Pixel 9 Pro Fold Longterm Review
Pixel 9 Pro Fold Longterm Review-The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is Google’s latest entry into the foldable smartphone market, and after three months of use, it’s time to dive deep into what it’s like living with this device. From design to usability, this blog offers a comprehensive review of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses.
Video review
Design and Build Quality
Right out of the gate, Google has done an incredible job of hiding a tablet in a phone form factor with this device. I initially struggled to get the porcelain color right, so I opted for the Obsidian color. The matte frame and backplate look gorgeous, making it a striking device. It raises the question of why Google didn’t apply this design across the entire Pixel lineup this year.
Initially, I used a case, but many users have reported issues with screen protectors on the front display. I opted for a skin instead, which provides some protection. However, given its niche market position, there aren’t many great quality accessories for this phone. I’m being super careful and trying not to put the phone in precarious situations.
On a recent trip to the beach, I decided to leave the foldable at home, opting for the standard Pixel 9 instead. I wasn’t confident enough to risk it at the beach, as even a grain of sand in the folding mechanism could spell disaster. The lesser IP rating also concerns me, especially considering I’m from rainy England.
Despite my caution, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is tougher than I expected. I’ve dropped it a few times, but there are no major marks or dings. However, the inner screen is a smear magnet. Fortunately, once the screen is on, it gets super bright and clear, making it one of the best foldable displays I’ve ever used.
Performance and Usability
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s performance has been solid, largely due to the Tensor G4 processor and 16 GB of RAM. From loading applications quickly to a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate, the device delivers a slick user experience. However, I do think that for $1,700, it’s at the limit of what one should pay for a Tensor-powered phone.
One feature I particularly enjoy is the power button fingerprint scanner. It’s reliable and faster than any in-display scanner I’ve used. The only downside is that I often accidentally unlock the device when reaching into my pocket, so I’ve set the auto-lock to one minute.
However, I found the speakers and haptic feedback to be a step down compared to previous Pixel devices. The audio is good, but the thinner profile compromises the booming audio experience. While the vibration feedback is decent, it doesn’t provide the same satisfying feedback as other Pixel phones.
Multitasking and Software Experience
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold allows for multitasking, but it feels like a missed opportunity without a robust multi-window solution. While some apps work well side by side, others, like Reddit, can become unresponsive. The Chrome experience is excellent, allowing for proper Chrome tabs, making web browsing more productive.
Despite some software annoyances since the Android 15 update, the dual-column Quick Settings panel doesn’t feel particularly useful on the inner screen. I believe the taskbar could better integrate Quick Settings, improving overall usability.
Some applications scale nicely on the larger screen, while others still need work. The non-standard aspect ratio causes issues, leading to a love-hate relationship with many apps. eBay, for example, scales well on the Pixel tablet but is broken on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
Despite the quirks, most applications work just fine, and the larger screen allows for more information at a glance. If an app isn’t perfect on the inner display, switching to the outer screen solves most problems.
Camera Performance
The camera system on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is effectively a mix between the Pixel 8A system with a telephoto lens. While it excels at taking photos, it lacks some features like 8K video recording and 20x super zoom. There’s a slight decrease in image fidelity compared to the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro XL, but the camera still delivers the punchy images Pixel is known for.
The inner selfie camera’s position at the top right is inconvenient for video calls. I prefer using the front screen for video calls, as it’s much more user-friendly. One feature I never thought I’d use, but found quite useful, is the “made you look” function, which captures the attention of young children for family photos.
In summary, if you can deal with some downgrades, you’ll likely be happy with the camera system. It’s not incapable; it’s just a slight step down from the top-tier Pixel series.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has been decent, with an average of around six hours of screen-on time. However, mixing usage between the front and inner screens can lead to power-saving mode kicking in by 10 or 11 PM. I’ve even had the device die overnight if I forget to plug it in after a long day.
The charging speed is another area that needs improvement. The 21-watt wired charging feels slow compared to other devices, and the 7.5-watt wireless charging isn’t fast enough for my needs. Most of the time, I plug it in, but the slower wireless charging is a downside.
| Feature | Pixel 9 Pro Fold | Pixel 9 | Pixel 9 Pro XL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | Foldable AMOLED, 120 Hz | AMOLED, 90 Hz | AMOLED, 120 Hz |
| Processor | Tensor G4 | Tensor G4 | Tensor G4 |
| RAM | 16 GB | 8 GB | 12 GB |
| Battery Capacity | 4600 mAh | 4350 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging Speed | 21 W Wired, 7.5 W Wireless | 18 W Wired, 12 W Wireless | 30 W Wired, 15 W Wireless |
| Camera System | 50 MP + 12 MP (Telephoto) | 50 MP + 12 MP | 50 MP + 12 MP + 48 MP (Telephoto) |
| Dimensions | Folded: 155.8 x 75.1 x 13.2 mm | 155.6 x 73.2 x 8.9 mm | 155.6 x 73.2 x 8.9 mm |
| Weight | 284 g | 197 g | 210 g |
Final Thoughts
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a unique device that caters to a niche market. While it offers some of the best features from Google, it also comes with compromises. For $1,700, it’s a significant investment, and while it’s not for everyone, those who appreciate the dual form factor may find it worth the price.
In conclusion, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a beautifully designed device that excels in many areas but falls short in others. It’s perfect for true enthusiasts who are willing to embrace its quirks and enjoy the benefits of a foldable phone. However, for most users, the Pixel 9 or 9 Pro XL may still be the better choice.
FAQs
What is the battery life like on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold?
The battery life on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has been decent, averaging around six hours of screen-on time. However, usage between the front and inner screens can lead to power-saving mode activating by late evening.
How does the camera performance compare to other Pixel devices?
The camera system on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a mix of the Pixel 8A’s system with a telephoto lens. While it excels at photography, it lacks features like 8K video recording and 20x super zoom, resulting in slight image fidelity loss compared to the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro XL.
What are the main strengths of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold?
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold boasts a beautiful design, solid performance thanks to the Tensor G4 processor, and a great display. Its multitasking capabilities are notable, and it provides an enjoyable user experience despite some software quirks.
Are there any concerns with the build quality of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold?
While the build quality is generally good, there are concerns regarding its durability, especially due to its lesser IP rating and the need for caution with sand and other debris that could harm the folding mechanism.
How does the Pixel 9 Pro Fold perform for multitasking?
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold allows for multitasking, but it feels like a missed opportunity due to a lack of robust multi-window solutions. Some apps work well side by side, while others can become unresponsive, leading to a mixed experience.
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