Samsung has just unveiled its latest flagship phone, the Galaxy S25 Edge, marking a departure from its usual release schedule. Traditionally, Samsung launches a trio of flagship phones at the beginning of the year followed by foldable devices in the summer. However, the S25 Edge is a slimmer option among the flagship bar-phones, catering to those who prioritize sleek design without compromising on performance.
The Galaxy S25 Edge is impressively slim and lightweight, weighing only 163g and measuring a mere 5.9mm thick. In comparison, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is bulkier at 221g and 8.9mm thick. Despite its slim profile, the S25 Edge boasts a large screen size similar to the Pixel 9 Pro XL, making it a compelling choice for users seeking a balance between aesthetics and functionality.
When it comes to design and display, both phones have a modern aesthetic with flat screens and centrally placed punch-hole selfie cameras. However, the S25 Edge stands out with its slim bezels and smaller camera cutout, offering a more immersive viewing experience. Additionally, the S25 Edge features a higher resolution display at 1440 x 3120 compared to the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s 1344 x 2992 resolution.
In terms of performance, the S25 Edge is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, renowned for its speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Pixel 9 Pro XL utilizes Google’s Tensor G4 SoC, which may not match the raw power of the Snapdragon 8 Elite. The S25 Edge also offers storage options of 256GB or 512GB with 12GB of RAM, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL comes with storage options ranging from 128GB to 1TB and 16GB of RAM.
Camera capabilities differ between the two devices, with the S25 Edge featuring a 200MP main sensor and a 12MP ultrawide lens, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL sports a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP 5x telephoto lens. Image processing styles vary between Samsung and Google, with Samsung opting for a more natural look and Google producing vibrant images. Both devices excel in selfie photography with high-resolution front cameras.
In terms of software features, Samsung’s One UI 7 offers a plethora of customization options and unique features like Samsung Dex, allowing users to transform their phone into a desktop replacement. In contrast, the Pixel UI is simpler and more streamlined, focusing on performance and aesthetics.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a larger battery capacity at 5060mAh compared to the S25 Edge’s 3900mAh battery. Additionally, the Pixel supports faster charging speeds and wireless charging capabilities, offering added convenience for users.
Both the Galaxy S25 Edge and Pixel 9 Pro XL are priced starting at £1,099 in the UK, with variations in storage and RAM configurations. While the S25 Edge offers a more pocketable design and faster performance, the Pixel 9 Pro XL stands out with its larger battery capacity and wireless charging support. Ultimately, the choice between the two devices will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
