Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus
Our Verdict: The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has the stronger screen, bigger at 6.8" against 6.6" and sharper at 460 PPI, and storage goes higher on the Pixel 9 Pro XL, up to 1TB against 512GB. Get the Pixel 9 Pro XL if those extras are worth it to you; otherwise the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus covers the basics for less.
Over a full contract, the S23+ 5G works out around £725 all-in, about £165 less than the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
13 reviews 4.2
10 reviews
Prices updated 27 July 2026
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
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Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.4 13 reviews |
4.2 10 reviews |
| Screen | 6.8" | 6.6" |
| Display | LTPO AMOLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1280 x 2856 | 1080 x 2340 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 460 | 390 |
| Rear Camera | 50 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 42 Megapixels | 12 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) | Qualcomm SM8550 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) |
| Battery | 5,060 mAh | 4,700 mAh |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 256GB, 512GB |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 13 |
| SIM Type | nano-SIM and e-SIM | Nano 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 | 5.3 with A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | 157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6 mm |
| Weight | 199 grams | 195 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes |
| Contracts |
£71.08/mo
£30.00 upfront |
£57.33/mo
£30.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £399.99 | £349.99 |
| Prices updated 27 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus cheaper on contract?
Based on total cost of ownership, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is cheaper on contract at £725.46 over the life of the deal from £57.33 per month with £30.00 upfront.
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has the bigger screen at 6.8" compared to the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus's 6.6", the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has the sharper display at 460 pixels per inch versus 390, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL uses a LTPO AMOLED panel while the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus has a Dynamic AMOLED 2X.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL features a 50 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus 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 S23 Plus?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £349.99.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, while the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus comes in 256GB, 512GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus use?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by the Google Tensor G4 (4nm), while the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus uses the Qualcomm SM8550 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
It's a trade-off: the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus 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 S23 Plus is slimmer at 7.6mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL or Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus?
Both phones share the same water resistance rating of IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes.
What operating system do the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus run?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL runs Android 14 and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus runs Android 13. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.