Google Pixel 9 vs Samsung Galaxy S25
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Both flagships deliver exceptional value at $799, but they prioritize different strengths. Google's Pixel 9 excels with a larger 6.3-inch Actua OLED display (2700 nits peak brightness), superior ultrawide camera (48MP vs 12MP), and the exclusive Tensor G4 chip optimized for AI features like real-time translation. Samsung's Galaxy S25 counters with a lighter 162g design, faster Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 8K video recording, and a telephoto lens for 3x optical zoom that Pixel lacks. Battery capacity favors Pixel (4700 mAh vs 4000 mAh), while S25 offers expandable storage up to 512GB. Both feature IP68 ratings and 120Hz displays, but Pixel's computational photography typically produces sharper, more natural photos. For photography enthusiasts and Google ecosystem users, Pixel 9 edges ahead; Samsung wins if you value raw processing power, zoom versatility, and Samsung's One UI customization. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize camera AI or hardware specifications.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Google Pixel 9 | Samsung Galaxy S25 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 14 | Android 15, One UI 7 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 198 g | 162 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm | 146.9 x 70.5 x 7.2 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 50 MP, f/1.68, OIS | 50 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Front camera | 10.5 MP, f/2.2 | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps |
| Ultrawide | 48 MP, f/1.7, 123-degree | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Telephoto | — | 10 MP 3x optical |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 12 GB | 12 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 4700 mAh | 4000 mAh |
| Charging | 27W wired | 25W wired |
| Wireless charging | 15W (Qi) | 15W Qi2 |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.3 inches | 6.2 inches |
| Type | Actua OLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X LTPO |
| Resolution | 2424 x 1080 | 2340 x 1080 |
| Refresh rate | 60-120Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 2700 | 2600 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Octa-core (1x3.1 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3x2.6 GHz Cortex-A720 & 4x1.92 GHz Cortex-A520) | Octa-core (2x4.47 GHz + 6x3.53 GHz) |
| GPU | Mali-G715 MC7 | Adreno 830 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 | Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 3.2 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.4 |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Samsung Galaxy S25
Pros
- Compact and pocketable flagship
- Same Snapdragon 8 Elite as the Ultra model
- 12 GB RAM upgraded from prior generation
- Excellent 120Hz AMOLED display
- Long 7-year software support promise
Cons
- Small 4000 mAh battery limits endurance
- Slow 25W charging
- 1080p resolution instead of QHD
- No major camera hardware upgrades
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