The Pixel 11 Pro XL has arrived with a price that changes the usual calculation for buyers weighing Google against Samsung. Rising RAM prices have pushed Google to lift its pricing, and the new flagship now costs around £1,020, placing it on par with the Galaxy S26 Ultra. For years Pixel phones were the more affordable choice, but that is no longer the case.
Both handsets take a conservative approach to battery capacity. The Galaxy S26 Ultra leads on the number of cameras, charging speed and features such as its Privacy Display, while the Pixel focuses heavily on AI, catches up on camera hardware and introduces film-inspired photography through its new Camera Looks.
Design and display
Flat sides, flat displays and slim bezels make most modern phones look alike, and these two are no exception. Each keeps its own identity, however. The Pixel retains its distinctive camera bar, while the Galaxy is recognisable by its vertical pill-shaped camera island.
Both are large devices. The Pixel 11 Pro XL measures 162.6 x 76.2 x 7.6 mm and weighs 226.8 g, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra measures 163.6 x 78.1 x 7.9 mm and weighs 214.0 g, making it slightly thinner and lighter. The Pixel offers a 6.8-inch form factor, twice the scratch resistance on the screen and a brighter panel reaching 3,600 nits. The Galaxy counters with a 6.9-inch screen, superb antireflection coating, its Privacy Display feature and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits.
Performance and cameras
Google’s device runs the Tensor G6 chip, promising improved power efficiency and stronger TPU compute, paired with 12GB of RAM in the 256GB version and 16GB in the 512GB model. The Galaxy uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 with 12GB of RAM in its base model.
The Pixel 11 Pro XL carries three cameras, including a new main sensor and a new, larger 5X telephoto sensor, along with a custom colourful HiLight LED on the back for notifications. The Galaxy S26 Ultra features four rear cameras: a 200MP main, a 50MP ultra-wide, a 50MP 5X telephoto and a 10MP 3X telephoto.
Battery and charging
The Pixel packs a 5115mAh battery with 45W wired charging and 25W Qi 2.2 wireless charging. The Galaxy holds a 5000mAh battery with 60W wired charging and 25W wireless charging.
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Image: phonearena.com
