Google Pixel 9 vs TCL 50 XL 5G
If you're debating between the Google Pixel 9 and the TCL 50 XL 5G, the Pixel 9 is the premium option here, boasting features like a stunning 2,700 nits peak brightness display. The TCL 50 XL 5G, on the other hand, is a budget-friendly contender with a massive 6.78-inch display that makes it appealing for casual users. Key specs: Display: 6.3" vs 6.78" and Battery: 4700 mAh vs 5010 mAh.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Google Pixel 9

TCL 50 XL 5G
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 TCL 50 XL 5G
Google Pixel 9

TCL 50 XL 5G
| Criterion | Google Pixel 9 | TCL 50 XL 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(1,044)Amazon | ★4.1(19)Amazon |
Operating System | Android | Android |
Software Support | 7 years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates | 1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 15) and 2 years of security updates |
Processor | Google Tensor G4 | MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm octa-core) |
Graphics | Arm Mali-G715 MC7 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
RAM | 12GB LPDDR5X | 6GB (Plus up to 6GB Virtual RAM Expansion) |
Storage | 128GB / 256GB (UFS 3.1) | 128GB (Expandable via microSDXC up to 2TB) |
Display Size | 6.3" (measured diagonally; actual viewable area is less) | 6.78" |
Screen Type | Actua OLED Display | IPS LCD, 120Hz, NXTVISION Technology |
Resolution | 1080 x 2424 pixels (FHD+), 422 ppi | 2460 x 1080 (FHD+) |
Refresh Rate | 60–120Hz (Smooth Display) | 120Hz (Adaptive) |
Peak Brightness | 1,800 nits (HDR) / 2,700 nits (Peak) | 500 nits (Typical) / 550 nits (HBM) |
Main Camera | 50MP Wide (f/1.68, 82° FOV), Octa PD AF, OIS | 50MP, f/1.8, PDAF (1/2.76" sensor) |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 48MP Ultra-Wide (f/1.7, 123° FOV) with Macro Focus | 5MP, f/2.2, 115-degree FOV |
Telephoto Camera | N/A (No dedicated telephoto lens) | No (Not supported) — Includes 2MP Depth Sensor f/2.4 |
Optical Zoom | 2x Optical Quality (via sensor crop) | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 8x Super Res Zoom | Up to 10x |
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 | 8MP, f/2.0, 1080p @ 30fps |
Battery | 4,700 mAh (Typical) | 5,010mAh (Typical) |
Wired Charging | Up to 27W (charges up to 55% in ~30 min with Google 45W USB-C Charger) | 18W Fast Charging (Charger included in box) |
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 | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC |
USB | USB Type-C 3.2 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
Durability | IP68 (Dust and water resistant); Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (front/back); Fingerprint-resistant coating | No official IP rating |
Dimensions | 6.0" x 2.8" x 0.3" (152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm) | 6.60 x 2.97 x 0.32 in (167.6 x 75.5 x 8.2 mm) |
Weight | 7.0 oz (198 g) | 6.88 oz (195 g) |
Biometrics | Ultrasonic Fingerprint Unlock; Face Unlock | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock |
Extras | Satellite SOS; Gemini AI integrated; VPN by Google One; Car Crash Detection | Stereo speakers (DTS Sound), 3.5mm Headphone Jack, microSD slot, 18W Charger included |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
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)
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

TCL 50 XL 5G
✓ Pros:
- • Huge 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz display is rare for this price
- • Includes 18W charger, cable, and sometimes a case in the box
- • 6GB real RAM + 128GB storage is generous for the budget tier
- • Features NFC for contactless payments (often cut in budget phones)
- • Retains user-favorite 3.5mm jack and microSD expansion
✗ Cons:
- • Ultrawide camera is low resolution (5MP) and muddy
- • No official IP rating for water or dust resistance
- • Software support is minimal (only 1 OS update guaranteed)
- • Display brightness struggles in direct sunlight (~500 nits)
- • Video recording capped at 1080p (No 4K support)
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Which one is better?
The Google Pixel 9 is the better buy for most people - its 12GB RAM crushes the TCL 50 XL 5G's 6GB, ensuring smoother multitasking.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Google Pixel 9 if: you need a top-notch camera for photography, multitask frequently with apps, or want the latest software updates for years. (6.3" display, 4700 mAh battery)
Choose the TCL 50 XL 5G if: you prefer a large display for media consumption, want a budget-friendly device, or need expandable storage with a microSD card. (6.78" display, 5010 mAh battery)
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. TCL 50 XL 5G is better if you prioritize huge 6.78-inch fhd+ 120hz display is rare for this price. 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.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.
