Google nailed it with the Pixel 9 lineup, because of its clear software program, some genuinely helpful synthetic intelligence options, and availability in each value section. The flagship lineup contains 4 Pixel telephones — the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Professional, Pixel 9 Professional XL, and Pixel 9 Professional Fold, whereas the Pixel 9a debuted lately. This makes a Pixel smartphone obtainable in each value section.
The newest gadgets additionally embrace new AI options and digicam smarts with the assistance of Google Gemini. It may be complicated to decide on which Google telephone is finest for you, given the huge lineup and the Pixel 10 collection launching in August. We have now examined all of the Google Pixel telephones that will help you determine which is the right selection for you presently.
What’s the finest Google Pixel telephone proper now?
At ZDNET, we have reviewed all the Google Pixel telephones obtainable that will help you discover one of the best Pixel telephone for you. Our present decide for one of the best Google Pixel telephone is the Pixel 9 Professional XL. It faces robust competitors from the brand new Galaxy S25 Extremely, however you get wonderful cameras, a bunch of recent AI options, an up to date design, and help for as much as seven years of software program, safety, and Pixel Drop updates. Nonetheless, it isn’t the one good Pixel telephone which you could purchase proper now.
The most effective Google Pixel telephones of 2025
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Why we prefer it: Google has three telephones 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 carry with out being uncomfortable, because of the curved edges. You get an all-new digicam module, too. General, I like the way it appears.
The Google Pixel 9 Professional is powered by the Tensor G4 chipset. It is answerable for my favourite AI options like Pixel Studio, higher digicam processing, and extra. It nonetheless will get heat throughout demanding duties, however I have never confronted stutters or lag on the Google flagship. It’s paired with 16GB of RAM — essentially the most on a Pixel telephone thus far with as much as 1TB or storage.
I additionally like Video Increase — which helps higher report movies in low gentle, and Add Me, which helps you to add your self in group pictures. The entrance digicam is best than ever as nicely. The telephone’s triple digicam array, paired with the corporate’s computational prowess, makes the Pixel 9 Professional XL one of the best machine total from Google. The corporate additionally says it is twice as sturdy than the Pixel 8 Professional.
Who it is for: If you need the largest Google telephone however do not need 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: If you need one of the best of Google cmaeras however have sall palms, the Pixel 9 Professional XL may very well be a problem to make use of. In that case, you must go for the Pixel 9 Professional.
Evaluation: 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 principal, 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 telephone for individuals who need one of the best optics however in a smaller dimension. Whereas the iPhone 15 Professional and Professional Max have digicam variations when it comes to telephoto lens, the Pixel 9 Professional’s cameras are the identical because the $100 costlier Pixel 9 Professional.
In comparison with 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 digicam options like 8K video recording, Zoom Improve, and extra. There are many causes to warrant the additional $200 price ticket over the Pixel 9.
Who it is for: You can purchase the Google Pixel 9 Professional if you would like all one of the best Google options and efficiency however in a 6.3-inch display screen dimension and kind issue. It’s going to obtain the identical seven years value of software program, safety and Pixel Drop upgrades.
Who ought to look elsewhere: In the event you prioritize battery life, the Pixel 9 Professional may not be for you. It’s going to final you a day however should you’re an influence consumer, the Pixel 9 Professional XL would serve you higher, or should you’re fantastic with a small display screen however want a dependable battery life, the $500 Pixel 9a is an effective selection.
Evaluation: 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 principal, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto, 42MP entrance | Battery capability: 4,700 mAh | Worth: Beginning at $999
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Why we prefer it: I like the Pixel 9 as a result of it’s extra much like the Professional collection than ever. It’s the similar dimension because the Pixel 9 Professional and is powered by the identical processor, packs the identical battery capability, the same display screen and extra. So, you get the same expertise on a extra reasonably priced telephone.
A number of new AI options like Pixel Studio, Pixel Screenshots, and Add Me are a part of the Pixel 9 as nicely. In some methods, the smaller Pixel is a good higher telephone than the bigger Professional XL, resembling in ergonomics and the in-hand really feel. The flexibility to achieve from one nook of the display screen to the opposite with out having to fidget round creates a greater in-hand consumer 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 among the finest telephones in its value class.
Who it is for: The Pixel 9 is one of the best Google telephone for most individuals since you get to expertise many of the upgrades for lower than $1,000. The optics are as dependable as earlier than, and also you get even higher digicam tuning. The Pixel 9 additionally packs 12GB of RAM, which is essentially the most for any base variant of a Google telephone thus far.
Who ought to look elsewhere: If you need an even bigger display screen and battery, the Pixel 9 Professional XL would swimsuit you higher. And if you’re an influence consumer, the Apple iPhone 16 is perhaps value contemplating.
Evaluation: Google Pixel 9
Google Pixel 9 specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Show: 6.3 inches | Storage choices: 128GB, 256GB | Rear cameras: 50MP principal, 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 most recent reasonably priced Google telephone and in contrast to Apple’s iPhone 16e, the it nonetheless begins on the similar $499, regardless of the upgrades on the processor, show, and battery.
The brand new Google price range telephone 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 telephone, it stays an especially succesful machine.
I like the larger 6.3-inch OLED display screen — versus the Pixel 8a’s 6.1-inch display screen. It helps a 120Hz refresh price show and brings improved brightness. This makes the display screen look extra legible than earlier than, particularly outdoor. The brand new Google telephone additionally has the largest battery for an A-series Pixel telephone — 5,100mAh, which can doubtless final you a complete day.
It additionally affords a clean 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 principal sensor and the identical 12MP ultrawide angle digicam. The 13MP selfie shooter stays unchanged as nicely. These supply nice digicam processing, pores and skin tones, and beautiful 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 do not need to compromise on the flagship Google expertise, the Pixel 9a is for you.
Who ought to look elsewhere: If you need one of the best show, battery life and efficiency below $500, the OnePlus 13r is a better option, particularly should you’re comfortable with no wi-fi charging help.
Evaluation: 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: An important design change for the Pixel 9 Professional Fold is that it was much like the OnePlus Open and never the previous Pixel Fold. I beloved the brand new 20:9 side ratio cowl display screen, which is similar because the Pixel 9 Professional, so you’ll be able to run apps with out going through any scaling points — in contrast to the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
The Pixel 9 Professional Fold includes a design total on the within too. You get higher cameras however a smaller battery than earlier than. Nonetheless, it’s now powered by a extra environment friendly Tensor G4 processor, which ought to maintain the battery life in examine. It carries the identical new AI options because the Pixel 9 collection, together with Add Me, Pixel Studio, and extra.
There’s a new function referred to as Made You Look that shows graphics on the duvet display screen the place capturing with the telephone unfolded. That is to make toddlers look in the direction of the cameras. Like the opposite new Pixel telephones, it’s going to get seven years of software program, safety, and Pixel Drop updates.
Who it is for: If you need a folding telephone 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 one of the best foldable smartphone. With the Galaxy Z Fold 7 simply across the nook, it is sensible to attend just a few weeks should you’re purchasing for a book-style folding telephone.
Evaluation: Google Pixel 9 Professional Fold
Google Pixel Fold specs: Processor: Google Tensor G4 | Show: 6.3 inches (outer) and eight.0 inches (interior) | Storage: 256GB, 512GB | Rear cameras: 48MP principal, 10.5MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto, and 10MP selfie shooter on each cowl display screen and interior show | Battery capability: 4,650mAh | Worth: $1,799
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What are the tariffs within the U.S.?
The current U.S. tariffs on imports from nations like China, Vietnam, and India intention to spice up home manufacturing however are prone to drive up costs on shopper electronics. Merchandise like smartphones, laptops, and TVs could turn into costlier as firms rethink international provide chains and weigh the price of shifting manufacturing.
Additionally: Tariff conflict has tech consumers questioning what’s subsequent. This is what we all know
Smartphones are among the many most affected by the brand new U.S. tariffs, with gadgets imported from China and Vietnam going through steep duties that would increase retail costs by 20% or extra. Manufacturers like Apple and Google, which rely closely on Asian manufacturing, could both go these prices on to shoppers or take in them on the expense of revenue margins.
The tariffs may additionally result in delays in product launches or shifts in the place and the way telephones are made, forcing firms to diversify manufacturing to nations with extra favorable commerce circumstances.
Proper now, it appears like some tech could also be exempt from the issued tariffs, however because it’s all the time altering and creating, we’re maintaining a tally of it and can replace you on the most recent.
Additionally: Tariff exemptions for electronics supply a break for tech – however not for lengthy
The Google Pixel 9 Professional XL is our decide for finest Google telephone total. Together with the ample picture and video modifying options the telephone incorporates, it is also modern, premium-feeling, and has sufficient battery life for an extended day of use. All advised, it is one of the dynamic telephones available on the market, with a number of AI options to again it up. See how one of the best Google Pixel telephones examine based mostly on value, processing velocity, and show dimension beneath.
| Google Pixel telephone | 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 the event you’re thinking about a Google Pixel telephone, it is good that there aren’t too many choices obtainable to confuse you or overwhelm your decision-making course of. The primary consideration is value. When you have a most quantity you might be keen to spend on a telephone, then the value can dictate which is best for you.
Fortunately, in relation to the software program expertise, Google supplies about the identical expertise throughout all the actively supported Pixel telephones. You may see some unique AI and digicam options right here and there, however the basic expertise is roughly the identical.
| Select this Google Pixel telephone | If you need… |
| Google Pixel 9 Professional XL | The most effective of Google within the largest dimension attainable for good battery life and enormous display screen with tons of AI options, and a temperature sensor. |
| Google Pixel 9 Professional | Google’s finest digicam system in a small dimension, 1TB storage and no compromises. A Professional telephone in a compact kind issue. |
| Google Pixel 9 | A extra reasonably priced Pixel telephone with a equally excellent digicam, colourful physique decisions, and a useful kind issue. It additionally options among the AI options discovered on the Professional. |
| Google Pixel 9a | The most effective price range decide of the Google telephones, 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 swap 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 telephones 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 embrace the next:
- Availability: The most important issue is availability; is what’s being chosen obtainable to buy instantly from Google, a neighborhood service, or an internet retailer? Is it in inventory? Or can it solely be bought in used or renewed situation? With the picks on this record, every one could be purchased new and sealed, guaranteeing that you will obtain essentially the most dependable expertise from the beginning.
- Worth: Simply as necessary is the worth that every Pixel telephone brings. Whereas all choices on this record differ in value tiers, they every supply sufficient distinctive options, digicam capabilities, and designs that make them value paying for. If they are not value it, they will not be on the record.
- Efficiency: Naturally, I solely decide fashions that yield good to wonderful efficiency, from the best way they deal with day-to-day duties to extra intensive use instances like gaming and video modifying.
This is a breakdown of each issue we think about earlier than we make suggestions:
- Design and ergonomics: How good a telephone appears and feels performs an enormous function in lots of customers’ shopping for journeys, so we think about these facets closely when testing.
- Efficiency: A number of elements have an effect on a telephone’s efficiency, together with LTE/5G sign, battery life, and background duties. Subsequently, we usually start our evaluations with a totally charged handset, with all background duties closed, and with as steady of a cellular connection as attainable.
- Digicam high quality: ZDNET assessments telephone cameras by capturing a whole lot of pictures and movies of varied topics and in varied lighting circumstances. We additionally examine the output to that of older fashions.
- Battery life and charging: It is also necessary for us to guage how lengthy telephones final below gentle, average, 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 gadgets from a bustling smartphone market and hopefully convey added worth to customers, not the other.
- Pricing and availability: Past price range concerns, we additionally be aware if a telephone is accessible within the U.S. or solely internationally.
For an intensive rundown of our testing methodology, be sure you take a look at our how we check telephones article.
Folks use their smartphones all over the place as we speak and having some stage of mud and water resistance is necessary. You shouldn’t swim or deliberately submerge your telephone for prolonged durations in water with no waterproof case. Warranties usually don’t cowl water harm. Nonetheless, if you’re exterior within the rain, unintentionally drop your telephone in a puddle, or spill one thing in your telephone, it ought to have the ability to survive such an incident.
On this record, the Pixel 9a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Professional, and Pixel 9 Professional Fold are essentially the most water and mud resistant with an IP68 ranking. The Pixel Fold has an IPX8 ranking, which solely affords water resistance and no mud resistance as a consequence of its foldable kind issue.
Each Pixel mannequin on this record helps wi-fi charging.
Wi-fi charging is a handy method to cost your telephone with out having to plug in a USB-C twine instantly into the telephone. Wi-fi charging can also be now rated as quick wi-fi charging in lots of instances, however even with this “quick” ranking, it’s nonetheless sooner to cost up your telephone with a direct USB-C cable.
Additionally: Is your Pixel battery draining sooner than it ought to? This function might help
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