Google finally launched the new Pixels this year, and there’s a great addition to the typical standard and Pro phone: a Pro Fold and an XL variant. That makes the 2024 Google Pixel 9 lineup: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro Xl, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL is the largest and most powerful of the Pixel 9 series. Overall, it has a larger display and bigger battery than the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. All powered by the latest Tensor G4 chip, the new Pixels significantly improve overall performance and energy efficiency.
In this article, we’ll compare the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL battery with the other Pixel 9 phones and its predecessor, the Pixel 8 Pro. We will also compare its battery life with last year’s iPhone 15 Pro Max to see how it compares to the competition.
Pixel 9 Pro XL Battery vs. Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro Fold Battery
The Pixel 9 Pro XL currently has the biggest battery among all the Pixel phones, at 5060 mAh capacity. The standard Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro have the typical 4700 mAh battery, while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold ironically has the smallest battery capacity, at 4650 mAh.
Sadly, Google skipped the Qi2 wireless charging for the ninth-gen devices. However, further in this article, we’ll explore how third-party options like a Pixel 9 Pro XL Case can help.
On paper, Google promises a 24+ hour battery life and up to 100-hour battery life with Extreme Battery Saver. However, real-life Pixel 9 Pro XL usage says otherwise. Here are some findings.
Actual usage from a tech reviewer shows the Pixel 9 Pro XL should last for around 6-7 hours of screen-on time with low to medium usage. You can get around 4 hours and 5 minutes of screen-on time on the first day and 4 and 20 minutes on the second. This usage covers various tasks, including browsing the web, checking email, using social media, and taking photos.
Using Wi-Fi instead of mobile data can significantly improve battery life and even get an extra hour of screen-on time. Moreover, the apps that used the most battery were Twitter, the camera, Facebook, and TikTok.
Overall, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is impressive but not as Google promised in the battery life department. It should easily last a full day of moderate use and even two days with light use. If you are a heavy user, you may need to recharge the phone once a day.
Pixel 9 Pro XL Battery vs. Pixel 8 Pro Battery
The Pixel 8 Pro is the closest counterpart of the Pixel 9 Pro XL, with the same 6.7” OLED screen size. However, the two vary slightly in terms of battery life, with a 50 mAh difference. The Pixel 8 Pro has 5,050 mAh, compared to the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s 5,100 mAh.
Google claims the Pixel 9 Pro XL can last up to 100 hours with the extreme battery saver feature turned on, compared to the Pixel 8 Pro’s 72 hours. It’s also worth noting that the battery capacity does not solely affect battery life.
Other key factors influence it, such as the processor. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by the newer and more powerful Tensor G4 chip, while the Pixel 8 Pro uses the Tensor G3 chip. The Tensor G4 chip offers improved performance and efficiency, especially for AI-powered tasks.
Overall, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is a superior phone to the Pixel 8 Pro in almost every way, but not to a large extent. If you are looking for the best possible Pixel phone, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is the way to go. However, it is still a good option if you are content with your Pixel 8 Pro.
Pixel 9 Pro XL Battery vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max Battery
The Pixel 9 Pro XL is very competitive compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max. It has a larger and longer-lasting battery and a more powerful processor.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a slightly larger 5100mAh battery than the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s 4441mAh battery. Like the Pixel 8 Pro, it claims to last up to 100 hours with the extreme battery saver feature on, compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s 72 hours.
In terms of processor, the Pixel 9 Pro XL has the newer and more powerful Tensor G4 chip, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max uses the A17 Bionic chip. A more efficient processor can help optimize power consumption, ultimately influencing overall battery performance.
Additionally, software optimizations play a role in getting the most out of your battery. The Pixel 9 Pro XL runs on Android 14 and is designed to improve battery efficiency and overall system performance. Android 14 introduces new features like adaptive battery charging, which helps optimize charging based on your usage patterns, and background app restrictions, which can help reduce battery drain from unnecessary apps.
Pixel 9 Pro XL Charging Speeds
The Pixel 9 Pro XL supports Qi wireless charging and fast charging—up to 70% in 30 minutes using Google 45W USB-C® Charger. For comparison, the Pixel 9 Pro can only charge up to 55% at the same time.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers the following charging speeds:
Wired charging:
- Up to 37W
using the Google 45W USB-C® Charger (sold separately)
Wireless charging:
- Up to 23W using the Google Pixel Stand (2nd Gen)
- Up to 12W with Qi-certified EPP chargers (sold separately)
Reverse wireless charging:
- Up to 5W to charge other compatible devices
It’s worth noting that actual charging speeds may vary depending on factors such as battery condition, ambient temperature, and the use of cases.
Speaking of cases, integrating MagSafe is one way to charge your device more efficiently. A MagSafe case for the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL can offer several benefits beyond magnetic wireless charging.
- Secure attachment: MagSafe technology ensures a strong and secure connection between your phone and compatible accessories, preventing accidental drops or disconnections.
- Wireless charging: MagSafe cases enable wireless charging, allowing you to charge your phone conveniently without cables.
- Additional features: Some MagSafe cases may include built-in features such as card holders, kickstands, or integrated batteries for extended battery life.
- Protection: MagSafe cases protect your phone from scratches, drops, and other damage.
Wrap Up
Users’ top reasons for changing phones include an upgraded battery life. The Pixel 9 Pro XL delivers on this front, offering substantial battery capacity and efficient charging capabilities. Its larger battery, combined with optimizations in the Tensor G4 chip and the latest Android software, ensures you can enjoy your device for extended periods.
Whether you’re a heavy user or a casual smartphone enthusiast, the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s battery performance is sure to impress.
