Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S25 Ultra
Starting at
£678.00£1,344.41 new
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Starting at
£400.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S25 Ultra and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL?
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at £400, £278 less than the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8750-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm) on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL.
- The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has more RAM: 16 GB vs 12 GB.
- Battery: 5000 mAh on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, 5060 mAh on the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL specs
The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a slightly larger 6.9 inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X screen with a higher resolution, suited to users wanting a roomier and sharper display. It features a powerful Qualcomm SM8750-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset paired with 12 GB of RAM, ideal for those prioritising chipset performance. The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers more RAM at 16 GB, which helps keep more apps open simultaneously. Camera setups differ: the Galaxy S25 Ultra has a versatile quadruple camera system with a standout 200 MP main sensor, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL has a triple camera and a higher resolution front camera for detailed selfies. Storage options overlap but the Pixel starts at 128GB, appealing to buyers seeking more varied capacities. Both phones are similar in battery size and lack expandable storage, suiting users looking for stable daily performance and a premium Android experience.
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL price
Colour
Storage
- 128GBSold out
- 256GBSold out
- 512GBSold out
- 1TBSold out
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, software updates, and physical design. These factors influence how long the device runs between charges and how well it stays current with software.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has a 5060 mAh battery, slightly larger than the Galaxy S25 Ultra's 5000 mAh. This difference may provide a bit more endurance for Pixel users who need longer daily battery life, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra still offers a substantial capacity suitable for typical all-day use.
Software Updates
This means each phone can receive the newest features and security patches, supporting long-term use.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL performance
Performance depends on chipset power and memory. These affect how smoothly the phone runs apps, handles multitasking, and manages demanding tasks.
Chipset Technology
The Galaxy S25 Ultra uses the Qualcomm SM8750-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite built on a 3 nm process, while the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has the Google Tensor G4 on a 4 nm process. The Snapdragon 8 Elite is likely to deliver efficient and fast performance, suited for users interested in strong chipset capability.
Memory Capacity
With 16 GB of RAM, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL offers more memory than the Galaxy S25 Ultra's 12 GB. This higher RAM suits users who often multitask or keep many apps open at once, helping maintain smooth operation during heavy use.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S25 Ultra comes in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB versions, while the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL adds a 128GB option alongside 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. Buyers can choose the Pixel if they want a broader range of storage sizes, especially a lower starting capacity.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL screen
Screen quality shapes your viewing experience through size, resolution, and display technology. Both phones refresh at 120 Hz, which keeps motion smooth and responsive.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a slightly larger 6.9 inch screen with a resolution of 1440x3120. The Pixel 9 Pro XL's screen is 6.8 inches with a resolution of 1344x2992. The larger and higher-resolution screen of the Galaxy S25 Ultra is suited for users who watch videos or read on bigger screens with more detail.
Display Technology
The Galaxy S25 Ultra uses a Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X panel, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL features an LTPO OLED screen. Both offer high-quality visuals and 120 Hz refresh rates, but the Galaxy's AMOLED 2X may deliver brighter images and more vivid colours for users who prioritise display richness.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL camera
Camera and front-facing sensor setups affect how well you capture photos and video calls. Differences here reflect distinct approaches to photography and selfie quality.
Main Camera Setup
The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a quadruple camera system including a remarkable 200 MP wide lens and two telephoto zoom lenses (3x and 5x optical zoom). This makes it ideal for users wanting versatile photography options and detailed zoom shots. The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a triple camera with a 50 MP main sensor, focusing on high-quality main shots.
Front Camera Resolution
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a 42 MP front camera, which is significantly higher resolution than the Galaxy S25 Ultra's 12 MP front camera. Pixel users who prioritise detailed selfies or video calls will find this front camera advantageous.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL size and design
Miscellaneous features cover physical dimensions, connectivity, and expandability that influence everyday handling and compatibility.
Physical Dimensions
The Galaxy S25 Ultra measures 162 mm by 77 mm and weighs 218 g, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL is 162.8 mm tall, 76.6 mm wide, and weighs 221 g. The Pixel is slightly narrower and heavier, offering a more compact feel for those preferring a smaller grip.
Storage Expandability
Neither device includes an SD card slot, so storage depends on the built-in capacity. Buyers should consider their preferred storage size before choosing.
SIM and Connector
Both phones support a physical SIM plus eSIM and use USB-C connectors, ensuring compatibility with modern networks and accessories.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S25 Ultra or Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S25 Ultra if
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (200 megapixels vs 50 megapixels)
- you want longer software support (until Feb 2032 vs until Aug 2031)
Buy the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £400, £278 less than the Galaxy S25 Ultra
- you want more RAM (16 GB vs 12 GB)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (42 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy S25 Ultra frequently praise its like-new condition with no visible marks or scratches and excellent battery health near 100%. Many highlight the phone's fast performance, impressive display, and versatile camera that performs well in various lighting without needing adjustments. Users also appreciate the solid build quality and features like the S Pen. Those switching from Samsung models find it a smooth upgrade. Some mention receiving slightly different colours than ordered but remain happy with the device's overall condition and performance.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL customers report the device looks like new with battery health around 89% to 96%, which they find acceptable for a refurbished phone. The camera consistently receives positive remarks, especially the front camera quality and detail. Buyers appreciate the smooth and fast performance, and many express satisfaction with the phone's shape and size, noting it is a nice upgrade from previous models. Some mention minor cosmetic imperfections that quickly disappeared with a screen protector.
Both phones appeal to buyers wanting premium Android devices with high performance and quality displays. The Galaxy S25 Ultra suits those looking for a larger screen and more versatile camera setup, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL is a strong choice for users valuing high RAM and a detailed front camera.
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL FAQs
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8750-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm) on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has more RAM: 16 GB vs 12 GB.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is cheaper refurbished, from £400 compared with £678 for the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra has 5000 mAh and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has 5060 mAh.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a higher-resolution main camera: 200 megapixels vs 50 megapixels.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra gets updates until Feb 2032. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL gets updates until Aug 2031.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S25 Ultra comes in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB and 1TB.
