Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 9 Pro — all the expected differences

Google held its “MadeByGoogle” event this year on August 13th. The event marked the grand launch of Google’s heavier slate of devices, the Google 9 series. This series has soon become the talk of the town, with its base model, 2 Pro models, and a foldable addition to the line as well. But, what truly has customers curious is the choice between Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro - which is truly perfect amidst these? 

This confusion arises from the fact that now Google Pixel 9 Pro muddifies the waters with the base model and has the same screen size. This is because a new model has been added to the range, 9 Pro XL, which has a larger screen size and battery. Hence, people thought Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro had all the same features. Well, that’s not true! To clearly understand the difference and make the right choice, we have for you an entire segment assigned. Read on to understand how these 2 beasts differ.

Before we get too far into this comparison,  here's an overview of the specs.

Expected Differences In Google Pixel 9 And 9 Pro 

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Design and displays

As previously mentioned, the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro now share the same screen size — 6.3 inches. However, while the screen size is identical, the displays themselves are not. The Pixel 9 Pro has a Super Actua display with higher resolution, a faster refresh rate, and superior brightness compared to the Pixel 9.

Specifically, the Pixel 9 Pro offers a resolution of 2856 x 1280, whereas the Pixel 9 features 2424 x 1080. This results in a higher pixel density on the Pro, delivering a sharper image overall. Additionally, the Google Pixel 9 pro’s refresh rate ranges from 1Hz to 120Hz, depending on the content, while the Pixel 9's adaptive refresh rate is limited to between 60Hz and 120Hz.

The Pixel 9 Pro also outshines the Pixel 9 with a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits, though the Pixel 9’s 2,700-nit brightness is still impressive. Both phones should perform well in bright sunlight, at least according to their specs. They also feature the updated camera bar design, which now ends with rounded corners instead of stretching across the entire width of the phone.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Color Variations

Color options for the Pixel 9 include Obsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen, and Peony. The Pixel 9 Pro also comes in Obsidian and Porcelain, with the additional choices of Hazel or Rose Quartz. The Pixel 9 Pro has a matte glass back and a polished metal frame, while the Pixel 9 sports a polished glass back with a satin metal frame and camera bar.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Camera

The main difference between the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro is the Pro model’s additional rear telephoto lens, offering a 5x optical zoom compared to the Pixel 9’s main camera and ultrawide shooter. Both phones have a 50MP wide camera and a 48MP ultrawide lens with Macro mode. The Pro model also includes Google's Video Boost feature for enhanced video quality. For selfies, the Pixel 9 Pro has a higher resolution 42MP front camera, compared to the Pixel 9’s 10.5MP front camera, though both models now feature autofocus on the front camera.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Performance and AI features

Both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro use the same Tensor G4 chip, but the Pixel 9 Pro has more RAM (16GB vs. 12GB). Despite having less RAM, the Pixel 9 can still access the same AI features, such as Pixel Screenshots, Call Notes, Add Me, and Pixel Studio. Both phones include the Gemini AI assistant, but the Pixel 9 Pro includes a year-long subscription to Gemini Advanced for more advanced tasks.

Google Pixel 9 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro: price and availability

The Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL will be available in the US, UK, and Australia starting August 22. The standard Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold will launch later, on September 4, with the Pro not yet having a release date for Australia.

The Pixel 9 starts at $799 / £799 / AU$1,349, while the Pixel 9 Pro is priced at $999 / £999 / AU$1,649. The price gap between the base model and the Pro has widened compared to previous years, reflecting the differences in their capabilities.

The Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro share many similarities, but significant differences remain despite their identical screen sizes. But are these enhancements worth the $200 extra cost of the Pixel 9 Pro over the $799 Pixel 9? That’s for you to decide based on your needs and preferences! All we can direct you to is some stunning Google Pixel 9, 9 Pro, Google Pixel 8 leather cases, and Google Pixel 8 Pro leather cases available at Porter Riley. Not just this! We even house leather cases for other models of Google Phones. With our premium leather cases give your device the style and security it deserves. Shop now!