Why This Phone is Worth Checking Out
Let’s be real: there are lot of phones out there, but the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is special. I’ve tested so many phones, and this one feels like Google’s best shot at beating big names like Samsung and Apple. At TechAdvisors, we’ve used this phone every day for weeks, and we’re here to tell you if its design, build, and screen are as good as they say. Spoiler: It’s got some cool surprises!
Design: Simple, Sleek, and Totally a Pixel
When you hold the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, you’ll notice Google made their usual design even better. The flat metal sides and frosted glass back give it a fancy but simple look. It comes in four colors: Four main CP6 paint colors are available: Stormy Black for a classic appearance while Porcelain White stands bright and clean and Hazel Green represents natural earth tones and Coral Pink balances boldness with subtlety. The non-shiny finish isn’t just pretty, it stops fingerprints better than shiny phones like the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The coolest part? The camera strip on the back. Unlike the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s thick camera bump or the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra’s messy-looking lenses, Google keeps it neat. The camera strip lies flat, so the phone doesn’t wobble on tables. 
The Galaxy S25 Ultra has sharp edges that can hurt your hand after a while. If you like phones that are easy to use with one hand, the Pixel wins.
Build Quality: Strong, Light, and Comfortability
Google didn’t cheat here. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL contains a robust aluminum construction alongside tough glass panes at both front and rear. At TechAdvisors, we even dropped it (oops!) a few times from waist height onto concrete. It got a few tiny scratches on the metal edges, but the screen and back stayed perfect. It’s also waterproof and dustproof. we tested it in rain and even dunked it in a pool during a camping trip!
What shocked us? How comfy it feels. The flat edges are slightly curved, so they don’t dig into your hand like the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The buttons are easy to press and placed right where your thumb rests. At 198 grams, it’s way lighter than the iPhone 16 Pro Max (221 grams) and even the Galaxy S25 Ultra (205 grams). If your hand ever gets tired from scrolling, you’ll love how light this phone is.
Display: A Screen That’s Bright and Beautiful
Let’s talk about the screen—this is where the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL really shines. The 6.7-inch OLED screen runs with a 120Hz refresh rate that brings delightful fluid movements to scrolling while delivering impressive resolution. All displayed colors appear truthful and bright without artificial enhancement. Google lets you pick between “Natural” mode (for true colors) and “Adaptive” mode (for extra pop in movies and games).
The best part? It’s crazy bright. Direct sunlight will not hinder your visibility of the display which operates at 2,400 nits. The iPhone 16 Pro Max hits 2,200 nits, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra only 2,000 nits. The display system showcases HDR videos perfectly by delivering both brilliant colors and deep dark tones to users watching on Netflix or YouTube.
Gaming is fun too.
The 120Hz refresh rate keeps games like Call of Duty: When you use Mobile it operates with speed while each touch or swipe instantly generates a response. Baby Shark opinions find their perfect home with the taller screen dimensions that surpass the iPhone’s square shape display. The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s curved edges look fancy, but we like the Pixel’s flat screen—it’s easier to hold and avoids accidental touches.
How It Compares to Other Phones
Let’s see how the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL stacks up against its rivals:
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra:
- The curved display appearance seems elegant yet manipulating it with one hand becomes challenging.
- Comes with an S Pen (great for drawing or notes), but not everyone needs it.
- Pixel’s software is cleaner (no annoying pre-installed apps!) and lighter.
iPhone 16 Pro Max:
- You will find the Pixel lighter in weight and smaller in bulk than this device.
- Apple fans will love how it works with other Apple gadgets, but the Pixel’s screen is brighter and cheaper (1,099vs.1,099vs.1,199).
- Both take great photos, but Google’s AI tricks (like erasing photo-bombers) are super handy.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL:
- Cheaper, lighter, and brighter screen than rivals.
- Perfect for Android lovers who hate bloatware (useless apps).
- Not the best if you’re stuck in Apple or Samsung’s ecosystem, but that’s rare.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy This Phone?
After weeks of testing, here’s the truth: the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is Google’s best phone ever. It’s for people who want a top-tier phone without the fancy price tag. At
1,099,it’scheaperthantheGalaxyS25Ultra(1,099,it’scheaperthantheGalaxyS25Ultra(1,299) and iPhone 16 Pro Max ($1,199), but just as good—or better!
Get this phone if:
- You love Android without annoying extra apps.
- You hate heavy phones that hurt your hand.
- During video streaming or gaming sessions or work assignments you desire a display with high brightness and smoothness.
Skip this phone if:
- You’re all-in on Apple (iMessage, FaceTime, etc.).
- You need the Samsung S Pen for notes or art.
TechAdvisors’ Final Say:
Anyone who embraces Android plus those seeking luxury phone features at a reasonable cost should consider the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL. Each day becomes more delightful with the combination of screen technology and useful design and software components.
It won’t steal Apple or Samsung superfans, but for everyone else? It’s almost perfect. If you’re upgrading your phone this year, give this one a shot—you’ll love it.
Questions about the Pixel 9 Pro XL? Ask us below! Stay tuned to TechAdvisors for more honest tech reviews!