Foldable smartphones have been having a moment. By 2024, manufacturers will have ironed out most of the wrinkles associated with bending screen technology. So, if you were to get one, would you get the new Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or stick with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Android?
Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Pixel 9 Pro Fold Specs Rundown
| SPECS | Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 |
| Processor | Octa-Core (Google Tensor G4) | Octa-Core (Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3) |
| Screen Size (Main) | 8″ | 7.6″ |
| Resolution (Main) | 2076 x 2152 | 2160 x 1856 |
| Phone RAM | 16GB | 12GB |
| Battery Capacity | 4650mAh | 4400mAh |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 14 |
Both are premium flagship smartphones that are pretty similar in specs. The main Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs Galaxy Z Fold 6 argument would essentially come down to whether you prefer to keep the Google ecosystem or build a Samsung one.
Related: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs. Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Design
In terms of looks, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 smartphone looks more polished and high-end. It is also more convenient to use with one hand and fits better in pockets compared to the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
The Pixel has more rounded corners and a pretty big horizontal camera bump on the back. The Galaxy Z Fold sports a slightly less pronounced camera that is positioned vertically.
Both phones have aluminum frames, however, in terms of hinge quality, the Samsung has a far stronger built, meant for longevity and durability during daily use. Unlike Galaxy Z Fold 6, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold snaps in half fairly easily, according to JerryRigEverything Youtuber, who put both phones to the durability test.
Winner: Galaxy Z Fold 6.
Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs Pixel 9 Pro Fold Battery Life
As noted above, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 has a 4400mAh battery and needs a 25W charger (purchased separately). At the same time, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a marginally larger 4650mAh battery pack that requires a 45W charging brick (also not supplied by the manufacturer).
Google states that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold battery yields 24+ hours, although, in real-life conditions, it lasts for about 13-14 hours on a single charge, which is quite impressive given the hardware specs.
Official Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 battery metrics outlined based on the type of usage:
- 18 hours of internet usage
- 23 hours of video playback
- 77 hours of audio playback.
Real-life settings tests yield about 10-11 hours of general use.
As you can see, the Pixel is more energy efficient, but we also have to keep in mind that the Galaxy Z Fold has more power despite both being octa-core CPU-based cellphones.
Winner: Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
Cameras
| Camera Specs | Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold |
| Main | 48MP, f/1.7-aperture lens, OIS, 82-degree field of view, Quad PD |
| Ultra-Wide | 10.5MP, f/2.2-aperture lens, 127-degree field of view, Dual PD |
| Tele | 10.8MP, f/3.1-aperture, 23-degree field of view, OIS, 5x zoom, Dual PD |
| Camera Specs | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 |
| Main | 50MP, f/1.8-aperture lens, OIS, dual pixel PDAF |
| Ultra-Wide | 12MP, f/2.2-aperture lens |
| Tele | 10MP, f/2.4-aperture, OIS, 3x zoom, PDAF |
There are a few minor tech differences, but overall, Galaxy Z Fold 6 vs Pixel 9 Pro Fold cameras are comparable in terms of performance and image quality. They support 4K video recording, as well as features like nighttime shooting, slow motion, and panorama.
Winner: It’s a tie.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Price Point
The Pixel comes in 256GB and 512GB storage options and is currently on sale. The 256GB version now costs $1499 (down from $1799), and the 512GB one is $1619, as opposed to the $1919 price when it originally came out.
The Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB variations, costing $1899.99, $2019.99, or $2259.99, respectively.
While the Pixel may be cheaper, the Galaxy holds better resale value over time. So, if you decide to sell your smartphone and upgrade eventually, Samsung is a better option long term.
Winner: Pixel 9 Pro Fold (unless you plan on reselling your phone down the line.)
Bottom Line
So, which smartphone takes the cake in this Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs Galaxy Z Fold 6 battle? Ultimately, only you, the end user, can decide that for yourself. Google is definitely an on-par challenger with its big display and energy efficiency. But where the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 lacks in battery life, it makes up in quality build and performance. We think the Galaxy just looks better and is more convenient for daily use; plus, it is more durable. Do you agree?