For the second year running, Google has increased the price of its entry-level Pixel phone. The Pixel 7 initially attracted buyers with a lower price than flagships from Apple and Samsung. However, the Google Pixel 9 loses that pricing advantage, starting at $799, putting it on par with the iPhone 15 and Samsung Galaxy S24. This significant $200 price increase comes with several improvements across the board. This article compares the Pixel 9 and Pixel 7 based on expert testing to help you decide whether to stick with the Pixel 7 or invest in the AI-powered Pixel 9.
Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 7: Specifications Compared
| Feature | Google Pixel 9 | Google Pixel 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm | 155.6 x 73.2 x 8.7 mm |
| Weight | 198 grams | 197 grams |
| Colors | Obsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen, Peony | Obsidian, Snow, Lemongrass |
| Price | Starts at $799 | Starts at $599 |
| Display | 6.3-inch Actua OLED, 1080 x 2424 pixels, 60-120Hz, 422 PPI, Up to 2,700 nits, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | 6.3-inch OLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 90Hz, 416 PPI, Up to 1,400 nits, Gorilla Glass Victus |
| Processor | Google Tensor G4, Titan M2 security coprocessor | Google Tensor G2 |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP wide (f/1.68, OIS/EIS), 48MP ultrawide (f/1.7, autofocus) | 50MP wide (f/1.85, OIS/EIS), 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2) |
| Front Camera | 10.5MP (f/2.2, autofocus, ultrawide) | 10.8MP (f/2.2, ultrawide) |
| Battery | 4,700 mAh | 4,355 mAh |
| Charging | 45W wired, Qi wireless, Reverse wireless | 21W wired, Qi wireless, Reverse wireless |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Connectivity | 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC | 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 |
Design and Build: A Refined Aesthetic
Someone holding a pink Google Pixel 9.
Both phones feature a metal frame, but the Pixel 9 boasts a satin finish. Google flattened the Pixel 9’s sides for a sharper look, contrasting with the Pixel 7’s more rounded, comfortable grip. While both feel premium, the Pixel 9 stands out as the most attractive standard Pixel to date. Its satin-finish metal chassis seamlessly integrates with the flat Gorilla Glass Victus 2 back, complemented by uniform, slim bezels.
Google Pixel 7.
The Pixel 9’s camera bar evolves from the Pixel 7’s visor to a distinct pill-shaped island, enhancing one-handed usability. This design, particularly striking in Wintergreen and Peony, eliminates misalignments and ridges present on the Pixel 7. At 198 grams, the Pixel 9 feels substantial without being unwieldy. The Pixel 9 utilizes Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both front and back, offering improved drop resistance compared to the Pixel 7’s first-gen Victus. Both phones have an IP68 rating.
A black Google Pixel 9 laying face-down on an exercise ball.
Display and Performance: Brighter, Smoother, Faster
Google Pixel 7.
Both phones share a Full HD+ resolution and similar pixel density. However, the Pixel 9’s 120Hz refresh rate, enhanced brightness (up to 2,700 nits peak), and improved contrast ratio deliver a superior visual experience. The Pixel 9’s ultrasonic fingerprint scanner and face unlock provide fast, reliable security.
The Google Pixel 9 with its display on.
The Tensor G4 processor and 12GB of RAM in the Pixel 9 offer significant performance gains over the Pixel 7’s Tensor G2 and 8GB RAM. This increased RAM is crucial for AI processing.
Software: AI Takes Center Stage
Someone holding a white Google Pixel 7.
The Pixel 9’s 12GB RAM enables smooth on-device Gemini Nano AI processing, while the Pixel 7 relies on cloud-based AI. The Pixel 9 includes AI-powered apps like Pixel Studio for image generation and Screenshots for enhanced screenshot management. Gemini replaces Assistant on the Pixel 9, offering more conversational interactions, but its full potential is unlocked with paid subscriptions.
A black Google Pixel 9 standing upright.
The Pixel 9 receives seven years of Android OS updates, starting with Android 14, ensuring long-term support and access to future features. The Pixel 7, launched with Android 13, receives three years of updates.
Cameras: Significant Ultrawide Upgrade
Man holding the Google Pixel 7 like a camera.
The Pixel 9’s 50MP primary camera and 48MP ultrawide camera (with a wider aperture and field of view) significantly improve image quality compared to the Pixel 7’s 50MP + 12MP setup. New features like “Add Me” for combining photos and “Auto Frame” for intelligent framing adjustments enhance the camera experience. The Pixel 9 also adds 4K/FHD video recording at 60fps.
A demonstration of the Add Me feature on a Google Pixel 9.
Pixel 7
Battery Life: Addressing a Previous Weakness
Back of an obsidian black Google Pixel 7.
The Pixel 9’s 4,700mAh battery and 45W wired charging offer improvements over the Pixel 7’s 4,355mAh battery and 21W charging. While not stellar, the Pixel 9 provides acceptable battery life for typical usage. Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging are supported on both models.
Google Pixel 9 in black.
Which Pixel Should You Choose?
Google Pixel 9 in pink.
The Pixel 9 is undeniably the superior device, offering refined design, a brighter display, faster performance, enhanced cameras, and longer software support. While the $200 price difference is considerable, the upgrades justify the cost for those seeking the latest technology. If your Pixel 7 is hindering your smartphone experience, the Pixel 9 is a worthwhile upgrade. However, if your Pixel 7 still meets your needs, it remains a viable option for the next couple of years, thanks to continued software support.
