In the fast-paced world of smartphones, the battle between Samsung and Google intensifies with the release of their flagship devices: the Galaxy S25 Ultra and the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Both devices boast cutting-edge features, but how do they measure up against each other?
Design & Display
The Galaxy S25 Ultra maintains its premium design with subtle enhancements like rounded corners and a sleeker build. Its 6.9-inch AMOLED display with 2600 nits peak brightness and Corning Gorilla Armor 2 protection offers an immersive experience. On the other hand, the Pixel 9 Pro XL opts for a design reminiscent of iPhones but shines with a 6.8-inch OLED Super Actua display, boasting 3000 nits peak brightness and exceptional HDR performance.
Performance
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite and 12GB of RAM, the Galaxy S25 Ultra excels in gaming and multitasking. Its One UI 7 software provides a fluid experience with AI features like ProScaler for enhanced image quality. In contrast, the Pixel 9 Pro XL focuses on AI innovations with the Tensor G4 chip and 16GB of RAM, offering a different approach to performance optimization.
Cameras
The S25 Ultra retains its predecessor’s camera setup but upgrades the ultrawide sensor to 50Mp. Despite an aging telephoto sensor, Samsung’s software enhancements deliver impressive results. On the other hand, the Pixel 9 Pro XL impresses with a new 42Mp selfie camera and advanced AI features like Zoom Enhance, showcasing Google’s prowess in image processing.
Other Differences
Battery-wise, the S25 Ultra features a 5,000mAh cell with 45W wired charging, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a slightly larger 5,060mAh battery with 37W charging. When it comes to software updates, both devices promise seven years of support, ensuring longevity for users.
Price & Availability
The Galaxy S25 Ultra starts at £1249/$1299, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL begins at £1,099/$1,099. Both devices offer various storage options to cater to different needs, with pricing reflecting the features and capabilities of each device.
Verdict
In conclusion, the Galaxy S25 Ultra excels in display quality, performance, and durability, making it a powerhouse device. On the other hand, the Pixel 9 Pro XL shines with its AI features, innovative software, and impressive cameras, especially for selfies, all at a more affordable price point. Your choice between these two titans ultimately depends on your priorities, whether it’s raw power and hardware prowess or cutting-edge AI capabilities and value for money.