Let’s get real: If you’re torn between the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Samsung S24 Ultra, you’re not just looking for a phone—you’re looking for THE phone. I’ve had the privilege to try both of these tech titans and trust me, they’re both incredible in their own ways. But at the end of the day, you want the one that’s going to make your life easier, better, and, let’s face it, a little cooler.
We’re diving into a side-by-side that’s going to cover cameras, battery life, price, and more. I’ll dish out what’s hot and what’s not and help you decide which phone deserves that sweet pocket space.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Samsung S24 Ultra: The Verdict
When it comes to purpose, both phones shine in different arenas. Let’s break it down:
Camera
If you’re a photo freak like me, this is probably the most important factor. The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s camera feels like having a professional photographer in your pocket. Google’s AI magic makes your shots crisp, colorful, and—most importantly—effortless. Portraits? Stunning. Low light? No problem. The Pixel nails it.
But the Samsung S24 Ultra isn’t backing down. The zoom on this thing is straight-up bananas. We’re talking 200MP main camera with crazy detail and a 100x Space Zoom. If you love snapping distant shots or getting those ridiculously sharp close-ups, the S24 Ultra is your jam.
Verdict: Want seamless, AI-powered photography? Go Pixel. Obsessed with zoom and megapixels? Samsung’s your champ.
Battery Life
We all know the heartbreak of a 2% battery warning during a TikTok binge. The Pixel 9 Pro XL delivers solid battery life, easily lasting a full day. It’s reliable and charges quickly.
The S24 Ultra, though, takes battery life a step further. With its power-efficient display and beefy 5000mAh battery, it doesn’t just last a day—it thrives through a day and a half. You can forget to charge it overnight and still survive the next day’s commute.
Verdict: The S24 Ultra wins for power users and forgetful chargers.
Price
Ah, the wallet factor. Neither of these phones is cheap (surprise, surprise), but the Pixel 9 Pro XL is usually a bit easier on your bank account. Google’s flagship keeps its pricing competitive without skimping on features.
The S24 Ultra, on the other hand, wants you to know you’re getting a luxury experience. And you’ll pay for it. It’s pricier, but you’re also getting that gorgeous display, next-level zoom, and Samsung’s premium design.
Verdict: Pixel 9 Pro XL for the budget-conscious. S24 Ultra for those who love a little tech indulgence.
Performance
In day-to-day use, both phones are buttery smooth. The Pixel 9 Pro XL rocks Google’s Tensor chip, making it smart, fast, and perfect for AI-driven tasks.
The S24 Ultra? It’s a beast. Samsung’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor chews through apps, games, and multitasking like a champ. If you want the absolute peak of mobile performance, Samsung takes the cake.
Verdict: Both are excellent, but power users will love the S24 Ultra’s muscle.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Samsung S24 Ultra: Detailed Comparison
Alright, now that we’ve covered the broad strokes, let’s dive into the details. Here’s the nitty-gritty you need to know.
| Feature | Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
| Design & Build Quality | Minimalist aesthetic with matte glass back and subtle curves; feels good in hand. | Premium industrial design with squared edges and titanium frame; bulkier but luxurious. |
| Display | 6.7-inch OLED, 120Hz refresh rate; vibrant colors and deep blacks. | 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate, peak brightness of 2600 nits; exceptional for media consumption. |
| Software & Features | Pure Android experience with no bloatware; integrated AI features enhance usability. | One UI 6 is feature-rich and customizable but includes some bloatware; S Pen adds productivity features. |
| Camera Breakdown | 50MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, and 48MP telephoto; excels in low-light with AI enhancements. | 200MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and two telephoto lenses (10MP and 50MP); unmatched detail and zoom capabilities. |
| Battery & Charging | 5000mAh battery with 30W wired and 23W wireless charging; good efficiency but less fast charging. | 5000mAh battery with 45W wired and 25W wireless charging; charges faster and lasts longer under heavy use. |
| Performance | Google Tensor G4 chip; optimized for AI tasks but less powerful in raw performance compared to competitors. | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3; superior performance in gaming, multitasking, and heavy-duty tasks. |
| Durability | IP68 rated for water resistance; Gorilla Glass Victus for durability. | IP68 rated for water resistance; Gorilla Glass Victus for added toughness against scratches and drops. |
| Ecosystem | Seamless integration with Google services (Photos, Nest, etc.). | Best suited for users within the Samsung ecosystem (Galaxy Buds, SmartThings). |
| Price | Starting at $1,099; offers great value for features provided. | Starting at $1,199; premium pricing reflects high-end performance and features. |
| Extras (S Pen vs AI Features) | Strong AI features like Magic Eraser and real-time translation enhance user experience. | Includes S Pen for productivity tasks like note-taking and sketching. |
Design & Build Quality
Both phones are undeniably beautiful, but they take different approaches to design.
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: Google sticks to its minimalist aesthetic. The matte glass back, subtle curves, and camera visor give it a sleek, modern look. It’s available in some muted but classy colors, and it feels good in the hand.
- Samsung S24 Ultra: This phone screams luxury. The squared-off edges and titanium frame give it a premium, industrial vibe. It’s bulkier, but that’s part of the Ultra’s charm. If you love a phone that looks and feels high-end, the S24 Ultra delivers.
Winner: Personal preference here. Minimalist lovers, go Pixel. Luxury fans, go Samsung.
Display
Let’s be honest: you’re going to spend hours staring at this screen, so it better be good.
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: A gorgeous 6.7-inch OLED with a 120Hz refresh rate. Colors pop, blacks are deep, and it’s just a joy to look at. The adaptive refresh rate keeps things smooth while saving battery.
- Samsung S24 Ultra: A stunning 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a jaw-dropping peak brightness of 2600 nits. Watching videos or gaming on this screen is like having a mini-IMAX in your pocket.
Winner: The S24 Ultra’s display is simply the best in the game.
Software & Features
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: Pure Android. No bloatware, no frills—just clean, smooth, and smart. Google’s AI features are baked right into the system, making everything feel seamless.
- Samsung S24 Ultra: One UI 6 is feature-rich and customizable. Yes, there’s some bloatware, but if you love having options, this is the way to go. Plus, you get the S Pen for doodling, note-taking, and pretending you’re in a spy movie.
Winner: Pixel for simplicity. Samsung for features and customization.
Camera Breakdown
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: 50MP main sensor, 48MP ultra-wide, and 48MP telephoto. Google’s AI does the heavy lifting, making every shot look fantastic with minimal effort. Night Sight and Real Tone are standout features.
- Samsung S24 Ultra: 200MP main sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, and two telephoto lenses (10MP and 50MP). The zoom capabilities are insane—you can practically photograph the moon. Plus, the image detail is unmatched.
Winner: Pixel for casual shooters who want reliable AI magic. Samsung for detail lovers and zoom enthusiasts.
Battery & Charging
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: 5000mAh battery, 30W wired charging, and 23W wireless charging. Gets the job done.
- Samsung S24 Ultra: 5000mAh battery, 45W wired charging, and 25W wireless charging. It charges faster and lasts longer.
Winner: Samsung S24 Ultra for battery longevity.
Top Accessories for Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Samsung S24 Ultra
A great phone deserves great accessories. Here are some must-haves to elevate your experience.
1. Present Present: The Modern Smartphone Docking Station
This docking station is sleek and modern and makes life easier. It charges your phone while keeping it propped up for video calls, streaming, or those endless Reddit scrolls. Plus, it looks gorgeous on your desk or nightstand.
While the product is currently available for pre-order, you can reserve yours today for only $1. By pre-ordering, you’ll secure an exclusive price of $299, significantly lower than the regular price of $500.
2. Wireless Earbuds
Whether you’re team Pixel or team Samsung, you need good earbuds. Pixel Buds Pro or Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro—both deliver killer sound and seamless integration.
3. Fast Charging Adapters
Neither phone comes with a charging brick (because, of course they don’t). Get a 30W adapter for the Pixel or a 45W adapter for the S24 Ultra to keep things speedy.
4. Protective Cases
These phones are beautiful. But one accidental drop, and it’s heartbreak city. Grab a durable case—something rugged or a slee, clear one to show off that design.
Conclusion
So, which phone is for you? If you love Google’s smart, AI-driven experience and want a fantastic camera without spending a fortune, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is your perfect match. If you’re all about top-tier performance, stunning displays, and that mind-blowing zoom, the Samsung S24 Ultra is worth every penny.At the end of the day, both phones are amazing. Choose the one that fits your vibe, and you can’t go wrong. Happy upgrading!