Google Pixel 9 vs older Pixels: is the upgrade worth it?

With the Pixel 10 now out, attention has shifted to what happens next for the Pixel 9. New launches tend to do that. They make people question whether a phone that was current yesterday is still worth buying today. In many cases, it is.

That’s where the Google Pixel 9 range sits right now. Though they’re no longer the newest Pixels on the block, they’re still very much current models. And for many people, a more sensible buy than jumping straight to the latest release.

If you’re using a Google Pixel 8 or Pixel 7, upgrading to the Pixel 9 brings small but noticeable improvements rather than a dramatic leap. The screen is brighter and easier to read outdoors, the phone feels smoother in daily use and battery performance is more consistent. The camera also performs better in low light and when capturing movement, which has always been a strong point of Pixel phones. That said, if your current Pixel is still doing the job without you feeling like throwing it against the wall, there’s no urgent need to replace it.

Comparison table:

Choosing between the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL mostly comes down to size. The Pro is easier to handle and more comfortable for everyday use. The Pro XL offers a larger display and slightly better endurance, which suits heavier users. In practice, both models deliver a very similar experience.

The arrival of the Pixel 10 doesn’t suddenly make the Pixel 9 a bad option. In fact, this is often the point where a phone becomes better value. You still get current software, strong camera performance and long-term update support, without paying for a brand new launch.

If you’re coming from an older Pixel and your phone’s starting to show its age, the Pixel 9 is a sensible upgrade. If you’re happy with a Pixel 8 and it still lasts the day, there’s no real pressure to change. Sometimes the best upgrade is waiting until you actually need one.

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