Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: Extra-slim or extra-large?
Samsung has stirred the smartphone market with the release of its latest Galaxy phone, the sleek and slender S25 Edge. This deviation from its traditional lineup offers a slim, lightweight design without compromising on flagship specs. In comparison, Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL stands as a formidable contender with its larger form factor and similar price point.
Design & Display
The Galaxy S25 Edge boasts a svelte profile, weighing a mere 163g and measuring a scant 5.9mm in thickness. On the other hand, the Pixel 9 Pro XL prioritizes substance over slimness, tipping the scales at 221g and measuring 8.9mm thick. Despite these differences, both phones share strikingly similar front aesthetics, with flat screens and centrally placed punch-hole selfie cameras.
However, the S25 Edge gains an edge with its slim bezels and smaller camera cutout, minimizing the screen size difference compared to the Pixel. Both devices feature 120Hz OLED panels with HDR10+ support, but the S25 Edge takes the lead with a higher resolution display at 1440 x 3120, while the Pixel settles for 1344 x 2992.
In terms of durability, the S25 Edge incorporates titanium in its frame and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 coating, enhancing its ruggedness. Both phones tout IP68 certification for dust and water resistance, ensuring durability in various environments.
Performance
Powering the S25 Edge is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, a powerhouse chip renowned for its performance prowess. In contrast, the Pixel 9 Pro XL relies on Google’s Tensor G4 SoC, which, though competent, falls short in raw processing capabilities.
While the S25 Edge offers models with 256GB or 512GB storage and 12GB of RAM, the Pixel 9 Pro XL provides additional storage options ranging from 128GB to 1TB, coupled with 16GB of RAM. The S25 Edge excels in intensive tasks like gaming and video editing, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite’s superior performance.
Cameras
A notable divergence lies in the camera setups of these devices. The S25 Edge opts for a 200Mp main sensor and a 12Mp ultrawide lens, whereas the Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a 50Mp main sensor, a 48Mp ultrawide, and a 48Mp 5x telephoto lens. Photography enthusiasts inclined towards zoom capabilities might favor the Pixel’s dedicated telephoto lens for superior results.
Image processing styles differ between Samsung and Google, with Samsung favoring a natural look and Google opting for vibrant and dynamic images. Front camera specs also contrast, with the S25 Edge featuring a 12Mp selfie camera and the Pixel offering a higher resolution 42Mp sensor.
Other Differences
Both phones integrate AI features, with Samsung further enriching its user experience with proprietary features atop Google’s offerings. Samsung’s One UI 7 presents a feature-rich Android experience, including unique functionalities like Samsung Dex for desktop-like usage. In contrast, Pixel UI offers a simpler, cleaner interface that focuses on performance and aesthetics.
Notably, the Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a larger battery capacity at 5060 mAh compared to the S25 Edge’s 3900 mAh, ensuring prolonged usage. Additionally, the Pixel supports faster charging and Qi wireless charging, providing added convenience for users.
Pricing
Both the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL commence at £1,099 in the UK, offering varying storage and RAM configurations. Samsung’s lineup includes a 512GB model for £1,199, while Google’s Pixel reaches up to 1TB storage at £1549. Discount opportunities may arise for the Pixel due to its longer presence in the market, offering potential cost savings.
Verdict
Ultimately, choosing between the Galaxy S25 Edge and Pixel 9 Pro XL hinges on individual preferences and priorities. The S25 Edge excels in slim design, performance, and durability, making it ideal for users seeking a sleek, high-performing device. On the other hand, the Pixel 9 Pro XL stands out with its larger battery, additional camera setup, and wireless charging support, possibly offering better value and versatility for certain users.
In the end, both devices present compelling options in the flagship smartphone segment, catering to diverse user needs and preferences.