Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is one of the best smartphones on the market, but customers can also consider its alternatives.
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra, launched earlier this year, faces tough competition in the flagship smartphone arena, going head-to-head with powerhouses like the iPhone 16 Pro Max and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL. While all three offer top-tier performance, the choice often comes down to the ecosystem a user is most comfortable with. For those immersed in Apple’s environment, the iPhone remains the obvious choice. But for Android enthusiasts, the real battle is between Samsung and Google.
Let’s dive into a detailed comparison between the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL to help you decide which Android flagship is right for you.
Display Comparison
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
The Galaxy S25 Ultra boasts a 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. It features an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and an impressive peak brightness of 2600 nits. The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Armor 2, ensuring durability and scratch resistance. - Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Google’s offering includes a slightly smaller 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display, with a crisp resolution of 1344 x 2992 pixels. It matches the 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and HDR10+ capabilities but edges ahead with a peak brightness of 3000 nits, making it slightly better for outdoor viewing.
Performance and Software
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Under the hood, the S25 Ultra is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, supported by up to 16GB RAM and 1TB internal storage. It runs on One UI 7 based on Android 15, offering Samsung’s custom features and enhancements. - Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
The Pixel 9 Pro XL runs on Google’s custom Tensor G4 processor, also paired with up to 16GB of RAM. It runs a clean version of Android 15, offering a more streamlined and bloat-free experience, along with exclusive Pixel features and AI integration.
Camera Capabilities
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Samsung pulls out all the stops with a 200MP primary sensor, a 10MP telephoto lens, a 50MP periscope telephoto, and a 50MP ultrawide camera. The selfie shooter is a solid 12MP. These features make it a powerhouse for mobile photography and videography. - Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Google’s focus remains on computational photography with a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP periscope telephoto, and a 48MP ultrawide lens. It impresses further with a 42MP front camera, ideal for high-quality selfies and video calls.
Battery and Charging
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Equipped with a 5000mAh battery, the S25 Ultra supports 45W fast charging, ensuring you’re powered up in no time. - Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
The Pixel 9 Pro XL packs a slightly larger 5060mAh battery, which supports slightly slower 37W fast charging. While it may last a tad longer, it takes more time to charge fully.
Pricing in India
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra starts at ₹1,29,999
- Google Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at ₹1,14,999
Final Thoughts
Both smartphones represent the pinnacle of Android innovation in 2025. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is ideal for those who want powerhouse specs, a feature-rich interface, and top-notch display technology. Meanwhile, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a cleaner Android experience with superior AI capabilities and a focus on camera performance.
For Android fans, your decision will likely depend on whether you prefer Samsung’s hardware and One UI features or Google’s software-first, AI-driven approach. Either way, you’re getting a premium device built for the future.
