I love nerding out on the latest tech, so I thought I’d share some of my initial reactions to Google’s new Pixel 9. Full disclosure, I’ve always loved Pixel phones. Plus, at least in my mind, Android has always delivered more than other OS options.
With that confession out of the way, I will say the Pixel 9 is the best Pixel phone yet.
Let’s start with the design: it is amazing.
Google was much more intentional about delivering a high end device this time around. The flat back and flat aluminum frame give the device an incredibly refined look. The latter is one of the main reasons I upgraded from a Pixel 8, which had tapered edges that looked great and gave the device the illusion of a thinner profile.
Sure, the new design does look more iPhone-like, but that's not a bad thing. Most importantly, the edges of the Pixel 9 feel so much better in the hand and makes it easier to hold.
The previous generation Pixel was the first phone I’ve used without a case and that trend continues with the Pixel 9. That’s how good it looks and feels! Notably, the latest phone feels more durable and solid, so I do have more peace of mind. Even the buttons on the side are more sturdy and responsive, lending to that overall premium fit and finish.
My favorite part of the design, though, has to be the matte finish along the sides. It’s actually one of the reasons I chose the 9 over the 9 Pro, which has a polished finish.
Beyond the design, I need to talk about the display. Of course, this is one of the most important features of any phone. The new Pixel 9 features a 120Hz refresh rate that lends a more premium response. It’s brighter than the Pixel 8 and it just seems infinitely more responsive to every touch or swipe.
Matching the buttery smooth experience is incredible brightness of up to 2,700 nits. The Pixel 9’s new Acuity display is one of the best displays of any phone this year. While hiking recently, I searched for a podcast to listen to and even in the bright sunlight, the visuals were sharp and clear.
Battery life is solid. While the screen’s refresh rate doesn’t go down to 1Hz like the Pixel 9 Pro, I’m seeing stable performance thanks to Google’s adaptive battery. Best of all, I’m not running into overheating issues like I did with the Pixel 8, so I suspect that the new Tensor G4 processor is managing processes extremely well. Plus, there’s no sign of stutters, lag, or slowdowns either.
As for the camera, Pixel devices have always been impressive. This generation is no exception.
So far, the camera on the Pixel 9 is simply awesome. On paper, specs don’t reveal a major difference from the Pixel 8. However, Pixel 9 gets a new 48 MP ultra-wide lens supporting autofocus and macro functionality.
That is a huge upgrade!
The combination of lenses feels very complete in this generation. Low light photos are much improved, even without moving up to the Pro. Still, truly incredible all-around performance.
With an amazing form-factor, a fluid and bright display, and versatile camera configuration, I can’t recommend the phone enough.
For me at least the design is the most radical improvement, but there are many small things done right to make this feel like a true flagship-level device.
The Google Pixel 9 is one of the best Android phones you can get in this price range—full stop.