Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Huawei nova Y70 Plus and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL. We’ll go beyond just specs, focusing on what these differences mean for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Huawei nova Y70 Plus | Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-01 | 2024-08-22 | Pixel is much newer, benefiting from newer technology |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are traditional smartphones, not foldables. |
| Dimensions | 168.3 x 77.7 x 9 mm | 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm | Nova is slightly larger and thicker, potentially less pocket-friendly. |
| Weight | 199g | 221g | Nova is lighter, better for long holding times |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.75" | 6.8" | Nearly identical, comfortable for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1344x2992 | Pixel has a significantly sharper display for crisper text and images. |
| PPI | 260 | 486 | Pixel will offer much clearer and detailed visuals. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | OLED | Pixel's OLED means richer colors, deeper blacks, better contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pixel's smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 3000 nits | Pixel is massively brighter, much better for outdoor visibility. |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Kirin 710A (14 nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) | Pixel has a cutting-edge chip, expect much better performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 103,500 | 1,148,512 | Pixel will handle demanding tasks and games without breaking a sweat. |
| GPU | Mali-G51 MP4 (PowerVR GE8320) | Mali-G715 MC7 (Mali-G715) | Pixel has a more powerful GPU for better graphics rendering |
| CAMERA | |||
| Rear Standard Camera | 48MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.69, 1/1.31" sensor | Pixel has a larger sensor, which will capture better low-light photos. |
| Front Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 42MP, f/2.2 | Pixel offers significantly more detail in selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 48MP, f/2.8, 1/2.55" sensor | Pixel has a dedicated zoom lens. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 5MP, f/2.2 | N/A | Nova has a wide-angle lens for landscape photography. |
| Portrait Mode Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Nova has a dedicated depth sensor. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Lens | N/A | 48MP, f/1.7, 1/2.55" sensor | Pixel offers a higher resolution and macro functionality |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Up to 8K@30fps, extensive modes | Pixel is a professional grade video camera. |
| DXOMARK | N/A | Mobile: 158, Selfie: 148 | Pixel’s camera is independently verified to be excellent, while the Nova is untested by the same standard. |
| Features | Basic | Advanced, Pro Mode, Night Mode | Pixel includes more features like image stabilization and advanced modes. |
| BATTERY | |||
| Capacity | 6000mAh | 5060mAh | Nova has a larger battery for longer life. |
| Charging | 22.5W | 37W | Pixel charges faster, but both have fast charging. |
| Other | Non-removable | Wireless charging, reverse charging, non-removable | Pixel can be used to charge other devices wirelessly, both have non-removable battery. |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | - | Android 14 | Pixel has the latest software and regular updates. |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| WiFi | 802.11n, Dual band | WiFi 7 (802.11be), Dual band, MIMO | Pixel provides significantly faster speeds and more stable connections |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.3 LE, APT-x | Pixel has a more efficient Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1), NavIC System, GNSS | Pixel has more accurate location services. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Pixel offers digital SIM flexibility. |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB/1024GB | Pixel has significantly more storage options. |
| RAM | 4GB | 16GB | Pixel is far superior for heavy apps and multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Quality | Basic features | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Pixel has better call quality and audio features. |
| SECURITY | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Huawei nova Y70 Plus has more advanced fingerprint sensor. |
| BUILD | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Pixel screen has a much more robust protection |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer | Pixel has a comprehensive sensor suite for advanced features |
2. Key Insights
Huawei nova Y70 Plus:
- Strengths:
- Long Battery Life: The 6000mAh battery is a clear highlight, promising extended use between charges.
- Wide Angle Camera: Included for landscape and group shots.
- Lighter Weight: More comfortable to hold for longer periods.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: Convenient and reliable for unlocking your phone.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Budget Friendly: This is a phone designed for those seeking basic functionality with good battery life.
- Basic Camera Setup: The camera is simple with some nice features for entry-level photography.
- Trade-offs:
- Lower Resolution Display: Not as sharp as higher-end displays.
- Basic Performance: The Kirin 710A chip is not designed for heavy apps and gaming.
- Basic audio: Lacks advanced audio functionality.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL:
- Strengths:
- Superior Display: OLED with 120Hz and high brightness is incredibly sharp and smooth.
- Top-Tier Performance: The Google Tensor G4 chipset is incredibly fast, great for any task.
- Exceptional Camera System: Versatile and very high quality.
- Advanced features: Offers a suite of advanced features for all types of users.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Software Experience: Runs Android 14 with consistent updates.
- Powerful Video: Shoots up to 8K.
- Connectivity: Cutting edge WiFi and Bluetooth for faster and more reliable connections.
- Trade-offs:
- Higher Price: This phone is a premium device.
- Heavier: Less comfortable for long-term use.
- Smaller Battery: The battery, while adequate, may not last as long as the nova Y70 Plus.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Huawei nova Y70 Plus is Ideal For:
- Budget-conscious users: Looking for reliable functionality without breaking the bank.
- Users Seeking Maximum Battery Life: Those who value long-lasting performance above all else.
- Basic Functionality: Users who primarily use their phones for calls, texts, and browsing.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is Ideal For:
- Tech Enthusiasts: Wanting the latest in performance and camera technology.
- Photography Lovers: Needing top-tier image quality and versatile camera options.
- Heavy Users: Requiring high performance for gaming, multitasking, and media creation.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- How important is battery life to you? If you need your phone to last as long as possible, the Huawei nova Y70 Plus is the clear choice. If you don't mind charging more often, consider the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
- How much do you value image quality and overall performance? If these are a priority, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is far superior. If these are not too important, the Huawei nova Y70 Plus will do the job.
- What is your budget? If your budget is tight, the Huawei nova Y70 Plus is the logical choice. If you want to pay more for the best phone available, then the Pixel 9 Pro XL is what you should consider.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student on a Budget: Choose the Huawei nova Y70 Plus for its affordable price and long-lasting battery.
- Professional Photographer: Go with the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL for its superior camera and overall performance.
- Casual User: Consider the Huawei nova Y70 Plus if battery life is a priority; otherwise, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a premium experience.
- Gaming Enthusiast: The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is the obvious choice because of its higher performance and better display.
My Choice
Personally, I'd lean heavily towards the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL. As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I value top-tier performance, cutting-edge camera capabilities, and a fantastic display. While the Huawei nova Y70 Plus's battery life is tempting, the overall experience offered by the Pixel—from its blazing-fast performance and superior display to its incredible camera system—is far more compelling. The ability to capture professional-quality photos and videos and enjoy seamless multitasking is worth the premium for me, and I also value the latest updates and the software experience of Android on a Pixel device. Plus, the addition of reverse wireless charging and the more robust build quality of the Pixel 9 Pro XL adds an extra layer of convenience and durability.
While I acknowledge the appeal of the nova Y70 Plus for budget-conscious users, the Pixel 9 Pro XL aligns more with my needs and what I value in a smartphone.
