Google Pixel 9 vs Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Google's Pixel 9 delivers exceptional value at $799, featuring Tensor G4 processing, a brilliant 2700-nit Actua OLED display, and the industry-leading computational photography that defines the Pixel experience. Its 50MP main camera excels in real-world conditions despite lower megapixel counts. Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra commands a $500 premium, justified by its larger 6.9-inch QHD+ display, significantly more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, superior 45W charging, and versatile quad-camera system with dual telephoto lenses. Performance-wise, the S25 Ultra dominates with faster CPU speeds and better gaming capability. However, Pixel 9's software optimization ensures smooth daily performance, and its camera processing rivals or exceeds Samsung's in most scenarios. Battery capacity favors Samsung (5000 mAh vs 4700 mAh), but both last a full day. For most users, Pixel 9 offers outstanding flagship features at mid-flagship pricing. Choose the S25 Ultra only if you need maximum display real estate, extreme computational power, or advanced telephoto capabilities.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Google Pixel 9 | Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 14 | Android 15, One UI 7 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 198 g | 218 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Titanium frame, Gorilla Glass Armor 2 |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm | 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 50 MP, f/1.68, OIS | 200 MP, f/1.7, OIS |
| Front camera | 10.5 MP, f/2.2 | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps |
| Ultrawide | 48 MP, f/1.7, 123-degree | 50 MP, f/1.9 |
| Telephoto | — | 50 MP 5x periscope + 10 MP 3x |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 12 GB | 12 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB | 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 4700 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 27W wired | 45W wired |
| Wireless charging | 15W (Qi) | 15W Qi2 |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.3 inches | 6.9 inches |
| Type | Actua OLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X LTPO |
| Resolution | 2424 x 1080 | 3120 x 1440 |
| 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 Ultra
Pros
- Class-leading 200 MP main camera with 5x periscope zoom
- Built-in S Pen for note-taking and productivity
- Bright 2600-nit display with Gorilla Glass Armor 2
- Snapdragon 8 Elite delivers top-tier performance
- 7 years of OS and security updates
Cons
- Very expensive at $1299 starting price
- S Pen lost Bluetooth remote features
- Charging speed still capped at 45W
- Large and heavy for one-handed use
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