Galaxy S9 vs Pixel 2 XL: Which One to Buy?

Galaxy S9 vs Pixel 2 XL: Design

If the specs and display both go to Samsung, the design might be where Google gets a win. These are two great phones, but they're each pretty unique too. 

When it comes to the design there's only so much you can do with a big 6-inch phone with small bezels. The Galaxy S9 looks almost identical to the Galaxy S8, which isn't a bad thing. It's all metal, glass, rounded edges, nice curves, and looks great. It's a high-end phone that's built to last. The only real change is the centered fingerprint scanner or the dual cameras on the bigger S9+. 

However, Google's is too. They're both water-resistant, and they both look good. If there's a plus for Google's Pixel 2 XL, it's the dual front-facing speakers. The sound you get from the Pixel 2 XL is excellent. The speakers aim at you and deliver crisp sound. 

Samsung's S9 does finally have stereo speakers, which is great. They claim they're 1.4x louder, and one is front-facing. It's not dual front-facing speakers, but they should be vastly improved. 

The design is a personal choice. Do you like the two-tone finish of Google's phone and its speakers or the sleek Galaxy S8/S9 design? Take your pick.