Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs Samsung Galaxy A36
Over a full contract, the A36 works out around £420 all-in, about £845 less than the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
13 reviews 3.4
10 reviews
Prices updated 11 August 2026
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
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Samsung Galaxy A36
|
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.4 13 reviews |
3.4 10 reviews |
| Screen | 6.8" | 6.7" |
| Display | LTPO AMOLED | Super AMOLED |
| Resolution | 1280 x 2856 | 1080 x 2340 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 460 | 385 |
| Rear Camera | 50 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 42 Megapixels | 12 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) | Qualcomm SM6475-AB Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4 nm) |
| Battery | 5,060 mAh | 5,000 mAh |
| 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 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD | 5.4, A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | 162.9 x 78.2 x 7.4 mm |
| Weight | 199 grams | 195 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes | IP67 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 min) |
| Contracts |
£49.00/mo
£39.00 upfront |
£16.29/mo
£29.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £369.00 | £264.99 |
| Prices updated 11 August 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Samsung Galaxy A36 cheaper on contract?
Based on total cost of ownership, the Samsung Galaxy A36 is cheaper on contract at £419.96 over the life of the deal from £16.29 per month with £29.00 upfront.
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Samsung Galaxy A36?
Both phones have a similar screen size at around 6.8", the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has the sharper display at 460 pixels per inch versus 385, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL uses a LTPO AMOLED panel while the Samsung Galaxy A36 has a Super AMOLED.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Samsung Galaxy A36?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL features a 50 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy A36 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 XL or Samsung Galaxy A36?
The Samsung Galaxy A36 is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £264.99.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Samsung Galaxy A36?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, while the Samsung Galaxy A36 comes in 128GB, 256GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Samsung Galaxy A36 use?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by the Google Tensor G4 (4nm), while the Samsung Galaxy A36 uses the Qualcomm SM6475-AB Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Samsung Galaxy A36?
It's a trade-off: the Samsung Galaxy A36 is lighter but the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is more compact. It's 4g lighter at 195 grams, though the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is actually the more compact phone at 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm, the Samsung Galaxy A36 is slimmer at 7.4mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Samsung Galaxy A36?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes, while the Samsung Galaxy A36 is rated IP67 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 min).
What operating system do the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Samsung Galaxy A36 run?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL runs Android 14 and the Samsung Galaxy A36 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.