With the $499 Pixel 9A, Google cemented its Pixel 9 series. The affordable phone joins the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL. Pixel phones have outstanding cameras, run on Android 15 and have Google's Gemini AI assistant built right in. At $1,799 the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the most expensive Pixel that Google sells -- but it does unfold out to a large 8-inch screen -- perfect for watching The Last of Us and playing games. We've tested and reviewed every Pixel phone Google sells; here's our list of the best Pixel phones for 2025, which includes who we think each phone is best for and who'll get the most out of each one.
SMARTPHONE DEALS OF THE WEEK
- $799 (save $200)
- $300 (save $100)
- $350 (save $279)
What is the best Google Pixel phone right now?
The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL sit at the top of Google's phone lineup, with their Tensor G4 processor, fantastic cameras and a host of AI skills. Gemini Advanced is truly amazing, but in our testing, there were some hiccups. One thing to look out for is price. The Pixel 9 Pro is a new, smaller version with a 6.3-inch screen and a $999 price tag. The 6.8-inch Pixel 9 Pro XL may have a new name, but for all intents and purposes, it’s the successor to last year’s Pixel 8 Pro. The 9 Pro XL actually costs $100 more than the 8 Pro did when it was released. The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL also have satellite SOS for emergencies and come with seven years of major Android OS updates, security patches and Pixel feature drops.
Pros
- Genuinely fun new AI skills
- Sleek new design
- 7 years of software updates
- Cameras can take great daytime shots
Cons
- Camera hardware hasn't improved much over Pixel 8 Pro
- Gemini AI will eventually require a paid subscription
- Launches with Android 14, not Android 15
The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL have a lot going for them, from their shiny new designs and long software support period. But it's the AI skills that really stand out, from the deep integration of the conversational Gemini Live, to the new Pixel Studio that creates weird and wonderful images from your text prompts.
The phones aren't perfect. While the cameras are good and can take excellent photos in bright light, they're just okay in low-light and in night mode. The best AI features will require a monthly subscription (though you get the first year for free) But if you're keen to experiment with AI on your phone then the new Pixel 9 Pro range is a superb way to experience it. Read our Google Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL review.
Why we like it
Google's Pixel line of phones has gone from strength to strength and its latest model is unquestionably the best phone the company has ever made. It's not just the slick-looking design; the Pixel 9 Pro offers a superb camera system, a generous support period and a host of new AI skills making it one of the most accomplished Android phones around. The 9 Pro XL takes that further by accommodating a bright and vibrant 6.8-inch display.
Who's it best for
It's a great phone for those of you looking for an elegant everyday Android phone. The interface is easy to navigate and the camera takes great photos with almost no effort on your part. If you feel overwhelmed by the plethora of settings and menus on other Android flagships, Google's Pixel 9 Pro is the way to go. If playing mobile games or watching videos on the go is a priority, opt for the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Who shouldn't get it
If you don't need the best cameras Google makes, consider the regular Pixel 9. I do like the fit and finish better on the 9 Pro, but it starts at $999.
Pros
- Beautiful design
- Fun and somewhat useful AI features
- Better ultrawide camera
- 7 years of software updates
Cons
- More expensive
- Doesn't feel that different from Pixel 8
The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL have a lot going for them, from their shiny new designs and long software support period. But it's the AI skills that really stand out, from the deep integration of the conversational Gemini Live, to the new Pixel Studio that creates weird and wonderful images from your text prompts.
The phones aren't perfect. While the cameras are good and can take excellent photos in bright light, they're just okay in low-light and in night mode. The best AI features will require a monthly subscription (though you get the first year for free) But if you're keen to experiment with AI on your phone then the new Pixel 9 Pro range is a superb way to experience it. Read our Google Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL review.
Why we like it
Google's Pixel line of phones has gone from strength to strength and its latest model is unquestionably the best phone the company has ever made. It's not just the slick-looking design; the Pixel 9 Pro offers a superb camera system, a generous support period and a host of new AI skills making it one of the most accomplished Android phones around. The 9 Pro XL takes that further by accommodating a bright and vibrant 6.8-inch display.
Who's it best for
It's a great phone for those of you looking for an elegant everyday Android phone. The interface is easy to navigate and the camera takes great photos with almost no effort on your part. If you feel overwhelmed by the plethora of settings and menus on other Android flagships, Google's Pixel 9 Pro is the way to go. If playing mobile games or watching videos on the go is a priority, opt for the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Who shouldn't get it
If you don't need the best cameras Google makes, consider the regular Pixel 9. I do like the fit and finish better on the 9 Pro, but it starts at $999.
Pros
- The screen is delightfully bright
- Cameras are good for $499
- Gemini Live Video AI has potential to be useful
- Solid build
- The under-$500 price
Cons
- Battery life is just OK, will get through a day
- Processor is serviceable (curious about longevity)
- Lacks emergency SOS satellite texting
For $499, Google's Pixel 9A truly feels like you're getting more bang for your buck. It comes with several significant upgrades from last year's Pixel 8A: a fresh design, new display, larger battery, slightly more powerful chip, increased durability and upgraded software features.
But don't get me wrong -- it's not a perfect phone. There are areas where Google had to compromise to keep the price under $500, like the lack of satellite connectivity for emergencies available on the $799 Pixel 9. Overall, though, I think the compromises Google made were smart and that the Pixel 9A is worth every penny. Read our Google Pixel 9A review.
Why we like it
The Pixel 9A is proof that you don't need to spend more than $500 to get a great phone. It can handle all you daily tasks, from scrolling social media and news feeds and swiping through TikTok videos to taking a beautiful photo and lasting a day on a single charge.
Who's it best for?
In theory, anybody. The Pixel 9A is for anyone who wants 95% of what a $1,000 phone can do at half the price.
Who shouldn't get it
Anyone who wants the absolute fastest processor of the most cutting-edge cameras.
Pros
- Gorgeous design
- Larger screens inside and out
- 7 years of software updates
Cons
- Expensive
- Not enough foldable features
- Camera doesn't always produce sharp photos
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold has all the upgrades you'd want -- including a Google Tensor G4 processor and fancy AI features -- but it's the fresh design that makes it feel different. With its narrower yet larger cover screen, Google is straying from the Pixel Fold's passport-like shape and opting for a design that more closely resembles a regular phone when closed. That shift makes the Pixel 9 Pro Fold feel much more practical than its predecessor. But at $1,799 the Pixel 9 Pro Fold still doesn't solve the biggest problem plaguing today's foldable phones: high prices. While the hardware has come a long way, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold's software still doesn't feel as tailored to foldable screens as Samsung's. And for a phone that costs nearly $2,000, the bar is set high for both the hardware and software experience. Still, it feels like a big step in the right direction for Google's foldable phone, although I'm still hoping to see more compelling software.
Why we like it
The foldable phone is easier to hold and use thanks to its new design. While foldable phone cameras will always be a step behind those on a regular phone, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold's cameras are some of the best you'll find on a foldable. And in our testing, its battery easily lasted a day and will likely be reliable as a two-day phone.
Who is it best for
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is perfect for anyone who already uses a foldable or wants a phone that doubles as a mini tablet. With its 8-inch screen, it’s great for multitasking and running multiple apps at once.
Who shouldn't get it
Anyone looking for a budget phone or one with stylus support.
Google Pixel 9 series phones compared
| Google Pixel 9 | Google Pixel 9A | Google Pixel 9 Pro | Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display size, tech, resolution, refresh rate | 6.3-inch OLED; 2,424x1,080 pixels; 60-120 Hz variable refresh rate | 6.3-inch OLED; 2,424x1,080 pixels; 60-120 Hz variable refresh rate | 6.3-inch LTPO OLED; 2,856x1,280 pixels; 1-120Hz variable refresh rate | 6.8-inch LTPO OLED; 2,992x1,344 pixels; 1-120Hz variable refresh rate | 6.3-inch OLED; 2,424x1,080 pixels; 60-120 Hz variable refresh rate; 8-inch OLED; 2,152x2,076 pixels, 1-120 Hz variable refresh rate (LTPO) |
| Pixel density | 422 ppi | 422 ppi | 495 ppi | 486 ppi | Cover: 422 ppi; Internal: 373 ppi |
| Dimensions (inches) | 6 x 2.8 x 0.3 in | 6.1 x 2.9 x 0.4 in | 6 x 2.8 x 0.3 in | 6.4 x 3 x 0.3 in | Open: 6.1x5.9x0.2 in; Closed: 6.1x3x0.4 in |
| Dimensions (millimeters) | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9 mm | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm | Open: 155.2x150.2x5.1 mm; Closed: 155.2x77.1x10.5 mm |
| Weight (grams, ounces) | 198g (7 oz) | 186g (6.6 oz) | 199g (7 oz) | 221g (7.8 oz) | 257g (9.1 oz) |
| Mobile software | Android 14 | Android 15 | Android 14 | Android 14 | Android 14 |
| Camera | 50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide) | 48-megapixel (wide), 13-megapixel (ultrawide) | 50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (5x telephoto) | 50-megapixel (wide), 48-megapixel (ultrawide), 48-megapixel (5x telephoto) | 48-megapixel (wide), 10.5-megapixel (ultrawide), 10.8-megapixel (5x telephoto) |
| Front-facing camera | 10.5-megapixel | 13-megapixel | 42-megapixel | 42-megapixel | 10-megapixel (inner screen); 10-megapixel (cover screen) |
| Video capture | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K |
| Processor | Google Tensor G4 | Google Tensor G4 | Google Tensor G4 | Google Tensor G4 | Tensor G4 |
| RAM + storage | 12GB RAM + 128GB, 256GB | 8GB + 128GB, 256GB | 16GB + 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 16GB + 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 16GB + 256GB, 512GB |
| Expandable storage | None | None | None | None | None |
| Battery | 4,700 mAh | 5,100 mAh | 4,700 mAh | 5,060 mAh | 4,650 mAh |
| Fingerprint sensor | Under display | Under display | Under display | Under display | Side |
| Connector | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C |
| Headphone jack | None | None | None | None | None |
| Special features | Satellite SOS; 7 years of OS, security and Pixel feature drops; Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover glass; IP68 dust and water resistance; 2,700-nit peak brightness; 45W fast charging (charger not included); 15W wireless charging with Google Pixel Stand (second gen); 12W wireless Qi-charging; Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7; NFC; Bluetooth 5.3; dual-SIM (eSIM + nano SIM); Add Me; Best Take; Magic Eraser; Magic Editor | 7 years of OS, security and Pixel feature drops; Gorilla Glass 3 cover glass; IP68 dust and water resistance; 2,700-nit peak brightness; 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio; 23W fast charging (charger not included); 7.5W wireless charging Qi certified; Wi-Fi 6E; NFC; Bluetooth 5.3; dual-SIM (nano SIM + eSIM); Add Me; Best Take; Magic Eraser; Magic Editor; Photo Unblur; Super Res Zoom; Circle To Search | Satellite SOS; 7 years of OS, security and Pixel feature drops; IP68 dust and water resistance; Video Boost with 8K Upscaling; Macro Focus on ultrawide; Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover glass; 3,000-nit peak brightness; 45W fast charging (charger not included); 15W wireless charging with Google Pixel Stand (second gen); 12W wireless Qi-charging; Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7; NFC; Bluetooth 5.3; dual-SIM (eSIM + nano SIM); Add Me; Best Take; Magic Eraser; Magic Editor | Satellite SOS; 7 years of OS, security and Pixel feature drops; IP68 dust and water resistance; Video Boost with 8K Upscaling; Macro Focus on ultrawide; Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover glass; 3,000-nit peak brightness; 45W fast charging (charger not included); 15W wireless charging with Google Pixel Stand (second gen); 12W wireless Qi-charging; Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7; NFC; Bluetooth 5.3; dual-SIM (eSIM + nano SIM); Add Me; Best Take; Magic Eraser; Magic Editor | IPX8 rating, 7 years of OS, security and Pixel Drop updates, Satellite SOS, Wi-Fi 7, ultra wideband chip, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover and back glass, cover screen peek brightness 2,700 nits, internal screen peek brightness 2,700 nits, 45W wired fast charging (Charger not included), Qi-certified, free Google VPN, Super Res Zoom, Add Me, Face Unblur, Made You Look, Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, Best Take, Video Boost, |
| US price starts at | $799 (128GB) | $499 (128GB) | $999 (128GB) | $1,099 (128GB) | $1,799 (256GB) |
Recent updates
In May 2025, we added the Google Pixel 9A to our list. The Pixel 9A replaces last year's Google Pixel 8A and come with a new processor, new design, updated screen and cameras -- all for the same $499 price.
Factors to consider when buying a Pixel phone
Deciding which Pixel phone is best for you will likely come down to how much you're willing to spend. As with anything, the more cash you splash, the better features you'll get. The Pixel 9 Pro is the most expensive of the main range (excluding the Fold) and as a result, it comes with the best camera system.
If photography isn't important to you, you can save yourself some money and look instead toward the base Pixel 9 or the more affordable Pixel 8A. The Pixel 8A has the same processor as the 2023 Pixel 8 Pro, so you can expect good overall performance, butits dual rear camera is better suited for casual shots of your kid at the beach than for chasing Instagram stardom.
If you want the most cutting-edge piece of tech in your pocket, the Pixel Fold's foldable display certainly makes it stand out. You'll pay a hefty price for this brand-new technology, meaning it's not a phone for everyone.
How we test phones
Here's another photo created by Add Me.
Every phone on this list has been thoroughly tested by CNET's expert reviews team. We use the phone, test the features, play games and take photos. We assess any marketing promises that a company makes about its phones. If we find something we don't like, be it battery life or build quality, we tell you all about it.
We examine every aspect of a phone during testing:
- Display
- Design and feel
- Processor performance
- Battery life
- Camera quality
- Features
We test all of a phone's cameras (both front and back) in a variety of conditions: from outdoors under sunlight to dimmer indoor locales and nighttime scenes (for any available night modes). We also compare our findings against similarly priced models. We have a series of real-world battery tests to see how long a phone lasts under everyday use.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold (left) has a slightly larger screen than the Galaxy Z Fold 6 (right).
Plus, we take into account additional phone features like 5G, fingerprint and face readers, styluses, fast charging, foldable displays and other useful extras. We weigh all of our experiences and testing against the price, so you know whether a phone represents good value.
Read more: How We Test Phones
Other Pixel phones we tested
The Pixel 8A is still an outstanding phone. In fact it earned a CNET Editors Choice Award because of the number of features it has for its $499 price. Since the Pixel 9A is out, it makes sense to get it over the 8A for $499. But if you can snag the Pixel 8A on discount, you'll get a solid phone with good cameras, a clean design and a solid screen.
Pixel phone FAQs
What about the Pixel 7?
Are Pixel phones good?
What to look forward to in 2025
Google will be releasing Android 16 in June. And we expect to see the Pixel 10 series later this year. It'll be curious to see if Google drops the Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL and 10 Pro Fold all at the same time, like the company did for the Pixel 9 series.
