Google Pixel 9 vs Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Key specs: Display: 6.3" vs 4.7" and Refresh: 120 Hz vs 60 Hz. Key specs: Display: 6.3" vs 4.7" and Refresh: 120 Hz vs 60 Hz.
Why compare these? The Google Pixel 9 (premium flagship) and Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (budget-friendly) represent different approaches to smartphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Google Pixel | Apple iPhone |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.5★ (1,044 reviews) | 4.5★ (225 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Compact and premium design with satin metal frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem |
| Main Drawback | Lacks a dedicated telephoto lens (zoom limited to 8x Super Res Zoom) | Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Budget |
Google Pixel 9
Android
7 years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates
Google Tensor G4
Arm Mali-G715 MC7
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
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.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Google Pixel 9 vs Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Google Pixel 9
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
| Criterion | Google Pixel 9 | Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(1,044)Amazon | ★4.5(225)Best Buy |
Operating System | Android | iOS |
Software Support | 7 years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates | Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022) |
Processor | Google Tensor G4 | Apple A15 Bionic (5nm) |
Graphics | Arm Mali-G715 MC7 | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) |
RAM | 12GB LPDDR5X | 4GB |
Storage | 128GB / 256GB (UFS 3.1) | 64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe |
Display Size | 6.3" (measured diagonally; actual viewable area is less) | 4.7" |
Screen Type | Actua OLED Display | Retina HD LCD (IPS) |
Resolution | 1080 x 2424 pixels (FHD+), 422 ppi | 1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi) |
Refresh Rate | 60–120Hz (Smooth Display) | 60Hz |
Peak Brightness | 1,800 nits (HDR) / 2,700 nits (Peak) | 625 nits (Typical) |
Main Camera | 50MP Wide (f/1.68, 82° FOV), Octa PD AF, OIS | 12MP Wide, f/1.8, OIS, Digital Zoom up to 5x |
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 | Up to 5x |
Video Recording | 4K@24/30/60fps, 1080p@24/30/60fps; 10-bit HDR | 4K @ 60fps; 1080p @ 60fps; Slo-mo 1080p @ 240fps |
Front Camera | 10.5MP Front (f/2.2, 95° FOV), Dual PD AF | 7MP FaceTime HD, f/2.2, 1080p @ 30fps |
Battery | 4,700 mAh (Typical) | 2,018mAh (Approximate) |
Wired Charging | Up to 27W (charges up to 55% in ~30 min with Google 45W USB-C Charger) | 20W Fast Charging (50% in 30 min) via Lightning |
Wireless Charging | Up to 15W (Pixel Stand 2nd Gen); up to 12W (Qi certified); Battery Share | 7.5W Qi Wireless (No MagSafe magnetic alignment) |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub6/mmWave varies by model); Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be); Bluetooth 5.3; NFC; Dual Band GNSS | 5G (Sub-6 GHz only - No mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC |
USB | USB Type-C 3.2 | Lightning Connector (USB 2.0 speeds) |
Durability | IP68 (Dust and water resistant); Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (front/back); Fingerprint-resistant coating | IP67 (Dust/Water Resistant up to 1m for 30 min); Ion-strengthened glass |
Dimensions | 6.0" x 2.8" x 0.3" (152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm) | 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm) |
Weight | 7.0 oz (198 g) | 5.09 oz (144 g) |
Biometrics | Ultrasonic Fingerprint Unlock; Face Unlock | Touch ID (Fingerprint sensor in Home button) |
Extras | Satellite SOS; Gemini AI integrated; VPN by Google One; Car Crash Detection | Stereo speakers, Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), Dual eSIM support |
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Google Pixel 9
Android
7 years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates
Google Tensor G4
Arm Mali-G715 MC7
12GB LPDDR5X
128GB / 256GB (UFS 3.1)
Pros
- Compact and premium design with satin metal frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2
- Bright Actua display reaches 2,700 nits peak brightness
Cons
- Lacks a dedicated telephoto lens (zoom limited to 8x Super Res Zoom)
- Charging speed (27W wired) is slower than many competitors
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
4GB
64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe
Pros
- Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem
- Compact and lightweight design is easy to use with one hand
Cons
- Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels
- Small 4.7-inch LCD screen lacks the vibrancy of OLED competitors
Which one is better?
Key specs: Display: 6.3" vs 4.7" and Refresh: 120 Hz vs 60 Hz.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Google Pixel 9 if: you want a vibrant 6.3" display for media consumption, need a long-lasting 4,700mAh battery for all-day use, or require powerful performance with 12GB RAM.
Choose the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) if: you prefer a compact design that's easy to use one-handed, want the most affordable entry into the iPhone ecosystem, or you value the classic Touch ID feature. (4.7" display, 60 Hz refresh)
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 1,044 reviews vs 225
→ Choose Google Pixel
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Google Pixel
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Compact and premium Priority
Compact and premium design with satin metal frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2
→ Choose Google Pixel
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Bottom line: Both products share a 4.5★ rating, making this comparison particularly close. Your decision should come down to which specific features matter most to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Google Pixel 9 or Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)?
Google Pixel 9 is the better choice if you prioritize compact and premium design with satin metal frame and gorilla glass victus 2. Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) wins if you value most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Both are rated highly (4.5★ vs 4.5★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Google Pixel 9 and Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)?
Key differences: Google Pixel 9 offers compact and premium design with satin metal frame and gorilla glass victus 2, while Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) stands out with most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Consider that Google Pixel 9 lacks a dedicated telephoto lens (zoom limited to 8x super res zoom). Meanwhile, Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) dated design with thick top and bottom bezels. Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 27, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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