Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Is it actually an upgrade?

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Design and display

Honestly, there isn't much of a difference between both phones. Google retained similar dimensions over the last two years, and the result is that the Pixel 9 Pro XL is nearly the same size and weight as the Pixel 11 Pro XL.

This is easily noticeable while holding the phones next to each other. If anything, I like the in-hand feel of the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Google sent me the all-matte Obsidian model of the 11 Pro XL, and it is dull. I like the matte texture, but the phone itself doesn't look exciting, and I would've preferred the vibrant Canyon model instead.

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The one key difference is that the camera bar on the Pixel 11 Pro XL doesn't jut out as much, so it looks a little more elegant. Both phones have the same IP68 dust and water resistance, so they're equally good at weathering anything to do with daily use.

Interestingly, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is when we saw the Actua display tech, and Google is using a continuation of the same this year as well. The 11 Pro XL gets brighter, but the 9 Pro XL does a terrific job as well, and the panel has vibrant colors and has zero issues in outdoor use.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Hardware and software

The Pixel 11 Pro XL runs Google's latest 3nm Tensor G6, and it is using new cores and is noticeably better in everyday use than the Tensor G4-powered 9 Pro XL. It has better efficiency as well, and even though both phones have similarly-sized batteries, my Pixel 11 Pro XL is lasting a few hours longer on average.

Where I see the biggest advantage is Qi 2.2 integration in the Pixel 11 Pro XL; having these magnets built into the phone means I can use any Qi 2.2 charger or power bank and get 25W charging, and it genuinely makes a big difference. Look, I didn't care about this at all in the past as wireless charging was limited to 12W — as is the case on the Pixel 9 Pro XL — but with 25W, it's close enough to the standard 45W USB PD charging standard that I use it all the time now.

Other than that, there honestly isn't much to differentiate both phones. While the Pixel 11 Pro XL has a little more power, it still isn't a gaming phone by any measure, so if that's what you're after, you should look at Pixel 11 Pro XL alternatives. It's a similar story with the software; both phones get seven years of software updates, and outside of a few extras that are exclusive on the Pixel 11 Pro XL, the software is identical.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Cameras

Both phones have a similar set of cameras: a 50MP main camera, 48MP telephoto lens with OIS and 5x optical zoom, and 48MP wide-angle lens. While the auxiliary lenses are unchanged between both, the Pixel 11 Pro XL has a new 50MP camera with better light intake, and it does a better job in taking photos and videos in challenging scenarios.

However, the best part about using Pixels is the camera software; Google introduced Camera Looks this year, and it gives you much greater control in tailoring the look of the photos.

There's also Magic Capture, which automagically gives you the best shot each and every time. If you have little children that constantly move about, this mode is definitely handy.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Which should you buy?

The Pixel 11 Pro XL is $100 costlier this year, and while it has some new features, the fundamentals are pretty much unchanged from the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Honestly, with the 256GB model coming with 12GB of RAM instead of the 16GB that was standard for the last two years, I'd argue that you're getting less for your money. If you're using the 9 Pro XL and are mulling an upgrade, I'd wait — I don't see enough of a change to make the move.

If you're on an older phone and are considering an upgrade, however, the Pixel 11 Pro XL could be a good choice — unless you can get a good deal on the 9 Pro XL. While Google launched the 9 Pro XL two years ago, the phone is built to last, and it will get regular updates and new features for at least another five years.