The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold packs a lot of promise. After using it for a solid stretch, I can confidently say it’s one of the most impressive foldables made so far. Still, if you’re considering it, there are key things you should know—both the good and the not-so-good.
The folding tech here has undoubtedly improved since the first Pixel Fold, but it’s not without trade-offs. In this review, I’ll share what makes the Pixel 9 Pro Fold stand out—and why some might want to hold off for the next version.
First Impressions
Let’s start with the design. With every folding phone, you’re going to have some complexity behind the physical build. Google managed to make this device look pretty sleek, but there’s been some chatter about that camera bump on the back. It’s not the most elegant solution, though it hasn’t bothered me practically speaking. Do I wish it was wider and more consistent, like the Pixel 9 series? Definitely. But for a folding phone, you’ve got to cut it some slack.
The body of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold feels much slimmer and more comfortable in the hand compared to last year’s model. Google has squared off the sides, giving it a more modern flagship look, similar to what you’d see on a premium non-foldable like the iPhone or Galaxy series. It’s thinner, the matte finish helps, and it doesn’t feel as bulky.
That said, opening and closing the device is a bit trickier with the new square edges compared to the rounded sides from the last model. While the rounded sides made prying it open easier, the squared-off look just feels more in line with 2023 design standards.
The Display and Design Refinements
The exterior design is one thing, but when it comes to the display, there are some significant updates to note. First off, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold now features a 6.3-inch, 1080p AMOLED display—which is larger than the previous “passport-sized” version. The larger screen gives a more typical flagship experience when using it folded.
The main internal display has also seen upgrades, expanding from 7.6 inches to 8 inches. It’s taller, has an impressive 2,700 nits brightness, and features dynamic 120Hz LTPO tech for the internal screen, though strangely not for the outer one. The cover screen not being LTPO is one of those weird quirks, given that’s the screen used most of the time and responsible for always-on functions.
Google has also improved the bezel situation. While we still see some bezels, they’re more uniform and don’t look as out of place as they did on the previous Pixel Fold. And yes, the annoying selfie camera on the bezel from last year is gone, replaced by a neater hole-punch.
The hardware, from the new hinge to the thinner profile, is impressive this year. The phone folds all the way flat, which is a big step up from last year’s model. The crease in the middle? It’s there, but it’s far less noticeable when you’re absorbed in whatever you’re doing.
Hardware That Stands Out
What Google has achieved with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s hardware is undeniably impressive. For foldables, which usually come with sacrifices, this phone stands out as above average in almost every technical aspect.
- Battery: Google managed to pack a 4650 mAh battery inside, which is slightly smaller than last year but still larger than most foldables.
- Water Resistance: With IPX8 water resistance, this phone can handle most daily mishaps, beyond what some foldables offer.
- Fingerprint Reader: It’s also worth mentioning the updated fingerprint reader. It’s flatter, snappier, and more reliable than before, making it a better experience than last year’s version.
However, it’s an $1,800 phone, meaning perfection is expected at this price point. So, when you don’t get features like fast charging or Qi2 wireless charging, those start to feel like real pain points. Wireless charging in particular can be finicky, and some chargers won’t play nicely with the device.
Pixel Software: Where It Truly Shines
There’s enough impressive hardware across foldables today—but it’s the Pixel software that steals the show with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
While some competitors, like Vivo or Xiaomi, offer hardware innovations, their software often lacks polish. Google’s software, on the other hand, feels comprehensive and optimized. You get everything that makes the Pixel lineup special, from Call Screening to Google Lens integration, Circle to Search, and multiple other AI-powered features.
The foldable optimizations in Android are also key here. Apps like Settings, the Notification Shade, and plenty of first-party features adapt fluidly to the two-column, large-screen format. Multitasking feels so much better with this form factor: it’s easier to watch a YouTube video in Picture-in-Picture mode while scrolling through an article or taking notes. It elevates productivity in a way that’s rare for foldables.
The Camera Trade-Offs
What’s a Pixel without great camera tech? Well, here’s where we start to see some compromises because of the folding form factor. Google had to make space for everything inside, and that meant opting for smaller sensors compared to the Pixel 9 Pro.
- Photo Quality: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s camera is still good but noticeably softer, especially in lower light. The photos maintain that signature Pixel high-contrast look with decent dynamic range, but the sharpness falls short as it gets darker or in more complex conditions. It feels reminiscent of something like a Pixel 7 Pro camera, which, while great, isn’t the flagship standard of 2023.
- Casual Users: If photography isn’t your main priority, this downgrade might not be a deal-breaker. Casual snaps still look excellent in most scenarios. But if you’re someone who relies on the quality a flagship Pixel typically delivers, this could be a tough compromise at this price.
The Tensor Chip Dilemma
The Tensor G4 chip is also an area of potential concern. While most daily tasks feel smooth and responsive, Tensor has always lagged behind Qualcomm in sheer power and efficiency, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is no exception.
It handles everyday tasks fine, especially with 16GB RAM, but for power users—those who want high-end gaming or future-proofing over several years—it may start to show its limits more quickly than other flagship devices.
What’s also worth noting is the 7 years of promised software updates. This sounds amazing, but you may start wondering if the hardware will hold up for that long, especially if the Tensor chip shows its age after just a few years.
The good news? Rumor has it the next-generation Tensor might switch to Google’s own fully custom silicon, potentially with a major shift on performance and efficiency. If that happens, waiting for Pixel 10 Fold makes a lot more sense for some users.
Should You Buy the Pixel 9 Pro Fold?
It’s hard to answer that with a simple yes or no. This phone, in many ways, is one of the best, most refined foldables ever made. The hinge, the displays, the overall experience—it’s all undeniably premium. This phone does the two-in-one concept better than most competitors, switching from a regular flagship to a mini tablet with ease.
However, the Tensor chip’s limitations and the camera sacrifices may leave some users feeling like they have to make compromises for $1,800. And with rumors swirling about the next Tensor generation being a leap forward, it might be worth holding out just a little longer.
But, if you’re already sold on foldables or need one today, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold absolutely delivers a standout experience. It’s my favorite foldable to date, proving that Google has nailed much of what makes a great folding phone.
So, is it time to jump in with the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold or wait for next year’s potential Tensor breakthrough? That decision might come down to just how much performance and camera versatility mean to you.
