Apple iPhone 16 Plus vs Google Pixel 9
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
iPhone 16 Plus delivers a larger 6.7-inch display with superior brightness (2000 nits) and premium build quality, though it's limited to 60Hz refresh. Pixel 9 counters with a more compact 6.3-inch form factor, adaptive 120Hz display reaching 2700 nits, and superior computational photography via Tensor G4. Camera systems differ meaningfully: iPhone excels with Dolby Vision 4K recording, while Pixel's 48MP ultrawide and advanced AI processing provide versatility. Performance remains competitive—A18 handles everyday tasks flawlessly, though Tensor G4 optimizes for Google services and AI features. Battery capacity favors Pixel (4700mAh), but iPhone's efficiency remains strong. Pixel's faster 27W charging and 12GB RAM standard offer better value at $799 versus iPhone's $899 price point. For compact size, display tech, and computational features, Pixel 9 represents superior value; iPhone 16 Plus suits users prioritizing screen real estate and ecosystem loyalty.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Apple iPhone 16 Plus | Google Pixel 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iOS 18 | Android 14 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 199 g | 198 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 160.9 x 77.8 x 7.8 mm | 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 48 MP | 50 MP, f/1.68, OIS |
| Front camera | 12 MP | 10.5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps Dolby Vision | 4K@60fps |
| Ultrawide | 12 MP | 48 MP, f/1.7, 123-degree |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 12 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 4674 mAh | 4700 mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired | 27W wired |
| Wireless charging | 25W MagSafe | 15W (Qi) |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.7 inches | 6.3 inches |
| Type | Super Retina XDR OLED | Actua OLED |
| Resolution | 2796 x 1290 | 2424 x 1080 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 60-120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 2000 | 2700 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Hexa-core | Octa-core (1x3.1 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3x2.6 GHz Cortex-A720 & 4x1.92 GHz Cortex-A520) |
| GPU | Apple GPU (5-core) | Mali-G715 MC7 |
| Chipset | Apple A18 | Google Tensor G4 |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 2.0 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple iPhone 16 Plus
Pros
- Excellent battery life from large 4674 mAh cell
- A18 chip supports Apple Intelligence
- New Camera Control button
- Bright 2000-nit display
- More affordable than Pro Max
Cons
- Still locked to 60Hz refresh rate
- No telephoto camera
- USB-C limited to USB 2.0 speeds
- No always-on display
Google Pixel 9
Pros
- Excellent main and ultrawide cameras
- Seven years of OS updates
- Premium flat-edge design
- 12 GB RAM is generous for the price
- Bright 2700-nit display
Cons
- No telephoto lens
- Slower charging than competitors
- Tensor G4 not a benchmark leader
- Only two storage options
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