After spending three months with the Pixel 9 Pro XL, I have a lot to say about Google’s flagship device. From the impressive camera capabilities to the stunning display, there’s a lot to love about this phone. But as with any device, there are some downsides that need to be considered.
Let’s start with the good. The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s camera system is truly top-notch. The software wizardry behind the lenses ensures that each photo comes out looking fantastic, with great color accuracy, dynamic range, and exposure. The 48Mp ultrawide lens and the periscope telephoto lens offer flexibility and detail that are hard to beat. Video recording is also a strong suit, thanks to optical image stabilization on both the main and telephoto lenses.
Moving on to the display, the 6.8-inch OLED screen is a joy to look at. With a crisp resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, watching videos or playing games on this phone is a treat. The high peak brightness also ensures visibility even in bright sunlight.
Performance-wise, the Pixel 9 Pro XL may not top the benchmarks, but in real-world usage, it’s fast and responsive. Multitasking and demanding apps are handled with ease, making it a reliable device for everyday use.
Battery life is another area where the Pixel 9 Pro XL shines. The 5060mAh battery can easily last a full day of heavy usage and even stretch to two or three days with moderate use. This device truly offers multi-day battery life, which is a rare feat in the smartphone world.
In terms of software, Android 15 on the Pixel 9 Pro XL is a delight to use. The integrated approach and lack of bloatware make for a smooth and intuitive user experience. The AI features are top-notch, and the promise of six years of OS and security updates is a nice bonus.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows with the Pixel 9 Pro XL. One major frustration comes from the two-tap process required to turn Wi-Fi or Mobile data on or off in the quick settings menu. The phone’s large size and weight can also be a burden, making it uncomfortable to use for extended periods.
But perhaps the biggest letdown is the charging situation. Despite supporting 45W fast charging, the device is limited to 37W, and without the compatible charger, charging speeds are significantly slower. Qi wireless charging is also hindered by the need for a specific accessory, making it a hassle to achieve fast charging speeds.
Overall, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is still a solid choice for most users. It excels in many areas, but the compromises in size and charging speeds may be a dealbreaker for some. If you can look past these issues, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a fantastic combination of features that make it a worthy contender in the smartphone market.
