Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Vs. Samsung S24 Ultra: Ultimate Flagship Face-off
When it comes to premium Android smartphones, the competition is fierce. Google has just unveiled its latest contender, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, a larger and more powerful version of the Pixel 9 Pro. But it’s up against an established heavyweight, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, which has been a fan favorite since its launch earlier this year. Both devices offer cutting-edge features, impressive hardware, and a focus on AI, making this a showdown between two of Android’s most compelling offerings. Let’s dive into how these phones stack up.
Design and Build: Sleek Titans
Pixel 9 Pro XL: With its sleek dimensions of 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm and weighing in at 7.8 ounces, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is a streamlined device that feels light despite its larger size. It boasts a 6.8-inch Super Actua OLED screen, which Google claims delivers “true-to-life colors, even in direct sunlight” thanks to an impressive 3,000 nits brightness level. The phone is available in a range of elegant finishes, including Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, and Rose Quartz, offering a palette that’s more varied than previous models.
Galaxy S24 Ultra: The Galaxy S24 Ultra, slightly wider at 162.3 x 79.0 x 8.6 mm and a bit heavier at 8.2 ounces, offers a similarly large 6.8-inch display, but its Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel ensures vibrant colors and sharp contrast. The phone is built with a sturdy titanium frame, giving it a premium feel that adds durability without sacrificing aesthetics. Samsung offers this model in Gray, Black, Violet, and Yellow, sticking with a more subdued color scheme compared to Google’s lineup.
Verdict: Both phones are attractive in their design, but the Pixel 9 Pro XL is slightly lighter and offers a higher brightness level, making it more versatile for outdoor use. The Galaxy S24 Ultra, however, wins points for its robust build quality.
Display: Clarity and Brightness Face Off
Pixel 9 Pro XL: The 6.8-inch Super Actua OLED display is one of the standout features of the Pixel 9 Pro XL. With a resolution of 1,344 x 2,992, the screen provides vivid colors and sharp details. The OLED panel’s peak brightness of 3,000 nits ensures that you can see your screen clearly, even under bright sunlight.
Galaxy S24 Ultra: Samsung’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X display has a resolution of 3,120 x 1,440 (Quad HD+), which is higher than the Pixel’s. The screen is also 6.8 inches, and while its peak brightness is slightly lower than the Pixel’s, Samsung’s reputation for display excellence shines through, delivering deep blacks, vibrant colors, and smooth motion.
Verdict: The Galaxy S24 Ultra edges out the Pixel in terms of resolution, but the Pixel 9 Pro XL makes a compelling case with its higher brightness, which is ideal for visibility in bright conditions.
Performance: Powering Through the Day
Pixel 9 Pro XL: Powered by Google’s new Tensor G4 processor and equipped with 16GB of RAM, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is designed for multitasking and AI-powered tasks. It also includes Google’s Titan M2 security coprocessor, enhancing device security. Google’s focus on AI integration is highlighted by the inclusion of a one-year subscription to Google One AI Premium Plan, providing access to the new Google Gemini features.
Galaxy S24 Ultra: The Galaxy S24 Ultra utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, paired with 12GB of RAM. It’s no slouch in performance, with Samsung’s optimization ensuring smooth operation across apps, games, and AI-driven tasks. While it has less RAM than the Pixel, Samsung’s efficient software ensures reliable performance.
Verdict: With a more advanced in-house Tensor G4 chip and 16GB of RAM, the Pixel 9 Pro XL promises faster and more seamless AI integration, giving it a slight edge over the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s Snapdragon processor.
Camera Showdown: A Battle of Lenses
Pixel 9 Pro XL: Google has always been known for its exceptional camera software, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL builds on that legacy. It features a triple rear camera system with a 50MP main sensor, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP telephoto. The front camera has been upgraded to an impressive 42MP, ensuring crisp and clear selfies. New features like Super Res Zoom for videos and algorithmic enhancements allow for 8K video recording, making it a versatile tool for content creators.
Galaxy S24 Ultra: Samsung’s camera hardware is no slouch either. The Galaxy S24 Ultra packs a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP periscope telephoto, 10MP telephoto, and 12MP ultrawide lens. The setup ensures users have plenty of options for capturing stunning photos in any scenario, and it also supports 8K video recording. Samsung’s software enhancements and AI-based tools, such as Scene Optimizer, improve photo quality further.
Verdict: The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s 200MP sensor leads in raw megapixel count, offering incredible detail and zoom capabilities. However, Google’s computational photography continues to impress, and the Pixel’s updated front camera is unmatched.
Battery Life and Charging: Power to Keep You Going
Pixel 9 Pro XL: Equipped with a 5,060 mAh battery, Google promises over 24 hours of usage, with support for fast charging via USB Type-C. The larger battery size is a boon, especially for users who rely heavily on their devices throughout the day.
Galaxy S24 Ultra: The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s 5,000 mAh battery is slightly smaller, but it also promises 24+ hours of usage, depending on how you use it. Samsung has refined its battery management, ensuring that the phone can handle a full day of work, entertainment, and more without needing a recharge.
Verdict: Both devices offer comparable battery life, but the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s slightly larger battery could provide a bit more longevity, especially for users who push their phones to the limit.
| Pixel 9 Pro XL | Galaxy S24 Ultra | ||
| Pricing (MSRP) | Starts at $1,100 | Starts at $1,300 | |
| Dimensions | 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 (mm) | 162.3 x 79.0 x 8.6 (mm) | |
| Weight | 7.8 ounces | 8.2 ounces | |
| Screen size | 6.8” | 6.8″ | |
| Screen resolution | 1,344 x 2,992 | 31,20 x 1,440 (Quad HD+) | |
| Screen type | LTPO OLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | |
| SoC | Google Tensor G4 / Titan M2 security coprocessor | Qualcomm SM8650-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | |
| RAM | 16 GB | 12 MB | |
| Battery | 5,060 mAh 24+ hour battery life (depending on usage type) | 5,000 mAh24+ hour battery life (depending on usage type) | |
| Charging | USB Type-C | USB Type-C | |
| Storage | 128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB | 512GB | |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth v5.3 | Bluetooth v5.3 | |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | |
| Water and dust resistance | IP68 | IP68 | |
| Rear cameras | 50 MP Octa PD main | 200 MP main | |
| 48 MP Quad PD ultrawide | 10 MP telephoto | ||
| 48 MP Quad PD telephoto | 50 MP periscope telephoto | ||
| 12 MP ultrawide | |||
| 42 MP Dual PD | 12 MP Dual PD | ||
| Front camera | Android | Android | |
| OS | Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, Rose Quartz | Gray, Black, Violet, Yellow |
Additional Features: A Close Call
Both phones come with IP68 water and dust resistance, Bluetooth v5.3, and support for Wi-Fi 7, ensuring they are well-equipped for modern connectivity. They also include USB Type-C ports for charging and data transfer, with each company adding their signature software experiences to enhance the user interface.
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: Ships with Android 14, with a pure Android experience that is clean, fast, and free from bloatware. The phone integrates deeply with Google services, and the one-year Google One AI Premium Plan offers added value.
- Galaxy S24 Ultra: Runs on Samsung’s One UI, which is known for its customization options and additional features that make multitasking and productivity easier. Samsung’s ecosystem also provides seamless integration with other Galaxy devices.
Verdict: The Pixel 9 Pro XL is ideal for users who prefer a pure Android experience, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra excels with additional features and tight integration within the Samsung ecosystem.
Final Verdict: Which Is the Better Buy?
Choosing between the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Galaxy S24 Ultra ultimately depends on your priorities:
- If you value cutting-edge AI features, superior brightness, and prefer a clean Android interface, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is the clear choice. Its 16GB of RAM and powerful Tensor G4 chip make it a great option for users who need performance and advanced features.
- On the other hand, if you’re looking for a phone with superior build quality, a more versatile camera system, and better ecosystem integration, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is a solid pick. Samsung’s flagship is robust and refined, with thoughtful software additions that make it user-friendly.
Both devices represent the best of Android, offering distinct advantages. The Pixel 9 Pro XL shines with its AI prowess and brighter screen, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra impresses with its powerful hardware and user-friendly features. No matter which you choose, you’re getting a premium experience.