Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Plus
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Starting at
£400.00
iPhone 16 Plus
Starting at
£588.00£799.00 newWhat's the difference between the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and iPhone 16 Plus?
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Plus comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at £400, £188 less than the iPhone 16 Plus.
Refurbished from
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RAM
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- Chipset: Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, Apple A18 on the iPhone 16 Plus.
- The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has more RAM: 16 GB vs 8 GB.
- The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has a bigger battery: 5060 mAh vs 4674 mAh.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Plus specs
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 16 Plus both bring strong features to the table but suit different needs. The Pixel offers a larger battery and more RAM, making it suited to users who want longer usage and smooth multitasking. Its screen refreshes at 120 Hz, which benefits those who prefer fluid motion on screen. The iPhone 16 Plus provides a slightly smaller but very sharp screen with a 60 Hz refresh rate and runs on an 8 GB RAM setup designed for everyday use. Both phones have unlocked 5G support and USB-C connectors. The Pixel is heavier and taller. Camera resolution is higher on the Pixel for both front and main cameras, appealing to those who capture detailed photos. Software update support differs by platform, with Pixel updates confirmed until August 2031 and iPhone updates available up to iOS 27.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Plus price
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Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Plus battery life and software updates
Battery life and software support are key durability factors. Both phones were released in 2024 and differ in battery capacity and software update timelines.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has a larger 5060 mAh battery compared to the iPhone 16 Plus's 4674 mAh. This larger battery suits users who need longer usage between charges. The iPhone 16 Plus's battery size still supports a full day of use and suits users with moderate power needs.
Software Updates
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL will receive software updates until August 2031, offering several years of support. The iPhone 16 Plus supports updates up to iOS 27, ensuring continued access to Apple's latest features and security. Your choice may depend on which software ecosystem and update length you prefer.
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Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Plus performance
Performance depends on chipset, RAM, and storage options. Both phones offer ample power in different configurations that suit distinct user profiles.
Chipset Technology
The iPhone 16 Plus runs on the Apple A18 chipset built on 3 nm technology, while the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL uses the Google Tensor G4 chipset on 4 nm technology. The smaller 3 nm process in the iPhone might indicate efficiency benefits, which could suit users valuing smooth responsiveness.
Memory Capacity
The Pixel 9 Pro XL comes with 16 GB of RAM, ideal for users who multitask heavily or run memory-intensive apps. The iPhone 16 Plus has 8 GB of RAM, which supports everyday apps smoothly and suits users with standard app usage.
Storage Options
The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers storage from 128GB up to 1TB, appealing to users needing substantial space for apps, media, or files. The iPhone 16 Plus stocks storage from 128GB to 512GB, which fits typical daily use and moderate storage needs.
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Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Plus screen
Screen features shape your viewing experience. Both devices have high-quality OLED displays but differ in size, resolution, and refresh rate.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has a slightly larger 6.8 inch screen with a resolution of 1344 by 2992 pixels, suitable for those who want extra room for video and reading. The iPhone 16 Plus features a 6.7 inch screen at 1290 by 2796 pixels, offering a sharp display with a slightly smaller footprint.
Refresh Rate
The Pixel 9 Pro XL supports a 120 Hz refresh rate, which delivers smoother motion for scrolling and animations, benefiting users who prioritise fluid visuals. The iPhone 16 Plus has a 60 Hz refresh rate, which is standard for many phones and suits everyday use.
Screen Type
The Pixel uses LTPO OLED technology, known for efficient power use and adaptive refresh rates. The iPhone features a Super Retina XDR OLED screen, designed for bright colours and contrast. Each screen suits different viewing preferences depending on your priorities.
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Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Plus camera
Camera capabilities differ between the two, impacting how detailed your photos and selfies can be.
Front Camera Resolution
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has a 42 megapixel front camera, which is well suited to those who take detailed selfies or participate in video calls with high clarity. The iPhone 16 Plus offers a 12 megapixel front camera, adequate for everyday selfies and video chatting.
Main Camera Resolution
The main camera on the Pixel 9 Pro XL is 50 megapixels, slightly higher than the iPhone 16 Plus's 48 megapixels. This difference may appeal to those who want very detailed photos or frequently use their phone camera for creative purposes.
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Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Plus size and design
Other practical details can influence daily use, from physical size to connectivity and network compatibility.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The Pixel 9 Pro XL is taller and thicker at 162.8 mm height and 8.5 mm depth, weighing 221 g. The iPhone 16 Plus is slightly smaller at 160.9 mm height and 7.8 mm depth, and lighter at 199 g. If you prefer a lighter or more compact phone, the iPhone might suit you better.
Network and SIM Options
Both phones support 5G networks and come unlocked. Each supports a physical SIM card plus eSIM, providing flexibility for carriers and plans.
Connector Type
Both phones use USB-C connectors, making charging and data transfer compatible with many modern accessories.
Carrier Compatibility
Both devices are unlocked, so you can use them with a wide range of carriers in the UK and beyond.
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Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or iPhone 16 Plus: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £400, £188 less than the iPhone 16 Plus
- you want more RAM (16 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (5060 mAh vs 4674 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 16 Plus if
- you want a lighter build (199 g vs 221 g)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL frequently mention how the phone looks like new and performs well even as a refurbished device. Many appreciate the fast performance and impressive camera, with front and main cameras noted for their quality. Battery health is often highlighted as good, supporting regular daily use. Buyers say the Pixel is a great choice for those wanting a flagship Android phone with seven years of software support and notable AI features. The phone's condition tends to exceed expectations, even when ordered in fair condition.
Reviews for the iPhone 16 Plus note that it often looks and feels like new, with some customers impressed by near-perfect cosmetic condition and battery health. Users appreciate the phone's quality and report it lasting a long time on a charge. Some mention the need to update the iOS software manually in rare cases. A few users report minor glitches or startup issues, but many find it smooth and reliable for everyday use. The iPhone 16 Plus suits customers who prefer Apple's ecosystem and a phone that performs well with typical daily apps.
Both phones attract buyers looking for excellent refurbished devices that balance condition, performance, and price. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is often chosen by those wanting a larger screen, higher RAM, and advanced camera features, while the iPhone 16 Plus appeals to users seeking a lighter, sleeker phone with dependable everyday performance.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Plus FAQs
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs iPhone 16 Plus comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, Apple A18 on the iPhone 16 Plus. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has more RAM: 16 GB vs 8 GB.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is cheaper refurbished, from £400 compared with £588 for the iPhone 16 Plus.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has a bigger battery: 5060 mAh vs 4674 mAh.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has a higher-resolution main camera: 50 megapixels vs 48 megapixels.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL gets updates until Aug 2031. The iPhone 16 Plus is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL comes in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB and 1TB, and the iPhone 16 Plus in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB.
