Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S9
Starting at
£116.50£449.00 new
Google Pixel 3 XL
Starting at
£100.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S9 and Google Pixel 3 XL?
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL comes down to the battery, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3 XL starts at £100, £16.50 less than the Galaxy S9.
Refurbished from
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
Software updates
- The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
- The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger screen: 6.3 inch vs 5.8 inch.
- Screen type: Super AMOLED on the Galaxy S9, P-OLED on the Google Pixel 3 XL.
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL specs
The Galaxy S9 and Google Pixel 3 XL, both released in 2018, share many features but suit different users. The Pixel 3 XL offers a larger 6.3 inch screen, a bigger battery at 3430 mAh, and supports eSIM alongside a physical SIM, which may appeal if you want a bigger display and flexible SIM options. The Galaxy S9 has a smaller 5.8 inch Super AMOLED screen, a microSD slot for extra storage, and a slightly lighter body, making it a good fit if you prefer a compact phone with expandable storage. Both have similar cameras and RAM, so photo quality and multitasking should feel comparable.
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL price
Colour
Storage
- 64GBSold out
- 128GBSold out
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL battery life and software updates
Battery life and software updates are key parts of durability. The battery sizes differ, influencing how long each phone can last on a single charge.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 3 XL has a 3430 mAh battery, which is larger than the Galaxy S9's 3000 mAh. This means the Pixel 3 XL can potentially last longer between charges, making it better suited for heavier users or those who prefer fewer charging breaks. The Galaxy S9 may require topping up earlier in the day but remains adequate for everyday use.
Software Updates
Both phones will run their current Android versions, offering similar app compatibility and security at the time of purchase.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL screen
Screen size and type affect how you experience videos, games, and browsing. Both phones offer the same resolution but differ in size and display technology, which can change how content looks and feels in your hand.
Screen Size
The Google Pixel 3 XL features a 6.3 inch screen, providing more room for watching videos and multitasking. This larger display suits users who prefer a more immersive view or need extra space for apps. The Galaxy S9's 5.8 inch screen is smaller and more compact, making it easier to use with one hand or carry in a pocket.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S9 uses a Super AMOLED screen, known for deep blacks and vibrant colours, which may appeal if you enjoy media with rich visuals. The Google Pixel 3 XL has a P-OLED screen, which also offers strong colour and contrast but with a slightly different display technology. Both produce sharp images at the same resolution.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL camera
Camera and front-facing camera quality are important for photos, videos, and video calls. Both phones have similar megapixel counts, suggesting comparable detail levels in images.
Main Camera Resolution
The Google Pixel 3 XL has a 12.2 megapixel main camera, just above the Galaxy S9's 12 megapixels. This small difference suggests both phones capture detailed photos, but the Pixel 3 XL may offer a slight edge in clarity for those who take many pictures.
Front Camera Resolution
Both phones have an 8 megapixel front camera, making them equally capable for selfies and video calls. You can expect similar image quality from both when using the front camera.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL size and design
Additional features affect how the phones fit your daily needs. These include storage options, SIM card types, and physical dimensions, which influence expandability, connectivity, and comfort in hand.
Storage Options
Both phones come in 64GB and 128GB storage sizes. The Galaxy S9 also includes a microSDXC card slot for adding extra storage, which is useful if you want to store more photos, videos, or apps without relying on built-in memory. The Pixel 3 XL does not have this option.
SIM Card Compatibility
The Google Pixel 3 XL supports a physical SIM card and an eSIM, offering more flexibility if you want to use multiple mobile plans or switch carriers without changing physical SIM cards. The Galaxy S9 uses only a physical SIM card.
Size and Weight
The Pixel 3 XL is larger and heavier, measuring 158 mm in height and weighing 184 g. The Galaxy S9 is smaller and lighter at 147.7 mm tall and 163 g. If you prefer a lighter phone that fits comfortably in one hand or pocket, the Galaxy S9 may be the better choice.
Carrier compatibility
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Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
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Width
Galaxy S9 or Google Pixel 3 XL: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S9 if
- you want a lighter build (163 g vs 184 g)
- you want a memory card slot
Buy the Google Pixel 3 XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £100, £16.50 less than the Galaxy S9
- you want a bigger battery (3430 mAh vs 3000 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.3 inch vs 5.8 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy S9 often praise its condition, noting it looks almost like new even in fair or below excellent grades. Many highlight smooth performance, adequate storage space, and a good overall experience. Some mention the battery needing a top-up by evening and occasional heating but still find it perfect for their needs. The screen condition is generally well received, with only minor marks reported. There are a few isolated issues mentioned such as overheating or screen discolouration.
Google Pixel 3 XL buyers frequently report excellent condition and satisfaction with the phone's performance. Several customers note battery life concerns, describing it as poor or not lasting long. The camera and Bluetooth have been praised by many, though there are some reports of defects affecting camera function and Bluetooth connectivity. Overall, customers appreciate the phone's build quality and usability despite these occasional issues.
Both phones suit different preferences: the Galaxy S9 appeals to those wanting a compact, lighter device with expandable storage, while the Pixel 3 XL fits users who prefer a larger screen and flexible SIM options but should be mindful of battery life.
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL FAQs
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3 XL comes down to the battery, screen size and screen type. The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 3000 mAh. The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger screen: 6.3 inch vs 5.8 inch.
The Google Pixel 3 XL is cheaper refurbished, from £100 compared with £116.50 for the Galaxy S9.
The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
The Galaxy S9 has 12 megapixels and the Google Pixel 3 XL has 12.2 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S9 ended in Apr 2022. Updates for the Google Pixel 3 XL ended in Oct 2021. Its last version is Android 12.
Both come in 64GB and 128GB refurbished.
