Galaxy Note9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy Note9
Starting at
£142.00
Google Pixel 3 XL
Starting at
£100.00What's the difference between the Galaxy Note9 and Google Pixel 3 XL?
Galaxy Note9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3 XL starts at £100, £42 less than the Galaxy Note9.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Exynos 9810, Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 on the Galaxy Note9, Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3 XL.
- The Galaxy Note9 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy Note9 has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 3430 mAh.
Galaxy Note9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL specs
The Galaxy Note9 and Google Pixel 3 XL both come from 2018 and offer strong features for their time. The Galaxy Note9 is suited for users who want a larger screen, more RAM, and expandable storage with a microSDXC slot. Its bigger battery is helpful for longer use between charges. The Google Pixel 3 XL suits those who prefer a slightly lighter and slimmer phone with integrated eSIM support. It offers a slightly higher resolution main camera and a P-OLED screen type that some may find appealing. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise screen size, memory capacity, or factors like SIM options and device weight.
Galaxy Note9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL price
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Galaxy Note9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size and software support, which affect how long the phone lasts on a charge and how current the software experience remains.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Note9 has a larger 4000 mAh battery, which suits users who need longer battery life for extended daily use. The Google Pixel 3 XL has a 3430 mAh battery, which should be enough for everyday tasks but may require more frequent charging for heavy users.
Software Updates
This means both devices will run an older version of Android, which may affect the availability of some newer apps or features.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy Note9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL performance
Performance impacts how smoothly the phone runs apps and handles multitasking. Both devices share the Snapdragon 845 chipset in some models, but the Galaxy Note9 offers more RAM and a choice of chipsets.
Processor Options
The Galaxy Note9 uses either the Exynos 9810 or Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 chipset, offering a choice depending on the specific model. The Google Pixel 3 XL uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 (10 nm). This means both devices deliver similar processing power for most tasks.
Memory Capacity
The Galaxy Note9 comes with 6 GB of RAM, which helps keep more apps open and running smoothly in multitasking. The Google Pixel 3 XL has 4 GB of RAM, suitable for everyday use but with fewer apps held in memory at once.
Storage Options
The Galaxy Note9 is stocked with 128 GB of storage, providing ample space for apps, photos, and files. The Google Pixel 3 XL is available with either 64 GB or 128 GB, giving you a choice if you want a lower-priced option with less storage.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy Note9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL screen
Screen quality affects how you view content, including sharpness, size, and display technology. Both devices share the same resolution, but their screen sizes and types differ slightly.
Screen Size
The Galaxy Note9 has a 6.4 inch screen, offering a bit more room for watching videos or browsing. The Google Pixel 3 XL has a 6.3 inch screen, which is slightly smaller and may feel more manageable in one hand.
Screen Type
The Galaxy Note9 uses a Super AMOLED display, known for deep blacks and vibrant colours. The Google Pixel 3 XL features a P-OLED screen, which also delivers good colour and contrast but with a slightly different panel technology that some users may prefer.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Note9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL camera
Audiovisual specs relate to the cameras and front-facing features important for photos and video calls. Both phones have similar front cameras, but the main cameras differ slightly in megapixels.
Front Camera
Both the Galaxy Note9 and Google Pixel 3 XL have an 8 megapixel front camera, suitable for selfies and video chats with similar quality.
Main Camera
The Galaxy Note9 has a 12 megapixel main camera, while the Google Pixel 3 XL offers a slightly higher 12.2 megapixel main camera. This small difference may appeal to users focused on photography detail.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy Note9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL size and design
Other differences include dimensions, weight, SIM and storage options, and network compatibility, which affect everyday usability and convenience.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy Note9 supports Dual Physical SIM cards, which suits people who use two physical numbers or plans. The Google Pixel 3 XL offers one physical SIM and an eSIM, allowing you to use a second number without a physical card.
Storage Expansion
The Galaxy Note9 includes a microSDXC slot for expanding storage, useful if you want to add more space for media or files. The Google Pixel 3 XL does not have this feature.
Device Size and Weight
The Galaxy Note9 measures 161.9 mm in height, 76.4 mm in width, and 8.8 mm in depth, weighing 201 g. The Google Pixel 3 XL is slightly smaller at 158 mm tall, 76.7 mm wide, and 7.9 mm deep, and lighter at 184 g. If you prefer a lighter, slimmer phone, the Pixel 3 XL may be better suited.
Network Compatibility
Both phones support 4G networks and are unlocked, so you can use them with a variety of UK carriers.
Carrier compatibility
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy Note9 or Google Pixel 3 XL: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Note9 if
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4000 mAh vs 3430 mAh)
- you want a memory card slot
Buy the Google Pixel 3 XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £100, £42 less than the Galaxy Note9
- you want a lighter build (184 g vs 201 g)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy Note9 often praise its condition, with many saying the phone looks like new and functions well. Several mention the screen and overall features positively. Battery life is a common topic: some users find the battery needs replacement or does not last long enough. A few customers report issues with overheating and battery health. The phone's size and performance are appreciated, and some highlight its good value for those who change devices frequently. Many customers recommend the Galaxy Note9 for its features and condition.
Those with the Google Pixel 3 XL generally say it works well and stays in excellent condition, with no scratches. Users like the camera and overall performance, describing the phone as good for everyday use. Battery life is noted as a concern by some, with shorter charge retention mentioned. A few customers experienced issues with Bluetooth or camera function, though many are happy with the phone's speed and quality. The lighter weight and compact size are viewed positively.
The Galaxy Note9 suits users wanting a larger screen, more RAM, and expandable storage, while the Google Pixel 3 XL fits those who prefer a lighter device with eSIM support and a slightly higher resolution main camera.
Galaxy Note9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL FAQs
Galaxy Note9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 9810, Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 on the Galaxy Note9, Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3 XL. The Galaxy Note9 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The Google Pixel 3 XL is cheaper refurbished, from £100 compared with £142 for the Galaxy Note9.
The Galaxy Note9 has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 3430 mAh.
The Galaxy Note9 has 12 megapixels and the Google Pixel 3 XL has 12.2 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy Note9 ended in Jul 2022. Updates for the Google Pixel 3 XL ended in Oct 2021. Its last version is Android 12.
Refurbished, the Galaxy Note9 comes in 128GB, and the Google Pixel 3 XL in 64GB and 128GB.








