Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Biggest differences (2024)

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Biggest differences (1)

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  • Specs
  • Release and price
  • Design and display
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With the announcement of the Google Pixel 9, there is plenty to be excited about for Google fans. In our review, we praised the Google Pixel 8 for its compact design and host of new features, so Google has its work cut out to improve upon the prior design.

The Pixel 9 comes in at $799 for the model with 128GB storage and comes with a brand new design, improved durability and a host of new AI features that offer improved editing options and the Gemini Nano. However, the question is if there is enough of a difference to convince you to fork out an extra $100 for the new Pixel.

To learn more about what the Pixel 9 is bringing to the table you can check out our hands-on review, alongside hands-on reviews for the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL. In the meantime, here's everything you need to know when comparing the Pixel 8 with the Pixel 9.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Specifications

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Row 0 - Cell 0 Google Pixel 9 (rumored)Google Pixel 8
Starting price$799$699
Screen size6.3 inches6.2 inches
Refresh rate120Hz120Hz
Maximum brightness2,700 nits1,400 nits
CPUTensor G4Tensor G3
Memory12GB RAM8GB RAM
Storage128GB, 256GB128GB, 256GB
Rear cameras50MP main, 48MP ultrawide50MP main, 12MP ultrawide
Front camera10.5MP10.5MP
Battery size4,700 mAh4,575 mAh

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Release date and price

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Biggest differences (2)

The Google Pixel 9 starts at $799 / £799 for the 128GB version, which is $100/£100 more than the equivalent Pixel 8 would have cost you last year. A 256GB model is also available, but prices for that haven’t been confirmed just yet. There are three color options available, Obsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen and Peony. Which are fancy ways of saying black, white, mint green and pink.

Meanwhile, Google launched the Pixel 8 back last fall during its October Pixel event, with a $699 starting price for the base model. Three different color options were available at launch (hazel, obsidian, and rose), but a mint color option was later added — giving you four color options in total.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Design and display

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Biggest differences (3)

The Google Pixel 9 has a brand-new design with more rounded edges and a reduced camera bump. This will likely make it much more comfortable to hold in the hand. While the two phones are roughly the same size, the new Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover will mean that the Google Pixel 9 is much more durable than the Google Pixel 8.

The Google Pixel 9's new Actua display promises a brighter, and smoother display. According to Google, the new screen has a peak brightness of 2,700 nits, which is a vast improvement over the Google Pixel 8. If accurate, as brightness can vary, the Google Pixel 9 will offer a much better screen experience in any light condition.

Finally, the Google Pixel offers users four color options, Obsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen and Peony. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 only featured three color options, Rose, Hazel and Obsidian. For the most part, there isn't that much difference, but it's nice to have options.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Cameras

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Biggest differences (4)

The Pixel 9 comes with two back cameras, a 50MP wide camera with a ƒ/1.68 aperture and an 8x Super Res Zoom. There is also a 48 MP Quad PD ultrawide camera with autofocus and an ƒ/1.7 aperture. In comparison, the Pixel 8 has a 50MP main ƒ/1.68 with 8x Super Res Zoom and a 12MP ultrawide ƒ/2.2. As you may have noticed, there isn't much difference between the two phones' camera options.

The same goes for the selfie camera, with both coming with a 10.5MP front camera. It is a bit disappointing that Google hasn't fully upgraded all of the cameras, but the improved ultrawide is a nice touch. In all honesty, it appears that the main camera hardware improvements went to the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Xl.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Performance

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Biggest differences (5)

The Pixel 9 comes with the Tensor G4, which Google has stated is designed to focus on AI and comes on every Pixel 9 series. Sadly, we haven't had a chance to fully test the new Tensor G4 to see how it compares to the competition, but we will be able to do so soon.

On the plus side, Google has upgraded the RAM in the phone, with the Google Pixel 9 coming with 12GB of RAM compared to the Google Pixel 8's 8GB. This was likely changed to help the Google Pixel 9 handle the new AI features, but on the plus side will mean that the new phone should be much faster than the Pixel 8.

The memory options haven't seen an upgrade, with the Pixel 9 having the same 128 GB and 256 GB options as the prior phone. It's worrying that with the ability to generate images, and the improved AI editing software, the memory will likely fill up quickly. While we would have rather seen the standard issue memory upgrade to 256 GB, there is still the option to upgrade.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Software

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Biggest differences (6)

Unfortunately, the Pixel 9 will not come with Android 15, and will instead launch with Android 14. however, that isn't to say that there aren't some great new features for the Pixel 9.

The biggest improvement coming for the Pixel series is the inclusion of the new and improved Gemini Nano. The new AI is stated to work primarily on-device, meaning the phone is safer and faster than any other model. Gemini Nano has also seen an impressive glow-up on the new device, which will help it stand apart from its predecessor.

The new Gemini Nano is multimodal, meaning you can interact with Gemini using images, audio, text and speech. Gemini Assistant also infuses Google Assistant with AI capabilities, while Gemini Live will let you converse with the chatbot in real time. Not to mention a new generative AI feature that will make it easier than ever to create new images on your phone. However, you will have to pay for a subscription to use some of the new features.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Biggest differences (7)

The Google Pixel 9 will include several great new AI editing features for the cameras, including the Magic Editor suite. The phone will also come with Best Take, which allows users to easily create the best image by combining different faces into one shot. Another interesting feature is Add Me, which uses AR guidance to snap photos that can swap the photographer into the shot.

There's Audio Magic Eraser for cleaning up video audio, and the ability to summarize large volumes of text. There's also the Screenshot feature, which allows you to quickly save any information you want to remember by simply taking a screenshot.

Essentially this means that the Pixel 9 has all the features that we saw in the Google Pixel 8 Pro and then added more on top.

Both the Pixel 9 and the Pixel 8 offer 7 years of software support, which includes software and security updates. Google has also specified that these changes will include any replacement parts, which is great for customers as it will keep devices relevant for a while.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Outlook

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Biggest differences (8)

There is an argument that, in terms of hardware, there isn't a massive difference between the two Pixels. While the new screen is nice, it likely won't be all that noticeable for many people and the lack of any real camera upgrades will be a turn-off for many, especially with the price increase.

However, the new AI features are the real star of the show with the base model coming with more features than even the Pixel 8 Pro. If you want a phone that can do a little bit of everything then the Pixel 9 is clearly the better and upgrading is well worth it. However, it might be worth waiting until the eventual release of Android 15 to be safe.

For more information, we have a hands-on with the Pixel 9 that will tell you all you need to know.We also have a live blog for the Made By Google event, including everything announced by Google.

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John Velasco

Senior Channel Editor for Phones

John’s a senior editor covering phones for Tom’s Guide. He’s no stranger in this area having covered mobile phones and gadgets since 2008 when he started his career. On top of his editor duties, he’s a seasoned videographer being in front and behind the camera producing YouTube videos. Previously, he held editor roles with PhoneArena, Android Authority, Digital Trends, and SPY. Outside of tech, he enjoys producing mini documentaries and fun social clips for small businesses, enjoying the beach life at the Jersey Shore, and recently becoming a first time homeowner.

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    Sadly they lost me this week. The horrible cellular connection and the fingerprint reader constantly getting me locked out of using my phone for work Biometric authentication for 30 minutes at a time as well as the weird quirks with the UI app switched semi-stopping apps and trying to work between apps only to find that the phone has ended the only other 1 of 2 apps running is making life too difficult. I've order a Samsung phone so that I can at least get a working fingerprint reader and stable connection.

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Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Biggest differences (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between the Google Pixel 8 and 9? ›

Although the Pixel 9 mostly perfects the general formula behind the Pixel 8, the improvements are all pretty important. You get much better battery life, a better display, a slightly better camera setup with fine-tuned image quality, and better performance, as well as a much more future-proof device in the era of AI.

Is it worth upgrading to Pixel 9? ›

However, if you have been yearning for a longer software update, a more striking design, and slightly better battery, upgrading to the Pixel 9 Pro is a no-brainer. Moreover, if you have been grappling with software issues or the slower fingerprint scanner on the Pixel 7 Pro, the upgrade makes even more sense.

Is Pixel 9 good? ›

The Pixel 9 is not perfect. But it is, in my opinion, the best Android phone you can buy under Rs 1 lakh. It is good, particularly its camera is superb and some of the issues we used to see with previous Pixels — gaming and heating, for example — are not there in the Pixel 9.

What is the peak brightness of the Pixel 9? ›

Display – Pixel 9 features a 6.3-inch Actua OLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2424 and refresh rate of up to 120Hz. In terms of upgrades to the naked eye, the display gets much brighter when in direct sunlight with a peak brightness of 2,700 nits.

How good is the Pixel 8? ›

You're not going to find a much better value than the Pixel 8. From the gorgeous display and design to the speedy performance and amazing cameras, Google's standard flagship phone stands on its own with an impeccable balance of high-end features for a lower price than other flagships.

What are the disadvantages of Google pixel phones? ›

Overrated, overpriced, overheating bs. Well the main con of the pixel phones are their damm CPUs, they get hot, like hot like Pentium 4 hot,as well as updates taking hours to complete. I go back and forth between google and samsung phones. Most recently a 7 pro and an S23 ultra and I like aspects of both.

Why is Google pixels are better than Samsung? ›

The Pixel software is a much more minimal experience. Many people consider Pixel phones to be the iPhone of the Android world. You can pretty much do everything a Pixel can do on a Galaxy phone, but the opposite isn't true. Pixel phones are not bloated with features.

How long will a Google pixel last? ›

That means your Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 will be supported all the way into 2030. No major smartphone brand offers this committed level of support and longevity. And because they'll be supported for seven years, these phones are a sustainable smartphone choice.

Does Pixel have the best Android? ›

Best phone for Android purists

But Google's phones have always shined for their clean, slick software, and that once again applies to the Pixel 9 series. Pixels are also among the first to get new software updates, making them an ideal choice for those who want to get their hands on the latest version of Android first.

Is the Google Pixel a really good phone? ›

Still, even if you weren't planning on spending nearly $500, we strongly feel the Pixel 8a is well worth it — it's our top pick for the best cheap phone and best budget Android phone thanks to its performance, cameras, design, and value.

What is the difference between Pixel 8a and 8? ›

The biggest difference between these phones (besides their colors) is the material Google uses on the back. The 8 comes with Gorilla Glass Victus on the front and back, while the 8a has Gorilla Glass 3 on the front and a plastic back.

What is the highest pixel quality? ›

What is the best resolution available? An 8K resolution is the highest you can find in the TV and camera markets. Devices with 8K have a pixel count of 7680x4320 — that's more than 33 million pixels in the total image. Devices offering this resolution are pricey, and it is often unnecessary to upgrade to 8K.

Which pixel has biggest screen? ›

What is the screen size of the latest Google Pixel phones?
  • Screen size of Google Pixel Fold 2: 8.02 inches.
  • Screen size of Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: 8.02 inches.
  • Screen size of Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: 6.71 inches.
  • Screen size of Google Pixel 9 Pro: 6.1 inches.
  • Screen size of Google Pixel 9: 6.03 inches.
Jul 25, 2024

Why is my pixel screen so dark? ›

The issue – or rather, the feature – stems from something called 'Extra Dim', and it's baked right into your Pixel phone's Quick Settings menu. At first blush, enabling it may not seem like it does, well, anything at all. This is especially true if you toggle it during the daytime indoors.

What is the difference between Android 8 and 9? ›

Android 8.0 displays a 3d stack of cards for Recent Applications with each card showing an app used recently. While, Android 9.0 has a multitasking staple that seems like the app switching interface of iPhones. App previews come up in flat cards side by side rather than in a position of top of each other.

Which Pixel variant is best? ›

Best Google Pixel phone at a glance
  • Best flagship phone: Pixel 9 Pro XL – check price.
  • Best mid-range phone: Pixel 8 – check price.
  • Best affordable phone: Pixel 8a – check price.
  • Best foldable phone: Pixel Fold – check price.
Aug 22, 2024

Is the Google pixel 8 waterproof? ›

The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro have an IP68 rating. This makes them water-resistant up to a certain point. It should survive depths of 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes. The Pixel 8 series can't survive extended immersion or very deep water levels.

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