Google Pixel 9 Vs iPhone 15

Google Pixel 9
Google Pixel 9
Starting at

Refurbished price:399.99

Versus €1,066.71 new

See options
iPhone 15
iPhone 15
Starting at

Refurbished price:399.00

Versus €879.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Google Pixel 9, released in August 2024, and the Apple iPhone 15, launched in September 2023, represent distinct approaches to the modern smartphone experience. While both devices offer premium features and capabilities, they differ primarily in their operating systems and the emphasis placed on computational intelligence versus raw processing power. The Pixel 9 runs on Android, while the iPhone 15 operates on iOS, each offering a unique ecosystem and user interface.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, several factors contribute to their expected practical lifespan.

  • Release Timeline: The Google Pixel 9 was released in August 2024, making it a newer device compared to the iPhone 15, which launched in September 2023. This difference in release dates can influence the duration of software support.
  • Software Longevity: Google has committed to providing seven years of OS and security updates for the Pixel 9 series, ensuring a prolonged period of feature enhancements and security patches. The iPhone 15 typically receives iOS updates for approximately five to six years from its release.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices feature robust construction. The Pixel 9 incorporates Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back, along with an aluminum frame, and carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The iPhone 15 features a Ceramic Shield front cover, an aluminum design, and also boasts an IP68 rating for splash, water, and dust resistance.

Year of Release

2024

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from navigating applications to engaging in demanding activities like gaming.

  • System Responsiveness: The Pixel 9 is powered by a custom-designed processor that emphasizes artificial intelligence and machine learning, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient handling of complex applications. The iPhone 15 utilizes a powerful chip that delivers strong performance for demanding apps and gaming.
  • Multitasking Capabilities: The Pixel 9 comes with 12GB of RAM, which contributes to responsive performance across various tasks. The iPhone 15 is equipped with 6GB of RAM, providing a capable experience for typical smartphone usage.
  • Storage Options: The Pixel 9 offers storage options of 128GB and 256GB. The iPhone 15 provides more varied storage capacities, including 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer high-quality viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Pixel 9 features a 6.3-inch Actua OLED display with a resolution of 1080x2424 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 422 ppi. The iPhone 15 comes with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, offering a higher resolution of 1179x2556 pixels and a pixel density of 460 ppi.
  • Brightness Levels: The Pixel 9's display can reach up to 1800 nits for HDR content and a peak brightness of 2700 nits for outdoor visibility. The iPhone 15 offers 1000 nits of typical brightness, 1600 nits for peak HDR content, and up to 2000 nits for outdoor use.
  • Refresh Rate: The Pixel 9 supports a dynamic refresh rate ranging from 60Hz to 120Hz, providing fluid visuals during scrolling and gaming. The iPhone 15 features a standard 60Hz refresh rate.

Resolution

1080 x 2424

1179 x 2556

Screen type

OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both the Google Pixel 9 and iPhone 15 are designed to deliver strong photographic and videographic capabilities, though they approach imaging with different strengths.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Pixel 9 features a dual-camera setup with a 50MP main sensor and a 48MP ultrawide lens that includes macro autofocus. The iPhone 15 also has a dual-camera system, featuring a 48MP main camera with sensor-shift optical image stabilization and a 12MP ultrawide camera. The main camera on the iPhone 15 also enables a 2x telephoto option through its quad-pixel sensor.
  • Photography Features: The Pixel 9 includes advanced computational photography features such as Night Sight, Astrophotography, Portrait Mode, Face Unblur, and a unique 'Add Me' feature for group photos. The iPhone 15 offers features like Photonic Engine, Deep Fusion, Smart HDR 5, and next-generation portraits with Focus and Depth Control, allowing users to adjust focus after a photo is taken.
  • Video Recording: Both devices support 4K video recording at 60 frames per second. The iPhone 15 also includes Cinematic mode for depth-of-field effects in videos and Action mode for stabilized footage. The Pixel 9 offers features like Audio Magic Eraser and 10-bit HDR video.

Main camera

50 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

10.5 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and imaging, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both the Pixel 9 and iPhone 15 support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data. The Pixel 9 supports Wi-Fi 6 (with Wi-Fi 7 expected), while the iPhone 15 uses Wi-Fi 6. Both devices have transitioned to a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
  • Biometric Security: The Pixel 9 features an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. The iPhone 15 relies on Face ID for facial recognition.
  • Design and Handling: The Pixel 9 measures 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5mm and weighs 198g, offering a slightly larger and heavier profile. The iPhone 15 is more compact and lighter at 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8mm and 171g. The Pixel 9 features a polished glass rear and a metal frame with a satin finish, while the iPhone 15 has a color-infused glass and aluminum design.

Weight

198 g

171 g

Screen size (in)

6.3

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

The Google Pixel 9 and iPhone 15 each present a compelling package, catering to different user preferences and priorities. User feedback often praises the Pixel 9 for its exceptional camera capabilities, particularly its AI-driven features that enhance photo editing and unique shooting modes. Its extended software support commitment is also a significant advantage for users seeking long-term device relevance. Some users note that while its raw processing power might not match the iPhone in benchmarks, its real-world performance for everyday tasks and AI-centric functions is highly efficient.

The iPhone 15 is frequently lauded for its robust and consistent performance, capable of handling demanding applications and games with ease. Its display is recognized for its clarity and brightness, and the integration of the Dynamic Island is a notable user experience enhancement. Users appreciate the iPhone's ecosystem and the seamless integration across Apple devices. Some common observations include its standard 60Hz refresh rate, which some users might find less fluid compared to devices with higher refresh rates.

Users prioritizing advanced computational photography, a longer software support window, and a highly customizable Android experience may find the Google Pixel 9 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, users who value consistent, powerful performance, a highly refined operating system, and a compact, lightweight design might lean toward the iPhone 15. Both devices offer quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers looking to make a sustainable choice.

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