Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8 – should I upgrade? If this thought comes to your mind and you want to learn how the Google Pixel 9 compares to the Google Pixel 9, this article might help you out. To help you understand whether or not the latest upgrades to Google Pixel 9 justify its higher price tag, we will break down everything here. Therefore, without further ado, let’s dive into it!
Here is a quick comparison of Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 8.
Also read: Google Pixel 9 Leaks: Specifications, Pricing & Release Date
Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8 – Differences
| Google Pixel 9 | Google Pixel 8 | |
| Design | Flatter | More classic design that reminds us of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7’s design |
| Fingerprint scanner | Ultrasonic, which is faster and more accurate | Optical, which is slower and less accurate |
| Processor | Tensor G4 (4nm) | Tensor G3 (4nm) |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB |
| Camera | 50MP main + 48MP high-resolution ultra-wide camera | 50MP main + 12MP ultra-wide cameras |
| Display | 6.3 inch | 6.2 inch |
| Battery | 4,700mAh | 4,575mAh |
| Colours | Obsidian, Porcelain, Penoy, Wintergreen | Mint, Rose, Porcelain, Obsidian |
| Durability | IP68 + Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | IP68 + Corning Gorilla Glass Victus |
| Weight | 7 ounces | 6.60 ounces |
| Price | Rs. 79,999 | Rs. 58,999 to Rs. 68,999 |
Also read: iPhone 16 vs S24 vs Pixel 9: Which Flagship Deserves Your Money?
Google Pixel 9 Vs Pixel 8 – Design
The Pixel 9 comes with a flat design. This type of flat design is a trend these days. The front, back, and frame of the phone are completely flat. The Pixel 9 has an aluminium frame, and its rear glass has a glossy look. You can see the notable changes only on the back side of the phone. The camera strip has been redesigned, so it is no longer connected to the side frame. It sticks out just like the Google Pixel Fold. The Pixel 9 has IP68 and dust resistance.
On the other side, the Pixel 8 comes with a slightly curved side frame and back glass. It will certainly give you a pleasant experience when you hold the phone in your hand.
Regarding colour, the Pixel 9 is available in Obsidian, Porcelain, Penoy, and Wintergreen, and the Google Pixel 8 is available in Mint, Rose, Porcelain, and Obsidian.
Google Pixel 9 Vs Pixel 8 – Display
The Google Pixel 9 has minor display size improvement. It has a 6.3-inch display size, while its predecessor, Pixel 8, comes with a 6.2-inch display size. Google Pixel 9 has an Actua OLED display with a 60Hz to 120Hz refresh rate. The phone offers 2,700 nits of brightness. On the other hand, the Pixel 8 offers 2,000-nit peak brightness.
The major improvement that comes with Pixel 9 is the Ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. It is faster and more accurate than the optical sensor that is present on the Google Pixel 8.
Google Pixel 9 Vs Pixel 8 – Performance and Software
In one sentence, if we discuss the performance, the Google Pixel 9 is much faster than the Pixel 8. The Pixel 9 is powered by the Tensor G4 Chipset, better than the Tensor G3 Chipset in the Google Pixel 8.
The Pixel 9 features more RAM as compared to Pixel 8. The Pixel 8 comes with 8GB RAM, whereas the Pixel 9 offers 12GB RAM. Both devices offer seven years of software support. It includes security patches, Android releases, and feature drops.
Right now, both phones are running on Android 14, but they will get Android 15 as soon as it is released.
Also read: Google Pixel 8a Vs Pixel 8: Get More At Lesser Price!
Google Pixel 9 Vs Pixel 8 – Camera
The Pixel 9 comes with a 50MP main and 48MP high-resolution ultra-wide camera, letting you capture good photos and videos even in low light. The major upgrade is AI, which gives lots of new features to experience you with, such as Add Me, Call Summary, Pixel Screenshot, etc. On the flip side, the Google Pixel 8 has the same 50MP main camera but a 12MP ultra-wide camera, which also offers pretty good camera image quality.
Also read: Google Pixel 8 Vs Google Pixel 7: The Ultimate Faceoff!
Google Pixel 9 Vs Pixel 8 – Battery and Charging
Last but not least is the battery capacity and charging. The Pixel 9 has a battery capacity of 4,700mAh, which is larger than the Google Pixel 8’s battery capacity of 4,575mAh. Due to the Tensor G4 chip, we expect that the Pixel 9 will provide slightly improved battery life. Both phones offer the same charging capacity – 27W of wired charging.
In A Nutshell
There is not much difference when it comes to hardware when we compare Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8. Of course, the new screen will look attractive, but it is not that noticeable for most people.
However, you should buy a Google Pixel 9 if:
- You want to enjoy the best performance. As the Google Pixel 9 comes with increased RAM, it can provide you with an upgrade.
- Of course, the Google Pixel 8 has many AI features, but the Google Pixel 9 is power-packed with new AI features like Call Summary, Add Me, Pixel Screenshots, and Reimagine (for photos). So, if you want to take full advantage of AI, upgrade to Pixel 9.
- If you want to own a phone that looks different from any other phone, the Pixel 9 is the perfect pick.
You should buy a Google Pixel 8 if:
- You want a phone with a high-quality camera
- You are buying the Pixel phone for the first time, or you are planning to upgrade from your older Pixel phone
Also read: Samsung Galaxy S24 vs Google Pixel 8: The Much Awaited Face-Off!
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Nishva Gandhi
Content Copy Writer with over 6 years of professional writing experience and hold a Master’s Degree in IT. I help businesses grow organically with captivating content & strategic social media tactics.