Google Pixel 9 vs CAT S22 Flip
The Google Pixel 9 is the premium option here, boasting a stunning 6.3" Actua OLED display that reaches a peak brightness of 2,700 nits. In real-world use, this means vibrant colors and sharp details, making it ideal for photography lovers and media consumption. Meanwhile, the CAT S22 Flip, designed for rugged environments, is a budget-friendly choice with a smaller 2.8" display and a focus on durability rather than specs. If you need a phone that can handle similar-weight usage without constant recharging, the Pixel 9 is your go-to option for 2026 and beyond.
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Google Pixel 9

CAT S22 Flip
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Google Pixel 9 vs CAT S22 Flip
Google Pixel 9

CAT S22 Flip
| Criterion | Google Pixel 9 | CAT S22 Flip |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(1,044)Amazon | ★4(147)Amazon |
Operating System | Android | Android |
Software Support | 7 years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates | No guaranteed future OS/security updates (End of Life product) |
Processor | Google Tensor G4 | Qualcomm 215 Mobile Platform (QM215) — 1.3GHz Quad-core |
Graphics | Arm Mali-G715 MC7 | Adreno 308 |
RAM | 12GB LPDDR5X | 2GB LPDDR3 |
Storage | 128GB / 256GB (UFS 3.1) | 16GB eMMC 5.1 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 128GB) |
Display Size | 6.3" (measured diagonally; actual viewable area is less) | 2.8" (Main) / 1.44" (External Cover) |
Screen Type | Actua OLED Display | TFT LCD (Main), Gorilla Glass 5, Glove/Wet Finger Support |
Resolution | 1080 x 2424 pixels (FHD+), 422 ppi | 640 x 480 pixels (VGA - Main) / 128 x 128 pixels (Cover) |
Refresh Rate | 60–120Hz (Smooth Display) | 60Hz |
Peak Brightness | 1,800 nits (HDR) / 2,700 nits (Peak) | 400 nits (Typical) |
Main Camera | 50MP Wide (f/1.68, 82° FOV), Octa PD AF, OIS | 5MP, Fixed Focus, Single LED Flash |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 48MP Ultra-Wide (f/1.7, 123° FOV) with Macro Focus | No (Not supported) |
Telephoto Camera | N/A (No dedicated telephoto lens) | No (Not supported) |
Optical Zoom | 2x Optical Quality (via sensor crop) | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 8x Super Res Zoom | 4x |
Video Recording | 4K@24/30/60fps, 1080p@24/30/60fps; 10-bit HDR | 1080p @ 30fps |
Front Camera | 10.5MP Front (f/2.2, 95° FOV), Dual PD AF | 2MP, Fixed Focus |
Battery | 4,700 mAh (Typical) | 2,000mAh (User-Removable) |
Wired Charging | Up to 27W (charges up to 55% in ~30 min with Google 45W USB-C Charger) | USB-C (Standard 5W-10W charging) |
Wireless Charging | Up to 15W (Pixel Stand 2nd Gen); up to 12W (Qi certified); Battery Share | No (Not supported) |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub6/mmWave varies by model); Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be); Bluetooth 5.3; NFC; Dual Band GNSS | 4G LTE (T-Mobile/Metro optimized), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), Bluetooth 4.2, GPS |
USB | USB Type-C 3.2 | USB Type-C 2.0 (OTG supported) |
Durability | IP68 (Dust and water resistant); Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (front/back); Fingerprint-resistant coating | IP68 (Water/Dust Resistant); MIL-STD-810H; Non-Incendive Class 1 Div 2 (Hazardous Locations) |
Dimensions | 6.0" x 2.8" x 0.3" (152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm) | 4.70 x 2.40 x 0.91 in (119.4 x 61.0 x 23.0 mm) |
Weight | 7.0 oz (198 g) | 7.90 oz (224 g) |
Biometrics | Ultrasonic Fingerprint Unlock; Face Unlock | None (No Fingerprint, No Face Unlock) |
Extras | Satellite SOS; Gemini AI integrated; VPN by Google One; Car Crash Detection | Programmable PTT (Push-to-Talk) Key, FM Radio, T9 Keyboard with Android Navigation Keys |
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Google Pixel 9
✓ Pros:
- • Compact and premium design with satin metal frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2
- • Bright Actua display reaches 2,700 nits peak brightness
- • Industry-leading 7-year software update commitment
- • Excellent dual-camera system with Macro Focus on the ultrawide lens
- • Includes useful AI features like Add Me, Best Take, and Gemini integration
✗ Cons:
- • Lacks a dedicated telephoto lens (zoom limited to 8x Super Res Zoom)
- • Charging speed (27W wired) is slower than many competitors
- • Base storage starts at 128GB with UFS 3.1 (slower than UFS 4.0)
- • Tensor G4 performance lags behind Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in raw benchmarks
- • Display refresh rate bottoms out at 60Hz (not LTPO 1–120Hz like Pro models)
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CAT S22 Flip
✓ Pros:
- • Rare 'Non-Incendive' Class 1 Div 2 rating for use in hazardous/explosive environments
- • Runs full Android apps (WhatsApp, Maps, Spotify) unlike feature phones
- • Physical T9 keypad combined with a touchscreen for versatile input
- • User-replaceable battery and microSD expansion
- • Incredibly durable hinge and chassis (IP68/MIL-STD-810H)
✗ Cons:
- • Performance is extremely slow (2GB RAM + Android Go) for anything beyond basics
- • Display is low resolution (VGA) and small for modern app interfaces
- • No 3.5mm headphone jack (requires USB-C adapter)
- • Bulky and heavy (nearly 8 oz) for a flip phone
- • Audio quality from earpiece is often cited as tinny in reviews
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Which one is better?
Key specs: Display: 6.3" vs 2.8" and Refresh: 120 Hz vs 60 Hz.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Google Pixel 9 if: you need exceptional battery life for long trips, want a high-quality camera for stunning photos, or enjoy immersive media on a vibrant display. (6.3" display, 120 Hz refresh)
Choose the CAT S22 Flip if: you work in hazardous environments and need a rugged phone, prefer a physical keypad for easy texting, or want an inexpensive device for basic tasks. (2.8" display, 60 Hz refresh)
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Google Pixel 9 excels if you value compact and premium design with satin metal frame and gorilla glass victus 2. CAT S22 Flip is better if you prioritize rare 'non-incendive' class 1 div 2 rating for use in hazardous/explosive environments. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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