Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone XS Max
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 4 XL
Starting at
£149.99
iPhone XS Max
Starting at
£168.09£459.00 newWhat's the difference between the Google Pixel 4 XL and iPhone XS Max?
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 4 XL starts at £149.99, £18.10 less than the iPhone XS Max. The Google Pixel 4 XL is the newer model, released in 2019.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Google Pixel 4 XL, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max.
- The Google Pixel 4 XL has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Google Pixel 4 XL has a bigger battery: 3700 mAh vs 3174 mAh.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone XS Max specs
The Google Pixel 4 XL and iPhone XS Max differ in several key areas that suit different needs. The Pixel 4 XL offers a higher battery capacity and more RAM, making it a good choice if you want a phone that can handle many apps running at once and a larger battery. The Pixel 4 XL has a sharper screen with a higher refresh rate, ideal for smoother scrolling and video, while the iPhone XS Max has a slightly larger display. Camera resolutions are close, with the Pixel offering slightly higher front and main megapixels. Choose the Pixel 4 XL for a modern Android experience and the iPhone XS Max for iOS and longer update support.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone XS Max price
Colour
- WhiteSold out
- BlackSold out
Storage
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone XS Max battery life and software updates
Durability includes battery size, software updates, and operating systems. These factors affect how long the phone lasts between charges and how long you can keep it secure and up to date.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a 3700 mAh battery, which is larger than the iPhone XS Max's 3174 mAh. This means the Pixel 4 XL can last longer on a single charge, which is helpful if you use your phone heavily throughout the day or prefer fewer charging breaks.
Operating System
The Pixel 4 XL runs on Android, offering flexibility with apps and customisation. The iPhone XS Max uses iOS, known for smooth integration with other Apple products and services.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone XS Max performance
Performance covers the phone's processing power, memory, and storage options. These affect how the phone handles apps, multitasking, and the amount of data or apps you can store.
Processor
The Google Pixel 4 XL uses the Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 chipset built on a 7 nm process, while the iPhone XS Max is equipped with the Apple A12 Bionic chip. Both provide strong performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and media, fitting different user preferences for Android or iOS platforms.
RAM
With 6 GB of RAM, the Google Pixel 4 XL can keep more apps open simultaneously, which benefits users who multitask frequently. The iPhone XS Max has 4 GB of RAM, which handles most tasks smoothly within the iOS environment.
Storage Options
The Google Pixel 4 XL is stocked with 64GB of storage, suitable for users with moderate storage needs. The iPhone XS Max offers 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB options, making it a better fit if you need more space for apps, photos, and videos.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone XS Max screen
Screen quality affects how you view content, its smoothness, size, and sharpness. The Pixel 4 XL and iPhone XS Max have different screen specifications that suit different preferences.
Refresh Rate
The Google Pixel 4 XL features a 90 Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and animations smoother. This is ideal if you value fluid motion while browsing or gaming. The iPhone XS Max has a 60 Hz refresh rate, which is standard for many phones and works well for general use.
Resolution
The Pixel 4 XL offers a resolution of 1440 x 3040 pixels, providing a sharper image with more detail. The iPhone XS Max uses 1242 x 2688 pixels, still sharp and clear but with slightly fewer pixels overall.
Screen Size
The Pixel 4 XL has a 6.3 inch screen, which is slightly smaller than the iPhone XS Max's 6.5 inch display. The larger screen of the iPhone XS Max may appeal to users who want more space for watching videos or reading.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone XS Max camera
Audiovisual features include camera resolution, which influences photo quality for selfies and main shots.
Front Camera
The Google Pixel 4 XL has an 8 megapixel front camera, capturing more detail in selfies compared to the iPhone XS Max's 7 megapixels. This suits users who prioritise clear self-portraits or video calls.
Main Camera
The main camera on the Pixel 4 XL is 12.2 megapixels, while the iPhone XS Max has a 12 megapixel main camera. Both offer high-quality photos, with a slight edge in megapixels for the Pixel 4 XL.
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone XS Max size and design
Other differences include connectors, physical dimensions, and network features that influence daily handling and compatibility.
Connector Type
The Google Pixel 4 XL uses a USB-C connector, which is common for many devices and accessories. The iPhone XS Max uses Apple's Lightning connector, which works with many Apple accessories and chargers.
Size and Weight
The Pixel 4 XL measures 160.4 mm in height, 75.1 mm in width, and weighs 193 g. The iPhone XS Max is slightly smaller in height at 157.5 mm, wider at 77.4 mm, and heavier at 208 g. These differences affect how the phones feel in the hand and pocket.
SIM Card
Both phones support a physical SIM and eSIM, allowing flexible options for mobile network use.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 4 XL or iPhone XS Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 4 XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £149.99, £18.10 less than the iPhone XS Max
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3700 mAh vs 3174 mAh)
Buy the iPhone XS Max if
- you want a bigger screen (6.5 inch vs 6.3 inch)
What our customers say
Customers of the Google Pixel 4 XL often praise its value for money and condition, with many saying it looks like new and works well. Some users appreciate the Android environment and find the device suitable for multitasking and everyday use. However, some reviews mention issues with battery life and repairs.
Users of the iPhone XS Max highlight its excellent condition, smooth performance, and good battery life, though some note that battery capacity can vary and replacement may be needed. The iPhone appeals to those who want reliable iOS performance and multiple storage options. Customers also appreciate the clear product descriptions and feel confident buying a refurbished device in good condition.
Overall, the Pixel 4 XL suits users who prefer Android and want higher RAM and battery capacity, while the iPhone XS Max fits those who want longer software support, more storage options, and the iOS experience.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone XS Max FAQs
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Google Pixel 4 XL, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max. The Google Pixel 4 XL has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The Google Pixel 4 XL is cheaper refurbished, from £149.99 compared with £168.09 for the iPhone XS Max.
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a bigger battery: 3700 mAh vs 3174 mAh.
The Google Pixel 4 XL has 12.2 megapixels and the iPhone XS Max has 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 4 XL ended in Oct 2022. Its last version is Android 13. Updates for the iPhone XS Max ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 4 XL comes in 64GB, and the iPhone XS Max in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB.
