Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S26 Ultra
Starting at
£894.79£1,449.00 new
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Starting at
£400.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S26 Ultra and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL?
Galaxy S26 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, £494.79 less than the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is the newer model, released in 2026.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Main camera
- Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy on the Galaxy S26 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 S26 Ultra, 5060 mAh on the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL specs
The Galaxy S26 Ultra and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL both offer unlocked 5G Android experiences with USB-C connectors. The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a slightly larger and higher resolution screen suited for users who want more display space and sharper visuals. The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers more RAM and a higher resolution front camera making it a strong choice for multitasking and detailed selfies. The Galaxy S26 Ultra's quadruple rear camera array provides more versatility in photography, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL's slightly smaller and heavier body may appeal to those seeking a more compact device.
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL price
Colour
- BlackStarting at £929.69
- BlueStarting at £966.44
- Rose GoldStarting at £1,072.75
- VioletStarting at £894.79
- PurpleStarting at £894.79
- SilverStarting at £1,031.27
- WhiteStarting at £914.25
- BlackSold out
- BeigeSold out
- GreySold out
- PinkSold out
Storage
- 128GBSold out
- 256GBSold out
- 512GBSold out
- 1TBSold out
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL battery life and software updates
Durability covers software compatibility, physical design, and basic build features. Neither phone folds so both are traditional smartphones in shape and function.
Software Updates
This means both will run current apps smoothly and receive security patches which keeps either device reliable for everyday use over time.
Form Factor
Neither phone is foldable. This suits buyers who prefer a classic smartphone shape without the need to unfold or manage a flexible screen.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL screen
Screen quality is key for media, gaming, and reading. Both phones offer smooth motion thanks to 120 Hz refresh rates but differ in size and resolution which affects clarity and viewing space.
Screen Size
The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a 6.9 inch screen while the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL measures 6.8 inches. The slightly larger display on the Galaxy is useful if you watch a lot of videos or want more room for browsing and apps.
Resolution
With a resolution of 1440 x 3120, the Galaxy S26 Ultra provides sharper detail compared to the Pixel 9 Pro XL's 1344 x 2992. This means text and images on the Galaxy screen may appear clearer which benefits users who value crisp visuals.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL camera
Camera and front-facing camera differences highlight which phone suits photography and video call needs. The quantity and megapixels of cameras influence versatility and detail.
Rear Cameras
The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a quadruple rear camera setup offering more lens options for different photo styles. This is ideal for users who like to experiment with wide, zoom, or macro shots.
Front Camera
The Pixel 9 Pro XL's front camera has 42 megapixels compared to the Galaxy's 12 megapixels. For selfies or video calls, the Pixel's higher megapixel count captures more detail.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL size and design
Other differences include physical size, weight, storage options, and SIM configurations. These affect device handling, storage needs, and network flexibility.
Physical Dimensions
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is slightly taller at 163.6 mm compared to 162.8 mm for the Pixel 9 Pro XL. It is also wider at 78.1 mm versus 76.6 mm and thinner at 7.9 mm rather than 8.5 mm. The Pixel weighs 221 g while the Galaxy is lighter at 214 g. Those who prefer a slimmer and lighter phone may lean towards the Galaxy while users who want a slightly smaller footprint will find the Pixel fits better in hand or pocket.
RAM and Storage
The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers 16 GB of RAM which suits heavy multitaskers or users who keep many apps open. The Galaxy S26 Ultra has 12 GB RAM which handles everyday use and most demanding tasks well. Both phones come in storage options from 256GB to 1TB with the Pixel also offering a 128GB option. This variety lets users choose storage based on their app and media needs.
SIM and Network
Both phones support 5G and include physical SIM and eSIM options making them flexible for different carrier setups. Both are unlocked so you can use them with various networks without restriction.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S26 Ultra or Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S26 Ultra if
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (200 megapixels vs 50 megapixels)
- you want longer software support (until Mar 2033 vs until Aug 2031)
- you want a lighter build (214 g vs 221 g)
Buy the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £400, £494.79 less than the Galaxy S26 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 S26 Ultra appreciate its premium feel and camera quality. Many say the phone looks and works like new with excellent speed and battery life. The device's larger screen and AI features get positive mentions and some enjoy the solid build despite occasional minor cosmetic marks. The Galaxy suits buyers wanting a high-end phone with versatile rear cameras and a spacious display.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is praised for its camera performance and speed. Buyers report the phone looks like new even when refurbished with battery health often close to new. The higher RAM and detailed front camera attract customers who value multitasking and selfies. The Pixel's comfortable size and good condition make it a reliable choice for everyday use.
Both devices appeal to different users: the Galaxy S26 Ultra fits those wanting a larger, sharper screen and multiple rear cameras while the Pixel 9 Pro XL suits buyers prioritising multitasking power and high-resolution front camera detail.
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL FAQs
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy on the Galaxy S26 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 £894.79 for the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra has 5000 mAh and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has 5060 mAh.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a higher-resolution main camera: 200 megapixels vs 50 megapixels.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra gets updates until Mar 2033. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL gets updates until Aug 2031.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S26 Ultra comes in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB and 1TB.
