Google Pixel 9 vs Sony Xperia 5 V
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Pixel 9 delivers superior value at $799 with a brighter 2700-nit Actua OLED display, newer Tensor G4 processor, and exceptional computational photography via Magic Eraser and Best Take. Its 48MP ultrawide, 12GB RAM, and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity edge out competitors in everyday versatility. Sony Xperia 5 V targets professionals with its 4K@120fps log video recording, cinema-grade Exmor T sensor, and larger 5000mAh battery—ideal for content creators unwilling to compromise on video performance. However, its 1700-nit display appears dimmer, lacks wireless charging, and Android 13 feels dated. Xperia's $999 price disadvantage combined with inferior display brightness and no computational AI features make Pixel 9 the clearer choice for most users seeking flagship performance without overpaying.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Google Pixel 9 | Sony Xperia 5 V |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 14 | Android 13 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 198 g | 182 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 | 154 x 68 x 8.6 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 50 MP, f/1.68, OIS | 48 MP, f/1.9, OIS (Exmor T for mobile) |
| Front camera | 10.5 MP, f/2.2 | 12 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 4K@120fps, log video recording |
| Ultrawide | 48 MP, f/1.7, 123-degree | 12 MP, f/2.2, 124-degree |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 12 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 4700 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 27W wired | 30W wired |
| Wireless charging | 15W (Qi) | No |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.3 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Type | Actua OLED | OLED |
| Resolution | 2424 x 1080 | 2520 x 1080 |
| Refresh rate | 60-120Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 2700 | 1700 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Octa-core (1x3.1 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3x2.6 GHz Cortex-A720 & 4x1.92 GHz Cortex-A520) | Octa-core (1x3.19 GHz Cortex-X3 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A710 & 3x2.0 GHz Cortex-A510) |
| GPU | Mali-G715 MC7 | Adreno 740 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 3.2 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 6E |
| 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
Sony Xperia 5 V
Pros
- Compact 6.1-inch flagship in an era of large phones
- 4K@120fps video with professional log recording
- Exmor T sensor excels in low light
- Headphone jack retained
- IP68 with two years of OS updates
Cons
- No telephoto camera
- Only 30W wired charging — no wireless
- Premium price for a compact with limited camera versatility
- Display not as bright as competitors
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