Samsung S9 vs Pixel 2 XL

[Ixoria]

I’ve seen the S9 being compared to the Pixel 2 and the S9+ compared to the 2 XL. I’ve heard that the XL isn’t that much different from it’s smaller counterpart so theoretically it should be better than the S9?

I’ve been using Apple phones since the iPhone 4 came out but I think it’s time to explore android and I’m trying to pick between the two phones.

I’ve seen the specs and just want to know if there are any parts of the two phones that you love or really annoy you. Things that specs don’t convey, and thus why you would pick one over the other.

Thanks!!

(The Samsung S9+ isn’t an option since it’s a little more expensive- but if it’s super good... also the bezels on the Pixel 2...)

 

[Kizzy Catwoman]

I’ve seen the S9 being compared to the Pixel 2 and the S9+ compared to the 2 XL. I’ve heard that the XL isn’t that much different from it’s smaller counterpart so theoretically it should be better than the S9?

I’ve been using Apple phones since the iPhone 4 came out but I think it’s time to explore android and I’m trying to pick between the two phones.

I’ve seen the specs and just want to know if there are any parts of the two phones that you love or really annoy you. Things that specs don’t convey, and thus why you would pick one over the other.

Thanks!!

(The Samsung S9+ isn’t an option since it’s a little more expensive- but if it’s super good... also the bezels on the Pixel 2...)

Coming crom Apple the Pixel is a better phone. It doesn't have the bloatware associated with Samsung phones. You get regular security updates as well as guaranteed os updates until R at least. You will get the os updates as soon as they are released.

The Pixel has the best smartphone camera out there. Even the S9 doesn't compare in quality to the Pixel. The phone is very fast and very stable.

 

[Morty2264]

I can offer you my perspective of using the Pixel 2: it's smooth, pure Android. I love my experience, Google Assistant is growing on me (I "squeeze" my phone to launch the Assistant more and more - I've just never been a user of it much but the Pixel 2 line makes it easy to start using voice more effectively), and the camera is phenomenal.

Also, if you are coming from an Apple device, a Pixel 2 XL would give you a smoother and easier introduction to the Android software and world in general. It offers you Android without the bloat and skins that come with other device manufacturers, like Samsung and LG (I love LG - don't get me wrong!).

My boyfriend's brother uses the S9 and loves it. He likes the technical specs of it (wireless charging); but actually uses a Pixel launcher. I've held the S9 and checked it out. It is indeed a beautiful phone. And the camera is awesome too. I think it will really boil down to what you are looking for in a phone.

Consider this: which of these two phones could you see yourself using long-term; or for the length of your contract? Which one would you not mind looking at every day?

Let us know what you decide!

 

[chanchan05]

One thing I've seen from Apple to Pixel users are complaints that they are annoyed that some features that are built in on iPhones need an app to be downloaded on Pixels (for example call blocking, last I checked the Pixel dialer can't do this natively, but I haven't seen the later updates). It comes from a differing perspective.

Pixels are in most cases bare bones in terms of features like that because some Android users call unused features bloat. I still remember when people were calling off Samsung for bloat like the multiwindow until eventually every manufacturer started doing it. Even Android Oreo's PIP feature is copied of Samsung's floating window concept for apps which started with the Tab Plus some 7 years ago.

Samsung's approach is put every software feature in there that they can think of and get away with without the people complaining too much. That's why it's labeled as "bloaty" in terms of software. I remember when Samsung used to bundle Shazam in their phones, and people were mad at having an app installed that they didn't want. Now Google has a built in feature to identify songs playing in the background, much like what Shazam did, and they applaud it. So it's kind of weird for Samsung to be bashed for something that you will applaud someone else for doing the exact same thing (except the implementation of preinstalled app and built into firmware). Samsung has been a bit more streamlined by offloading some of these bloat that you can download them later (for example extra edge panels are not preinstalled but downloadable from the Samsung Store).

So basically, if you do get a Pixel, just be don't surprised about some features that you may have taken for granted to be built in are not built in. It's just the way it is. Some Android users love the options but want to keep it minimalists still, others want their phones to have everything plus the kitchen sink. So Samsung and Pixels are basically the opposite sides of the Android software spectrum in terms of "bloated" software.

 

[Kizzy Catwoman]

One thing I've seen from Apple to Pixel users are complaints that they are annoyed that some features that are built in on iPhones need an app to be downloaded on Pixels (for example call blocking, last I checked the Pixel dialer can't do this natively, but I haven't seen the later updates). It comes from a differing perspective.

Google phone dialer can block calls.

 

[TripleOne]

I personally prefer the Pixel 2 XL. Nothing beats stock Android IMO.
I do prefer the display, and the design of the S9. But at the end of the day, I like simplicity and ease of use.

 

[CountryGal2]

Hi; l have had two Samsung phones, tried the Google Pixel 2 for four days did not like it. Found it was a lot like having a google home. Decided to go back to what l know got the Samsung S9.

 

[Morty2264]

Hi; l have had two Samsung phones, tried the Google Pixel 2 for four days did not like it. Found it was a lot like having a google home. Decided to go back to what l know got the Samsung S9.

Glad you are enjoying your S9!

 

[CountryGal2]

Hi Morty2264

Just one question for you, why did you change the size of the charger, is not the same size as the S7.

 

[TripleOne]

Hi; l have had two Samsung phones, tried the Google Pixel 2 for four days did not like it. Found it was a lot like having a google home. Decided to go back to what l know got the Samsung S9.

That's totally cool, enjoy your S9!

 

[murray cross]

I recommended google pixel 2. I love the camera on it. Amazing phone.

 

[Rukbat]

Pixel - best camera - everyone else is comparing their cameras to it. Doesn't fall apart in high light levels and gets details in shadows - in the same shot. High dynamic range. (And if you can keep the phone steady and run LenX, you can get shots where you can't see anything by eye.)

Fast updates - the beginning of every month. (They missed October 2017, so far. I guess there was nothing to update.)

Tech support - not USA-based, but very nice people, and they can get to the experts if you need an expert opinion. (I did - it takes a while, because, from what it sounds like, the CSR and the tech are exchanging emails, but the call is free and the speakerphone works. I even got a replacement sent before I returned mine, and got a [granted, verbal] guarantee that I'd get a new phone, not a refurb.) Free shipping both ways.

Bootloader unlockable, if that matters to you. (Trivial to flash - including TWRP.) eSIM (no-SIM Fi).

Since I always replaced TouchWiz with Nova, that didn't matter to me. My Pixel is on Nova too (I'm just used to it).

 

[KidAKidB]

I haven't used the S9, but I did have a S8+ last year which I used for a few months. Though I enjoyed it, there was far too much bloat for my liking and I wasn't a fan of Bixby.

I just find the Pixel line of phones much more smooth and they get quick updates.

 

[SactoKingsFan]

The Pixel 2 XL is a great phone if you can get one without major screen issues. I'd pick a Pixel 2 XL with a good screen or a Pixel 2 over the S9. I personally went with the smaller Pixel 2 since it seemed to have less potential screen issues. There was some black crush but it went away after adjusting the screen calibration. Both the XL and smaller version of the Pixel 2 should excel when it comes to long term performance. My Pixel 2 is still running like a new phone after 6+ months.

 

[Kizzy Catwoman]

I just don't think there are as many screen issues with the P2XL as reported. Yes, there were a few, mainly review units, that had issues, but there are many more totally happy with their purchases.

 

[techblogger911]

Pixel 2XL all the way! There is no reason for me to get a Samsung irrespective of the specs they may potentially provide. I don't care about the fancy specs on the sheet if they can't deliver the performance.

 

[FutureMech]

Pixel 2 no doubt, but i would wait to see what XL3 will offer