Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Pixel 8 Pro
This year Google added a new model to its flagship lineup - Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, dethroning last year's Google Pixel 8 Pro as a top-tier Pixel in the family. Despite what the name suggests, the 9 Pro XL is more of an iterative update than a revolutionary reboot.
Furthermore, the Pixel 9 Pro XL's launch price is considerably higher than the going price for the 8 Pro. So, on paper, the 8 Pro seems like the more sensible choice. The devil is often in the details, though, so let's see if the 9 Pro XL deserves its price premium.
Table of Contents:
For starters, you can compare the complete specs sheets or directly continue with our editor's assessment in the following video or in the text further below.
Size comparison
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and 8 Pro have near-identical dimensions, even though this year's 9 Pro XL has a 0.1" bigger display. Google was able to slim down the bezels and achieve more screen real estate.
The newer Pixel is slightly thinner and heavier simultaneously, but we doubt anyone would notice in real life.
Build quality and appearance are just about the same. Gorilla Glass Victus 2 is on the front and back with an aluminum frame in the middle. The Pixel 9 Pro XL has adopted a slightly different camera island design, but that doesn't affect handling or usage.
Display comparison
The two devices have the same underlying display tech - LTPO OLED with up to 120Hz refresh rate. Adaptive refresh rate and HDR10+ support are at hand for both handsets, but the newer 9 Pro XL is the winner in this department for two simple reasons.
Firstly, the Pro XL has the brightest display we've seen yet, going above 2,300 nits, while the 8 Pro maxes out at 1,600 nits. That doesn't mean the Pro XL is about 40% brighter because luminance is measured on a logarithmic scale, not linear. Still, the newer Pixel surely provides a better viewing experience outdoors.
Secondly, you get 0.1" of extra screen diagonal with the 9 Pro XL and more screen real estate. The thinner bezels look more modern on the newer Pixel too.