iPhone 16 Pro Max vs. Pixel 9 Pro XL: A Close Match

As the 2024 Apple event draws near, we’re getting closer to this year’s biggest smartphone rivalry: the iPhone 16 Pro Max vs. Pixel 9 Pro XL. According to tech experts, once the new iPhones are officially released, the two will be this year’s largest flagship devices.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is basically a Pro Max counterpart for Androids. This XL variant, along with the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, was announced just a few weeks back, on August 13, 2024.

iPhone 16 Pro Max VS Pixel 9 Pro XL

Here, we’ll compare and contrast these Pro models. However, it’s important to emphasize that the iPhone 16 Pro Max is still unofficial, so we’ll have to rely on strong claims and rumors.

Size and Display

Leaked molds of the iPhone 16 Pro Max case suggest that this variant is getting a size up this year — from 6.7 inches in the iPhone 15 Pro Max to a taller 6.9 inches. This would make it an inch taller than the Pixel 9 Pro XL, which has a large 6.8-inch OLED screen.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL features a 3000 nits brightness, which could be the same as the iPhone 16 Pro Max, and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz.

However, the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s display may be more durable, made of scratch-resistant Ceramic Shield glass, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2. With a thinner bezel, the Pixel 9 Pro XL gets a closer resemblance to the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

It was also rumored that the iPhone 16 Pro Max is getting a Face ID upgrade, making it quite hard to match. Meanwhile, Google does not run short in this area with its under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, which was created 50% quicker than its predecessors.

Processor

The iPhone 16 Pro Max is equipped with a faster and more powerful Apple A18 Pro chipset, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL uses a Tensor G4 chipset. Both processors are built for AI, so we can expect next-level AI functions we’ve never seen before.

Generally, Apple’s chipsets perform better and more efficiently than Google’s and other Android phones, as per previous benchmark tests. We have yet to see if the tech giant will come out with the best-performing processor once again in a few weeks.

Camera

The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a higher resolution 42MP front camera and an even better 50MP main camera. It also has a 48MP Ultra-wide and 5x Telephoto, which surpasses the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max takes higher resolution photos with a 12MP front and 5x Telephoto camera, as well as 48MP main and ultrawide cameras. The iPhone 16 Pro Max also supports 3K slow-motion video, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL is limited to 1080P slow-motion video. However, the Pixel 9 Pro XL can upscale 4K footage into 8K resolution.

Battery

In terms of battery life and charging speed, the Pixel 9 Pro XL outperforms the iPhone 16 Pro Max, with a battery life of 5060 mAh. It claims to be 20% bigger; however, it lacks a MagSafe feature and Qi2 wireless charging.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max is rumored to have a battery life of 4400 – 4700 mAh, which is considerably smaller than the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Its advantage over the Pixel phone is its MagSafe and Qi2 wireless charging compatibility.

As for charging capabilities, the Pixel 9 Pro XL uses a USB-C port with 37W wired and 23W Qi wireless charging power. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 Pro Max also uses a USB-C port with 40W wired and 20W wireless charging with MagSafe.

Storage

The iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a more generous starting capacity, starting at 256GB and 8 RAM. In contrast, the Pixel 9 Pro XL starts with 128GB of storage and 16 RAM. While both devices offer ample space for most users, those who require extensive storage for high-resolution photos, videos, or large files might find the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s initial storage option more appealing.

Finally, the Pixel 9 Prol XL has a maximum storage capacity of up to 1TB, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max may have up to 2TB.

Price

The iPhone 16 Pro Max is expected to be released on September 9th or 10th, 2024, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL is already available for purchase.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is quite pricey, starting at $1,099. This is Google’s first-ever XL variant, so we can’t exactly compare it to a predecessor. However, last year’s Pixel 8 Pro cost $999 on release.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max will be worth a hundred bucks more, with a rumored starting price of $1,199.

Choosing the Right Pro Phone

When choosing between the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Pixel 9 Pro XL, consider if their features serve your current needs. Both phones seem to show improved performance and new features, so there’s a thinner line for losing. But if we really have to rank them, here are our thoughts:

• Camera: Pixel 9 Pro XL
• Performance: iPhone 16 Pro Max
• Battery Life: Pixel 9 Pro XL
• MagSafe Compatibility: iPhone 16 Pro Max
• Storage: Pixel 9 Pro XL
• Design: iPhone 16 Pro Max

Since it’s a tie, we recommend getting one you’re most used to or trying a new smartphone experience and switching up. Either way, remember to keep your device protected from everyday tear and mishap with a slim minimalist case from premium third-party manufacturers like Thinborne.

Wrap Up

Overall, both phones are excellent in terms of their strengths and weaknesses. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is a better choice for users who prioritize performance, durability, and design. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is a better option for users who value a great camera system, a larger battery, and faster charging. We all know Android is known to be more universal and customizable than iOS, so you may want to consider this as well—also, factor in the years of software and security support for long-term benefits.