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For the first time ever, Google’s Pixel lineup includes a Pro and a Pro XL model. They have similar specs but come in different sizes. However, I prefer the Pixel 9 Pro XL as its larger size gives it some advantages. Let’s look at them below.
1More Screen Real Estate
The most visible difference between thePixel 9 Proand its XL variant is the display size. While the former packs a 6.3-inch 120Hz OLED panel, the latter ships with a 6.8-inch screen. Both are Super Actua-branded panels that can reach a peak brightness of 3,000 nits.
Since the Pixel 9 Pro XL has a bigger display, it can show more information on the screen. This means less scrolling when going through long articles or emails. The bigger screen also makes it ideal for watching videos and playing games.
2Better Thermal Performance
Smartphones are becoming more powerful every year, which means that they generate more heat than before. Google uses a vapor chamber cooling system on the Pixel 9 Pro series for enhanced heat dissipation and sustained performance under load. But it’s difficult to beat the law of physics.
A larger phone has more internal space and can, therefore, accommodate a bigger vapor chamber. So, a larger phone will always provide better heat dissipation than a smaller one. Given that Google’s Tensor chips are infamous for running hot, opting for the Pixel 9 Pro XL seems like the right move.
3Longer Battery Life
A bigger chassis means more internal space for a larger battery. The Pixel 9 Pro XL packs a 5,060mAh battery compared to the Pixel 9 Pro’s 4,700mAh unit. While the difference is only 300mAh, it should still be enough to ensure the Pro XL lasts longer than its regular Pro sibling.
A smartphone is only as good as its battery life. When you know your phone can easily last a day of use, you won’t have to worry about finding a power brick in the middle of the day. Plus, the longer battery life can help top up your other wireless accessories in a pinch.
Pixel phones are known for their wonky battery life. To account for any weirdness, you’ll want a phone with as big a battery as possible. The longer battery life is one of the keyfeatures of the Pixel 9 Pro I’m looking forward to, and the XL should be even more impressive on this front.
4Faster Charging
Slow charging speeds have always been an issue with Google’s Pixel lineup. While some Android phones can charge from 0 to 100 percent in around 30 minutes, the Pixel 8 took nearly 90 minutes.
With the Pixel 9 Pro XL, Google has finally bumped the wired charging speeds to 37W. Unfortunately, this speed boost doesn’t apply to the Pixel 9 Pro—its wired charging speed is still limited to 27W. Google claims the Pixel 9 Pro XL can charge to 70 percent in 30 minutes, while the 9 Pro only reaches 55 percent in the same duration.
Faster charging is a key feature to look forwhen buying a smartphone in 2024, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL ticks that box. However, since the Pixel 9 Pro XL also ships with a 300mAh bigger battery, its 0 to 100 percent charging time is unlikely to be notably shorter than the 9 Pro.
At $1,099, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is $100 more expensive than its Pro sibling. However, its bigger display, longer battery life, and better thermal performance help justify the price difference easily.
