The iPhone 16 is finally here with the all-new Apple A18, and ready to take down the competition. However, the Pixel 9 went official not too long ago with its Tensor G4 chip, and directly butts heads with the latest iPhone in the segment. So, if you’re in the market for the latest and greatest compact flagships, which is the ideal choice? Let’s find out in this detailed comparison where we have pitted the iPhone 16 vs Pixel 9.
iPhone 16 vs Pixel 9: Specs at a Glance
| Specs | iPhone 16 | Pixel 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.80 mm | 162.3 x 79 x 8.6 mm |
| Weight | 171 grams | 198 grams |
| Processor | Apple A18 (3nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) |
| RAM + Storage | 8GB LPDDR5 + 512GB NVMe | 12GB LPDDR5X/ 256GB UFS 3.1 |
| Display | 6.1-inch FHD+, Super Retina XDR OLED, 2556‑by‑1179 pixels, 120Hz, 2000 nits, 460 PPI, Ceramic Shield | 6.3-inch FHD+ OLED, 1080 x 2424 pixels, 120Hz, 2700 nits peak brightness, 422 PPI, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| Rear Camera | 48MP primary + 12MP ultra-wide | 50MP Main + 50 Ultra-wide |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 10.5MP |
| Video | Up to 4K at 60FPS | Up to 4K at 60FPS |
| Dual SIM | Yes; Supports eSIM | Yes; Supports eSIM |
| Connectivity | 22 5G bands, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC | 26 5G bands, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC |
| Port | USB Type C | USB Type C |
| Battery | NA | 4,700mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired, 25W MagSafe | 27W wired, 12W wireless |
| IP Rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| Software | iOS 18 | Android 14, Google Pixel UI |
As we delve into the specifications, it becomes evident that both devices bring unique strengths to the table. The iPhone 16 features Apple's cutting-edge A18 processor, while the Pixel 9 is powered by Google's Tensor G4 chip, showcasing the latest in both companies' technological advancements. In terms of display, the Pixel 9 offers a larger screen with higher brightness, making it potentially more suitable for media consumption.
Design and Build Quality
Apple tends to stick with a tried-and-true design philosophy, and the iPhone 16 is no exception. While it retains the premium glass and aluminum build found in its predecessors, it lacks any significant aesthetic changes. The device maintains an IP68 rating, ensuring it withstands dust and water exposure.
In contrast, the Pixel 9 introduces a fresh aesthetic with its oval camera module design, which stands out against the more traditional vertical arrangement of the iPhone 16. Additionally, the Pixel 9 employs Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for enhanced durability, offering a more robust rear panel compared to the iPhone's glass back, which has no specialized protection.
Weight is another consideration; the iPhone 16 is notably lighter at 171 grams compared to the Pixel 9's heftier 198 grams. If you're looking for a more portable option, the lighter iPhone 16 may be more appealing. However, the Pixel 9’s design offers a unique flair that may attract users looking for something visually distinct.
Display Performance
The iPhone 16 boasts a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, which is impressive but is limited by a 60Hz refresh rate. The Pixel 9, on the other hand, features a larger 6.3-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smoother scrolling and a more responsive touch experience. The increased brightness of the Pixel 9, rated at 2700 nits, also ensures better visibility in bright conditions.
While both displays are FHD+, the Pixel 9's higher refresh rate and brightness give it an edge, especially for gaming and media consumption. However, the iPhone 16 compensates with higher pixel density, offering sharper visuals. Choosing between the two may depend on your specific needs—whether you prioritize refresh rates for gaming or pixel density for crisp images.
Processing Power and Performance
Performance is a critical factor in smartphone selection, and both the iPhone 16 and Pixel 9 deliver robust experiences. The iPhone 16’s A18 chip surpasses its predecessor, the A16, offering a significant boost in efficiency and speed. On the other hand, the Pixel 9's Tensor G4, while not as powerful in synthetic benchmarks, provides reliable performance for daily tasks without noticeable lag.
Apple's architecture has historically excelled in performance benchmarks, and the A18 continues this trend, ensuring a premium experience for users. Google's Tensor G4, while not leading in benchmarks, focuses on machine learning and everyday usability, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize AI capabilities.
Software Experience and User Interface
The iPhone 16 ships with iOS 18, which brings various enhancements, including home screen customization and an updated Control Center. Apple's ecosystem provides a seamless experience, especially for users already invested in their products. The Shortcuts feature allows extensive automation, making everyday tasks easier.
In contrast, the Pixel 9 runs on Android 14 with the Pixel UI, offering a more flexible and customizable experience. Features like placing apps freely on the home screen and a dedicated Game Mode enhance user interaction. Google's focus on AI-driven features in the Pixel 9 provides a unique edge, facilitating innovative integrations that streamline user experience.
Camera Capabilities
In the camera department, the iPhone 16 retains its dual-camera system from the previous generation with a 48MP primary sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide sensor. The addition of autofocus to the ultra-wide lens enhances its functionality, making it a more versatile option for photography enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, the Pixel 9 features a 50MP primary camera and a superior 48MP ultra-wide lens. The Pixel's camera system excels in various lighting conditions and is known for its computational photography capabilities. While both phones offer impressive camera hardware, the choice may come down to personal preference regarding photo processing styles and user interface in the camera app.
Battery Life and Charging Speed
Battery capacity remains a point of contention, with the Pixel 9 featuring a 4,700mAh battery versus the iPhone 16's undisclosed capacity. However, iOS is generally known for its energy efficiency, which may allow the iPhone 16 to compete effectively with the Pixel 9 in everyday use, providing a
