Pixel 6 vs Pixel 9 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Google Pixel 9 & Google Pixel 6 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Google Pixel 9 rather than the Google Pixel 6.

Why Do I Recommend The Google Pixel 9?

  • The Google Pixel 9 features the advanced Tensor G4 chip that delivers faster app performance, smoother multitasking, and more efficient AI processing, compared to the Pixel 6’s older Tensor G1.
  • The Google Pixel 9 has a 6.1-inch LTPO OLED display with a 1–120Hz adaptive refresh rate that enhances scrolling fluidity and conserves battery life during static content, unlike the Pixel 6’s fixed 90Hz screen.
  • The Google Pixel 9 includes 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM that enables more reliable multitasking, faster app switching, and smoother background activity than the Pixel 6’s 8 GB of LPDDR5 RAM.
  • The Google Pixel 9 supports a 10.5 MP front camera with 4K video recording that improves video call clarity and selfie sharpness, compared to the Pixel 6’s 8 MP front camera limited to 1080p.
  • The Google Pixel 9 features Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection on both front and back that increases durability and scratch resistance in daily use, compared to the older glass used in the Pixel 6.
  • The Google Pixel 9 has an upgraded ultrawide camera with autofocus that improves close-up sharpness and flexibility in wide-angle photography, unlike the fixed-focus ultrawide on the Pixel 6.
  • The Google Pixel 9 includes advanced face unlock with AI support that enhances security and unlocking speed, compared to the less reliable face unlock on the Pixel 6.
  • The Google Pixel 9 supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity that ensures faster data speeds and more stable connections with modern accessories, compared to the Pixel 6’s Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2.

Maybe the Google Pixel 6 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Google Pixel 9. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureGoogle Pixel 9Google Pixel 6
ChipsetGoogle Tensor G4Google Tensor G1
CPUOcta-core, 4nmOcta-core, 5nm
GPUImmortalis-G715Mali-G78 MP20
RAM12 GB LPDDR5X8 GB LPDDR5
Storage Options128GB / 256GB UFS 3.1128GB / 256GB UFS 3.1
Display TypeLTPO OLEDAMOLED
Refresh Rate1–120Hz adaptive90Hz
Touch Sampling Rate240Hz120Hz
Peak BrightnessUp to 2,000 nitsUp to 800 nits
Glass Protection (Front)Gorilla Glass Victus 2Gorilla Glass Victus
Glass Protection (Back)Gorilla Glass Victus 2Gorilla Glass 6
Frame MaterialPolished aluminumMatte aluminum
Front Camera10.5 MP, 4K video support8 MP, 1080p video support
Camera FeaturesSuper Res Zoom, Magic Editor, Night SightNight Sight, Real Tone
Battery Capacity~4,300 mAh4,614 mAh
Wired Charging Speed27W21W
DimensionsSmaller, more compactLarger, thicker
Operating System (at launch)Android 15Android 12
Face UnlockAdvanced face unlock with AIBasic face unlock
AI FeaturesGemini AI, Call Assist, Smart ComposeBasic Assistant features
ConnectivityWi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, UWBWi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
PriceCheck Pixel 9 PriceCheck Pixel 6 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Main Camera Resolution: Both phones are equipped with a 50 MP main camera that delivers high-resolution photos with strong detail, accurate colors, and robust computational photography backed by Google’s camera software.
  • Ultrawide Camera Resolution: Each model includes a 12 MP ultrawide camera for capturing wide field-of-view shots, perfect for landscapes or group photos.
  • Rear Camera Features: Both support Google’s signature camera tools like Night Sight for low-light photography, Real Tone for accurate skin tone rendering, and Magic Eraser for removing unwanted objects in photos.
  • Rear Camera Video Recording: Both support 4K video recording at 60 frames per second, enabling crisp, smooth video capture with excellent dynamic range.
  • Build Material: The Pixel 9 and Pixel 6 use a premium glass front and back design, delivering a sleek look and solid hand feel.
  • Water/Dust Resistance: Both are IP68 rated, meaning they can survive dust, splashes, and submersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.
  • Storage Options: Each device comes with the same non-expandable internal storage capacities—128GB and 256GB—suitable for most users’ app, photo, and video needs.
  • Wireless Charging Support: Both support Qi wireless charging and are compatible with the Google Pixel Stand for convenient upright charging.
  • Reverse Wireless Charging: Also known as Battery Share, this feature lets you charge accessories like earbuds by placing them on the back of either phone.
  • Fingerprint Sensor: Each features an under-display optical fingerprint scanner for secure biometric authentication.
  • Titan Security Chip: Both are protected by Google’s Titan M2 chip, enhancing on-device security by safeguarding passwords, transactions, and system integrity.
  • 5G Connectivity: Sub-6 and mmWave support (depending on region) allows both devices to access high-speed 5G networks for fast downloads and low-latency performance.
  • Stereo Speakers: Both include stereo speakers for an immersive audio experience while streaming media or playing games.
  • Android Features: Always-On Display, Now Playing (for ambient music recognition), and At a Glance widgets are standard across both models, maintaining core Pixel software identity.
  • USB-C Port: Each uses a USB Type-C connector for charging and data transfer, with similar performance for wired connections and accessories.
  • Google Assistant Integration: Both phones deeply integrate with Google Assistant, allowing users to perform voice commands, smart home control, reminders, and more—hands-free.

Common Features

FeatureGoogle Pixel 9Google Pixel 6
Main Camera Resolution50 MP50 MP
Ultrawide Camera Resolution12 MP12 MP
Rear Camera FeaturesNight Sight, Real Tone, Magic EraserNight Sight, Real Tone, Magic Eraser
Rear Camera Video Recording4K at 60fps4K at 60fps
Build MaterialGlass front and backGlass front and back
Water/Dust ResistanceIP68 certifiedIP68 certified
Storage Options128GB / 256GB128GB / 256GB
Wireless Charging SupportYesYes
Reverse Wireless ChargingYesYes
Fingerprint SensorUnder-displayUnder-display
Titan Security ChipTitan M2Titan M2
5G ConnectivitySub-6 + mmWaveSub-6 + mmWave
Stereo SpeakersYesYes
Android FeaturesAlways-On Display, Now Playing, At a GlanceAlways-On Display, Now Playing, At a Glance
USB-C PortUSB Type-C 3.2USB Type-C 3.1
Google Assistant IntegrationYesYes
Price Check Pixel 9 Price Check Pixel 6 Price

FAQ

Does the Pixel 9 have a better camera than the Pixel 6?
Yes, the Pixel 9 includes a more refined 50 MP main sensor, a front camera with 4K video capability, and an ultrawide lens with autofocus, all of which improve photo and video quality over the Pixel 6.

Is there a size difference between the Pixel 9 and Pixel 6?
Yes, the Pixel 9 is smaller and lighter with a 6.1-inch display, while the Pixel 6 is larger and heavier with a 6.4-inch screen.

Which phone has better battery life: Pixel 9 or Pixel 6?
Battery life is similar in real-world usage, but the Pixel 9 charges faster and has better efficiency due to its LTPO display and improved chip.

Does the Pixel 9 support face unlock?
Yes, the Pixel 9 includes a more advanced and secure face unlock system compared to the basic and less secure version on the Pixel 6.

Do both phones have water and dust resistance?
Yes, both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 6 are rated IP68, meaning they can resist dust and water immersion up to a certain depth and time.

Do the Pixel 9 and Pixel 6 have wireless charging?
Yes, both phones support Qi wireless charging and work with the Pixel Stand for upright charging.

Is the display quality better on the Pixel 9?
Yes, the Pixel 9 features a brighter, smoother LTPO OLED display with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz and 2,000 nits peak brightness, significantly improving usability in sunlight and battery efficiency.

Does the Pixel 9 run a newer version of Android?
Yes, the Pixel 9 ships with Android 15, while the Pixel 6 launched with Android 12 but can be updated to newer versions.

Are both phones compatible with 5G networks?
Yes, both support Sub-6 and mmWave 5G, though availability depends on region and carrier models.

Do both phones use the same fingerprint technology?
Yes, both phones use an under-display optical fingerprint scanner for biometric authentication.

Is the Pixel 9 better for AI features?
Yes, the Pixel 9 includes deeper integration with Gemini AI and other advanced tools like Smart Reply, Magic Compose, and Call Screening with enhanced functionality.

Can I get the same storage options on both phones?
Yes, both phones come in 128GB and 256GB storage configurations without microSD expansion.

Is the Pixel 9 more durable than the Pixel 6?
Yes, the Pixel 9 uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back, while the Pixel 6 uses Victus on the front and an older generation glass on the back, making the Pixel 9 more resistant to drops and scratches.

Which phone should I choose for better long-term use?
The Pixel 9 is a better choice for long-term use due to its improved hardware, newer software, AI capabilities, faster charging, and enhanced durability.

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