Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs Google Pixel 9a
Our verdict: When it comes to contract value, the Google Pixel 9a wins — it's £504.03 less than the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL overall. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL wins on both fronts with a 6.8" screen and 460 PPI. On paper, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL wins the camera battle with 50MP on the rear. Up front, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL wins with a 42MP selfie camera.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
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Google Pixel 9a
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|---|---|---|
| Screen | 6.8" | 6.3" |
| Display | LTPO AMOLED | P-OLED, HDR10+, 120Hz, 1800 nits |
| Resolution | 1280 x 2856 | 1080 x 2424 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 460 | 421 |
| Rear Camera | 50 Megapixels | 48 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 42 Megapixels | 13 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 128GB, 256GB |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 15 |
| 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/6 tri-band |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9 mm |
| Weight | 199 grams | 186 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes | IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min) |
| Contracts |
£71.08/mo
£30.00 upfront |
£13.95/mo
£75.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £358.00 | £289.99 |
| Deals | Deals |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Google Pixel 9a cheaper on contract?
Based on total cost of ownership, the Google Pixel 9a is cheaper on contract at £379.80 over the life of the deal from £13.95 per month with £75.00 upfront.
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Google Pixel 9a?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has the bigger screen at 6.8" compared to the Google Pixel 9a's 6.3", the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has the sharper display at 460 pixels per inch versus 421, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL uses a LTPO AMOLED panel while the Google Pixel 9a has a P-OLED, HDR10+, 120Hz, 1800 nits.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Google Pixel 9a?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL features a 50 Megapixels rear camera, while the Google Pixel 9a has a 48 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 XL or Google Pixel 9a?
The Google Pixel 9a is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £289.99.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Google Pixel 9a?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, while the Google Pixel 9a comes in 128GB, 256GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Google Pixel 9a use?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by the Google Tensor G4 (4nm), while the Google Pixel 9a uses the Google Tensor G4 (4nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Google Pixel 9a?
It's a trade-off: the Google Pixel 9a is lighter but the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is more compact. It's 13g lighter at 186 grams, though the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is actually the more compact phone at 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is slimmer at 8.5mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Google Pixel 9a?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes, while the Google Pixel 9a is rated IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min).
What operating system do the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Google Pixel 9a run?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL runs Android 14 and the Google Pixel 9a runs Android 15. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.