Google Pixel 9 Pro

The Google Pixel 9 Pro is one of the most exciting releases of 2025. For years, Google’s Pixel lineup has delivered outstanding software, advanced AI features, and some of the best smartphone cameras in the market. With the Pixel 9 Pro, Google introduces a compact flagship phone that combines the premium features of the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL with a smaller form factor.

If you’re looking for a phone that’s powerful, camera-focused, AI-driven, and easy to hold in one hand, the Pixel 9 Pro might just be the right choice for you. In this in-depth Pixel 9 Pro review, we’ll break down the design, display, performance, battery life, cameras, software, and whether this compact flagship is worth your money.

Pixel 9 Pro Design and Build Quality

The Pixel 9 Pro may be smaller than the XL model, but it still feels every bit as premium. Google has given it a 6.3-inch body that matches the size and weight of the standard Pixel 9.

One subtle difference between the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro is the finish:

• The Pixel 9 Pro comes with a matte Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back and a glossy frame.

• The vanilla Pixel 9, on the other hand, has a glossy back with a matte frame.

Like most modern flagships, the Pixel 9 Pro is IP68 water and dust resistant, so you don’t have to worry about accidental spills or rain.

Display: Bright and Smooth

One of the biggest strengths of the Pixel 9 Pro is its display. The phone packs a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution that delivers a sharp 495 PPI. This makes it sharper than the vanilla Pixel 9, giving you crisp visuals whether you’re gaming, streaming, or browsing.

Key Display Features:

• 120Hz refresh rate that can scale down to 1Hz for power saving.

• HDR10+ support for vivid and high-contrast video playback.

• Ultra HDR compatibility to boost highlights in photos.

• Peak brightness of 2,300 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even under direct sunlight.

This is easily one of the brightest displays Google has ever put on a Pixel phone, making it ideal for outdoor use.

Audio and Biometrics

The Pixel 9 Pro features dual stereo speakers with crisp mids and clear sound. However, the bass has been toned down slightly compared to the Pixel 8 Pro.

For security, Google uses an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor, which is fast and responsive. However, it may not work as consistently with certain screen protectors compared to optical fingerprint readers.

Software and AI Features

The Pixel 9 Pro ships with Android 14 out of the box and, as expected, delivers a clean, stock Android experience with no unnecessary bloatware.

But what makes this phone truly stand out is Google’s AI integration:

• Gemini AI Assistant: Google’s answer to ChatGPT, capable of answering questions, generating content, and summarizing calls, texts, and emails.

• Pixel Studio: Allows you to create AI-generated images and designs.

• Best Take: Replace faces in group photos with better versions from other shots.

• Add Me Mode: Combine multiple people into one shot—or even clone yourself for fun photos.

• 7 Years of Software Updates: Google promises 7 years of OS, security, and feature updates, making this phone one of the most future-proof Android devices.

Performance: Tensor G4 Chipset

Powering the Pixel 9 Pro is Google’s Tensor G4 chipset, designed in-house. It brings improvements over last year’s Tensor G3, with a new CPU and faster GPU clock speeds.

In real-world usage, the Pixel 9 Pro feels smooth and responsive. Everyday tasks, multitasking, and AI-powered features run seamlessly. However, when it comes to raw performance benchmarks, the Pixel 9 Pro falls behind flagship rivals powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and newer chipsets.

Performance Notes:

• Runs smoothly in daily use.

• Struggles with heavy gaming and prolonged performance due to thermal throttling.

• Best suited for AI features, photography, and productivity rather than raw gaming power.

Battery Life and Charging

The Pixel 9 Pro comes with a 4,700mAh battery, the same as the regular Pixel 9. Thanks to the LTPO screen that drops to 1Hz, battery life is respectable, scoring 13 hours and 11 minutes in active use tests.

Charging Specs:

• 27W wired charging (Power Delivery standard).

• Wireless charging support.

• 0 to 56% in 30 minutes, full charge in around 90 minutes.

Unfortunately, Google does not include a charger in the box, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you don’t already own a compatible adapter.

Camera System: One of the Best

The Pixel 9 Pro cameras are where Google shines brightest. The setup is the same as the Pixel 9 Pro XL, featuring:

• 50MP main camera

• 48MP telephoto (5x zoom)

• 48MP ultra-wide with autofocus

• 42MP selfie camera with autofocus

Main Camera

• Daylight Photos: Crisp, natural colors, high detail, and Google’s signature high-contrast look.

• Low Light: Excellent exposure, vibrant colors, boosted shadows, and controlled highlights.

Telephoto Camera

• 5x Zoom: Solid results with decent sharpness and good colors.

• Night Mode: Good exposure but sometimes soft detail and artificial processing.

Ultra-Wide Camera

• Captures high detail with organic processing.

• Autofocus enables close-up macro shots.

• Performs well in low light, though images can be a bit soft.

Selfie Camera

• 42MP with autofocus produces sharp, detailed selfies with accurate skin tones.

• Wide field of view makes it great for group selfies.

Video Recording

• 4K recording available on all cameras.

• High contrast, vivid colors, and excellent stabilization.

• Sharpness varies depending on lighting conditions.

• Low-light video performance is very good, with great stabilization.

Pixel 9 Pro vs Competition

The Pixel 9 Pro delivers a lot, but how does it compare to rivals?

• Samsung Galaxy S24: Offers stronger raw performance and versatile video quality.

• iPhone 15 Pro: More powerful chipset, stronger gaming performance, and industry-leading video recording.

However, the Pixel 9 Pro counters with better AI features, Google’s camera software magic, and unmatched Android updates.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Pixel 9 Pro?

The Google Pixel 9 Pro is a compact flagship that manages to pack in all the premium features of its larger sibling, the Pixel 9 Pro XL. With its brilliant display, advanced AI tools, strong camera system, and long-term software support, it’s an excellent choice for anyone who values photography, software updates, and convenience in a smaller form factor.

That said, if you’re after raw performance and heavy gaming power, rivals like the Galaxy S24 or iPhone 15 Pro may be better suited.

But if you want a well-rounded flagship with Google’s smartest features, the Pixel 9 Pro is one of the best compact smartphones of 2025.