Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Which Android Flagship You Should Buy?

Both devices are available on Flipkart, with the Galaxy S24 Ultra additionally listed on Samsung’s e-store and Amazon.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Design

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL sports a glossy back and a distinct horizontal camera module, setting it apart from previous Pixel designs. Visually, it exudes a premium vibe, and despite the sizeable camera bump, it maintains an impressive balance in hand.

Both phones have almost the same thickness but the Pixel 9 Pro XL edges ahead in weight, being 11 grams lighter than the Samsung, and offers a well-balanced grip.

On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra sticks closely to the design of its predecessors—the Galaxy S23 Ultra and the S22 Ultra. The camera module remains mostly unchanged, with only a subtle difference in how the Titanium finish on the back feels.

In terms of design, the Pixel 9 Pro XL undoubtedly stands out for its fresh and polished look, earning it top marks.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Display

Both phones have similarly sized displays and matching refresh rates, featuring flat screens. The Pixel stands out slightly with its rounded edges, adding a touch of elegance without the boxier look seen on the Galaxy S24 Ultra.

When it comes to display quality, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL delivers a top-notch viewing experience, supported by Widevine L1 certification and HDR10. However, it does miss out on dynamic range technology, which feels like a setback.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy S24 Ultra provides a great viewing experience but lacks Dolby Vision certification, a noticeable absence for a flagship device.

For high-end phones at this price, these omissions in display features are disappointing. Ultimately, either phone will provide a solid display experience as they offer comparable performance in this area.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Performance

While both phones feature different processors, they share the same manufacturing process. If we compare synthetic benchmarks, the Galaxy S24 Ultra takes the lead. For a detailed comparison, check out our AnTuTu score graph:

The Tensor G4 SoC can manage daily tasks like calls, messaging, casual gaming, and streaming without issues. However, when pushed into high-performance gaming, it encounters challenges. It can handle 120 fps gaming with minor lags and stutters, but it heats up after extended sessions, eventually making it difficult to hold comfortably.

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra breezes through light and demanding tasks. The large vapour cooling chamber efficiently manages heat during gaming, so overheating is rarely an issue. Plus, gaming performance is exceptionally smooth—truly impressive.

So, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is the preferred choice in this price range if you want solid performance.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Software

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a streamlined software experience, free from bloatware and spam notifications. The interface is refreshingly simple and user-friendly. Additionally, this series showcases a variety of AI capabilities, with features like Add Me, Pixel Screenshots, and Pixel Studio functioning smoothly. Moreover, if you intend to keep this phone for the long haul, its promise of seven years of OS updates significantly enhances the user experience.

On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra operates on One UI 6.1.1, built on Android 14. It also incorporates numerous AI features like Live Translation, Circle to Search, and voice recording summarisation. Similar to the Pixel 9 Pro XL, this device guarantees seven years of updates.

Taking all these aspects into account, if you desire a clean and uncomplicated experience, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is an excellent choice. Both smartphones offer comparable AI functionalities.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Cameras

Cameras on these two smartphones show notable differences when comparing their specifications. But let’s find out how they perform in real-world scenarios.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL excels in maintaining colour accuracy, contrast, and dynamic range in its photos. While the images exhibit a cooler tone, this doesn’t significantly affect the overall performance. In ultra-wide shots, objects may appear slightly stretched, but there’s minimal graininess along the edges. The 5x zoom mode captures crisp images in bright conditions.

However, low-light situations can be challenging; there’s a lens flare issue when photographing direct light sources. Despite this, the camera manages to tackle various conditions effectively. The selfie camera is particularly impressive, producing stunning selfies with natural skin tones.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Camera Samples

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On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra’s primary camera captures highly detailed images with excellent dynamic range. Compared to what we see with our eyes, this phone tends to produce slightly more vibrant photos, which are quite appealing.

The 30x zoom capability is remarkable and truly stands out. Samsung provides an impressive range of zoom features. However, the shutter speed can feel a bit sluggish, particularly when trying to capture fast-moving subjects. Additionally, low-light performance can be inconsistent. The selfies taken with this phone are also quite good, showing only a slight variation in skin tone.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Camera Samples

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In summary, if you’re seeking a smartphone with a wide array of camera features, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is an excellent choice. That said, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL also does a commendable job of delivering quality photography.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Battery and Charging

Both phones are in close competition here. While the charging times for each device aren’t particularly impressive, their similarities make direct comparisons less significant.

We’ve managed to gather scores for the PCMark Battery Test, but unfortunately, we couldn’t obtain the results for the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra just yet. We aim to update this information soon for a more equitable assessment.

In terms of daily usage, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL comfortably lasts throughout the day with light to moderate activities.

Conversely, the Galaxy S24 Ultra can stretch its battery life to nearly two days if the Always-On Display feature is turned off.

Ultimately, if you’re in search of a dependable phone with great battery longevity, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is the better choice.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Verdict

When you analyse the various segments closely, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra stands out with its numerous advantages. If you’re after a high-performing smartphone that delivers top-tier features across the board, the Galaxy S24 Ultra should be at the top of your list.

On the flip side, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL also offers a near-flagship experience, though it has a minor shortcoming in the performance department. However, it excels in other areas, providing that premium aesthetic and feel you would expect from a flagship device.