Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs Samsung Galaxy S26
Our Verdict: The Samsung Galaxy S26 has the better camera on paper, 50MP versus 48MP, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold has the bigger screen at 8" against 6.3", while the S26 has the sharper one at 409 PPI. The S26 is the lighter phone at 167g against 257g, and only the S26 has a water-resistance rating (IP68); the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has none. Get the Pixel 9 Pro Fold if those extras are worth it to you; otherwise the S26 covers the basics for less.
Over a full contract, the S26 works out around £660 all-in, about £581 less than the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
13 reviews 3.9
11 reviews
Prices updated 27 July 2026
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
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Samsung Galaxy S26
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.2 13 reviews |
3.9 11 reviews |
| Screen | 8" | 6.3" |
| Display | Foldable LTPO AMOLED | Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 2076 x 2152 | 1080 x 2340 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 374 | 409 |
| Rear Camera | 48 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 10 Megapixels | 12 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) | Qualcomm SM8850-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3 nm) |
| Battery | 4,650 mAh | 4,300 mAh |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB | 256GB, 512GB |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 16 |
| SIM Type | nano-SIM and e-SIM | nano-SIM and e-SIM |
| Connectivity | Up to 5G | Up to 5G |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7 | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX | 5.4, A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 155.2 x 150.2 x 5.1 mm | 149.6 x 71.7 x 7.2 mm |
| Weight | 257 grams | 167 grams |
| Water Resistance | IPX8 - water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins) | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes |
| Contracts |
£100.25/mo
£30.00 upfront |
£26.29/mo
£29.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £639.99 | £569.00 |
| Prices updated 27 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S26 cheaper on contract?
Based on total cost of ownership, the Samsung Galaxy S26 is cheaper on contract at £659.96 over the life of the deal from £26.29 per month with £29.00 upfront.
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S26?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold has the bigger screen at 8" compared to the Samsung Galaxy S26's 6.3", the Samsung Galaxy S26 has the sharper display at 409 pixels per inch versus 374, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold uses a Foldable LTPO AMOLED panel while the Samsung Galaxy S26 has a Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S26?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold features a 48 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 has a 50 Megapixels rear camera. Both devices also have front-facing cameras for selfies and video calls.
Which is cheaper to buy SIM-free, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S26?
The Samsung Galaxy S26 is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £569.00.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy S26?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is available in 256GB, 512GB, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 comes in 256GB, 512GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy S26 use?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by the Google Tensor G4 (4nm), while the Samsung Galaxy S26 uses the Qualcomm SM8850-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S26?
The Samsung Galaxy S26 is the more portable of the two: it's 90g lighter at 167 grams, it's also the more compact phone at 149.6 x 71.7 x 7.2 mm, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is slimmer at 5.1mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Samsung Galaxy S26?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is rated IPX8 - water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins), while the Samsung Galaxy S26 is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes.
What operating system do the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy S26 run?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold runs Android 14 and the Samsung Galaxy S26 runs Android 16. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.