Google Pixel 9 Pro XLvsvivo S20

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

vivo S20

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is a classy flagship device that boasts a clean and great-looking design. Its display is the brightest around, making it perfect for still photos. The camera system, although not revolutionary, delivers excellent results during the day with crisp detail and well-balanced color rendition. The rear main camera captures high-contrast images with hints of pixelation in certain situations, but textures don't look overprocessed. The telephoto cam provides solid five-time zoom photos with good dynamic range and colors, but some competitors are sharper. The ultra-wide camera delivers bright exposures at night, although the detail level leaves more to be desired. The selfie camera has seen a significant upgrade this year, capturing nicely detailed selfies with vivid colors, lifelike skin tones, and excellent dynamic range. Video recording is where the Pixel 9 Pro XL falls short, particularly in low light conditions where the main cam's 4K videos are softer than the competition. Battery life has improved slightly from last year's model, but it still lags behind some competitors. Charging speed has been increased to 37 watts, and wireless charging and reverse wireless charging are supported. The device runs smoothly with hiccup-free performance in our testing. Overall, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is a solid flagship device that excels in still photography and AI features. Its display and design are top-notch, and software support will be available for an extended period. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking the most powerful chipset or video recording capabilities. If you're looking for alternatives, consider last year's Pixel 8 Pro or the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.

vivo S20

The Vivo S20 is a camera-focused phone that has just launched in China, with a global release expected under the name Vivo V50. This device boasts a fast refresh rate AMOLED display, an excellent portrait camera, and a slim and stylish design. One of its standout features is its battery life, which lasts up to two days on average use, despite being just 7.19mm thick and weighing only 190g. The phone's massive 6,500mAh battery can be charged from 0 to 100% in just 53 minutes using the included 90W fast charger. The camera setup is another major highlight, with a dual rear camera configuration featuring an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens and a 50MP main camera. The phone also comes equipped with optical image stabilization (OIS), a soft light feature for improved low-light photography, and advanced AI features for portrait mode and selfie photography. The display itself is a 6.67-inch AMOLED screen with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, although the phone's frame is made of plastic, which may show fingerprints. The device runs on OriginOS 5 based on Android 15, providing smooth animations and AI-driven features. The Vivo S20 starts at CNY 2299 in China, £250 in the UK, and $318 in the USA. While it excels in camera capabilities and battery life, its performance may not be the best choice for those seeking a high-end gaming experience. Overall, this phone is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking for a device that delivers excellent portrait shots and a long-lasting battery.