Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is here, and with it comes the question of whether it makes sense to switch from last year's Pixel 9 Pro XL. The Android Central team has tested the new device, and the conclusion is clear: the upgrade is not worth it yet.
Design and Display: Nearly Identical Phones
The differences between the two models are minimal. Google has kept the same dimensions for two years, so the Pixel 9 Pro XL is almost the same size and weight as the new model. In fact, according to editor Harish Jonnalagadda, the older model feels better in hand. The tested Pixel 11 Pro XL in matte black looks dull, while the more striking Canyon color would be a more interesting choice.
The only visible difference is the camera bar, which protrudes less on the new model and looks more elegant. Both phones have the same IP68 durability rating. The display is excellent on both, with the Pixel 11 Pro XL being just a bit brighter.
Performance and Software: Tensor G6 Makes a Difference
The Pixel 11 Pro XL is powered by the new 3nm Tensor G6 chip, which is noticeably faster in everyday use than the Tensor G4 in the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Thanks to better efficiency, the new model lasts several hours longer on a single charge, even though both phones have similarly sized batteries.
The biggest advantage of the new model is Qi 2.2 support. Built-in magnets enable wireless charging at 25 W, a significant leap from the 12 W on the Pixel 9 Pro XL. The editor admits he previously ignored wireless charging, but now he uses it constantly.
Otherwise, the software is nearly identical. Both phones will receive seven years of updates, and the new features Google introduced with the Pixel 11 Pro XL will eventually make their way to the older model as well.
Cameras: New Main Sensor and Smart Features
Both phones have a 50MP main camera, a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and a 48MP ultrawide lens. However, the Pixel 11 Pro XL gets a new 50MP main sensor with better light capture, so it handles challenging lighting conditions more effectively.
Software enhancements have also been added. The Camera Looks feature gives more control over the final look of photos, and Magic Capture automatically selects the best shot, which will be especially appreciated by parents of restless children.
Verdict: Wait, or Buy the Older Model
The Pixel 11 Pro XL is $100 more expensive than the Pixel 9 Pro XL at launch. Additionally, the 256GB version has only 12GB of RAM instead of the 16GB that has been standard for the past two years. The editor therefore advises: if you have a Pixel 9 Pro XL, wait. There is no reason to switch.
However, if you have an older phone and are considering a purchase, the Pixel 11 Pro XL is a good choice. Just be aware that if you can find the Pixel 9 Pro XL at a good price, it is still a great phone that will receive updates for at least another five years.