Apple iPhone 15 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date September 22, 2023 August 22, 2024
Release Year 2023 2024

Physical

Volume 82.43 cm³ 106 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.57 "/g 3.08 "/g
Weight 171 g 221 g
Height 147.6 mm 162.8 mm
Width 71.6 mm 76.6 mm
Thickness 7.8 mm 8.5 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Black
  • Yellow
  • Blue
  • Green
  • Pink
  • Obsidian
  • Hazel
  • Porcelain
  • Rose Quartz

Display

Screen Size 6.1 " 6.8 "
Resolution 1179 x 2556 1344 x 2992
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 86.4 % 89.4 %
Pixel Density 461 PPI 486 PPI
Refresh Rate N/A 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness 1000 nits 2000 nits
Peak Brightness 2000 nits 3000 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 90.00 mAh/in² 109.43 mAh/in²
Battery Density 40.63 mAh/cm³ 47.74 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 3349 mAh 5060 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Apple A16 Bionic (4 nm) Google Tensor G4 (4 nm)
CPU Hexa-core (2x3.46 GHz Everest + 4x2.02 GHz Sawtooth) Octa-core (1x3.1 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3x2.6 GHz Cortex-A720 & 4x1.92 GHz Cortex-A520)
GPU Apple GPU (5-core graphics) Mali-G715 MC7

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 3.2
OTG Support
DisplayPort 1
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0, DisplayPort USB Type-C 3.2

Software

Operating System iOS Android
Initial OS Version 17 14
Maximum OS Version 18 21

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureApple iPhone 15Google Pixel 9 Pro XLPractical Impact
Design
Dimensions147.6x71.6x7.8mm162.8x76.6x8.5mmPixel 9 Pro XL is significantly larger and heavier. iPhone 15 is more pocketable and easier to handle one-handed.
Weight171g221gPixel 9 Pro XL's weight might be noticeable during extended use.
BuildNot specifiedNot specifiedBuild materials impact durability and premium feel. This information is missing.
Display
Size6.1"6.8"Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a much larger screen for media consumption and multitasking but may be less one-hand friendly.
TypeSuper Retina XDR OLEDLTPO OLEDBoth are high-quality displays. LTPO on the Pixel allows for dynamic refresh rate adjustment, potentially saving battery.
Resolution1179x25561344x2992Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a sharper display due to higher resolution and larger size.
Refresh RateNot specified120Hz120Hz on Pixel 9 Pro XL results in smoother scrolling and animations. Missing refresh rate data for the iPhone 15 limits comparison.
Peak Brightness2000 nits3000 nitsPixel 9 Pro XL should offer better visibility in direct sunlight.
Performance
ChipsetApple A16 Bionic (4 nm)Google Tensor G4 (4 nm)Both are powerful chips, but real-world performance depends on optimization. Tensor G4 is expected to excel in AI tasks.
CPUHexa-coreOcta-coreCore count doesn't directly translate to performance. Architecture and clock speeds matter more. Detailed benchmarks are needed for accurate comparison.
GPUApple GPU (5-core)Mali-G715 MC7Gaming performance needs further evaluation with benchmarks. Apple's GPUs traditionally perform very well.
RAM6GB16GBPixel 9 Pro XL's significantly higher RAM allows for better multitasking and app retention.
Storage256/512GB256/512/1000GBPixel offers a 1TB storage option for users needing vast local storage.
Battery
Capacity3349 mAh5060 mAhPixel 9 Pro XL's significantly larger battery likely results in much longer battery life.
Camera
Rear CameraNot specifiedNot specifiedCamera specifications are crucial for comparison but are missing.
VideoUp to 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fpsUp to 8K@30fps, 1080p@240fpsPixel offers 8K video recording, but 4K is sufficient for most users. Both offer slow-motion capabilities. OIS/EIS details are important but missing for iPhone 15.

2. Key Differences Analysis

iPhone 15 Advantages:

  • More Compact: Easier for one-handed use and portability.
  • Potentially Better Optimized: Apple's tight integration of hardware and software often leads to excellent performance and efficiency.

Pixel 9 Pro XL Advantages:

  • Larger, Sharper Display with 120Hz: Superior for media consumption, gaming, and overall smoother experience.
  • Significantly Larger Battery: Likely translates to much longer battery life.
  • More RAM: Enables better multitasking and app switching performance.
  • Higher Resolution & 8K Video Recording: Offers more detailed video capture.
  • More Storage Options: Caters to users with extensive storage needs.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

iPhone 15: Users who prioritize a compact, one-handed phone with a smooth user experience and a strong app ecosystem.

Pixel 9 Pro XL: Users who value a large, high-quality display, long battery life, extensive multitasking capabilities, and cutting-edge camera technology. Power users and content creators would benefit from the extra RAM and storage.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions:

  1. What screen size do you prefer? Compact or large?
  2. How important is battery life?
  3. What is your budget? The Pixel 9 Pro XL falls in a higher price range.

Scenario-based Recommendations:

  • Heavy User: Pixel 9 Pro XL for its larger battery, higher RAM, and expansive display.
  • One-handed Use & Portability: iPhone 15 for its compact form factor.
  • Budget Conscious: iPhone 15, assuming it's priced lower than the Pixel.

My Choice: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

Reasoning: The Pixel 9 Pro XL's combination of a larger, 120Hz display, significantly larger battery, more RAM, and expanded storage options makes it a more compelling device for my needs. I prioritize a smooth user experience, long battery life, and the ability to multitask efficiently. While the iPhone 15 offers a compact design, the Pixel 9 Pro XL's advantages in key areas outweigh the size difference for me. The potential for better performance from Apple's A16 Bionic is acknowledged, however, the Pixel's superior display and battery life are more important to me personally. Finally, the inclusion of a temperature sensor, while niche, is a unique feature that could be useful in certain situations.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Key Strengths:

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Digital media communication
  • Technical storytelling
  • User-centric technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.