Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8 Pro: Google has revamped its flagship series with the Pixel 9, promising better performance and AI compared to the already capable Pixel 8 Pro. Both phones feature Google’s Tensor chipsets, premium OLED displays, and top-of-the-line cameras. But the question is, should you upgrade or stick with the older model? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
Pixel 9 processor vs Pixel 8 Pro
In all, the Pixel 9 comes with a newer chipset: the Google Tensor G4, mated to a 3.1GHz octa-core processor and 12GB RAM. It brings small refinements, but the performance jump over the Tensor G3 found in the Pixel 8 Pro isn’t huge. The Tensor G3 in the Pixel 8 Pro, with a CPU capped at 3GHz and the same amount of RAM, still does quite a good job in handling multitasking and gaming. Tensor G4 is marginally better optimized for AI tasks and slicker app handling.
Display and Battery
Pixel 9 has a smaller 6.3-inch OLED screen fitted with 1080 x 2424 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It also supports up to 2700 nits peak brightness and HDR to provide clear visuals even in sunlight. The Pixel 8 Pro sports a larger 6.7-inch LTPO OLED Super Actua Display, with an increased resolution of 1344 x 2992 pixels. It will deliver deeper contrasts and better color accuracy, especially for HDR content.
Battery life is another area where the Pixel 8 Pro holds a slight edge with its 5050mAh cell compared to the Pixel 9’s 4700mAh. Charging speeds are almost similar, with both supporting wireless and reverse charging, though the Pixel 9 offers 27W wired charging compared to 30W on the Pixel 8 Pro.
Camera: Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8 Pro
Cameras are where Google usually shines. The Pixel 9 features a dual-camera setup: 50MP main and 48MP secondary lens with OIS, while the Pixel 8 Pro features a triple setup: 50MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, and 48MP telephoto sensors. Both feature a 10.5MP front camera, capable of recording 4K videos.
While Pixel 9 promises improved processing thanks to Tensor G4, the extra lens on Pixel 8 Pro still offers more versatility. In real-world use, the Pixel 8 Pro remains a better all-rounder for photography enthusiasts.
Price of Pixel 9 and Pixel 8 Pro
The Pixel 9 is currently listed starting at ₹58,490 on Amazon and goes up to ₹64,999 at other retailers. The older Pixel 8 Pro starts at ₹53,999 with several offers that drop it even further during sales. For anyone looking for flagship performance without overspending, the Pixel 8 Pro offers better value right now.
Bank Offers and Extra Discounts
Pixel 8 Pro buyers can get instant discounts of as much as 10% on Axis Bank and IDFC First Bank cards, along with an extra ₹9,000 off via cashback or coupons. Pixel 9 doesn’t have major discounts yet, though occasional bank offers apply depending on the platform.
Conclusion
The Pixel 9 refines Google’s formula with slightly better AI performance and a compact design, but the Pixel 8 Pro still brings more overall value. With its higher resolution display, bigger battery, and additional telephoto lens, the Pixel 8 Pro feels like a more complete package, especially if found on discount. Unless you want the latest processor and smaller size, the Pixel 8 Pro remains the smarter buy in 2025.