The Pixel 9 and 9 Pro have just hit the shelves, but are they worth the upgrade from the Pixel 8 or even the 7 Pro?
Every year, Pixel fans face the same question: Is the newest model worth the leap? The Pixel 9 series, with its sleek design and clever new features, is tempting. But how much does it truly offer over what you already have in your pocket?
If you’re rocking a Pixel 8 or 8 Pro, the answer isn’t black-and-white. Your phone is still cutting-edge, with years of updates ahead. But if you’re the type who loves having the latest tech — and can justify the cost — the Pixel 9 brings intriguing perks. The design is a standout, the smaller Pro model brings flagship specs to a compact form, and new AI features like Call Notes are genuinely useful. Add satellite backup, and you’ve got some compelling reasons to upgrade.
For those holding onto older Pixels, the Pixel 9 series represents a bigger jump forward in durability, performance, and features. Just be sure to weigh the costs against what your current phone can still do.
Whether you upgrade or stick, one thing’s certain: You’ve got a fantastic Pixel experience either way.
Let’s break down the key differences and help you decide which Pixel is the perfect fit for you.
Display:
- Pixel 9: 6.3-inch OLED, 120Hz adaptive refresh rate
- Pixel 9 Pro: 6.7-inch OLED, 120Hz adaptive refresh rate
- Pixel 8: 6.2-inch OLED, 120Hz adaptive refresh rate
- Pixel 7 Pro: 6.7-inch OLED, 120Hz adaptive refresh rate
The Pixel 9 returns to the 6.3-inch size of the Pixel 7, while the 9 Pro retains the 6.7-inch screen. All four phones have beautiful OLED displays with smooth 120Hz refresh rates, but the 9 series boasts improved brightness, especially the 9 Pro.
Camera:
- Pixel 9/9 Pro: 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto (Pro only)
- Pixel 8/8 Pro: 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto (Pro only)
- Pixel 7 Pro: 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto
While the megapixel count remains similar, the Pixel 9 series features improved sensors and image processing, resulting in even better photos, especially in low light. The 9 Pro also gets a new 42MP selfie camera.
Performance:
- Pixel 9/9 Pro: Google Tensor G4
- Pixel 8/8 Pro: Google Tensor G3
- Pixel 7 Pro: Google Tensor G2
Each generation has seen significant performance gains. The Tensor G4 in the Pixel 9 series is the most powerful yet, offering smoother performance, improved AI capabilities, and better efficiency.
Battery Life:
- Pixel 9/9 Pro: All-day battery life with improved efficiency
- Pixel 8/8 Pro: Decent battery life, but not class-leading
- Pixel 7 Pro: Good battery life, but can drain with heavy use
The Pixel 9 series offers the best battery life of the bunch, thanks to the more efficient Tensor G4 chip and software optimizations.
Software and Features:
- Pixel 9/9 Pro: Android 14 with new AI features
- Pixel 8/8 Pro: Android 14 with existing AI features
- Pixel 7 Pro: Android 13 (upgradable to 14)
All Pixel phones offer a clean Android experience with timely updates. The 9 series introduces new AI-powered features like improved Call Screen and more personalized responses in Messages.
Price:
- Pixel 9/9 Pro: Starting at $999/$1299 AUD
- Pixel 8/8 Pro: Starting at $899/$1199 AUD (prices may vary)
- Pixel 7 Pro: Starting at $799 AUD (prices may vary)
Which Pixel is Right for You?
- Pixel 9: The best all-around Pixel for most users, offering a great balance of features, performance, and price.
- Pixel 9 Pro: The ultimate Pixel for power users and photography enthusiasts, with a larger display, more advanced camera system, and exclusive features.
- Pixel 8: A solid option if you can find it at a good price, but the Pixel 9 offers noticeable improvements.
- Pixel 7 Pro: Still a capable phone with a great camera, but the newer models offer better performance, battery life, and features.
Recommendation:
But before you rush to upgrade, let’s break it down.
Step 1: Start with Your Current Pixel
- Pixel 8/8 Pro Users: Your phone is barely a year old, still feels modern, and has years of updates ahead. Unless you’re eager for features like emergency satellite or AI call transcription, there’s no pressing need to switch.
- Pixel 7 or Older: Now we’re talking. The Pixel 9 offers significant improvements in performance, durability, and features. From smarter AI tools like Call Notes to a camera system that truly shines, the jump feels meaningful.
Step 2: What’s New in the Pixel 9?
- Durable Design: Google says it’s twice as strong as earlier models. It’s hard to test that, but the phone does feel more robust.
- Compact Pro Option: For the first time, you can get Pro-level features in a smaller phone with the Pixel 9 Pro (non-XL). No size compromises here.
- Emergency Satellite: With two years of free access, this feature gives peace of mind when you’re off the grid.
- Smarter Screenshots: Pixel Screenshots lets you save and search info seamlessly — a practical and clever use of AI.
- Call Notes: Automatically transcribe and summarize your calls with a single tap — perfect for staying organized.
Step 3: Decide What Matters Most
If you love having the latest tech, the Pixel 9 is a worthy upgrade. But if your current Pixel is still serving you well, waiting another year or two might make more sense.
Whatever you decide, your Pixel experience will stay top-notch. And if you want to unlock more of your phone’s potential, check out the free Pixel Academy e-course. Make your phone work smarter for you!
If you’re looking for the latest and greatest, the Pixel 9 or 9 Pro are excellent choices. If you’re on a budget, the Pixel 8 or 7 Pro are still worth considering, especially if you can find them at a discounted price. Ultimately, the best Pixel for you will depend on your individual needs and budget.