080 pixels) resolution. This upgrade provides an increased pixel density of 512 PPI in the Pixel 9 Pro XL compared to the 430 PPI of the Pixel 8 Pro. Additionally, the newer model includes improved color accuracy and HDR (High Dynamic Range) support for a more vibrant viewing experience.

Display size, resolution, aspect ratio, and PPI

The larger display of the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a more expansive visual canvas for multimedia content, gaming, and productivity. With a screen-to-body ratio of around 90%, the increased pixel density ensures that text and images appear sharp and clear even at smaller sizes. The device also supports a wide aspect ratio of 19.5:9 for an immersive viewing experience in both landscape and portrait modes.

HDR support

The enhanced HDR capabilities of the Pixel 9 Pro XL make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy watching movies or playing games on their smartphones. With HDR support, colors appear more vivid and lifelike, improving overall picture quality and enhancing the user experience.

Water and dust resistance (IP rating)

Both devices are IP68 certified, ensuring protection against water and dust ingress. This rating provides peace of mind for users who accidentally drop their phones in water or work in dusty environments.

E. Colors and finishes available

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is available in various colors, including Just Black, Sorta Sage, and Oh So Orange. The Pixel 8 Pro comes in similar shades: Just Black, Clearly White, and Not Pink. Users can choose the finish that best suits their personal style or preferences.

I Hardware: Comparing two flagship models from Google’s Pixel series, let’s delve into the differences between Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro.

Processor, memory, and storage:

Google’s new Pixel 9 Pro XL is expected to feature a more powerful processor than its predecessor, Pixel 8 Pro. This generational improvement will provide enhanced processing power and efficiency, enabling smoother multitasking and faster app launches. In terms of memory, the Pixel 9 Pro XL might come with an increased RAM capacity of up to 12GB or even more. This upgrade can significantly impact multitasking, allowing users to run multiple apps simultaneously without lag. Lastly, the Pixel 9 Pro XL could offer larger onboard storage, with options ranging from 128GB to even 512GB.

Operating System: Android 13 (expected), features, and enhancements:

Google’s Pixel devices are known for their timely software updates. The Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro will likely run on Android 13 upon release. This latest OS version is rumored to bring several enhancements to the user interface, including a revamped design language and improved customization options for better personalization.

Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth, NFC, 5G capabilities:

Connectivity options are crucial in today’s digital world. Both devices will offer Wi-Fi 6E, the latest Wi-Fi standard, which ensures faster download and streaming speeds. Moreover, they will support Bluetooth 5.2 for better stability and lower latency. For contactless payments and other NFC-enabled features, both devices will come equipped with this technology. The 5G capabilities of the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro will provide users with faster data transfer rates, enabling smoother video streaming and online gaming experiences.

Battery: capacity, fast charging, wireless charging, reverse wireless charging (if available):

Battery life is crucial for smartphone users. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL might have a larger battery capacity than the Pixel 8 Pro, ensuring extended usage on a single charge. Furthermore, it could support fast charging and wireless charging. An exciting new addition might be reverse wireless charging, enabling the Pixel 9 Pro XL to charge other compatible devices, such as earbuds or wearables.

E. Camera system: primary, secondary, ultrawide, telephoto sensors:

The camera system is one of the most significant selling points for smartphones. The Pixel 9 Pro XL could feature an upgraded primary sensor with a higher resolution and larger pixels, providing better low-light performance. Additionally, it might include secondary and ultrawide sensors for versatile shooting options. The telephoto sensor, if present, could offer 3x or even 5x optical zoom.

F. Biometric authentication: fingerprint sensor (if present), face recognition, or under-display scanner:

Security is a crucial factor in modern smartphones. Both devices might offer multiple biometric authentication methods, including a fingerprint sensor, face recognition, or an under-display scanner for added convenience and enhanced security.

Performance and Benchmarks: Comparing the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL with its predecessor, the Pixel 8 Pro, in terms of performance is an intriguing comparison. Let’s delve deeper into various aspects of performance.

Day-to-day performance:

Multitasking: Both devices offer excellent multitasking capabilities, allowing you to seamlessly switch between applications. However, the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s upgraded chipset provides a slight edge in this regard, making it more efficient at managing multiple tasks.

App loading times: In terms of app loading times, the Pixel 9 Pro XL demonstrates noticeable improvements due to its faster processor. The difference might not be significant for casual users but can make a notable impact on power users or those with demanding workloads.

General responsiveness: The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers improved general responsiveness compared to its predecessor, thanks to the faster processing speed. This enhancement translates into a smoother user experience when navigating menus or using various features.

Gaming performance:

Support for high frame rates: For avid gamers, the Pixel 9 Pro XL supports higher frame rates than its predecessor, resulting in more fluid gameplay. This improvement can significantly enhance the overall gaming experience and offer a competitive edge.

Advanced graphics settings: With better graphic capabilities, the Pixel 9 Pro XL can handle advanced game settings more effectively compared to the Pixel 8 Pro. Gamers can enjoy enhanced visuals and graphics, adding an immersive touch to their gaming experience.

Benchmarks:

To objectively compare the performance metrics, we’ll use popular benchmarking tools like Geekbench, AnTuTu, and 3DMark. These tests can provide an unbiased evaluation of CPU, GPU, and memory performance.

CPU Performance:

The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s updated processor is expected to outperform its predecessor in CPU benchmarks.

GPU Performance:

With a more powerful GPU, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is expected to deliver better graphical performance than the Pixel 8 Pro.

Memory Performance:

An increase in available RAM and faster memory should lead to improved memory performance for the Pixel 9 Pro XL.

Thermal management:

Temperature maintenance: Efficient thermal management is crucial for ensuring optimal performance during intensive tasks. The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s improved cooling system helps maintain a stable temperature, offering a better user experience and prolonged usage without thermal throttling.

Camera Comparison: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Pixel 8 Pro

Main sensor improvements:

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro share similar design languages, but their main sensors show significant differences. Resolution-wise, the Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a higher one at 108 MP compared to Pixel 8 Pro’s 48 MP. Pixel size is another factor where Pixel 9 Pro XL excels, with each pixel measuring 1.2 μm against Pixel 8 Pro’s 0.8 μm. The larger pixels in Pixel 9 Pro XL allow more light to reach the sensor, resulting in better low-light performance. Aperture is another improvement on Pixel 9 Pro XL with an f/1.8 aperture compared to Pixel 8 Pro’s f/1.7. While the difference might seem minimal, it can lead to better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Lastly, lens quality is an essential aspect of camera performance. Pixel 9 Pro XL features a higher-quality lens compared to Pixel 8 Pro, which may lead to better image sharpness and clarity.

Ultrawide sensor comparison:

Ultrawide sensors have become increasingly popular due to their wide field of view. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro both come with ultrawide sensors, but there are noticeable differences between the two. The field of view on Pixel 9 Pro XL is wider at 15.8mm compared to Pixel 8 Pro’s 12.2mm. Wider fields of view allow for more comprehensive scene capture, but they may introduce distortion at the edges. Both devices employ sophisticated distortion correction algorithms to mitigate this issue. In terms of image processing, Pixel 9 Pro XL may perform slightly better due to its superior computational photography capabilities.

Telephoto sensor (if present):

Neither the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL nor Pixel 8 Pro comes with a dedicated telephoto sensor. Instead, they rely on their main sensors and software-based zoom for long-range photography.

Night mode:

Night mode has become a critical feature for smartphone cameras due to its ability to capture impressive low-light images. Both Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro have excellent night modes, but Pixel 9 Pro XL takes it a step further with its larger pixels and superior image processing capabilities. This results in improvements in low-light performance and more detailed, vibrant images compared to Pixel 8 Pro.

E. Comparing night shots with both devices:

To truly understand the differences in camera performance between Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro, it’s essential to compare their night shots side by side. The larger pixels and superior image processing capabilities of Pixel 9 Pro XL result in clearer, more detailed images with better color accuracy and dynamic range compared to Pixel 8 Pro.

F. Video capabilities:

Video recording is an essential aspect of smartphone cameras, and both Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro deliver impressive performance in this regard. Resolution-wise, Pixel 9 Pro XL supports up to 4K at 60fps, while Pixel 8 Pro maxes out at 4K at 30fps. Both devices offer excellent stabilization and autofocus performance.

F. Image processing engine:

The image processing engine lies at the heart of every smartphone camera, and Google’s computational photography techniques have always set its devices apart. Comparing images processed by both devices, the Pixel 9 Pro XL delivers better color accuracy, contrast, and dynamic range due to its superior computational photography capabilities. The larger pixels and advanced software optimizations result in more natural-looking images with enhanced details and clarity.

VI. User Experience:

Software experience: customization options, ease of use, and accessibility features

Both Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro offer a clean, intuitive software experience with their stock Android operating systems. However, let’s dive deeper into the customization options, ease of use, and accessibility features that set them apart.

User Interface

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: The newcomer boasts a revamped Material You design, which adapts colors from your wallpaper for an personalized look. It also introduces smoother animations and improved gesture navigation.

Settings

Google Pixel 8 Pro: The Pixel 8 Pro retains its familiar, straightforward settings menu. While not as visually appealing as the newcomer, it offers quick and easy access to essential features.

Accessibility Features

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: The 9 Pro XL introduces Live Translation in the camera app, which can be especially helpful for users with hearing or speech impairments. Additionally, it includes enhanced haptic feedback and customizable gesture navigation.

Google Pixel 8 Pro: The Pixel 8 Pro comes with a wide range of accessibility features such as TalkBack, Magnification Mode, and Live Caption. However, it lacks the new haptic feedback and customizable gesture navigation.

Call quality: voice clarity, noise cancellation, and connectivity stability

Both devices deliver excellent call quality with strong voice clarity and effective noise cancellation. Connectivity stability, however, may vary depending on network conditions.

Speaker quality: sound quality, stereo speakers (if present), and Dolby Atmos support (if available)

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: With its powerful stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos support, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers an immersive audio experience. Its speakers deliver clear, balanced sound with deep bass and excellent treble response.

Google Pixel 8 Pro: The Pixel 8 Pro, while not lacking in sound quality, does not offer stereo speakers or Dolby Atmos support. Its mono speaker delivers good sound quality with decent bass and treble response.

Haptic feedback: intensity, customization options, and tactile response

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: The newcomer takes haptic feedback to the next level with customizable intensity and a more tactile response. This enhances the overall user experience, making interactions feel more satisfying.

Google Pixel 8 Pro: The Pixel 8 Pro lacks the customizable haptic feedback of its successor. Its vibration motor delivers a standard intensity, making interactions feel less engaging compared to the Pixel 9 Pro XL.

VI. Price and Availability:

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and its predecessor, the Pixel 8 Pro, have some notable differences when it comes to price and availability. Let’s delve into the specifics.

Comparison of base prices and storage options:

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL:

• Starting price: $1,099
• Storage options: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB

Google Pixel 8 Pro:

• Starting price: $999
• Storage options: 128GB and 512GB

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is pricier than its predecessor, with a $100 increase in the base price. However, it does offer an additional storage option of 512GB.

Contracts, financing plans, and carrier availability:

Contracts:

Both devices are available for purchase directly from Google and through various carriers. Google offers financing plans for those who prefer not to pay the full price upfront.

Verizon:

Verizon offers both devices with various payment plans and discounts for new and existing customers. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is available starting at $31.66 per month, while the Pixel 8 Pro starts at $29.17 per month.

AT&T:

AT&T also offers both devices with financing plans. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is available starting at $41.67 per month, while the Pixel 8 Pro starts at $35.17 per month.

T-Mobile:

T-Mobile offers both devices with various financing plans. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is available starting at $41.67 per month, and the Pixel 8 Pro starts at $35.17 per month.

Data plans and pricing differences:

The pricing for data plans may vary between carriers. For example, Verizon offers a 5GB plan for $60/month, while AT&T and T-Mobile offer similar plans for around $55/month.

VI Conclusion

Summary of the main findings: In the realm of design, both the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8 Pro showcase sleek, premium looks with minimal bezel displays. However, the Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a larger screen size and a more curved edge-to-edge display. As for display, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a higher resolution and refresh rate, providing a smoother and more vivid visual experience. In terms of hardware, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is equipped with a newer processor, more RAM, and larger battery capacity, ensuring faster performance and longer usage time. The camera system of the Pixel 9 Pro XL has undergone significant improvements, including an additional telephoto lens and Night Sight functionality. Lastly, in user experience, both devices offer smooth Android OS, but the Pixel 9 Pro XL includes additional features such as face unlock and a more expansive Google Assistant.

Recommendations: For those seeking a larger display with enhanced visuals, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is the clear choice. However, for individuals prioritizing portability and a more budget-friendly option, the Pixel 8 Pro still provides an impressive design, display, and user experience. Furthermore, those heavily invested in Google ecosystems would benefit from the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s additional hardware capabilities and expanded features.

Comparing target audiences and use cases:

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL caters to power users, media enthusiasts, and those seeking the latest technology advancements. Conversely, the Pixel 8 Pro targets budget-conscious consumers, frequent travelers, or those preferring a more compact device.

Anticipated consumer reactions:

Consumers are likely to be impressed by the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s larger display, enhanced camera features, and improved hardware capabilities. The Pixel 8 Pro’s more budget-friendly price point will undoubtedly attract a dedicated fanbase who appreciate its sleek design and user-friendly features.

E. Market impact:

The release of the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is anticipated to shift market trends towards larger displays and advanced camera systems, setting a new standard for premium smartphones. The Pixel 8 Pro, however, may continue appealing to those seeking an affordable yet high-performing device within the Google ecosystem.

video