Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 9 Pro Cameras: Which One Should You Choose?
At the recent Made by Google event, the tech giant unveiled its highly anticipated Pixel 9 series, a smartphone lineup designed with a focus on photography and AI integration. This year's series includes four distinct models: the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Each of these devices offers a unique set of features tailored to different types of users, particularly those passionate about mobile photography.
In this blog post, we'll dive into the camera capabilities of the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro models, helping you determine which one is the best fit for your photography needs.
| Feature | Pixel 9 | Pixel 9 Pro | Pixel 9 Pro XL | Pixel 9 Pro Fold |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen size | 6.3" (15.8cm) | 6.3" (15.8cm) | 6.8" (17.3cm) | 8" (20.3cm) - main 6.3" (15.8cm) - rear |
| Main (wide) camera | 50MP (72mm2) F1.68 25mm equiv. |
50MP (72mm2) F1.68 25mm equiv. |
50MP (72mm2) F1.68 25mm equiv. |
48MP (31mm2) F1.7 25mm equiv. |
| Ultra-wide camera | 48MP (24mm2) F1.7 12mm equiv. |
48MP (24mm2) F1.7 12mm equiv. |
48MP (24mm2) F1.7 12mm equiv. |
10.5MP (13.2mm2) F2.2 11mm equiv. |
| Telephoto camera | N/A | 48MP (24mm2) F2.8 105mm equiv. |
48MP (24mm2) F2.8 105mm equiv. |
10.8MP (16mm2) F3.1 105mm equiv. |
| Front camera | 10.5MP F2.2 20mm equiv. |
42MP F2.2 17mm equiv. |
42MP F2.2 17mm equiv. |
10MP F2.2 23mm equiv. |
| Pro camera controls | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Super Res Zoom | Up to 8x* | Up to 30x** | Up to 30x** | Up to 20x** |
| Video | 4K/60p, 1080/60p | 4K/60p, 1080/60p | 4K/60p, 1080/60p | 4K/60p, 1080/60p |
| Video Boost (cloud) | N/A | 8K/30p | 8K/30p | 8K/30p |
| Night Sight video | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Super Res Zoom in video | 7x*** | Up to 20x | Up to 20x | 20x*** |
Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Key Differences in Camera Hardware
Main Camera: A Shared Foundation
All three models—the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL—are equipped with the same 50MP wide (main) camera. This camera features a Type 1/1.31 Octa PD sensor and a 25mm equivalent focal length. It’s the largest sensor among the Pixel 9 lineup and comes with an F1.68 lens that benefits from both optical and digital image stabilization. Whether you're shooting in daylight or low light, this camera is designed to deliver crisp, detailed images.
Ultra-Wide Camera: Consistent Across the Board
The ultra-wide camera is another commonality across these models, featuring a 48MP Type 1/2.55 Quad PD sensor with a 12mm equivalent focal length and F1.7 aperture. Although this sensor is slightly smaller than the one used in the previous Pixel 8 Pro, the faster F1.7 aperture compensates by allowing more light to reach the sensor, enhancing low-light performance.
Telephoto Camera: The Pro Models Stand Out
Here's where the differences start to become apparent. The Pixel 9 does not include a telephoto camera, while the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL both feature a 48MP telephoto lens with a 105mm equivalent focal length and F2.8 aperture. This telephoto camera includes optical and electronic image stabilization, making it ideal for capturing distant subjects with clarity.
Software and AI Features: The True Pro Advantage
Pro Camera Controls
If you’re a photography enthusiast who enjoys manual settings, the Pixel 9 Pro models are equipped with Google’s pro camera controls. These allow you to manually adjust focus, shutter speed, and ISO, and capture 50MP high-resolution images. In contrast, the Pixel 9 is limited to 12.5MP images, despite having the same sensor.
Super Res Zoom
Google’s Super Res Zoom technology is another feature that sets the Pro models apart. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL can achieve up to 30x zoom by combining hardware and AI-driven software, while the Pixel 9 is capped at 8x.
Front Camera: Wider and Brighter
The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL also offer an upgraded 42MP front camera with a 17mm equivalent focal length, the widest selfie camera ever on a Pixel device. Additionally, it boasts a 30% increase in light sensitivity compared to the previous generation, which means brighter and clearer selfies, even in low-light conditions.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A Unique Take on Mobile Photography
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the most distinct model in this lineup, featuring a foldable design that brings new possibilities for mobile photography. Though its cameras are slightly less robust than the other Pro models due to space constraints, the Fold offers unique features like a secondary rear screen that enables new photo-taking methods, such as using the main camera for high-quality selfies.
Specialized Features
Made You Look: This feature uses the rear screen to display animations, helping to capture a child’s attention during photos.
Dual Display: Allows both the photographer and the subject to preview the image before it’s taken, enhancing the photo-taking experience.
Conclusion: Which Pixel 9 Model is Right for You?
If you're looking for a well-rounded smartphone that offers great photography capabilities without breaking the bank, the Pixel 9 is a solid choice. It provides powerful cameras and Google's computational photography features at a more affordable price.
However, if you want more control over your photography and advanced features like a telephoto lens, the Pixel 9 Pro or Pixel 9 Pro XL is worth the extra investment. These models are designed for those who take their mobile photography seriously and want the flexibility to capture stunning images in a variety of situations.
Finally, if you’re intrigued by the idea of a foldable phone that offers unique photography features, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold could be the perfect fit. Its innovative design and specialized camera functions make it a standout choice for those looking to explore new ways of capturing moments.
No matter which model you choose, the Pixel 9 series ensures that you'll have a powerful tool in your pocket, ready to capture life's moments with exceptional clarity and creativity.