Specifications
| Feature | OnePlus 13 | Pixel 9 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | Nov 1, 2024 | Sep 9, 2024 |
| Build & Protection | Ceramic Guard, IP68/IP69 | Gorilla Glass Victus 2, IP68 |
| Display | 6.82″ LTPO 4.1 AMOLED, 1440×3168, 4500 nits | 6.3″ LTPO OLED, 1280×2856, 3000 nits |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Elite (3nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) |
| RAM & Storage | Up to 24GB RAM, 1TB UFS 4.0 | 16GB RAM, up to 1TB UFS 3.1 |
| Main Cameras | 50MP (Wide) + 50MP (Tele 3x) + 50MP (Ultra-wide) | 50MP (Wide) + 48MP (5x Periscope) + 48MP (Ultra-wide) |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, 4K@60fps | 42MP, 4K@60fps |
| Battery | 6000mAh, 100W wired, 50W wireless | 4700mAh, 27W wired, 21W wireless |
| OS & Updates | Android 15, 4 years updates | Android 14/15, 7 years updates |
| Performance (AnTuTu) | 2,690,491 (v10) | 1,088,917 (v10) |
| Extra Features | IR Blaster, Hi-Res Audio, Dolby Vision, Hasselblad color | UWB, Satellite SOS, Circle to Search |
| Price (Approx.) | $829 / ₹69,997 | $759 / ₹65,000 |
Review
In early 2025, the Android flagship landscape is more competitive than ever, with the OnePlus 13 and Pixel 9 Pro standing out as two of the top contenders. Outside of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, these two devices are setting the benchmark for what high-end Android smartphones should offer. But when it comes to choosing between them, things get a little tricky. On paper, the OnePlus 13 may appear to have a commanding lead but specs aren’t the full story. Let’s take a deep dive into both and settle the debate:.
Software Experience
When it comes to software, the divide becomes more subjective. The OnePlus 13 runs on OxygenOS based on Android 15, while the Pixel 9 Pro features Google’s signature Pixel experience, also based on Android 15.
OxygenOS has a dedicated fan base, thanks to its performance-oriented tweaks, clean visuals, and fast animations. Meanwhile, the Pixel 9 Pro brings Google’s best software tricks, including AI-powered features, Google Photos integration, and the exclusive Pixel Studio tools. Pixel software feels a bit more cohesive, and Google is promising six years of full platform updates, compared to four years for the OnePlus 13.
If you’re a fan of clean, intelligent Android with a strong AI presence, the Pixel wins here. But OxygenOS is a close second for power users who want speed and control.
Performance
This is where the OnePlus 13 really flexes its muscle. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Elite, it outperforms the Pixel 9 Pro’s Tensor G4 in benchmarks and real-world use. The OnePlus comes with more RAM and double the base storage, making it a powerhouse for multitasking, gaming, and media consumption.
That said, the Pixel 9 Pro isn’t exactly a slouch. While it doesn’t top the charts in raw performance, it handles everything from heavy apps to multitasking with ease. Day-to-day, most users won’t notice a huge difference unless they’re pushing the phones to the limit.
For future-proofing and longevity, the OnePlus 13’s Qualcomm chip may hold up better over time, especially for performance-intensive tasks.
Battery Life & Charging
Here, the OnePlus 13 wins without debate. Its 6,000mAh battery dwarfs the 4,700mAh cell in the Pixel 9 Pro. That translates into about two full days of use for the OnePlus versus one and a half for the Pixel.
Add to that much faster wired and wireless charging speeds, and the OnePlus is clearly the better pick for battery-conscious users. Pixel’s battery life isn’t bad, but OnePlus simply outclasses it.
Design & Build
Both phones are premium, but with different philosophies. The OnePlus 13 is bigger and bolder, with a matte finish, an IP69 rating (better than Pixel’s IP68), and the iconic alert slider. The Pixel 9 Pro opts for a more compact, pocketable form factor with flatter sides and a curved chassis that feels great in hand.
Both feature premium materials and solid build quality, but personal preference will matter here. Do you want something sleek and pocket-friendly? Go Pixel. Want something big, bold, and rugged? OnePlus is the way.
Display
The OnePlus 13 sports a massive AMOLED LTPO panel with 120Hz refresh and HDR support. It gets brighter and slightly sharper than the Pixel, making it perfect for watching content and gaming. However, the Pixel 9 Pro’s completely flat display is easier for screen protectors and some users may prefer its cleaner look.
Overall, OnePlus edges it in raw display specs, but the Pixel is still excellent.
Camera System
Pixel phones have long ruled mobile photography, and the Pixel 9 Pro keeps up that tradition with strong computational photography, AI features, and a great selfie shooter. The Video Boost feature takes smartphone video to new heights though it requires cloud processing.
The OnePlus 13 fights back with Hasselblad color tuning, improved sensors, and recent software updates that have fixed early video issues. Its photos have more pop, while the Pixel stays true to life. The telephoto debate is closePixel uses a 5x zoom with a smaller sensor, while OnePlus offers a 3x zoom with a larger sensor.
Selfies go to the Pixel 9 Pro, thanks to its higher-resolution, wider-angle front camera.
Verdict: OnePlus 13 vs Pixel 9 Pro
So which is better? It depends on what you value most.
- Choose the OnePlus 13 if you want a large, high-performance phone with industry-leading battery life, fast charging, and customizable software.
- Choose the Pixel 9 Pro if you prefer a smaller design, more advanced software features, superior long-term support, and class-leading photography.
Both are top-tier Android phones. But in 2025, the OnePlus 13 takes the crown for its unmatched blend of hardware prowess, speed, and endurance. Still, the Pixel 9 Pro holds its own with an exceptional software and camera experience.
Whether you’re a power user, a content creator, or just someone who loves beautiful design and long battery life, both phones deserve your attention. Let us know in the comments: Which would you pick in the OnePlus 13 vs Pixel 9 Pro debate?
FAQs
Which phone has better battery life, the OnePlus 13 or Pixel 9 Pro?
The OnePlus 13 has significantly better battery life, thanks to its 6,000mAh battery compared to the Pixel 9 Pro’s 4,700mAh cell.
Does the Pixel 9 Pro have better cameras than the OnePlus 13?
Yes, especially in terms of computational photography and video features. The Pixel also has a better selfie camera.
Which phone gets more software updates?
The Pixel 9 Pro gets 6 years of updates, while the OnePlus 13 gets 4 years of major Android upgrades.
Is the OnePlus 13 better for gaming?
Yes, thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Elite chip and higher RAM and storage configuration.
Which is more compact and easy to use one-handed?
The Pixel 9 Pro is more compact with a sleeker, easier-to-handle design.
Which one supports faster charging?
The OnePlus 13 clearly wins here, offering significantly faster wired and wireless charging.
Do both phones support 5G and Wi-Fi?
Yes, both models support the latest 5G and Wi-Fi 7 standards.
Follow Phoonomo to never miss an update