Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8: Is the New Pixel 9 Upgrade Worth It? Discover Key Features & Price!
Dive Into the Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8 Comparison—Explore the Latest Features, Performance Upgrades, and Pricing to See If It’s Time to Upgrade!
Google’s 2024 smartphone lineup has arrived, featuring the much-anticipated Google Pixel 9, alongside the Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. As Google pushes the envelope with a suite of impressive new devices, many current Pixel 8 owners are wondering if the Pixel 9 upgrade is worth the switch. Here’s a detailed look at the Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8 to help you make an informed decision.
Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8: Key Differences
The Google Pixel 9 has introduced several notable upgrades over the Pixel 8, beginning with its design. This year, Google has reworked the Pixel 9’s frame to feature flattened edges, moving away from the Pixel 8’s curved sides. While both phones sport glossy backs and matte aluminum frames with IP68 water and dust resistance, the Pixel 9 uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, offering better durability compared to the Pixel 8’s Corning Gorilla Glass.
In terms of color options, the Pixel 9 comes in Peony, Wintergreen, Obsidian, and Porcelain, while the Pixel 8 was available in Rose, Mint, Obsidian, and Porcelain. The Peony color of the Pixel 9 offers a more vibrant shade compared to the Pixel 8’s Rose, which some users found lacking.
Google Pixel 9 Features vs Pixel 8
One of the most significant changes is the display. The Google Pixel 9 sports a 6.3-inch Actual OLED display, compared to the Pixel 8’s 6.2-inch screen. This bump in size is complemented by a higher peak brightness of 2700 nits, up from the Pixel 8’s 2000 nits. The Pixel 9 also offers a dynamic refresh rate ranging from 60Hz to 120Hz, while the Pixel 8 had a fixed 120Hz refresh rate.
The Pixel 9 is powered by the new Tensor G4 processor, paired with 12GB of RAM, which is a substantial upgrade from the Pixel 8’s Tensor G3 and 8GB of RAM. This boost in performance promises smoother multitasking and more efficient power use. Storage options remain the same for both models, at 128GB and 256GB.
Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8: Comparison Table
| Feature | Google Pixel 9 | Google Pixel 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm (6.0 x 2.8 x 0.3 inches) | 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm (5.93 x 2.79 x 0.35 inches) |
| Weight | 198 grams (7 ounces) | 187 grams (6.60 ounces) |
| Display | 6.3-inch Actua OLED, 1080 x 2424, 422 ppi, 60-120Hz | 6.2-inch Actua OLED, 1080 x 2400, 428 ppi, 120Hz |
| Peak Brightness | 2700 nits (HDR), 1800 nits (regular) | 2000 nits (HDR), 1400 nits (regular) |
| Durability | IP68, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | IP68, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus |
| Colors | Peony, Wintergreen, Obsidian, Porcelain | Rose, Mint, Obsidian, Porcelain |
| Processor | Google Tensor G4 | Google Tensor G3 |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| Software | Android 14 (upgradable to Android 15) | Android 14 |
| Updates | 7 years (through Android 21 or 22) | 7 years (through Android 21) |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP main, f/1.68, 82-degree FOV; 48MP ultrawide, f/1.7, 123-degree FOV | 50MP main, f/1.7; 12MP ultrawide, f/2.2, 126-degree FOV |
| Front Camera | 10.5MP with autofocus, f/2.2, 95-degree FOV | 10.5MP, f/2.2 |
| Battery | 4,700mAh | 4,575mAh |
| Charging | 27W wired, 15W wireless, reverse wireless | 27W wired, 18W wireless, reverse wireless |
| Starting Price | 79,999rs (Flipkart) | 71,999rs (Flipkart) |
Google Pixel 9 Features vs Pixel 8
The Google Pixel 9 showcases several notable improvements over the Pixel 8:
Design and Display
The Pixel 9 introduces a sleek, modern design with flattened edges and a revamped capsule-shaped camera module. The display has been slightly increased to 6.3 inches with higher peak brightness, enhancing visibility in sunlight.
Performance
Google Pixel 9 features the new Tensor G4 processor, which provides a substantial performance boost over the Pixel 8’s Tensor G3. With 12GB of RAM, the Pixel 9 delivers smoother multitasking and more efficient handling of demanding apps and games. This upgrade ensures a more fluid and responsive user experience, with improved power efficiency and reduced heat generation.
Software and Updates
The Pixel 9 will launch with Android 14 but is expected to upgrade to Android 15, a first for Pixel devices. The Pixel 8 also started with Android 14 and will receive updates through Android 21. Both devices come with Google’s promise of seven years of updates, but the Pixel 9’s potential to support up to Android 22 adds extra value for future-proofing.
Battery and Charging
The Google Pixel 9 features a slightly larger 4,700mAh battery compared to the Pixel 8’s 4,575mAh. Despite this, the daily battery life remains comparable. The Pixel 9 supports 27W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. Although it does not support Qi2 wireless charging, its charging capabilities are competitive. The Pixel 8 also offers 27W wired and 18W wireless charging.
Should You Upgrade to the Pixel 9?
When considering whether the Pixel 9 upgrade is worthwhile, evaluate the following:
- Design and Display: The Pixel 9’s new design and slightly larger, brighter display offer enhanced aesthetics and usability.
- Performance: The Tensor G4 chip and additional RAM in the Pixel 9 provide a noticeable performance improvement over the Pixel 8.
- Camera: The upgraded 48MP ultrawide lens on the Pixel 9 could significantly enhance your photography experience.
- Battery and Charging: While both models offer robust charging options, the Pixel 9’s battery life is comparable, with slightly improved capacity.
If these upgrades align with your needs and you value the latest technology, the Pixel 9 could be a worthy investment. However, if your Pixel 8 still meets your needs and the new features don’t appeal to you, sticking with your current device is also a viable choice.
Also Read: Redmi Buds 5C Review – Reliable and Affordable Earbuds for Everyday Use
