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I’ve been a Pixel user for nearly half a decade now – ever since switching over to the Pixel 3a from my Samsung and Redmi phone years ago, there’s just something about Google’s devices that keep me hooked. I was expecting the same feeling when I unboxed my Pixel 9 Pro XL, and while the phone is very impressive (screen issues aside), I just felt that it wasn’t the proper fit for me.
With that in mind, I then switched over to the smaller base model Pixel 9, keeping in line with my personal tradition of sticking to Google’s non-Pro flagships. Call me crazy, but I actually like the regular Pixel 9 much better than Google’s more premium handset.
READ: Google Pixel 9 vs Apple iPhone 16: Flagship Phone Face-off!
Perhaps one of the biggest factors was size – I’ve always preferred the smaller Pixel models for their portability, and this includes both base model Pixels and their A-series counterparts. There’s just something about using a more compact device these days that feels right, both in terms of usability and ergonomics. After using the Pixel 9 Pro XL, I missed the one-handed friendliness and pocket-friendly nature of past Pixel phones.
Of course you might ask, “why not just go for the smaller 9 Pro?” – that is a valid question, and Google’s smaller Pro model comes at the same size as the vanilla Pixel 9. This brings us to our next point of discussion.
Another reason that I felt like switching back was the Pro features. While Pro-exclusive additions such as the telephoto camera is impressive, I’m not really an in-depth user when it comes to smartphone photography, opting for more point-and-shoot approach. You could say that the Pixel 9’s standard camera is more than sufficient for my needs.
You could say that the Pixel 9’s standard camera is more than sufficient for my needs.
Of course this isn’t the only Pro feature – there’s also more RAM on the Pro models as well as a new vapor chamber, both of which are kinda moot to me. As with Pixel photography, my general everyday usage is of a more moderate kind, just enough to get me through the day with a few snaps every now and then, answering calls and checking my emails and social media platforms. It’s the same reason why I don’t find the Pixel A series phones limiting.
Additionally, I prefer the design of the Pixel 9 – I like the matte aluminum finish on the Pixel 9 over the polished aluminum on the Pro models, which tends to scratch a lot easier especially when fitting tight cases on the sides. Sure, the back on the Pixel 9 is glossy instead of matte, but I find that it’s less prone to scratching versus the aluminum sides by comparison.
READ: Google Pixel 9 vs Samsung Galaxy S24: Which “Vanilla” Flagship Should You Get?
Finally, there’s also the consideration of price. The Pixel 9 is more affordable than the Pixel 9 Pro XL (around 200 bucks cheaper), and considering my needs and preferences, the Pixel 9 ended up being the more practical choice overall.
How about you – which Pixel 9 model did you go for? Let us know in the comments below!
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