Galaxy S26 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S26
Starting at
£658.95£999.00 new
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Starting at
£443.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S26 and Google Pixel 9 Pro?
Galaxy S26 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 9 Pro starts at £443, £215.95 less than the Galaxy S26. The Galaxy S26 is the newer model, released in 2026.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen type
Front camera
- Chipset: Exynos 2600 on the Galaxy S26, Google Tensor G4 on the Google Pixel 9 Pro.
- The Google Pixel 9 Pro has more RAM: 16 GB vs 12 GB.
- The Google Pixel 9 Pro has a bigger battery: 4700 mAh vs 4300 mAh.
Galaxy S26 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro specs
The Galaxy S26 and Google Pixel 9 Pro both offer unlocked 5G phones with Android and no foldable design, but they differ in several key areas. The Pixel 9 Pro offers 16 GB of RAM and a higher screen resolution, which suits users who want sharper visuals and more multitasking ability. The Galaxy S26 has a smaller battery but lighter weight, which might appeal to those who prefer a lighter phone and can manage with slightly less battery capacity. Storage options for the Galaxy S26 start higher at 256GB and go up to 512GB, ideal for users needing more space. The Pixel 9 Pro offers a much higher megapixel front camera, which benefits anyone who prioritises selfie quality or video calls.
Galaxy S26 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro price
Colour
- BlackStarting at £692.30
- BlueStarting at £658.95
- Rose GoldStarting at £792.70
- VioletStarting at £685.40
- PurpleStarting at £792.70
- SilverStarting at £792.70
- WhiteStarting at £691.15
- BlackSold out
- BeigeSold out
- GreySold out
- PinkSold out
Storage
- 128GBSold out
- 256GBSold out
Galaxy S26 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, software updates, and physical features that affect how the phones cope with daily use.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 9 Pro has a 4700 mAh battery, which is larger than the Galaxy S26's 4300 mAh. This means the Pixel 9 Pro may offer longer use between charges, which suits users who need extended battery life for busy days or heavy use. The Galaxy S26's battery still supports a full day of moderate use according to customers, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter device and can recharge more frequently.
Software Updates
This ensures both phones continue to receive new features and security improvements, keeping them current in software support.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S26 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S26 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro screen
Screen quality affects how you view content, use apps, and enjoy media. The two phones have the same screen size and refresh rate but differ in resolution and screen technology.
Resolution and Clarity
The Google Pixel 9 Pro has a higher screen resolution of 1280 x 2856 compared to the Galaxy S26's 1080 x 2340. This means the Pixel 9 Pro offers sharper and more detailed visuals, which benefits users who watch high-resolution videos or want crisp text and images. The Galaxy S26 still provides a good 120 Hz refresh rate and a sharp display suitable for everyday use.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy S26 uses Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X technology, while the Google Pixel 9 Pro features LTPO OLED. Both screen types support smooth 120 Hz refresh rates for fluid scrolling and animations. The Dynamic AMOLED 2X on the Galaxy S26 may contribute to vibrant colours and deeper contrast, appealing to users who value vivid screen quality.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S26 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro camera
Camera and front-facing camera quality are important for photos, video calls, and selfies. Both phones have triple rear cameras, but the front camera resolution varies significantly.
Front Camera Detail
The Google Pixel 9 Pro has a 42 megapixels front camera, which captures much more detail than the Galaxy S26's 12 megapixels. This makes the Pixel 9 Pro a strong choice for users who prioritise high-quality selfies or frequent video calls where a sharper front camera image is important. Both phones have triple rear cameras offering versatile photography options.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S26 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro size and design
This section covers other practical features, including size, weight, storage, and connectivity. These details affect how the phones feel in hand and how much data they can hold.
Weight and Size
The Galaxy S26 weighs 167 g and measures 149.6 mm in height with a depth of 7.2 mm, making it lighter and slightly slimmer than the Google Pixel 9 Pro, which weighs 199 g and measures 152 mm high with an 8 mm depth. Those who prefer a lighter and more compact device may find the Galaxy S26 easier to handle throughout the day.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S26 is available in 256GB and 512GB storage options, offering more space for apps, photos, and media. The Google Pixel 9 Pro comes in 128GB and 256GB sizes, which suits users with moderate storage needs or those who use cloud storage more. Choosing the Galaxy S26 is a good option if you want larger storage capacity.
SIM and Connectivity
Both phones are unlocked, support 5G networks, and use USB-C connectors. Each device supports a physical SIM and eSIM, giving you flexible options for your mobile plans. Neither phone offers an SD card slot, so storage expansion relies on internal memory.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S26 or Google Pixel 9 Pro: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S26 if
- you want longer software support (until Mar 2033 vs until Sep 2031)
- you want a lighter build (167 g vs 199 g)
Buy the Google Pixel 9 Pro if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £443, £215.95 less than the Galaxy S26
- you want more RAM (16 GB vs 12 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4700 mAh vs 4300 mAh)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy S26 often praise its fresh, like-new condition with a bright and clear screen and a battery life that supports a full day of moderate use. Many find the phone runs smoothly for work tasks like emails and video calls and appreciate the ample storage, especially with the 256GB model. Some customers noted a few minor marks or scratches but generally describe the phone as premium feeling and reliable for everyday use.
Google Pixel 9 Pro customers highlight the phone's excellent condition, often describing it as almost new with full battery health and minimal wear. The higher front camera resolution is appreciated by those valuing selfie and video call quality. The Pixel 9 Pro's screen receives positive comments for sharpness and brightness, although a few customers mentioned minor screen scratches. Battery life and performance are reported as strong, with some users surprised by how well the phone performs after refurbishment.
Both phones suit buyers looking for unlocked 5G Android devices in excellent cosmetic condition. The Galaxy S26 fits well for users wanting a lighter, slightly slimmer phone with larger storage options, while the Google Pixel 9 Pro appeals to those prioritising a sharper screen, more RAM, and a detailed front camera.
Galaxy S26 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro FAQs
Galaxy S26 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 2600 on the Galaxy S26, Google Tensor G4 on the Google Pixel 9 Pro. The Google Pixel 9 Pro has more RAM: 16 GB vs 12 GB.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro is cheaper refurbished, from £443 compared with £658.95 for the Galaxy S26.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro has a bigger battery: 4700 mAh vs 4300 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 50 megapixels.
The Galaxy S26 gets updates until Mar 2033. The Google Pixel 9 Pro gets updates until Sep 2031.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S26 comes in 256GB and 512GB, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro in 128GB and 256GB.
