The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge marks the return of the “Edge” branding, absent since the Galaxy S7 Edge. This incredibly slim smartphone boasts a large 6.7-inch display, rivaling the S25 Plus, yet maintains a remarkably thin 5.9mm profile—2mm slimmer than most flagship phones. Packed with a top-tier Snapdragon processor, a 200-megapixel camera, and a striking design, the S25 Edge promises a premium experience. But how does this ultra-slim device stack up against the competition, particularly in terms of battery life? We compare it to the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, a powerful and large smartphone known for its performance and longevity, to see which phone emerges victorious.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs. Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: Specifications
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge | Google Pixel 9 Pro XL |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159 x 76 x 5.9 mm (6.26 x 2.99 x 0.23 in) | 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm (6.41 x 3.02 x 0.33 in) |
| Weight | 163g (5.75 oz) | 221g (7.80 oz) |
| Display | 6.7-inch AMOLED (120Hz) | 6.8-inch LTPO OLED (120Hz) |
| Resolution | 3120 x 1440 (513 ppi) | 2992 x 1344 (486 ppi) |
| OS | Android 15 (One UI 7) | Android 15 |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| MicroSD Slot | No | No |
| Tap-to-Pay | Google Pay, Samsung Pay | Google Pay |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite | Google Tensor G4 |
| RAM | 12GB | 16GB |
| Rear Camera | 200MP, 12MP ultrawide | 50MP, 48MP telephoto, 48MP ultrawide |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 42MP |
| Video | Up to 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps | Up to 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
| Ports | USB-C | USB-C |
| Biometrics | Under-display fingerprint | Under-display fingerprint |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Battery | 3,900mAh, 25W fast charging | 5,060mAh, 37W fast charging, wireless charging |
| App Store | Google Play Store | Google Play Store |
| Network | 5G | 5G |
| Colors | Titanium Icyblue, Titanium Silver, Titanium Jetblack | Porcelain, Rose Quartz, Hazel, Obsidian |
| Price | From £1,099 | From $1,100 |
| Availability | Samsung | Google, Amazon, Best Buy |
Design: A Striking Difference in Profile
Side view of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge showcasing its slim profile.
Back view of the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL held in hand.
The Galaxy S25 Edge’s defining feature is its remarkably slim 5.9mm profile. While not as thin as concept phones, it’s significantly thinner than the Pixel 9 Pro XL and even smaller devices like the standard S25. This slim design translates to a surprisingly comfortable in-hand feel, despite the large screen size. The Pixel 9 Pro XL, considerably heavier and thicker, feels bulky in comparison. Both phones are aesthetically pleasing, but the S25 Edge’s unique slimness gives it the edge in this category.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
Display: A Close Contest
A user holding the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge.
The Pixel Weather app displayed on the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Both phones feature stunning displays. The S25 Edge’s 6.7-inch AMOLED screen boasts a crisp 513 ppi, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s 6.8-inch OLED offers a slightly lower 486 ppi. In real-world usage, the difference is negligible. Both displays deliver vibrant colors, deep blacks, and smooth 120Hz refresh rates. The S25 Edge technically wins due to its slightly sharper resolution.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
Performance: Staying Cool Under Pressure
Star Wars: Hunters gameplay on the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL.
The S25 Edge utilizes the Snapdragon 8 Elite, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL features the Google Tensor G4. Both chipsets deliver flagship-level performance. However, the S25 Edge incorporates a “Thermal Interface Material” (TIM) for superior heat management during gaming, potentially addressing the Tensor G4’s known heating issues. This gives the S25 Edge a potential advantage for gamers.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
Battery and Charging: A Clear Advantage for the Pixel
A hand holding the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge.
The S25 Edge’s 3,900mAh battery pales in comparison to the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s 5,060mAh cell, which comfortably lasts a day and a half. The S25 Edge’s smaller battery is likely a compromise for its slim design. Furthermore, the S25 Edge’s 25W fast charging is significantly slower than competing devices, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL supports 37W wired and wireless charging.
Winner: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Cameras: Megapixels vs. Google’s Photography Prowess
A user navigating the Camera app on the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
The S25 Edge features a 200MP main camera and a 12MP ultrawide lens. The Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a triple camera system with a 50MP primary lens, a 48MP telephoto lens, and a 48MP ultrawide lens. While the S25 Edge’s 200MP sensor is intriguing, the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s established reputation for excellent image quality gives it the win.
Winner: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Software and Updates: A Tie
Someone holding the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge.
Both phones run Android 15. The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a near-stock Android experience, while the S25 Edge features Samsung’s One UI skin. Both offer similar AI features, including Magic Editor and Audio Eraser. While the Pixel will receive Android updates first, both phones promise seven years of software support.
Winner: Tie
Price and Availability
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at $1,100. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge starts at £1,099.
Verdict: Choosing Your Priority
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge displayed on a retail stand.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL excels in battery life, camera performance, and offers a pure Android experience. The S25 Edge stands out with its remarkably slim design, impressive display, and efficient cooling system. The ultimate choice depends on individual preferences. If battery life and camera quality are paramount, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is the better choice. If a slim profile and innovative design are more appealing, the S25 Edge is a compelling alternative.
