The Google Pixel 9 has caused a stir in the world of smartphones. With a bright OLED display, an improved Tensor G4 processor and a strong camera, it seems as if Google is presenting a real flagship smartphone here. But what makes the Pixel 9 really special and is it worth buying? In this article, we'll look at the device's most important features, performance and target audience to find out if the Pixel 9 is the right smartphone for you.
design and material
What does the design of the Google Pixel 9 look like?
The Google Pixel 9 impresses with a simple and elegant design that combines modern aesthetics with functionality. The compact 6.3-inch format fits comfortably in the hand and offers excellent grip thanks to its matte sides. The glass back gives the smartphone a sophisticated look, while the even, thin edges around the display ensure a modern appearance. The device comes in several attractive color options that go well with its minimalist style.
How is the Google Pixel 9 made?
The Google Pixel 9's workmanship is of a high standard. It uses high-quality materials such as glass and metal, which not only give the smartphone a classy look but also a robust structure. The IP68 certification also ensures reliable protection against water and dust, making the Pixel 9 an ideal companion for everyday use. The combination of solid design and first-class workmanship makes the Pixel 9 a durable and stylish device.
How good is the display of the Google Pixel 9?
The Google Pixel 9 impresses with a 6.3-inch OLED display that not only impresses with its crisp Full HD Plus resolution of 1,080 x 2,424 pixels, but also with an extremely high brightness of up to 2,700 nits. This high brightness ensures that the display remains easy to read even in direct sunlight. With a refresh rate of 120 Hz, the Pixel 9 also enables smooth scrolling and a pleasant user experience, ideal for media consumption and gaming.
performance
How powerful is the Tensor G4 processor in the Google Pixel 9?
The Tensor G4 processor in the Google Pixel 9 delivers solid performance that's more than enough for most everyday tasks and even demanding applications like 3D gaming. While it can't quite keep up with the latest Snapdragon chips in benchmarks, the combination of processor and 12GB of RAM makes for a smooth user experience. What's particularly impressive is how the chip handles AI tasks, which makes the Pixel 9 stand out, especially when it comes to AI-powered features.
How much RAM and storage does the Google Pixel 9 offer?
The Pixel 9 comes with 12GB of RAM, which allows for smooth multitasking and optimizes performance when multiple apps are open at the same time. Storage options start at 128GB, which is enough for many users, but there is no option to expand the storage via microSD card, which could be a deciding factor for users who need a lot of storage space.
camera
How good are the cameras on the Google Pixel 9?
The Google Pixel 9 continues to impress with a powerful camera that delivers sharp and detailed images, especially in good lighting conditions.The 50MP main camera and the new 48MP ultra-wide-angle camera offer versatile options for impressive photos. However, it lacks a telephoto lens, which limits digital zoom. Despite this limitation, the Pixel 9 remains an excellent choice for smartphone photography.
What special camera features does the Google Pixel 9 offer?
One of the special functions is the "Add Me" feature, which allows people to be added to group photos later. Users in Germany will also be able to use this function. However, Google has integrated other AI functions, such as the "Pixel Studio" image generator and "Pixel Screenshots", which will not be fully usable in Germany due to data protection concerns. Therefore, users in this country cannot fully use all AI features.
battery life and charging speed
How long does the battery of the Google Pixel 9 last in everyday use?
The Google Pixel 9 impresses with a solid battery life. The 4,700 mAh battery lasts about 14 to 15 hours with normal use, which ensures that you can get through the day without any problems. The battery also shows good endurance with intensive use, such as gaming or longer video recordings.
How fast does the Google Pixel 9 charge?
However, the charging speed is a bit slower compared to the competition. The Pixel 9 supports fast charging with a maximum of 27 watts, but takes about 100 minutes to fully charge. On the plus side, the device also supports wireless charging, which offers additional flexibility.
software and user experience
What new features does Android 14 bring to the Google Pixel 9?
The Google Pixel 9 comes with Android 14 and offers a smooth and user-friendly experience typical of Google's own devices. This includes exclusive features such as Call Screening and Now Playingthat significantly improve the user experience. The integration of Google services and AI features such as the new Gemini assistance ensures seamless interaction. However, some of the most advanced AI features, including Pixel Studio and text summaries from telephone calls, not available in Germany, which limits the user experience here.
How is the user experience different on the Google Pixel 9?
Compared to other Android smartphones, the Pixel 9 offers an optimized and minimalist software experience that stands out due to the deep integration of Google services. In particular, the new AI functions supported by the Tensor G4 processor make the Pixel 9 one of the smartest smartphones on the market. The regular updates and long software support of up to seven years are further plus points that set the Pixel 9 apart from the competition.
Review - what the tech YouTubers say about the Google Pixel 9
The two tech YouTubers Marques Brownlee and Mrwhosetheboss have examined and tested the new Google Pixel 9 in detail in their videos. Here are their results summarized:
Advantages
- Bright OLED display: Very high brightness up to 2,700 nits (Pixel 9) and 3.000 nits (Pixel 9 Pro).
- Strong camera: Improved 48 MP ultra-wide angle camera and overall good photo quality.
- Ultrasonic fingerprint scanner: Faster and more reliable than previous models.
- Good feel and design: High-quality materials, matte sides, pleasant operation.
- Useful AI features: “Add Me”, “Video Boost” and integration of Gemini (not available in Germany).
- More stable performance: Better heat management thanks to new vapor chamber cooling.
- High-quality workmanship: Robust construction that comes close to iPhone standards.
- Better signal stability: Improved reception thanks to new modem chip.
Disadvantages
- Slow loading speed: Slightly slower than competing devices.
- Digital zoom: Not as convincing as expected.
- Different surfaces: Matte and glossy designs.
- Expensive storage space: Only 128 GB storage in the basic version.
- Two voice assistants: Confusing use of Google Assistant and Gemini.
- Performance below competition level: The Tensor G4 chip is slower than the chips from Samsung and Apple.
- High price for memory expansion: $100 extra for 256GB storage.
- Not fully developed AI features: Some of the new AI features still seem immature.
Conclusion - who is the new Google Pixel 9 worth it for?
The Google Pixel 9 offers a strong price-performance ratio, especially with its bright OLED display, powerful camera and solid battery life. For users who value high-quality photography, seamless integration of Google services and a user-friendly Android experience, the Pixel 9 is an excellent choice. It is particularly suitable for technology enthusiasts and users who are looking for a balanced smartphone without unnecessary extras. Given the price and the performance offered, the Pixel 9 is definitely worth buying. If you don't need the latest features and would rather save your wallet, you can also opt for a older Google Pixel which is particularly inexpensive to buy as a refurbished version.
