Last week, Google launched the Pixel 9 series. Pre-orders for the standard Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL are now closed. Both models are available for purchase. If you buy now, you can still get store credit from Google: $100 for the standard Pixel 9 and $200 for the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Amazon is also offering gift cards as incentives. However, the smaller Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold are still available for pre-order. Their official releases are scheduled for early next month.
Samsung Galaxy S24: A Powerful Alternative
If you’re thinking of getting a Pixel 9, you might want to consider the Samsung Galaxy S24 series instead. These models also offer 7 years of software support like the Pixel phones. Samsung has packed the Galaxy S24 series with a lot of AI features, mostly powered by Google’s own technology. However, Samsung’s One UI provides unique advantages that set it apart from Google’s Pixel phones.
One of the biggest benefits of One UI is the DeX feature, which lets you use your phone as a computer when connected to a monitor. Another great tool is Good Lock, which lets you customize your phone’s interface extensively. In terms of storage, Samsung offers more for less money than Google. However, the Galaxy S24 series has less RAM than the Pixel 9 models. This difference in RAM shouldn’t affect AI performance, so it’s not a deal-breaker.
iPhone 15 or 16 Series: Why Now Is Not the Best Time to Buy
Now is not a good time to buy a new iPhone. The iPhone 16 series is just a few weeks away from being released. As the new iPhones are released, the prices of the current models will drop. If you are considering buying an iPhone, it is better to wait until the new models are released. At that point, you can decide whether to buy the new iPhone 16 or get a discount on an older model.
Still, if you’re looking for a great alternative to the Google Pixel 9, the iPhone 15 should do the trick. The vanilla model of Apple’s iPhone 15 lineup isn’t far behind the pro models when it comes to performance, camera, and battery life. It’s worth noting that both the iPhone 15 and the Pixel 9 have the same price tag of $799. So, the decision to go with the iPhone 15 over the Pixel 9 shouldn’t be a regrettable one.
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OnePlus 12: A Cost-Effective Option
OnePlus is set to refresh its lineup soon, but unlike Apple, the brand is known for offering discounts. The upcoming OnePlus 12 is priced lower than both the Pixel 9 and the Galaxy S24 series. It is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip that is faster than Google’s Tensor G4. The OnePlus 12 also offers a version with 16GB of RAM, which you won’t find on Samsung’s models. While the Samsung Galaxy S24 series uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 “for Galaxy” chips that run at faster speeds, the OnePlus 12 still offers excellent performance.
The OnePlus 12R, which has the older Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, remains a strong choice. While it doesn’t have a telephoto camera, it does have an LTPO display, unlike the standard Pixel 9. The display on the OnePlus 12R is much larger at 6.78 inches. However, software support isn’t as long-lasting as Google’s or Samsung’s. The OnePlus 12R will get 3 OS updates and 4 years of security patches, while the flagship OnePlus 12 will get 4 OS updates and 5 years of security patches. Both OnePlus models start with Android 14, so they’re not behind in software compared to the Pixel 9 series.
Motorola Edge: A Mixed Bag
Motorola’s latest, the Moto Edge (2024), is powered by the slower Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chip. While the phone has a nice curved OLED display and a faux leather back, the slower processor is a letdown. If you’re looking for a better option, last year’s Motorola Edge+ (2023) might be a good choice. It’s currently $500 for the 512GB model and comes with the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip found in the OnePlus 12R.
The Motorola Edge+ (2023) has a 6.67-inch FHD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, but no LTPO display. It offers a 12MP 2x telephoto lens, a 50MP ultrawide lens, and a 50MP main camera. There’s a 60MP front camera for selfies. However, the software support on Motorola phones isn’t as robust as what you’ll get on Google, Samsung, or even OnePlus.
Final Thoughts: Which Phone Should You Choose?
Choosing the right smartphone can be difficult, especially with so many options available. If you’re considering the Pixel 9, keep in mind that there are other strong competitors on the market. The Samsung Galaxy S24 series offers a compelling alternative with longer software support, unique features like DeX, and better storage options. OnePlus offers a more budget-friendly option with solid performance and good software support. Meanwhile, Motorola offers mid-range options with good features but less impressive software support.
If you’re dead set on getting an iPhone, waiting for the iPhone 16 series is a smart move, as it could save you money. Each brand has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to consider which features are most important to you before making a decision. Whether you prioritize camera quality, software updates, or overall performance, there’s likely a phone that fits your needs better than the Pixel 9.