Time has turned this Google flagship into a smart buy

As a tech reviewer, I’m constantly switching phones, and even when I have the latest and greatest in my hand, I’m already writing about the next release from Samsung and Google.

It’s the nature of the job, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything, but it can result in tunnel vision.

It’s easy to become fixated on what’s next, and I lose track of excellent devices that are still prime deals.

I want to correct that by taking a look at the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL. It’s barely a year old, yet it feels like ancient history.

However, if you’re a savvy buyer, it should be at the forefront of your mind.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is an ideal example of why older flagships are stellar deals, and why you shouldn’t be afraid to save some money on a year-old device.

Pixel 9 Pro XL software support is just starting

Plenty more Android updates left

With Google’s seven-year software update promise, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is just getting started.

Material 3 Expressive and Android 16 are amazing on the device, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL has only gotten better with age.

Google has hit its stride with Pixel feature drops, with a strong November 2025 installment, and I’m looking forward to this year’s March update.

I’m encouraged by the announcement that Apple AirDrop compatibility will be available on the Pixel 9 series.

I love it on the Pixel 10, and I’m pleased to see Google trickling down features to other devices.

I’m looking forward to Power Saving Mode in Google Maps, as I’ve been using it often since testing it a couple of weeks ago — I expect that to come to other Pixels soon.

That’s in addition to the catalog of features already running well on the Pixel 9 Pro XL.

It’s a small item, but I always notice when I’m reviewing a non-Pixel because I undoubtedly miss Now Playing.

It’s the only smartphone feature I’ve ever heard my wife say she misses, too, and like AirDrop compatibility, it’s a feature that makes a real-world impact for buyers, even if enthusiasts tend to ignore it.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL hardware is still premium

I have no performance complaints

I usually make this argument about the Pixel A-series phones.

While I’ll entertain complaints about the Google Tensor G4 chipset at flagship prices, it’s hard to take issue with what you get for a much lower price.

The Tensor G4 in my Pixel 9 Pro XL is still snappy, and I don’t have any problems with daily use. It’s smooth and features 16GB of RAM to handle new Gemini features as they roll out.

Its 6.8-inch Super Actua display is gorgeous, and I’ve had no complaints about the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s battery life.

Whenever I hear Pixel users argue that Pixels overheat and have poor battery life, I know they are coming from either a Pixel 6 or 7.

Google addressed many of these concerns on the newer phones, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL is a beneficiary of that.

The phone’s over 5,000mAh battery lasts me an entire day and then some, even though I would enjoy faster charging when it’s time to top off.

You’re also getting an excellent camera system for the price. My Pixel 9 Pro XL takes fantastic photos, and I love using the 48MP telephoto lens.

I don’t know what it is about telephoto sensors on Pixel phones, but I wind up using them more than any other manufacturer’s telephoto sensors in the US.

The detail is sharp and crisp, and Night Sight is a helpful tool for capturing beautiful images in low light.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL pricing makes it tough to beat

Under $500 is a steal

The real selling point of the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL in 2026 is price. If you’re comfortable picking up a pre-owned example, you’ll spend under $500.

Amazon has plenty of protection for buyers, and I’ve used its renewed service multiple times over the years without problems.

For $480, I can’t recommend the Pixel 9 Pro XL enough. You may not score any carrier discounts, and you won’t be able to add the phone to your monthly bill for a small fee.

However, if you’re in the market for a midrange device and you love your phones unlocked, the Pixel 9 Pro XL should top your list.

It’ll outperform most current midrange devices, and if you’re a shutterbug, it’s a no-brainer.

Deals are out there if you’re willing to look

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is currently my favorite way to save on a premium device, but new deals are popping up every day as once top-tier devices start to age.

Extended support and much better hardware are allowing these old dowagers to age gracefully, and we’re the winners.

If you’re eager to save money, but don’t want to compromise on fit and finish, take a look at the Pixel 9 Pro XL.

9/10

SoC

Google Tensor G4

RAM

16GB

Storage

128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB

The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a new name, but it fills the same slot as 2023’s Pixel 8 Pro, having similar specs with roughly the same footprint. The non-XL Pixel 9 Pro is new to the lineup as a smaller premium flagship offering. With the 9 Pro XL, however, you get Google’s fastest charging, a bigger screen and battery, and all of the camera and Gemini AI smarts you’d get in the smaller 9 Pro.