Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge vs. Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: Slim or XL?

In May 2025, two heavyweights in the smartphone game are set to redefine what it means to own a flagship device. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, bringing back the iconic Edge branding, is creating a stir for being one of the slimmest large phones ever seen. But is its sleek design worth sacrificing some key features, or does it stack up against the more robust Google Pixel 9 Pro XL? Let’s dive into the details.

The Return of Edge: Slimmer, Sleeker, and Powerful

Samsung’s decision to resurrect the Edge branding with the S25 Edge isn’t just a throwback to the Galaxy S7 Edge, but a statement. The S25 Edge is not just another premium device—it’s a marvel of modern design. With a display that measures a full 6.7 inches, this phone is clearly aiming to compete with the flagship giants, but there’s a twist: it’s only 5.9mm thick, making it slimmer than many of its competitors.

Think about it: most flagship phones these days are pushing the 8mm thickness mark, so Samsung’s decision to slim things down by a full 2mm is pretty impressive. But does that mean the S25 Edge compromises on performance? Absolutely not. This phone comes equipped with a Snapdragon processor, a beastly 200-megapixel camera, and an elegant design that might just make you forget the size of your wallet.

However, slim phones often come with their own set of drawbacks. Battery life, for instance, is a big concern when you try to make a device thinner than most. While the phone offers impressive specs, can it keep up with larger phones like the Pixel 9 Pro XL, which touts a beefier build?

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: The Larger, Stronger Competitor

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL isn’t just about size—it’s about balance. The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a larger display, more powerful internal hardware, and a battery that dwarfs the slimline offering of the Galaxy S25 Edge. It’s designed for users who prefer power over sleekness. Sporting a 6.9-inch display, this phone is an XL device in every sense, from the size to its processing prowess.

Where the S25 Edge pulls ahead with its slim design, the Pixel 9 Pro XL counters with raw performance. Powered by Google’s latest in-house chipset, combined with a powerful camera system, the Pixel 9 Pro XL promises not just quality visuals, but a user experience that remains smooth and lag-free even when multitasking. The larger frame also allows for a bigger battery, giving the Pixel 9 Pro XL better endurance over time compared to the S25 Edge.

And let’s not forget about software. The Google Pixel series is renowned for its stock Android experience, which often provides a cleaner, faster interface with quicker updates. If you’re someone who values seamless integration with Google services, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers the perfect ecosystem.

Both phones offer top-tier performance, but it’s the little details that might make a difference for some users. For example, while the S25 Edge’s slim profile might win over those looking for something sleek, the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s larger battery and bigger screen may appeal to those who want something a little more robust.

Which One Wins in Battery Life?

Here’s where things get interesting. The slim form factor of the S25 Edge means that Samsung had to be clever with its battery choices. It’s packing a 4,000mAh battery inside, which is relatively small compared to the 5,000mAh battery inside the Pixel 9 Pro XL. You might wonder—does the slim design of the S25 Edge make it fall short in terms of longevity?

The reality is, while the S25 Edge is likely to offer decent screen-on time, the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL will almost certainly outlast it. Whether you’re watching movies, gaming, or just browsing, the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s battery will hold up longer. However, if portability and style matter to you more, the S25 Edge could make a better first impression.

Here’s a quick look at their respective battery lives based on real-world testing:

• Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge: 14 hours of video playback

• Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: 18 hours of video playback

Cameras: Which Phone Captures the Best Shot?

Both phones come with impressive camera setups, but they are tailored to different types of users. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge boasts an astounding 200-megapixel primary camera, which is more than enough to capture the smallest details in high quality. If you’re someone who loves to take photos and videos, especially in ultra-high resolution, the S25 Edge will be hard to beat.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL, on the other hand, focuses on a more natural, AI-assisted photography experience. Google’s computational photography is among the best in the industry, so while its 150-megapixel camera might seem less impressive on paper, it produces stunning images in real-world conditions. It’s also great for low-light situations, where the Pixel’s software often makes a difference in preserving detail and color.

• S25 Edge: 200MP camera with 8K video support.

• Pixel 9 Pro XL: 150MP camera with advanced AI photo enhancements.

Design: Beauty in Slim or Bulk?

This is where personal preference really comes into play. The S25 Edge’s slim profile makes it feel light and premium in hand, and that’s something that appeals to people who like sleek designs. Its titanium silver, icy blue, and jet black options are elegant and easy on the eyes.

In contrast, the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s bulkier frame gives it a more solid, substantial feel. While it might not have the ultra-slim appeal of the S25 Edge, it feels like a phone built to last, and the extra screen real estate doesn’t hurt either. The colors are more subtle, focusing on professionalism rather than flashy looks.

So, which one is right for you? It depends on what you’re after. If you’re all about having a slim, eye-catching device with top-notch features, the S25 Edge is a fantastic choice. But if you’re looking for raw performance, a better battery, and a phone that offers a bit more bulk and power, the Pixel 9 Pro XL should be at the top of your list.