5 Alternatives to the Google Pixel 9: The Best Phones to Consider
As fall settles in and the year approaches its end, the smartphone market has seen the release of some of the most powerful devices from major brands. One of the highlights is the Google Pixel 9, a fantastic phone, but it’s not the only option. If you’re in the market for a new phone, here are five great alternatives to consider before making a purchase.
1. Google Pixel 9 Pro
The Google Pixel 9 Pro builds on the Pixel 9’s strengths and introduces additional power and flexibility. Unlike previous years, both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro are the same size, giving users more choice without compromising on form factor. The Pro version, available in Rose Quartz, offers enhanced specifications like 16GB RAM, compared to the Pixel 9’s 12GB. It also boasts 512GB and 1TB storage options, while the Pixel 9 maxes out at 256GB.
In addition, the Pixel 9 Pro includes a triple-lens camera system with a 48MP telephoto lens, which is absent from the base model. This gives users 5x optical zoom, a significant upgrade for photography enthusiasts. The 42MP selfie camera with a 103-degree field of view further distinguishes the Pixel 9 Pro from its smaller sibling.
If you’re eyeing the Pixel 9 for its size, the Pro model offers more power and versatility without changing the form factor.
2. iPhone 16
Apple’s latest iPhone 16 is another contender, especially if you’re open to switching to iOS. The iPhone 16 offers some of the best color choices in years, including a stunning pink option, potentially more appealing than the Pixel 9’s Peony. The Teal and Ultramarine color variants are also show-stoppers.
The redesigned dual-camera system features a 48MP primary camera and a 12MP ultrawide lens, offering enhanced photographic capabilities. The new Camera Control feature allows you to quickly launch the camera and adjust settings, giving the phone a more professional camera feel. Powered by the A18 chip, the iPhone 16 offers 30% faster performance than the previous generation and introduces new AI-powered features.
The only downside is that the iPhone 16 retains a 60Hz display, which may seem outdated compared to other smartphones in 2024. However, for iOS fans, this may not be a dealbreaker, and the performance and camera features still make it a top-tier device.
3. Samsung Galaxy S24
For those who prefer Android, the Samsung Galaxy S24 offers a compact yet powerful alternative to the Pixel 9. With its premium design and unique colors like Sandstone Orange, the Galaxy S24 stands out. It features a triple-lens camera system, including a 50MP main camera, 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and 12MP ultrawide lens, offering more versatility than the Pixel 9.
Samsung’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip powers the Galaxy S24, making it more efficient than the Tensor G4 chip in the Pixel 9. This results in better battery life and smoother performance, especially when using Samsung Galaxy AI tools, which rival Google’s Gemini features.
Upgrading to any of these phones can be an exciting experience, but transferring all your important data can be a hassle. This is where the Smart Transfer app comes in handy. As a third-party share it app, Smart Transfer makes it incredibly easy to share and transfer data between devices, whether you’re switching from Android to iOS or simply upgrading to a newer model.
The app ensures that your files, contacts, media, and apps are transferred securely, saving time and avoiding complications. It’s the perfect companion for anyone moving to a new phone in 2024, making sure all essential data is transferred with ease. Whether you’re upgrading from an Android to iOS (vice versa), Smart Transfer ensures a seamless transition, so you can start enjoying your new device right away.
4. OnePlus 12
If you’re looking for a powerful flagship, the OnePlus 12 is hard to ignore. Featuring a large 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and an astonishing brightness of 4,500 nits, it offers one of the best displays on the market. The OnePlus 12’s triple-lens camera system, co-developed with Hasselblad, includes a 50MP main camera, 64MP periscope telephoto lens, and 48MP ultrawide camera. The 32MP selfie camera further enhances its photography capabilities.
The phone houses a 5,400mAh battery, larger than most competitors, and supports 80W fast charging (100W globally). If you need a high-performing phone with excellent battery life and a top-tier display, the OnePlus 12 is a fantastic option, even if it’s a bit larger than the Pixel 9.
5. Google Pixel 8a
If you want a Pixel experience without breaking the bank, the Google Pixel 8a is worth considering. It’s powered by last year’s Tensor G3 chip, which, while not as advanced as the Pixel 9’s Tensor G4, still handles everyday tasks with ease. The Pixel 8a supports many of Google Gemini’s AI features, such as Magic Eraser and Magic Editor, making it a great budget-friendly option.
The 64MP main camera and 13MP ultrawide lens provide impressive photography for its price point. The Pixel 8a offers a solid smartphone experience for those who don’t need all the bells and whistles of the Pixel 9 but still want a reliable Pixel device.
Final Thoughts
With so many great options available, choosing the right phone in 2024 is no easy task. The Google Pixel 9 is undoubtedly a solid choice, but alternatives like the Pixel 9 Pro, iPhone 16, Samsung Galaxy S24, OnePlus 12, and Pixel 8a offer a range of features to suit various preferences and budgets. No matter which phone you choose, tools like the Smart Transfer app make transitioning to your new device smooth and stress-free.
