Google nailed it with the Pixel 9 lineup, thanks to its clear software program, some genuinely helpful synthetic intelligence options, and availability in each value section. The flagship lineup contains 4 Pixel phones — the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Professional, Pixel 9 Professional XL, and Pixel 9 Professional Fold, whereas the Pixel 9a debuted not too long ago. This makes a Pixel smartphone obtainable in each value section.
The newest units additionally embody new AI options and digital camera smarts with the assist of Google Gemini. It may be complicated to select which Google cellphone is best for you, given the huge lineup and the Pixel 10 sequence launching in August. We’ve got examined all the Google Pixel phones to aid you resolve which is the good selection for you at present.
What’s the best Google Pixel cellphone proper now?
At ZDNET, we have reviewed all of the Google Pixel phones obtainable to aid you discover the best Pixel cellphone for you. Our present choose for the best Google Pixel cellphone is the Pixel 9 Pro XL. It faces powerful competitors from the new Galaxy S25 Extremely, however you get wonderful cameras, a bunch of new AI options, an up to date design, and help for up to seven years of software program, safety, and Pixel Drop updates. Nevertheless, it isn’t the solely good Pixel cellphone that you could buy proper now.
The best Google Pixel phones of 2025
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Why we prefer it: Google has three phones named Pixel 9 Professional this yr, however the Pixel 9 Professional XL is the true successor to the Pixel 8 Professional. It options an upgraded show, which is sharper and brighter, a brand new chipset, and much more.
The design is now iPhone-like with flat sides. These make it really feel extra premium to maintain with out being uncomfortable, thanks to the curved edges. You get an all-new digital camera module, too. General, I really like the way it seems to be.
The Google Pixel 9 Professional is powered by the Tensor G4 chipset. It is accountable for my favourite AI options like Pixel Studio, higher digital camera processing, and extra. It nonetheless will get heat throughout demanding duties, however I have not confronted stutters or lag on the Google flagship. It’s paired with 16GB of RAM — the most on a Pixel cellphone to date with up to 1TB or storage.
I additionally like Video Enhance — which helps higher file movies in low mild, and Add Me, which helps you to add your self in group pictures. The entrance digital camera is best than ever as nicely. The cellphone’s triple digital camera array, paired with the firm’s computational prowess, makes the Pixel 9 Professional XL the best system total from Google. The firm additionally says it is twice as sturdy than the Pixel 8 Professional.
Who it is for: In order for you the largest Google cellphone however don’t desire to spend on a foldable and want flagship cameras, the Pixel 9 Professional XL is for you. It will not disappoint you.
Who ought to look elsewhere: In order for you the best of Google cmaeras however have sall palms, the Pixel 9 Professional XL could possibly be a problem to use. In that case, it’s best to go for the Pixel 9 Professional.
Evaluate: Google Pixel 9 Professional XL
Google Pixel 9 Professional XL specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Show: 6.8 inches | Storage choices: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP fundamental, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto, 42MP entrance | Battery capability: 5,060 mAh | Worth: Begins $1,099
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Why we prefer it: The Google Pixel 9 Professional is a one-of-a-kind cellphone for many who need the best optics however in a smaller dimension. Whereas the iPhone 15 Professional and Professional Max have digital camera variations in phrases of telephoto lens, the Pixel 9 Professional’s cameras are the similar as the $100 dearer Pixel 9 Professional.
In contrast to the common Pixel 9, the Pixel 9 Professional includes a sharper and brighter show, a telephoto sensor, a greater and improved 42MP selfie shooter, 16GB of RAM, and extra digital camera options like 8K video recording, Zoom Improve, and extra. There are a lot of causes to warrant the further $200 price ticket over the Pixel 9.
Who it is for: It’s best to buy the Google Pixel 9 Professional in order for you all the best Google options and efficiency however in a 6.3-inch display dimension and kind issue. It’ll obtain the similar seven years price of software program, safety and Pixel Drop upgrades.
Who ought to look elsewhere: In case you prioritize battery life, the Pixel 9 Professional won’t be for you. It will final you a day however in the event you’re an influence person, the Pixel 9 Professional XL would serve you higher, or in the event you’re positive with a small display however want a dependable battery life, the $500 Pixel 9a is an efficient selection.
Evaluate: Google Pixel 9 Professional
Google Pixel 9 Professional specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Show: 6.3 inches | Storage choices: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Rear cameras: 50MP fundamental, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto, 42MP entrance | Battery capability: 4,700 mAh | Worth: Beginning at $999
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Why we prefer it: I really like the Pixel 9 as a result of it’s extra comparable to the Professional sequence than ever. It’s the similar dimension as the Pixel 9 Professional and is powered by the similar processor, packs the similar battery capability, an identical display and extra. So, you get an identical expertise on a extra inexpensive cellphone.
A number of new AI options like Pixel Studio, Pixel Screenshots, and Add Me are half of the Pixel 9 as nicely. In some methods, the smaller Pixel is an excellent higher cellphone than the bigger Professional XL, reminiscent of in ergonomics and the in-hand really feel. The skill to attain from one nook of the display to the different with out having to fidget round creates a greater in-hand person expertise.
Regardless of the $100 value hike, the Pixel 9 prices $200 lower than the Pixel 9 Professional and $300 lower than the Pixel 9 Professional XL. This makes it one of the best phones in its value class.
Who it is for: The Pixel 9 is the best Google cellphone for most individuals since you get to expertise most of the upgrades for lower than $1,000. The optics are as dependable as earlier than, and also you get even higher digital camera tuning. The Pixel 9 additionally packs 12GB of RAM, which is the most for any base variant of a Google cellphone to date.
Who ought to look elsewhere: In order for you a much bigger display and battery, the Pixel 9 Professional XL would go well with you higher. And if you’re an influence person, the Apple iPhone 16 is perhaps price contemplating.
Evaluate: Google Pixel 9
Google Pixel 9 specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Show: 6.3 inches | Storage choices: 128GB, 256GB | Rear cameras: 50MP fundamental, 48MP ultrawide, 10.5MP entrance | Battery capability: 4,700 mAh | Worth: Beginning at $799
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Why we prefer it: The Google Pixel 9a is the newest inexpensive Google cellphone and in contrast to Apple’s iPhone 16e, the it nonetheless begins at the similar $499, regardless of the upgrades on the processor, show, and battery.
The new Google price range cellphone options an up to date design and borrows the Tensor G4 chipset from the Pixel 9 Professional. Whereas it scores decrease numbers in benchmark assessments than the flagship cellphone, it stays an especially succesful system.
I like the greater 6.3-inch OLED display — versus the Pixel 8a’s 6.1-inch display. It helps a 120Hz refresh charge show and brings improved brightness. This makes the display look extra legible than earlier than, particularly open air. The new Google cellphone additionally has the largest battery for an A-series Pixel cellphone — 5,100mAh, which is able to probably final you a whole day.
It additionally provides a easy and responsive day-to-day expertise. It carries over the Titan M2 chip in addition to a built-in VPN for added safety. Google upgraded the optics, too. You get an improved 48MP fundamental sensor and the similar 12MP ultrawide angle digital camera. The 13MP selfie shooter stays unchanged as nicely. These provide nice digital camera processing, pores and skin tones, and wonderful lowlight outcomes. It is nice for hobbyist shutterbugs {and professional} photographers alike.
Who it is for: In case you are strictly on a price range however don’t desire to compromise on the flagship Google expertise, the Pixel 9a is for you.
Who ought to look elsewhere: In order for you the best show, battery life and efficiency beneath $500, the OnePlus 13r is a more sensible choice, particularly in the event you’re comfortable with no wi-fi charging help.
Evaluate: Google Pixel 9A
Google Pixel 9a specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 with Titan M2 | Show: 6.3 inches | Storage choices: 128GB/256GB | Rear cameras: 64MP Quad PD Bayer, 13MP ultrawide, 13MP entrance | Battery capability: Typical 4492mAh | Worth: Beginning at $499
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Why we prefer it: The most vital design change for the Pixel 9 Professional Fold is that it was comparable to the OnePlus Open and never the former Pixel Fold. I beloved the new 20:9 facet ratio cowl display, which is the similar as the Pixel 9 Professional, so you’ll be able to run apps with out dealing with any scaling points — in contrast to the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
The Pixel 9 Professional Fold includes a design total on the inside too. You get higher cameras however a smaller battery than earlier than. Nevertheless, it’s now powered by a extra environment friendly Tensor G4 processor, which ought to hold the battery life in test. It carries the similar new AI options as the Pixel 9 sequence, together with Add Me, Pixel Studio, and extra.
There’s a new function referred to as Made You Look that shows graphics on the cowl display the place capturing with the cellphone unfolded. That is to make toddlers look in direction of the cameras. Like the different new Pixel phones, it will get seven years of software program, safety, and Pixel Drop updates.
Who it is for: In order for you a folding cellphone with the signture Google expertise, the Pixel 9 Professional Fold is for you.
Who ought to look elsewhere: The Pixel 9 Professional Fold is not the best foldable smartphone. With the Galaxy Z Fold 7 simply round the nook, it is smart to wait a couple of weeks in the event you’re searching for a book-style folding cellphone.
Evaluate: Google Pixel 9 Professional Fold
Google Pixel Fold specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Show: 6.3 inches (outer) and eight.0 inches (internal) | Storage: 256GB, 512GB | Rear cameras: 48MP fundamental, 10.5MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto, and 10MP selfie shooter on each cowl display and internal show | Battery capability: 4,650mAh | Worth: $1,799
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What are the tariffs in the U.S.?
The latest U.S. tariffs on imports from nations like China, Vietnam, and India purpose to increase home manufacturing however are probably to drive up costs on client electronics. Merchandise like smartphones, laptops, and TVs could change into dearer as corporations rethink world provide chains and weigh the price of shifting manufacturing.
Additionally: Tariff warfare has tech patrons questioning what’s subsequent. This is what we all know
Smartphones are amongst the most affected by the new U.S. tariffs, with units imported from China and Vietnam dealing with steep duties that might increase retail costs by 20% or extra. Manufacturers like Apple and Google, which rely closely on Asian manufacturing, could both cross these prices on to shoppers or soak up them at the expense of revenue margins.
The tariffs might additionally lead to delays in product launches or shifts in the place and the way phones are made, forcing corporations to diversify manufacturing to nations with extra favorable commerce circumstances.
Proper now, it seems to be like some tech could also be exempt from the issued tariffs, however because it’s at all times altering and growing, we’re maintaining a tally of it and can replace you on the newest.
Additionally: Tariff exemptions for electronics provide a break for tech – however not for lengthy
The Google Pixel 9 Professional XL is our choose for best Google cellphone total. Together with the ample picture and video modifying options the cellphone accommodates, it is also glossy, premium-feeling, and has sufficient battery life for a protracted day of use. All instructed, it is one of the most dynamic phones on the market, with a number of AI options to again it up. See how the best Google Pixel phones examine primarily based on value, processing pace, and show dimension beneath.
| Google Pixel cellphone | Worth | Processor | Show dimension |
| Pixel 9 Professional XL | $1,099 | Google Tensor G4 | 6.8-inch |
| Pixel 9 Professional | $999 | Google Tensor G4 | 6.3-inch |
| Pixel 9 | $799 | Google Tensor G4 | 6.3-inch |
| Pixel 9a | $499 | Google Tensor G4 | 6.3-inch |
| Pixel 9 Professional Fold | $1,799 | Google Tensor G4 | 6.3-inch and eight.0-inch |
In case you’re in a Google Pixel cellphone, it is good that there aren’t too many choices obtainable to confuse you or overwhelm your decision-making course of. The first consideration is value. When you’ve got a most quantity you might be keen to spend on a cellphone, then the value can dictate which is best for you.
Fortunately, when it comes to the software program expertise, Google offers about the similar expertise throughout all of the actively supported Pixel phones. You will see some unique AI and digital camera options right here and there, however the common expertise is roughly the similar.
| Select this Google Pixel cellphone | In order for you… |
| Google Pixel 9 Professional XL | The best of Google in the largest dimension potential for good battery life and huge display with tons of AI options, and a temperature sensor. |
| Google Pixel 9 Professional | Google’s best digital camera system in a small dimension, 1TB storage and no compromises. A Professional cellphone in a compact kind issue. |
| Google Pixel 9 | A extra inexpensive Pixel cellphone with a equally excellent digital camera, colourful physique decisions, and a helpful kind issue. It additionally options some of the AI options discovered on the Professional. |
| Google Pixel 9a | The best price range choose of the Google phones, with a beginning value of $499, a 120Hz show, and wi-fi charging help. |
| Google Pixel 9 Professional Fold | Google’s foldable overhaul that permits you to change between a compact 6.3-inch show and a productivity-enhancing 8.0-inch show. The Pixel 9 Professional Fold stays dear, nevertheless it undercuts the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 by $100. |
With a number of new Google Pixel phones being launched every year, ZDNET spends at the least two weeks with every mannequin earlier than deciding whether or not or not — and the place — it ranks inside this shopping for information. The {qualifications} I search for when curating the picks embody the following:
- Availability: The largest issue is availability; is what’s being chosen obtainable to buy instantly from Google, an area provider, or a web based retailer? Is it in inventory? Or can it solely be bought in used or renewed situation? With the picks on this record, every one might be purchased new and sealed, guaranteeing that you’re going to obtain the most dependable expertise from the begin.
- Worth: Simply as vital is the worth that every Pixel cellphone brings. Whereas all choices on this record differ in value tiers, they every provide sufficient distinctive options, digital camera capabilities, and designs that make them price paying for. If they don’t seem to be price it, they will not be on the record.
- Efficiency: Naturally, I solely choose fashions that yield good to wonderful efficiency, from the approach they deal with day-to-day duties to extra intensive use circumstances like gaming and video modifying.
This is a breakdown of each issue we contemplate earlier than we make suggestions:
- Design and ergonomics: How good a cellphone seems to be and feels performs an enormous function in many customers’ shopping for journeys, so we contemplate these points closely when testing.
- Efficiency: A number of elements have an effect on a cellphone’s efficiency, together with LTE/5G sign, battery life, and background duties. Due to this fact, we usually start our evaluations with a completely charged handset, with all background duties closed, and with as steady of a cell connection as potential.
- Digital camera high quality: ZDNET assessments cellphone cameras by capturing lots of of pictures and movies of numerous topics and in numerous lighting circumstances. We additionally examine the output to that of older fashions.
- Battery life and charging: It is also vital for us to consider how lengthy phones final beneath mild, reasonable, and heavy utilization, how lengthy they take to recharge, and the way they do it — wired, wi-fi, or each.
- Particular options: These options distinguish examined units from a bustling smartphone market and hopefully convey added worth to customers, not the reverse.
- Pricing and availability: Past price range concerns, we additionally notice if a cellphone is offered in the U.S. or solely internationally.
For an in depth rundown of our testing methodology, make sure to take a look at our how we take a look at phones article.
Folks use their smartphones all over the place at the moment and having some stage of mud and water resistance is vital. You shouldn’t swim or deliberately submerge your cellphone for prolonged intervals in water with out a waterproof case. Warranties typically don’t cowl water harm. Nevertheless, if you’re outdoors in the rain, by chance drop your cellphone in a puddle, or spill one thing in your cellphone, it ought to give you the chance to survive such an incident.
On this record, the Pixel 9a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Professional, and Pixel 9 Professional Fold are the most water and dirt resistant with an IP68 ranking. The Pixel Fold has an IPX8 ranking, which solely provides water resistance and no mud resistance due to its foldable kind issue.
Each Pixel mannequin on this record helps wi-fi charging.
Wi-fi charging is a handy approach to cost your cellphone with out having to plug in a USB-C wire instantly into the cellphone. Wi-fi charging can also be now rated as quick wi-fi charging in many circumstances, however even with this “quick” ranking, it’s nonetheless sooner to cost up your cellphone with a direct USB-C cable.
Additionally: Is your Pixel battery draining sooner than it ought to? This function can assist
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