Google nailed it with the Pixel 9 lineup, due to its clear software program, some genuinely helpful synthetic intelligence options, and availability in each worth phase. The flagship lineup contains 4 Pixel telephones — the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Professional, Pixel 9 Professional XL, and Pixel 9 Professional Fold, whereas the Pixel 9a debuted just lately. This makes a Pixel smartphone out there in each worth phase.
The newest units additionally embody new AI options and digicam smarts with the assistance of Google Gemini. It may be complicated to decide on which Google telephone is greatest for you, given the huge lineup and the Pixel 10 sequence launching in August. We’ve got examined all of the Google Pixel telephones that can assist you determine which is the proper alternative for you at present.
What’s the greatest Google Pixel telephone proper now?
At ZDNET, we have reviewed all the Google Pixel telephones out there that can assist you discover one of the best Pixel telephone for you. Our present decide for one of the best Google Pixel telephone is the Pixel 9 Professional XL. It faces robust competitors from the brand new Galaxy S25 Extremely, however you get wonderful cameras, a bunch of latest AI options, an up to date design, and help for as much as seven years of software program, safety, and Pixel Drop updates. Nonetheless, it is not the one good Pixel telephone which you can purchase proper now.
The very best Google Pixel telephones of 2025
Present much less
Why we prefer it: Google has three telephones named Pixel 9 Professional this 12 months, however the Pixel 9 Professional XL is the true successor to the Pixel 8 Professional. It options an upgraded show, which is sharper and brighter, a brand new chipset, and much more.
The design is now iPhone-like with flat sides. These make it really feel extra premium to carry with out being uncomfortable, due to the curved edges. You get an all-new digicam module, too. Total, I like the way it appears to be like.
The Google Pixel 9 Professional is powered by the Tensor G4 chipset. It is accountable for my favourite AI options like Pixel Studio, higher digicam processing, and extra. It nonetheless will get heat throughout demanding duties, however I have not confronted stutters or lag on the Google flagship. It’s paired with 16GB of RAM — probably the most on a Pixel telephone thus far with as much as 1TB or storage.
I additionally like Video Increase — which helps higher file movies in low mild, and Add Me, which helps you to add your self in group pictures. The entrance digicam is best than ever as properly. The telephone’s triple digicam array, paired with the corporate’s computational prowess, makes the Pixel 9 Professional XL one of the best system total from Google. The corporate additionally says it is twice as sturdy than the Pixel 8 Professional.
Who it is for: If you would like the largest Google telephone however do not wish to spend on a foldable and want flagship cameras, the Pixel 9 Professional XL is for you. It will not disappoint you.
Who ought to look elsewhere: If you would like one of the best of Google cmaeras however have sall arms, the Pixel 9 Professional XL might be a problem to make use of. In that case, you need to go for the Pixel 9 Professional.
Evaluation: Google Pixel 9 Professional XL
Google Pixel 9 Professional XL specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Show: 6.8 inches | Storage choices: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP primary, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto, 42MP entrance | Battery capability: 5,060 mAh | Worth: Begins $1,099
Learn Extra
Present Professional Take Present much less
Present much less
Why we prefer it: The Google Pixel 9 Professional is a one-of-a-kind telephone for many who need one of the best optics however in a smaller dimension. Whereas the iPhone 15 Professional and Professional Max have digicam variations when it comes to telephoto lens, the Pixel 9 Professional’s cameras are the identical because the $100 dearer Pixel 9 Professional.
In comparison with the common Pixel 9, the Pixel 9 Professional incorporates a sharper and brighter show, a telephoto sensor, a greater and improved 42MP selfie shooter, 16GB of RAM, and extra digicam options like 8K video recording, Zoom Improve, and extra. There are many causes to warrant the additional $200 price ticket over the Pixel 9.
Who it is for: You can purchase the Google Pixel 9 Professional if you would like all one of the best Google options and efficiency however in a 6.3-inch display screen dimension and type issue. It can obtain the identical seven years value of software program, safety and Pixel Drop upgrades.
Who ought to look elsewhere: Should you prioritize battery life, the Pixel 9 Professional won’t be for you. It’s going to final you a day however in case you’re an influence person, the Pixel 9 Professional XL would serve you higher, or in case you’re advantageous with a small display screen however want a dependable battery life, the $500 Pixel 9a is an efficient alternative.
Evaluation: Google Pixel 9 Professional
Google Pixel 9 Professional specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Show: 6.3 inches | Storage choices: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP primary, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto, 42MP entrance | Battery capability: 4,700 mAh | Worth: Beginning at $999
Learn Extra
Present Professional Take Present much less
Present much less
Why we prefer it: I like the Pixel 9 as a result of it’s extra just like the Professional sequence than ever. It’s the similar dimension because the Pixel 9 Professional and is powered by the identical processor, packs the identical battery capability, the same display screen and extra. So, you get the same expertise on a extra inexpensive telephone.
A number of new AI options like Pixel Studio, Pixel Screenshots, and Add Me are a part of the Pixel 9 as properly. In some methods, the smaller Pixel is a good higher telephone than the bigger Professional XL, resembling in ergonomics and the in-hand really feel. The flexibility to achieve from one nook of the display screen to the opposite with out having to fidget round creates a greater in-hand person expertise.
Regardless of the $100 worth hike, the Pixel 9 prices $200 lower than the Pixel 9 Professional and $300 lower than the Pixel 9 Professional XL. This makes it top-of-the-line telephones in its worth class.
Who it is for: The Pixel 9 is one of the best Google telephone for most individuals since you get to expertise a lot of the upgrades for lower than $1,000. The optics are as dependable as earlier than, and also you get even higher digicam tuning. The Pixel 9 additionally packs 12GB of RAM, which is probably the most for any base variant of a Google telephone thus far.
Who ought to look elsewhere: If you would like a much bigger display screen and battery, the Pixel 9 Professional XL would swimsuit you higher. And in case you are an influence person, the Apple iPhone 16 may be value contemplating.
Evaluation: Google Pixel 9
Google Pixel 9 specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Show: 6.3 inches | Storage choices: 128GB, 256GB | Rear cameras: 50MP primary, 48MP ultrawide, 10.5MP entrance | Battery capability: 4,700 mAh | Worth: Beginning at $799
Learn Extra
Present Professional Take Present much less
Present much less
Why we prefer it: The Google Pixel 9a is the newest inexpensive Google telephone and in contrast to Apple’s iPhone 16e, the it nonetheless begins on the similar $499, regardless of the upgrades on the processor, show, and battery.
The brand new Google finances telephone options an up to date design and borrows the Tensor G4 chipset from the Pixel 9 Professional. Whereas it scores decrease numbers in benchmark checks than the flagship telephone, it stays an especially succesful system.
I like the larger 6.3-inch OLED display screen — versus the Pixel 8a’s 6.1-inch display screen. It helps a 120Hz refresh price show and brings improved brightness. This makes the display screen look extra legible than earlier than, particularly outdoor. The brand new Google telephone additionally has the largest battery for an A-series Pixel telephone — 5,100mAh, which can possible final you a complete day.
It additionally affords a clean and responsive day-to-day expertise. It carries over the Titan M2 chip in addition to a built-in VPN for added safety. Google upgraded the optics, too. You get an improved 48MP primary sensor and the identical 12MP ultrawide angle digicam. The 13MP selfie shooter stays unchanged as properly. These supply nice digicam processing, pores and skin tones, and wonderful lowlight outcomes. It is nice for hobbyist shutterbugs {and professional} photographers alike.
Who it is for: In case you are strictly on a finances however do not wish to compromise on the flagship Google expertise, the Pixel 9a is for you.
Who ought to look elsewhere: If you would like one of the best show, battery life and efficiency beneath $500, the OnePlus 13r is a better option, particularly in case you’re pleased with no wi-fi charging help.
Evaluation: Google Pixel 9A
Google Pixel 9a specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 with Titan M2 | Show: 6.3 inches | Storage choices: 128GB/256GB | Rear cameras: 64MP Quad PD Bayer, 13MP ultrawide, 13MP entrance | Battery capability: Typical 4492mAh | Worth: Beginning at $499
Learn Extra
Present Professional Take Present much less
Present much less
Why we prefer it: Crucial design change for the Pixel 9 Professional Fold is that it was just like the OnePlus Open and never the previous Pixel Fold. I beloved the brand new 20:9 facet ratio cowl display screen, which is similar because the Pixel 9 Professional, so you may run apps with out dealing with any scaling points — in contrast to the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
The Pixel 9 Professional Fold incorporates a design total on the within too. You get higher cameras however a smaller battery than earlier than. Nonetheless, it’s now powered by a extra environment friendly Tensor G4 processor, which ought to maintain the battery life in test. It carries the identical new AI options because the Pixel 9 sequence, together with Add Me, Pixel Studio, and extra.
There’s a new characteristic referred to as Made You Look that shows graphics on the duvet display screen the place capturing with the telephone unfolded. That is to make toddlers look in the direction of the cameras. Like the opposite new Pixel telephones, it will get seven years of software program, safety, and Pixel Drop updates.
Who it is for: If you would like a folding telephone with the signture Google expertise, the Pixel 9 Professional Fold is for you.
Who ought to look elsewhere: The Pixel 9 Professional Fold is not one of the best foldable smartphone. With the Galaxy Z Fold 7 simply across the nook, it is sensible to attend just a few weeks in case you’re purchasing for a book-style folding telephone.
Evaluation: Google Pixel 9 Professional Fold
Google Pixel Fold specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Show: 6.3 inches (outer) and eight.0 inches (internal) | Storage: 256GB, 512GB | Rear cameras: 48MP primary, 10.5MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto, and 10MP selfie shooter on each cowl display screen and internal show | Battery capability: 4,650mAh | Worth: $1,799
Learn Extra
Present Professional Take Present much less
What are the tariffs within the U.S.?
The current U.S. tariffs on imports from nations like China, Vietnam, and India intention to spice up home manufacturing however are more likely to drive up costs on client electronics. Merchandise like smartphones, laptops, and TVs might turn into dearer as corporations rethink world provide chains and weigh the price of shifting manufacturing.
Additionally: Tariff battle has tech patrons questioning what’s subsequent. Here is what we all know
Smartphones are among the many most affected by the brand new U.S. tariffs, with units imported from China and Vietnam dealing with steep duties that would increase retail costs by 20% or extra. Manufacturers like Apple and Google, which rely closely on Asian manufacturing, might both go these prices on to customers or soak up them on the expense of revenue margins.
The tariffs may additionally result in delays in product launches or shifts in the place and the way telephones are made, forcing corporations to diversify manufacturing to nations with extra favorable commerce situations.
Proper now, it appears to be like like some tech could also be exempt from the issued tariffs, however because it’s at all times altering and creating, we’re keeping track of it and can replace you on the newest.
Additionally: Tariff exemptions for electronics supply a break for tech – however not for lengthy
The Google Pixel 9 Professional XL is our decide for greatest Google telephone total. Together with the ample photograph and video enhancing options the telephone accommodates, it is also glossy, premium-feeling, and has sufficient battery life for a protracted day of use. All instructed, it is one of the vital dynamic telephones in the marketplace, with a number of AI options to again it up. See how one of the best Google Pixel telephones evaluate based mostly on worth, processing pace, and show dimension beneath.
| Google Pixel telephone | Worth | Processor | Show dimension |
| Pixel 9 Professional XL | $1,099 | Google Tensor G4 | 6.8-inch |
| Pixel 9 Professional | $999 | Google Tensor G4 | 6.3-inch |
| Pixel 9 | $799 | Google Tensor G4 | 6.3-inch |
| Pixel 9a | $499 | Google Tensor G4 | 6.3-inch |
| Pixel 9 Professional Fold | $1,799 | Google Tensor G4 | 6.3-inch and eight.0-inch |
Should you’re eager about a Google Pixel telephone, it is good that there aren’t too many choices out there to confuse you or overwhelm your decision-making course of. The primary consideration is worth. You probably have a most quantity you might be keen to spend on a telephone, then the worth can dictate which is best for you.
Fortunately, relating to the software program expertise, Google supplies about the identical expertise throughout all the actively supported Pixel telephones. You may see some unique AI and digicam options right here and there, however the basic expertise is roughly the identical.
| Select this Google Pixel telephone | If you would like… |
| Google Pixel 9 Professional XL | The very best of Google within the largest dimension doable for good battery life and huge display screen with tons of AI options, and a temperature sensor. |
| Google Pixel 9 Professional | Google’s greatest digicam system in a small dimension, 1TB storage and no compromises. A Professional telephone in a compact type issue. |
| Google Pixel 9 | A extra inexpensive Pixel telephone with a equally excellent digicam, colourful physique decisions, and a helpful type issue. It additionally options a few of the AI options discovered on the Professional. |
| Google Pixel 9a | The very best finances decide of the Google telephones, with a beginning worth of $499, a 120Hz show, and wi-fi charging help. |
| Google Pixel 9 Professional Fold | Google’s foldable overhaul that permits you to swap between a compact 6.3-inch show and a productivity-enhancing 8.0-inch show. The Pixel 9 Professional Fold stays dear, but it surely undercuts the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 by $100. |
With a number of new Google Pixel telephones being launched annually, ZDNET spends no less than two weeks with every mannequin earlier than deciding whether or not or not — and the place — it ranks inside this shopping for information. The {qualifications} I search for when curating the picks embody the next:
- Availability: The most important issue is availability; is what’s being chosen out there to buy straight from Google, an area provider, or an internet retailer? Is it in inventory? Or can it solely be bought in used or renewed situation? With the picks on this listing, each might be purchased new and sealed, guaranteeing that you’re going to obtain probably the most dependable expertise from the beginning.
- Worth: Simply as necessary is the worth that every Pixel telephone brings. Whereas all choices on this listing differ in worth tiers, they every supply sufficient distinctive options, digicam capabilities, and designs that make them value paying for. If they don’t seem to be value it, they will not be on the listing.
- Efficiency: Naturally, I solely decide fashions that yield good to wonderful efficiency, from the best way they deal with day-to-day duties to extra intensive use circumstances like gaming and video enhancing.
Here is a breakdown of each issue we contemplate earlier than we make suggestions:
- Design and ergonomics: How good a telephone appears to be like and feels performs an enormous function in lots of customers’ shopping for journeys, so we contemplate these facets closely when testing.
- Efficiency: A number of components have an effect on a telephone’s efficiency, together with LTE/5G sign, battery life, and background duties. Due to this fact, we sometimes start our evaluations with a completely charged handset, with all background duties closed, and with as steady of a cell connection as doable.
- Digicam high quality: ZDNET checks telephone cameras by capturing tons of of pictures and movies of assorted topics and in varied lighting situations. We additionally evaluate the output to that of older fashions.
- Battery life and charging: It is also necessary for us to judge how lengthy telephones final beneath mild, reasonable, and heavy utilization, how lengthy they take to recharge, and the way they do it — wired, wi-fi, or each.
- Particular options: These options distinguish examined units from a bustling smartphone market and hopefully carry added worth to customers, not the alternative.
- Pricing and availability: Past finances concerns, we additionally notice if a telephone is out there within the U.S. or solely internationally.
For an in depth rundown of our testing methodology, you’ll want to take a look at our how we take a look at telephones article.
Individuals use their smartphones in all places at the moment and having some stage of mud and water resistance is necessary. You shouldn’t swim or deliberately submerge your telephone for prolonged durations in water and not using a waterproof case. Warranties usually don’t cowl water harm. Nonetheless, in case you are outdoors within the rain, by accident drop your telephone in a puddle, or spill one thing in your telephone, it ought to be capable of survive such an incident.
On this listing, the Pixel 9a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Professional, and Pixel 9 Professional Fold are probably the most water and dirt resistant with an IP68 ranking. The Pixel Fold has an IPX8 ranking, which solely affords water resistance and no mud resistance because of its foldable type issue.
Each Pixel mannequin on this listing helps wi-fi charging.
Wi-fi charging is a handy strategy to cost your telephone with out having to plug in a USB-C wire straight into the telephone. Wi-fi charging can be now rated as quick wi-fi charging in lots of circumstances, however even with this “quick” ranking, it’s nonetheless quicker to cost up your telephone with a direct USB-C cable.
Additionally: Is your Pixel battery draining quicker than it ought to? This characteristic may also help
Different telephones value contemplating
Smartphones Reviewed & In contrast
