The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL (left) next to the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (right). Kerry Wan/Zdnet
The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is one of the new Android phones, but how does it compare to the current champion, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra?
The new pixel offers significant improvements such as a faster wired and wireless load, and a Tensor G5 chipset optimized for AI. The new Pro XL model, in particular, broke the record for the biggest battery on a Google phone.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra continues to be maintained among the best Android phones six months after its launch. The question therefore arises: which of the two phones should you buy? Here are the main reasons to help you choose.
You should buy the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL if …
Kerry Wan/ZDNET
1. You prefer the more refined software approach of Google
One of the main differences between Google Pixel and almost all of the other Android models lies in the software experience. I would not qualify the last Pixel launcher (on Android 16) as a minimalist. But it is certainly less intrusive and rich in functionalities than onei from Samsung. There are some customization tools for the home screen and the lock screen. But do not expect to be able to modify every detail of what is displayed.
The sleek aesthetic of the Pixel launcher and the use of a house chipset G5 Home allow Google to deploy more quickly and more effectively on its smartphones the latest Android features, such as Magic Cue, which generates actions according to the context of the screen and the applications.
The company promises up to seven years of updates to the operating system, Pixel Feature Drops and security fixes to keep the phone up to date until 2032.
2. You want the most indulgent photo system on the market
Admittedly, the Pixel 10 Pro XL may not offer all the photo features of the Galaxy S25 Ultra. But its shortcomings in terms of sensors are offset by calculation performance and optimal image recognition. The best example is that of the new 100x pro zoom zoom of the Pixel, which exploits its 48 MP telephoto lens and the image processing power of the new G5 Tensor to recognize the remote subjects and generate the details lost thanks to the AI. The result has shown that the pixel largely outperforms the Galaxy 100x zoom.
In addition to one of the best compact photo systems on smartphone, the Pixel 10 Pro XL also incorporates many AI tools that help users to take, retouch and reproduce photos to their liking.
However, for customers who favor idealism to realism and practicality in complexity, tools such as improved “add me” function, the pro -res zoom and the new photo coach, which guides the framing and selection of modes in the viewfinder in real time, make Pixel 10 Pro XL one of the most indulgent photo systems on the market. 3. You are looking for a lighter phone to keep (and sticks)
Yes, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is cheaper than the Galaxy S25 Ultra. But above all, it is really comfortable to hold. Given the frequency to which you will transport your phone, hold it and use it daily, handling is one of the most neglected, but nevertheless essential aspects of mobile devices.
Compared to the square design and the lively angles of the Samsung, the Pixel 10 Pro XL has flat edges which allow firm grip and subtle curves which contribute to reducing overall size. Put a shell on the two devices and you will notice the difference even more.
Google also offers a new Pixelsnap magnetic accessory system which operates the Qi2 wireless load of the 10 Pro Pixel.
You should buy the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra if …
Kerry Wan/ZDNET
1. You prefer Samsung software approach, simple and efficient
If Samsung’s software experience has been less bugged and chaotic since the Touchwiz era, Onei remains one of the most richered market versions of the market. The native launcher allows you to personalize elements such as the wallow’s shade, widget styles, scanning animations, and much more.
On a device like the Galaxy S25 Ultra, you will benefit from additional notes taking to fully exploit the integrated S PEN stylus, even if air gestures are no longer possible on the latest model.
Like Google, Samsung promises at least seven years of software updates for its Galaxy S models. In other words, you will have the impression of having your money by offering you the flagship phone of Samsung.
2. You are looking for the best smartphone screen on the market
I tested almost all the big smartphones released last year, including large screens, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra has the best screen I have ever seen. It is an AMOLED LTPO slab of 6.8 inch with a refreshment between 1 Hz and 120 Hz and an optimal brightness during the day.
These characteristics are almost identical to those of Pixel 10 Pro XL. What distinguishes the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is its anti -reflective coating that considerably reduces light reflections.
Whether you are cading a photo in direct sunlight or consulting the web in a well -lit environment, the samsung anti -reflective coating on the ultra galaxy s25 makes the image more perceptible than that of a conventional smartphone.
3. You are looking for a more efficient smartphone
The Pixel 10 Pro Tensor G5 chip is very efficient and is the cause of many interesting features of the smartphone. It allows you to use all the AI tools of the device, such as Gemini Live, Pro Res Zoom and Magic Cue, to name a few.
However, after resistance tests in real conditions and experienced user feedback, the Galaxy S25 remains the best choice.
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor has proven reliable, battery economy and capable of executing the latest mobile AI tools without problem. For mobile players and those who perform several tasks at the same time during their sleep, the Galaxy S25 Ultra would be the best choice.
Source : “ZDNet.com”