Pixel vs The Rest: Who Has the Cleanest Android?
Pixel vs The Rest: Who Has the Cleanest Android? in 2026: ranked by real specs like camera hardware, battery capacity, and display refresh rate. This guide, titled 'Pixel vs The Rest: Who Has the Cleanest Android?', offers a comparative analysis of the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, Nothing Phone (2), Moto G Stylus 5G (2024), and Samsung Galaxy S24, each with distinct features and performance metrics. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL stands out with its extensive 7-year software support and deep AI integration, making it ideal for users seeking long-term usability and advanced features. Meanwhile, the Nothing Phone (2) offers a unique design and clean interface, perfect for those who value aesthetics and a bloatware-free experience. When choosing the best smartphone, consider factors such as software longevity, camera capabilities, AI integration, and design preferences. Use the buttons above to check current prices and availability.
Top picks
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The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL takes the top spot due to its industry-leading 7-year software support, ensuring longevity and security for users. Its deep AI integration with Gemini AI and Pixel Drop exclusive features provide a smart and evolving user experience. The versatile camera system and stunning Super Actua display further enhance its appeal. Tap the button to see today's price and availability.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 offers top-tier performance with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy chip, ensuring smooth operation and multitasking. Its compact design and robust build quality make it ideal for users seeking a powerful yet portable device. The 7-year software update commitment adds to its long-term value. Tap the button to see today's price and availability.
The Nothing Phone (2) stands out with its unique Glyph Interface and transparent design, appealing to users who value aesthetics. Its clean, bloatware-free software ensures a smooth and user-friendly experience. With solid performance from the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, it balances style and functionality. Tap the button to see today's price and availability.
The Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) offers excellent value with its built-in stylus and large 6.7-inch pOLED display. It caters to users looking for a budget-friendly device with stylus capabilities, ideal for note-taking and creative tasks. The inclusion of wireless charging at this price point is a rare find. Tap the button to see today's price and availability.
How to decide
Bloatware comparison: Samsung vs Google vs Motorola
Bloatware remains a significant concern for smartphone users, impacting device performance and user experience. Google's Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a pure Android experience with minimal pre-installed apps, focusing on essential Google services. In contrast, Samsung's Galaxy S24 includes its suite of apps and services, which, while useful, can be considered bloatware by some users. Motorola's Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) comes with a moderate amount of pre-installed apps, which may detract from its otherwise clean interface. The Nothing Phone (2) prides itself on a stripped-down, bloatware-free experience, emphasizing user control over installed applications. Understanding the level of bloatware is essential for users who prioritize a streamlined interface and optimal performance.
Update speed: Who gets Android 16 first?
Update speed is critical for maintaining security and accessing the latest features. Google's Pixel 9 Pro XL leads the pack with its promise of receiving Android updates promptly, often being the first to receive new versions like Android 16. Samsung's Galaxy S24 follows closely with a robust update schedule, promising 7 generations of OS upgrades. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2024), however, lags with only one major OS upgrade guaranteed, which could impact long-term usability. The Nothing Phone (2) offers a middle ground with three years of Android OS upgrades, ensuring users remain relatively current. For users prioritizing timely updates, the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Galaxy S24 are compelling choices.
AI integration depth
AI integration is a growing trend in smartphones, enhancing user experience and device functionality. The Pixel 9 Pro XL features deep AI integration with its Gemini AI, offering smart features like Video Boost and exclusive Pixel Drop capabilities. Samsung's Galaxy S24 integrates Galaxy AI, which includes features like Circle to Search and Live Translate, enhancing everyday usability. The Nothing Phone (2) and Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) offer basic AI features, focusing more on performance stability and user interface. For users seeking advanced AI capabilities, the Pixel 9 Pro XL provides the most comprehensive AI experience, followed by the Galaxy S24 with its practical AI features.
Pixel Drop exclusive features
Pixel Drop features are exclusive enhancements available to Google Pixel users, offering new functionalities and improvements beyond standard Android updates. The Pixel 9 Pro XL benefits from these exclusive features, such as Video Boost for enhanced video quality and regular Pixel Drop updates that introduce new capabilities and optimizations. These features ensure the Pixel devices remain at the forefront of innovation, providing users with a continually evolving experience. In contrast, competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S24, Nothing Phone (2), and Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) do not have equivalent exclusive feature updates, relying instead on periodic software enhancements. For users looking for a dynamic and evolving smartphone experience, the Pixel 9 Pro XL's Pixel Drop features are a significant advantage.
Conclusion
The main differences between these smartphones lie in their software support, AI integration, and design philosophies. For users seeking long-term usability and advanced AI features, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is highly recommended. Those prioritizing performance and compact design will find the Samsung Galaxy S24 appealing. Design enthusiasts will appreciate the Nothing Phone (2)'s unique aesthetics, while budget-conscious users will benefit from the Moto G Stylus 5G's stylus and display features. Warranty and availability are strong across the U.S., ensuring users can purchase with confidence. Use the buttons above to see live pricing and stock.