Google Pixel 9 Pro XL- Rayfel Reviews
Pixel devices have intrigued me for a while and I have had a couple in the past which I have enjoyed using. So with the new Google Pixel 9 Pro XL being out, I decided to give it a go and have it as my Android Phone to run alongside my iPhone 16 Pro Max. And because I opted for the XL Google threw in a pair of Pixel Bud Pro 2 for good measure worth over £200 (this is something you don’t get from Apple).
So with using it for coming up to a month now (I know a bit late to the game) and I have some thoughts about the device and its design. So let’s dive into the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL in more detail.
Design & Build:
Across the Pro series, we have seen a significant design change compared to the 8 series all of which have grown on me and have made the Pixel 9 Pro XL a phone that certainly stands out from the crowd. The hardware on this year’s model is just beautiful but Let’s touch on a couple of the key design changes.
Frame:
The Frame or Chassis as some people might refer to it as has gone from boxes/squared corners to rounded corners. Some say this makes it look more like an iPhone I think in terms of shape but it’s still very unique thanks to the camera system which I will touch on shortly.
In terms of the material it’s made from aluminium and has a sturdy premium feel to it. The sides are very shiny (technical term I know 😂 ) and do pick several fingerprints which can be said about most phones.
Camera Bump:
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: A Comprehensive Review
The Google Pixel series has long been known for its unique design and camera prowess, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL continues that legacy with several notable refinements. Having used Pixel devices in the past, I was eager to see how this latest iteration stacks up—especially alongside my iPhone 16 Pro Max. Google sweetened the deal by including a pair of Pixel Buds Pro 2 (worth over £200) with my XL model, something Apple would never do.
After nearly a month of daily use, I’ve formed some solid opinions about the Pixel 9 Pro XL, from its design and display to its performance and AI features. Let’s dive in.
Design & Build
The Pixel 9 Pro XL maintains the signature Pixel aesthetic but introduces some key design refinements that make it stand out.
Camera Bump
For several generations, Pixel phones have featured a prominent camera bump, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL is no exception. However, rather than spanning the entire width of the device, the camera module now adopts a more pill-shaped design. Despite this change, it still retains the distinctive Pixel look.
Initially, I was concerned that the raised camera bump might be an annoyance, but it’s actually quite manageable—especially with a case. One big plus is that the phone lays flat on a surface, eliminating the annoying wobble found in many other smartphones with protruding cameras.
Display
The Pixel 9 Pro XL features a 6.8-inch flat display, much like its predecessor. While I do miss the curved edges from previous models, the biggest upgrade is the peak brightness—now reaching an impressive 3000 nits. This makes outdoor visibility significantly better, ensuring a crisp and clear screen even in direct sunlight.
The display is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, providing durability and scratch resistance. That said, I still recommend using a screen protector, as repairing high-end phone screens can be costly. One thing I have noticed is that the Pixel 9 Pro XL collects more dust on its screen compared to my iPhone, meaning I find myself cleaning it more frequently.
Fingerprint Scanner & Security
One of my favorite features of Android phones is the variety of authentication methods. The Pixel 9 Pro XL features an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, which has been significantly improved. It’s fast, accurate, and reliable, unlocking my device instantly with no missed attempts so far.
While the phone also offers Face Unlock, I personally prefer using the fingerprint sensor due to its speed and consistency. Of course, users can also set a password, PIN, or pattern as additional security options. I still wish Apple would bring an in-display fingerprint scanner to the iPhone lineup—it’s a great alternative to Face ID.
other pohttps://rayfelreviews.com/2025/02/24/samsung-galaxy-s24-ultra-review/st
Camera System
The Pixel series has always been known for its exceptional camera quality, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL continues that tradition.
Rear Cameras
This model features a triple-camera setup, consisting of:
- 50MP main sensor
- 48MP telephoto lens
- 48MP ultrawide lens
Low-light performance is excellent, allowing users to capture clear, detailed shots at any time of the day. Many prefer Pixel’s image processing over Apple and Samsung, and this year’s model continues to deliver stunning, natural-looking photos.
Front Camera
The 48MP front-facing camera has seen a significant improvement, offering sharp selfies with a wider field of view—perfect for group shots or content creators.
Video Quality
While video quality is solid, the transition between lenses isn’t the smoothest. However, unless you’re creating professional content for Instagram or YouTube, this likely won’t be an issue.
Battery Life & Charging
The Pixel 9 Pro XL has impressed me with its battery life. I easily make it to the end of the day with 30-40% battery remaining, meaning no battery anxiety. On some nights, I’ve skipped overnight charging to preserve battery health, and it’s held up just fine.
The phone supports fast charging, reaching 70% in just 30 minutes—but you’ll need a 45W charging adapter to achieve these speeds. Even with a lower-wattage charger, it recharges quickly. Additionally, Qi-certified fast wireless charging is included for added convenience.
Performance & Software
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by the Tensor G4 chip, which some claim isn’t as powerful as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Apple’s A18 Pro. However, in my real-world experience, the phone is smooth, responsive, and lag-free. Unless you’re a hardcore mobile gamer, you won’t notice any performance drawbacks.
On the software side, the Pixel 9 Pro XL ships with Android 15, offering the clean and intuitive stock Android experience that many prefer. Some key advantages over iOS include:
- App Drawer – Organized alphabetically, making navigation easy.
- Better Notifications – Quick previews and easier management.
- Customization – The ability to change launchers, icons, and themes.
One downside is file management, which isn’t as seamless as on Samsung’s One UI or iOS. The Files app can be clunky, making it less convenient for users who frequently manage documents and downloads.
Google AI & Gemini Integration
AI is becoming a huge focus in smartphones, and Google has integrated Gemini AI throughout the Pixel 9 Pro XL. While I don’t use AI features extensively, some standout tools include:
- “Add Me” Feature in the camera, which enhances group photos.
- AI-generated images, which are surprisingly well-executed.
- Conversational Gemini AI, which provides helpful insights and allows for follow-up queries.
There are also AI-powered summaries in the weather app, giving quick, at-a-glance forecasts. I plan to explore these features further, as AI is clearly the future of mobile technology.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, even more than I expected. It’s a beautifully designed, premium device with strong performance, an incredible camera, and excellent battery life.
However, flagship quality comes at a flagship price. The Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at £1,099 for the 128GB model, with the 256GB version costing £1,199.
So, is it worth it?
If you’re a Pixel or Android fan looking to upgrade, absolutely. If you’re an iPhone user curious about switching, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a unique experience with plenty of compelling features.I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below and let me know what you think about the Pixel 9 Pro XL!
