In the world of smartphones, the trend has been towards larger devices, but some manufacturers are bucking that trend with compact flagship offerings. Today, we put the spotlight on two of the most talked-about models: the Google Pixel 9 and the Samsung Galaxy S24. While both are compact, they bring powerful flagship features to the table. Currently, the Pixel 9 is priced at approximately €750 for its base model, whereas the Galaxy S24 is slightly more budget-friendly at around €650.

Size and Design

Both phones are touted as compact flagships. The Galaxy S24, however, is notably smaller, measuring shorter, narrower, and thinner than the Pixel 9. Despite the Pixel 9's display size being slightly larger at 6.3 inches, compared to 6.2 inches on the S24, the latter boasts thinner bezels, maximizing display space effectively.

A key difference in their physical attributes is weight. The Galaxy S24 weighs in at just 167 grams, while the Pixel 9 is heftier at nearly 200 grams, largely due to its more substantial battery (4,700 mAh versus 4,000 mAh in the S24). Both devices sport an aluminum frame with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, ensuring they are durable yet stylish.

Display and Performance

In terms of displays, both feature 120Hz refresh rates but the Galaxy S24 utilizes LTPO technology for enhanced efficiency, which the Pixel 9 lacks. This gives the S24 a slight edge in dynamic refresh rates, even though the Pixel 9 can peak at an impressive brightness of 2,232 nits compared to the S24's 1,401 nits.

When it comes to performance, the Galaxy S24 holds the advantage in benchmarking scores, powered by either the Samsung Exynos 2400 or Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, depending on the region. Meanwhile, the Pixel 9 runs on Google’s Tensor G4 chipset, which though lagging in synthetic benchmarks, delivers solid real-world performance. Both models offer 128GB of base storage with options for 256GB, but the S24 benefits from faster UFS 4.0 storage for larger configurations.

Battery Life and Charging

The Pixel 9 excels in battery life, achieving an impressive 13 hours and 5 minutes of active use, versus the Galaxy S24's 12 hours and 6 minutes. Charging speeds are comparable, with the Pixel 9 supporting up to 27W wired compared to 25W for the S24. Both models also support wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.

Camera Capabilities

Camera technology is one of the standout features in both devices. The Pixel 9 hosts a superior main sensor and an ultra-wide camera with autofocus, providing an edge in still-image quality, especially in low-light conditions. However, the S24 shines with its dedicated 3x optical telephoto lens, making it a more versatile phone for those who prioritize photography.

When it comes to video recording, the S24 offers 8K capabilities, leaving the Pixel 9 behind. In 4K video capture, however, the S24 produces sharper and more detailed recordings.

Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between the Google Pixel 9 and the Samsung Galaxy S24 boils down to personal preferences. The S24 wins on versatility, performance, and video quality, making it an excellent choice for multimedia enthusiasts. However, the Pixel 9 stands out with superior camera quality for still images, exceptional battery life, and its impressive display brightness.

Both phones promise extensive software support, with each brand offering up to seven major OS upgrades, ensuring longevity for your investment. Whether you're leaning towards the Pixel 9’s photographic prowess or the Galaxy S24's overall performance, either choice promises a premium experience that can fulfill various user needs.

Explore your options and decide which flagship plugs into your lifestyle!