Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Vs iPhone 13

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Starting at

Refurbished price:423.00

Versus €1,298.07 new

See options
iPhone 13
iPhone 13
Starting at

Refurbished price:247.00

Versus €769.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, released in late 2024, and the Apple iPhone 13, launched in 2021, represent different generations within the smartphone landscape. While both devices offer robust performance and camera capabilities, the Pixel 9 Pro XL introduces more recent advancements in display technology, computational photography, and extended software support. The iPhone 13, running on iOS, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL, powered by Android, cater to users within their respective operating system ecosystems.

Scores

Durability

The age of a device significantly influences its practical lifespan, particularly concerning software updates and hardware longevity. The Pixel 9 Pro XL, being a more recent release, benefits from a longer projected support window.

  • Release Timeline: The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL was released in August 2024, making it a current-generation device. In contrast, the iPhone 13 was released in September 2021, positioning it as an older model in the market.
  • Software Longevity: Google has committed to providing seven years of operating system and security updates for the Pixel 9 Pro XL, extending its software support until Android 22. The iPhone 13, while still receiving updates (compatible with iOS 18 as of September 2024), typically receives major iOS updates for five to six years from its release.
  • Durability Features: Both devices offer a degree of physical resilience. The Pixel 9 Pro XL features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for screen protection and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The iPhone 13 also includes an IP68 rating and features a Ceramic Shield front cover for enhanced durability.

Year of Release

2024

2021

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance in smartphones is driven by the internal processing unit, impacting everything from app responsiveness to multitasking efficiency. The newer Pixel 9 Pro XL incorporates a more recent generation of processing technology compared to the iPhone 13.

  • Processing Power: The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is equipped with the Tensor G4 processor, designed to handle demanding applications and advanced AI features smoothly. The iPhone 13 utilizes the A15 Bionic chip, which continues to deliver capable performance for everyday tasks and many intensive applications.
  • Multitasking Capability: With 16GB of RAM, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers substantial capacity for running numerous applications simultaneously and managing complex workflows without slowdowns. The iPhone 13 comes with 4GB of RAM, which is sufficient for typical user multitasking but may show limitations with a very high number of open applications or extremely memory-intensive tasks.
  • Storage Options: Both devices offer a range of internal storage capacities to suit different user needs. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is available with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and up to 1TB of storage. The iPhone 13 offers 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage configurations.

Memory (GB)

16 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer high-quality viewing experiences, though with notable differences in technology and specifications.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL features a larger 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. The iPhone 13 has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, also known for its color accuracy and contrast.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts an adaptive refresh rate that can scale from 1Hz to 120Hz, providing smoother scrolling and more fluid animations, especially noticeable in gaming and fast-paced content. The iPhone 13 features a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which offers a consistent visual experience for general use.
  • Brightness and Clarity: The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a peak brightness of up to 3000 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. The iPhone 13 provides a typical brightness of 800 nits and a peak HDR brightness of 1200 nits, which is also suitable for most viewing environments.

Resolution

1344 x 2992

1170 x 2532

Screen type

LTPO OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Camera systems are a significant consideration for many users, and both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and iPhone 13 offer capable photography and videography tools, each with distinct strengths.

  • Rear Camera System: The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide lens with macro autofocus, and a 48MP 5x telephoto lens with optical image stabilization. The iPhone 13 comes with a dual 12MP camera system, comprising a wide lens with sensor-shift optical image stabilization and an ultrawide lens.
  • Photography Features: The Pixel 9 Pro XL leverages advanced computational photography and AI features for image processing, including improved low-light performance and enhanced detail across its lenses. The iPhone 13 offers features like Smart HDR 4 and Photographic Styles, which intelligently optimize lighting and contrast, and Cinematic Mode for video with shallow depth of field.
  • Video Recording Capabilities: The Pixel 9 Pro XL supports video recording up to 8K resolution at 30 frames per second, along with 4K at various frame rates, and includes features like Video Boost for enhanced quality. The iPhone 13 can record HDR video with Dolby Vision up to 4K at 60 frames per second and offers slow-motion video capabilities.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

42 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience, from connectivity to physical design and security features.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL supports 5G connectivity and features a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The iPhone 13 also supports 5G (sub-6 GHz) and utilizes Apple's proprietary Lightning connector.
  • Biometric Security: For secure unlocking and authentication, the Pixel 9 Pro XL incorporates an under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, alongside face unlock capabilities. The iPhone 13 relies on Face ID, Apple's facial recognition system.
  • Design and Handling: The Pixel 9 Pro XL has dimensions of 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm and weighs 221 grams, offering a larger form factor. The iPhone 13 is more compact at 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.65 mm and weighs 174 grams, which may appeal to users preferring a smaller device. Both devices feature IP68 ratings for dust and water resistance.

Weight

221 g

173 g

Screen size (in)

6.8

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

User feedback for the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL often highlights its exceptional camera performance, particularly its advanced computational photography and the versatility of its triple-lens system, including the telephoto capabilities. Users also frequently praise its extended software support and the vibrant, high-refresh-rate display. Some discussions point to its larger size as a consideration for those preferring a more compact device.

The iPhone 13 is generally well-regarded for its consistent performance, the reliability of the iOS ecosystem, and its capable dual-camera system, which produces high-quality photos and videos for most users. Its battery life was also noted as a significant improvement over its predecessor. Some users, however, express a desire for a higher refresh rate display, a feature present in newer models.

Users prioritizing a cutting-edge camera system with advanced zoom capabilities, a large and fluid display, and the longest possible software support may find the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL well-suited to their needs. Conversely, users who prefer a more compact device, are deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem, and value consistent performance with a proven camera system may lean toward the iPhone 13. Both devices offer a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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