The Pixel 9 and the Pixel 9 Pro are the latest smartphones in the Pixel series. Both devices boast powerful hardware, a modern design and the latest Android features. But which model is better suited to your needs? Who actually benefits from the Pro features and for whom is the standard model sufficient? In this buying guide, we compare the most important features of both devices and help you make your decision - regardless of whether you are a technology fan or an everyday user.
Technical Facts at a Glance
Technical facts of the Google Pixel 9
- display: 6.3 inch Actua display with a resolution of 1080 x 2424 pixels and a refresh rate of 120 Hz. Ideal for movies and games.
- camera: 50 MP wide angle and 48 MP ultra wide angle – with AI support for improved night shots and optimal color adjustment.
- processor: Google Tensor G4 – powerful and optimized for AI functions and everyday apps.
- battery life: 4700 mAh with quick charge function and wireless charging – power for the whole day.
- material: Robust aluminum frame with Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
- operating system: Android 14 with 7 years of updates.
Technical facts of the Google Pixel 9 Pro
- display: 6.7 inch Super Actua LTPO display with adaptive 1-120 Hz and up to 2000 nits brightness – for an ultra-smooth experience and better visibility outdoors.
- camera: Triple camera system (50 MP wide angle, 48 MP ultra wide angle, 48 MP telephoto) with 5x optical zoom – perfect for detailed shots.
- processor: Google Tensor G4 – identical to the Pixel 9, but with additional GPU power.
- battery life: 4700 mAh, supports even faster wireless charging.
- material: Lightweight titanium frame with Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
- operating system: Android 14 with the same update guarantees.
What extras does the Google Pixel 9 Pro offer?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro offers some exclusive features that the regular Pixel 9 doesn't have. The most obvious difference is in the display: The Pixel 9 Pro has a 6.7-inch Super Actua LTPO display that adaptively switches between 1 and 120 Hz, while the Pixel 9 has a 6.3-inch Actua display with a fixed refresh rate of 120 Hz. In addition, the Pro model achieves a significantly higher brightness of up to 2000 nits, which is particularly advantageous in direct sunlight.
The Pixel 9 Pro also shows its strengths in the camera. It comes with an additional 48 MP telephoto camera that offers 5x optical zoom and a new "Magic Zoom" function. For videos, the Pro model supports 4K recordings at up to 120 frames per second, while the Pixel 9 stays at 60 frames per second.
In terms of materials, the Pixel 9 Pro uses a lightweight titanium frame that is not only more robust but also has a premium feel than the Pixel 9's aluminum frame. In addition, the Pro model has a larger 4950 mAh battery and supports fast wireless charging compared to the Pixel 9's 4558 mAh.
These additional features make the Pixel 9 Pro the first choice for users who value camera variety, a larger display and high-quality materials. For those who can do without such high-end extras, the Pixel 9 remains a cost-effective yet powerful alternative.
purchase recommendation according to user profile
For everyday users
Are you looking for a smartphone that is reliable, fast and uncomplicated? Then the Pixel 9 is the perfect choice. It offers a strong camera, a powerful processor and a great battery life - all at a more attractive price. You will probably hardly miss the additional features of the Pro model in everyday life.
For creative minds
Are you creative and want to implement your ideas in the best possible way? Then the Pixel 9 Pro is made for you. The telephoto camera with 5x zoom opens up new possibilities for portraits, close-ups or landscape photography. For videos, 4K recordings at 120 FPS are available, ideal for slow motion or creative clips. Thanks to RAW support and AI functions, you can edit your photos and videos professionally - directly on the smartphone or with external tools. Whether for social media, vlogs or artistic projects, the Pro model gives you the freedom to implement your visions perfectly.
For price-conscious people
Do you want a modern smartphone with strong performance without breaking your budget? Then the Pixel 9 is just right for you. The Pixel 9 is perfectly adequate for most everyday applications and beyond. You get top technology without paying for features you probably don't need. Perfect if you want a lot for your money without compromising on quality and performance.
For technology fans
Do you want the latest of the latest? Then the Google Pixel 9 Pro is the perfect choice. With its larger, brighter display, powerful camera and high-quality titanium frame, it sets new standards. Thanks to the advanced AI and powerful processor, functions such as photo editing, smart assistance systems and battery management become even more efficient. If you enjoy making the most of the latest features and being at the cutting edge of technology, the Pixel 9 Pro offers you a high-tech experience in a class of its own.
Review – What the Tech YouTubers say
The Tech YouTubers 9to5Google examined the Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro in their video and compared both models. We have summarized their results here.
Google Pixel 9
Advantages:
- Significantly cheaper, ideal for price-conscious users.
- The dual camera delivers strong photos and videos that are sufficient for most users.
- Handy and lightweight, without compromising on performance.
- Offers more vibrant and eye-catching color variations.
- Thanks to the Tensor G4 processor, sufficient performance for everyday tasks and more.
Disadvantages:
- Limited zoom capabilities (no optical zoom).
- With 10.5 MP front camera less suitable for detailed selfies.
- No adaptive refresh rate, less bright in direct sunlight.
- Less efficient loading times compared to the Pro model.
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Advantages:
- Additional telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, 8K video recording and Pro mode.
- Brilliant LTPO display with adaptive 1-120 Hz and higher brightness.
- Better performance for memory-intensive tasks and future AI features.
- Faster charging times and more efficient wireless charging.
- Subtle colors and matte glass back that appear higher quality.
Disadvantages:
- Around 200 € more expensive, which is difficult to justify for some users.
- Many functions and the basic performance are identical to the Pixel 9.
- Subtle colors, less vibrant than the Pixel 9.
Conclusion – Who benefits from the Pro model?
The Pixel 9 Pro is the right choice for users who want to get the most out of their smartphone. Technology enthusiasts and creative minds in particular benefit from the advanced functions: The additional telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom, the Pro mode for photos and the ability to record 8K videos make it ideal for photography and video projects. The advanced LTPO display with adaptive 1-120 Hz and higher brightness ensures a smooth, optimal user experience, especially when consuming media or working outdoors.
The Pro model also makes sense for forward-thinking users who want to take advantage of the improved AI features and additional RAM for memory-intensive applications and future software updates. Those willing to pay the extra will get a high-end device with premium features.
For everyday users or budget-conscious buyers who don't need an advanced camera or adaptive display, the Pixel 9 offers an excellent alternative. It delivers strong performance, a solid camera, and all the essential features at a lower price. The Pro model is therefore particularly worthwhile for those who regularly benefit from the additional features and are willing to spend a little more for them.
