January 06, 2025

9 Best iPhone 16 vs. Google Pixel 9 Reviews for 2025

Are you trying to decide between the iPhone 16 and Google Pixel 9 in 2025? With so many reviews out there, it can be tough to figure out which phone is the best fit for you.

In this blog post, we’ve gathered the top 9 iPhone 16 vs. Google Pixel 9 reviews to help you make an informed decision. From design and performance to camera quality and AI features, we break down the pros and cons of each phone.

Whether you’re team Apple or team Google, this comparison will help you find the clear winner for your needs. Let’s dive in!

1. CLEAR Winner: iPhone 16 vs Google Pixel 9! by ORBIT

Summary of the Review: The review compares the iPhone 16 and Google Pixel 9, highlighting their similarities and differences. Both phones have similar designs, with the iPhone having a slight edge in build quality and scratch resistance.

The Pixel 9 wins in display quality due to its higher refresh rate, while the iPhone 16 has a sharper screen. Software-wise, both operating systems are user-friendly, but the Pixel offers more AI features currently. The Pixel also has a larger battery, but both phones last a full day.

Camera performance is close, with the Pixel having slightly better low-light capabilities. The Pixel 9 is cheaper, making it the overall winner in this comparison.

Pros and Cons for iPhone 16:

Pros:

Better build quality with matte glass and aluminum frame.
Slightly thinner and lighter than the Pixel 9.
Sharper display and better Face ID technology.
More consistent video recording quality.
Better integration with other Apple devices.

Cons:

Lower refresh rate (60Hz) compared to the Pixel's 120Hz.
Lacks current AI features available on the Pixel.
More expensive than the Pixel 9.
No reverse wireless charging.
Limited to 60Hz refresh rate, which feels outdated.

Pros and Cons for Google Pixel 9:

Pros:

Higher refresh rate (120Hz) for smoother display performance.
More advanced AI features currently available.
Larger battery with slightly better battery life.
Better low-light camera performance.
Cheaper price compared to the iPhone 16.

Cons:

Glossy glass back is less resistant to scratches and dirt.
Slightly bulkier and heavier than the iPhone 16.
AI features may not be as integrated as future Apple Intelligence.
No Face ID, relies on 2D facial recognition and fingerprint sensor.
Reverse wireless charging is a niche feature.

My Take: I think the Google Pixel 9 is the better choice overall, especially if you value a smoother display and more advanced AI features.

The iPhone 16 is still a great phone, especially for those already invested in the Apple ecosystem, but its lower refresh rate and lack of current AI features make it less appealing this year.

If Apple had included a higher refresh rate, the iPhone 16 would be more competitive. However, the Pixel 9 offers better value for the price, making it the clear winner in this comparison.

Rating: 4.4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

2. Pixel 9 VS iPhone 16 BATTLE | Google or Apple? It's not even CLOSE! by Android Authority

Summary:
This review compares the entry-level models of the Google Pixel 9 and iPhone 16, focusing on design, performance, camera quality, battery life, software, and AI features.

The reviewer highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each phone, ultimately favoring the Pixel 9 for its modern design, better display, and advanced AI capabilities, while acknowledging the iPhone 16's strong performance and video quality.

Pros and Cons for iPhone 16:
Pros:

Strong performance in benchmarks.
Excellent video quality with cinematic feel and better stabilization.
Beautiful color options, especially the ultramarine and teal.
Face ID is convenient and works in most situations.

Cons:

Still uses a 60Hz display, which feels outdated for the price.
No always-on display feature.
Camera controls are unintuitive and awkward to use.
Lacks AI features compared to the Pixel 9.

Pros and Cons for Google Pixel 9:
Pros:

120Hz display feels smoother and more modern.
Always-on display is a useful feature.
Better ultra-wide and low-light camera performance.
Packed with AI features like Gemini Live and Magic Editor.
Longer promised software support (7 years).

Cons:

Only one size option, no Plus model.
Glossy back design feels less premium compared to the iPhone.
3D Face Unlock struggles in low-light conditions.
Video quality, while improved, still lags behind the iPhone.

My Take:
I think the Pixel 9 is the better choice overall, especially if you value a modern display, AI features, and a more user-friendly camera experience.

The iPhone 16 is still a solid phone, but it feels like Apple is playing it safe with minimal upgrades. The lack of a 120Hz display and AI features is disappointing for a phone at this price.

However, if you prioritize video quality and performance, the iPhone 16 might still be worth considering. Personally, I’d go for the Pixel 9 for its fresh design and innovative features.

Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

3. Pixel 9 vs. iPhone 16 - Ultimate Comparison Review!! by JSL Review

Summary:
This review compares the iPhone 16 and Google Pixel 9, focusing on design, performance, camera quality, and AI features. Both phones are praised for being value-packed non-pro models that can handle most tasks well.

The iPhone 16 is noted for its refined design, superior video quality, and new editing features, while the Pixel 9 stands out for its improved build, high refresh rate display, and better AI integration.

The reviewer ultimately favors the Pixel 9 for its noticeable improvements and fun user experience, though the iPhone 16 remains a solid choice for Apple loyalists.

Pros and Cons for iPhone 16:
Pros:

Refined and premium design with frosted glass and vibrant colors.
Excellent video quality and new photo editing tools.
Reliable Face ID and strong performance with the A18 Bionic chip.
Action button adds customization options.

Cons:

Still uses a 60Hz refresh rate, which feels outdated.
AI features are underwhelming compared to the Pixel 9.
Feels too similar to previous iPhones, lacking major innovation.

Pros and Cons for Pixel 9:
Pros:

Improved design with a robust build and vibrant colors.
120Hz refresh rate makes the display smooth and enjoyable.
Better AI features, including Gemini and advanced photo editing.
Ultrasonic fingerprint scanner is faster and more accurate.

Cons:

Lacks MagSafe compatibility, which is a downside for Apple accessory users.
Video quality, while good, isn’t as strong as the iPhone’s.
Some AI features feel gimmicky and not always practical.

My Take:
I think the Pixel 9 is the more exciting phone this year. It’s improved a lot from last year, and the high refresh rate and better AI features make it more fun to use.

The iPhone 16 is still a great phone, especially for people who already have Apple products, but it doesn’t feel like a big upgrade from older iPhones.

If I had to choose, I’d go with the Pixel 9 because it feels fresh and offers more for the price.

Rating: 4.2/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

4. BRUTALLY HONEST - Pixel 9 Vs iPhone 16 (Two Weeks Later) by Call Me KJ

Summary:
This review compares the Google Pixel 9 and iPhone 16 after two weeks of use. The reviewer, KJ, highlights the strengths and weaknesses of both phones, focusing on design, display, battery life, software, AI features, and cameras.

The Pixel 9 is praised for its compact design, bright display, and AI capabilities, while the iPhone 16 is noted for its battery life and video recording quality.

However, both phones have their drawbacks, such as the Pixel 9's glossy back and the iPhone 16's lack of high refresh rate and always-on display.

Pros and Cons for iPhone 16:
Pros:

Excellent battery life (8-9 hours of screen time).
Superior video recording quality.
Matte finish on the back for better grip.
Consistent performance with no app refresh issues.

Cons:

No high refresh rate (stuck at 60Hz).
Lacks always-on display.
Minimal upgrades compared to previous models.
AI features delayed until late 2024 or early 2025.

Pros and Cons for Pixel 9:
Pros:

Compact and comfortable design with flat display.
Bright display (2700 nits) and high refresh rate (120Hz).
Ultrasonic fingerprint reader for faster unlocking.
Advanced AI features like "Ad Me" and "Pixel Studio."

Cons:

Glossy back can feel less comfortable.
AI features feel gimmicky and not widely useful yet.
Slightly shorter battery life (6-7 hours of screen time).
Some app refresh issues in the background.

My Take:
In my opinion, the Pixel 9 seems like the better choice if you value a modern display, compact design, and AI features. However, the iPhone 16 is still a solid option for those who prioritize battery life and video recording.

Both phones have their strengths, but the Pixel 9 feels like a bigger upgrade compared to its predecessor, while the iPhone 16 offers more of the same experience as previous models.

If I had to choose, I’d lean toward the Pixel 9 for its innovation, but the iPhone 16 is great for reliability and long-term use.

Rating: 4.3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

5. Google Pixel 9 vs. iPhone 16: Easy Choice! by Technolobe

Summary:
This video compares the latest smartphones from Google and Apple: the Pixel 9 and the iPhone 16. The reviewer discusses design, camera quality, performance, software features, battery life, and other aspects.

Both phones have strengths and weaknesses, but the iPhone 16 is generally better for video recording, gaming, and heavy tasks, while the Pixel 9 shines in AI features and design.

The reviewer concludes that the iPhone 16 is the better choice for most users, but the Pixel 9 is still a solid option.

Pros and Cons for iPhone 16:
Pros:

Better video recording quality and audio processing.
Stronger performance with the A18 chip, great for gaming and heavy tasks.
New camera features like "undertones" and "photographic styles" for better image control.
Comfortable design and good in-hand feel.

Cons:

Disappointing 60Hz display in 2024.
Apple Intelligence features are not available at launch.
The new camera control button is awkwardly placed.

Pros and Cons for Google Pixel 9:
Pros:

Great AI features available out of the box, like the "add me" feature for group photos.
Improved design with rounded corners and a premium feel.
Better speakers and reverse wireless charging.
More natural color processing in photos (preferred by the reviewer).

Cons:

Tensor G4 chip lags behind in performance for heavy tasks.
Call quality and data issues persist in some regions.
No telephoto camera, and portrait mode defaults to 1.5x zoom.

My Take:
I think the iPhone 16 is the better choice for most people, especially if you care about performance, video recording, and gaming.

However, the Pixel 9 is still a great phone for those who love AI features and a more natural photo look.

The Pixel 9’s design is also a big improvement, but Google needs to fix its performance and call quality issues to truly compete with Apple. Overall, both phones are good, but the iPhone 16 has the edge for now.

Rating: 4.4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

6. iPhone 16 vs Pixel 9 Full Comparison - Another iPhone vs Android Battle! by Trakin Tech English

Summary of the Review: The review compares the iPhone 16 and Google Pixel 9, focusing on design, display, performance, battery life, cameras, and software.

The iPhone 16 has a sleek design with a matte aluminum frame and frosted glass back, while the Pixel 9 features a glossy finish and a new camera design. The Pixel 9 has a better display with a 120Hz refresh rate, but the iPhone 16 offers superior performance with its A18 chip.

Battery life is better on the iPhone 16, but the Pixel 9 charges faster. The iPhone 16 excels in camera quality, especially in low light and video recording, while the Pixel 9 has more AI features and a smoother daily experience.

The review concludes that the iPhone 16 is the better overall phone, but the Pixel 9 is a strong contender, especially for those who prioritize a high refresh rate display and AI features.

Pros and Cons for iPhone 16:

Pros:

Superior performance with the A18 chip.
Better battery life.
Excellent camera quality, especially in low light and video recording.
Improved HDR and stabilization in video.
Spatial video and photographic styles add creative control.

Cons:

The camera control button is fiddly and unintuitive.
The display scratches easily despite improved ceramic shield.
No high-res Bluetooth codex support.
No 120Hz refresh rate display.

Pros and Cons for Pixel 9:

Pros:

120Hz refresh rate display for smoother visuals.
More AI features currently available.
Faster USB-C port for file transfers.
Superior haptic feedback.
Slimmer bezels and smaller punch hole cutout.

Cons:

Inferior performance compared to the iPhone 16.
Shorter battery life.
Camera struggles with skin tones and low light.
Confusing button placement.
Focus hunting issues in ultra-wide video.

My Take: In my opinion, the iPhone 16 is the better overall phone due to its superior performance, battery life, and camera quality.

However, the Pixel 9 is a great option for those who value a high refresh rate display and AI features. If you're into gaming or need a phone with excellent performance, the iPhone 16 is the way to go.

But if you prefer a smoother daily experience and enjoy experimenting with AI tools, the Pixel 9 is a solid choice. The decision ultimately depends on your priorities and how you plan to use your phone.

Rating: 4.3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

7. iPhone 16 Pro vs Galaxy S24 Ultra vs Pixel 9 Pro - CAMERA COMPARISON! by The Tech Chap

Summary:

This video compares the camera performance of the iPhone 16 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and Google Pixel 9 Pro. The reviewer tests various features like photo quality, zoom, low-light performance, video stabilization, and unique camera modes.

Each phone has its strengths: the iPhone excels in video and portrait features, the Pixel shines in photography and selfies, and the Samsung offers versatility with its extra lens and Galaxy AI tools.

The reviewer concludes that the best choice depends on personal preferences and specific needs.

Pros and Cons:

iPhone 16 Pro

Pros:

Best video quality with smooth stabilization and 4K 120fps slow-motion.
Unique portrait features, like turning regular photos into portraits.
New photography modes allow for customizable presets.
Audio mix feature improves video sound quality.

Cons:

Photos can look oversharpened or unnatural.
Aggressive white balance in low light.
Limited zoom capabilities compared to Samsung.

Google Pixel 9 Pro

Pros:

Best overall photography, especially in low light.
Improved selfie camera with wide field of view.
Unique features like Astro photography and Zoom Enhance.
Natural-looking colors and balanced exposure.

Cons:

Limited zoom options for portrait mode (only up to 3x).
Video quality, while good, isn’t as strong as the iPhone.
Some features require cloud processing, which takes time.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Pros:

Versatile with four lenses, including a 200MP main camera.
Best zoom quality, especially at 5x and beyond.
Galaxy AI tools offer creative editing options.
Vibrant colors and bright exposure in photos.

Cons:

Low-light video performance is noisy and dark.
Oversaturated colors may not appeal to everyone.
4K 120fps video stabilization is poor.

My Take:

Personally, I think the best phone depends on what you value most. If you’re into video creation, the iPhone 16 Pro is the clear winner with its smooth stabilization and advanced video features.

For photography, especially in low light, the Pixel 9 Pro delivers the most natural and pleasing results. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is great for versatility and zoom, but it falls short in low-light video and can be too vibrant for some.

Overall, I’d lean toward the Pixel for its balanced performance and excellent selfie camera, but the iPhone’s video capabilities are hard to beat.

Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

8. Pixel 9 Pro vs iPhone 16 Pro - Big Camera Comparison! Side By Side Review by Steven Divish

Summary:
This video compares the camera systems of the Google Pixel 9 Pro and the iPhone 16 Pro. The reviewer tests various features like portrait mode, cinematic videos, raw photography, and low-light performance.

Both phones have similar camera setups, including ultra-wide, main, and telephoto lenses, but they process images differently. The Pixel 9 Pro offers more manual controls, while the iPhone 16 Pro excels in video stabilization and low-light performance.

The reviewer also discusses selfie cameras, raw photography, and AI features, concluding that both phones have strengths and weaknesses depending on the user's needs.

Pros and Cons: iPhone 16 Pro

Pros:

Better low-light performance with cleaner images.
Superior video stabilization and cinematic video capabilities (Apple Log feature).
More accurate color representation in photos and videos.
5x telephoto zoom works well for portraits.
Handles flickering lights better in videos.

Cons:

Lacks manual camera controls in the built-in app.
Oversharpening in photos can be noticeable.
No voice enhancement in selfie videos.

Pros and Cons: Google Pixel 9 Pro

Pros:

More manual controls for photography (ISO, shutter speed, white balance).
Warmer tones in videos may appeal to some users.
Dedicated night mode for low-light photography.
AI enhancements for photos and videos.
Panorama mode offers better image quality.

Cons:

Colors in low-light photos can be inaccurate.
Choppy transitions between camera lenses.
Limited to 1080p in cinematic video mode (no 4K).
Struggles with flickering lights in videos.

My Take:

Both the iPhone 16 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro are excellent flagship phones with strong camera systems. If you prioritize video quality, low-light performance, and ease of use, the iPhone 16 Pro is the better choice.

However, if you prefer more manual control over your photography and enjoy AI-enhanced features, the Pixel 9 Pro is a great option.

Personally, I lean toward the iPhone for its consistency and cinematic video capabilities, but the Pixel’s manual controls are tempting for photography enthusiasts.

Rating: 4.6/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

9. iPhone 16 vs Pixel 9 vs Galaxy S24! HALLOWEEN SPECIAL Camera Comparison! by Versus

Summary:
This Halloween-themed video compares the camera performance of the iPhone 16, Google Pixel 9, and Samsung Galaxy S24. The review tests various camera features, including wide-angle, ultra-wide, portrait, video, stabilization, audio, zoom, slow-motion, and macro modes.

Each phone is scored on a scale of 1 to 5 in different categories, with the iPhone 16 ultimately winning the overall comparison. The Pixel 9 comes in a close second, excelling in areas like audio and low-light photography, while the Galaxy S24 trails behind, despite its strong zoom capabilities.

Pros and Cons: iPhone 16

Strengths:

Best performance in portrait mode and video stabilization.
Excellent front camera for photos and videos.
Accurate white balance in challenging lighting conditions.
Strong detail capture in wide-angle and ultra-wide shots.

Weaknesses:

Struggles with lens flare and background noise cancellation in audio.
Overexposes highlights in some wide-angle shots.
Lacks a telephoto lens, limiting zoom capabilities.

Pros and Cons: Google Pixel 9

Strengths:

Outstanding audio quality with effective noise cancellation.
Best in low-light and macro photography.
Balanced exposure and color accuracy in wide-angle shots.
Strong performance in ultra-wide and portrait modes.

Weaknesses:

Lacks a telephoto lens, affecting zoom performance.
Struggles with edge detection in portrait mode.
Video stabilization lags during direction changes.

Pros and Cons: Samsung Galaxy S24

Strengths:

Best zoom capabilities, thanks to its dedicated telephoto lens.
Strong slow-motion video performance, especially at 4K resolution.
Accurate color capture in some portrait and video scenarios.

Weaknesses:

Struggles with white balance and dynamic range in photos and videos.
Overly saturated colors and green undertones in some shots.
Front camera algorithms reduce contrast and add unnatural tints.

My Take:

The iPhone 16 is the clear winner for overall camera performance, especially in portrait mode and video stabilization. However, the Pixel 9 is a close contender, excelling in low-light photography and audio quality.

The Galaxy S24, while strong in zoom and slow-motion, falls short in other areas like white balance and dynamic range. If I had to choose, I’d go with the iPhone 16 for its consistency and versatility, but the Pixel 9 is a great alternative for those who prioritize low-light photography and audio.

The Galaxy S24 needs improvements to compete with the other two.

Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

FAQ:

1. Which phone has a better display: iPhone 16 or Google Pixel 9?
The Google Pixel 9 has a better display with a 120Hz refresh rate, making it smoother and more modern. The iPhone 16, however, has a sharper screen but is stuck at a 60Hz refresh rate, which feels outdated for 2025.

2. Is the iPhone 16 or Pixel 9 better for photography?
Both phones have strong cameras, but the Pixel 9 excels in low-light photography and offers more AI features for editing. The iPhone 16, on the other hand, is better for video recording and has more consistent photo quality.

3. Which phone has better battery life?
The iPhone 16 generally has better battery life, lasting 8-9 hours of screen time, while the Pixel 9 lasts around 6-7 hours. However, the Pixel 9 charges faster.

4. Are the AI features better on the Pixel 9 or iPhone 16?
The Pixel 9 currently has more advanced AI features, like Gemini Live and Magic Editor. The iPhone 16’s AI features, called Apple Intelligence, are delayed until late 2024 or early 2025, making the Pixel 9 the winner in this category for now.

5. Which phone is more affordable?
The Google Pixel 9 is cheaper than the iPhone 16, making it a better value for the price. However, the iPhone 16 offers better integration with other Apple devices, which might be worth the extra cost for Apple users.

Conclusion:

After comparing the iPhone 16 and Google Pixel 9 across multiple reviews, it’s clear that both phones have their strengths and weaknesses. The Pixel 9 stands out with its smoother 120Hz display, advanced AI features, and lower price, making it a great choice for those who value innovation and affordability.

On the other hand, the iPhone 16 shines with its superior battery life, video recording quality, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.

Ultimately, the best phone for you depends on your priorities. If you’re already invested in Apple products and value reliability, the iPhone 16 is a solid pick.

But if you want a more modern display, cutting-edge AI features, and better value for your money, the Pixel 9 is the clear winner. Whichever you choose, both phones are excellent options for 2025!