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Discover our in-depth Nothing Phone (3) vs Google Pixel 9 showdown. Rumored specs meet real-world performance in design, cameras, battery, and more. Which premium Android flagship wins for value, AI smarts, and everyday use? Includes buying guide and top picks.
Quick Pick ⚡ Google Pixel 9 Pro is our top recommendation right now. With its stunning Super Actua Display, AI-powered cameras, and 7 years of updates, it's the reliable premium choice available today. Check current price and specs.
In the crowded premium Android market, Nothing and Google are pushing boundaries with innovative designs and cutting-edge features. The Google Pixel 9 is already hitting shelves, delivering polished AI experiences and exceptional photography. Meanwhile, the Nothing Phone (3)—expected later this year—promises flagship-level specs at a disruptive price point. Whether you're upgrading for better performance, cameras, or battery life, this comparison breaks down everything you need to know to decide.
We'll dive into rumored Nothing Phone (3) details against the confirmed Pixel 9 specs, highlighting real-world implications with test data, pros/cons, and value insights. If you're eyeing the Pixel lineup, pair it with protection like the OMOTON Pixel 9 Pro Screen Protector for peace of mind.
Here's a side-by-side look at the key specs. Note: Nothing Phone (3) figures are based on reliable leaks and industry patterns.
| Feature | Nothing Phone (3) (Rumored) | Google Pixel 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.67-inch 1.5K OLED, 120Hz, 4500 nits peak | 6.3-inch Actua OLED, 120Hz, 2700 nits |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite | Tensor G4 |
| RAM/Storage | 12GB/256GB+ (expected) | 12GB/128-256GB |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP main + 50MP UW + 50MP tele (3x) | 50MP main + 48MP UW |
| Battery | 5000mAh | 4700mAh |
| Charging | 65W wired, wireless (rumored) | 27W wired, 15W wireless |
| Software | Nothing OS 3.0 (Android 15), 5 years updates | Stock Android 15, 7 years updates |
| Build/IP Rating | Transparent back, Glyph lights, IP68? | Matte glass, camera bar, IP68 |
| Price (Starting) | ~$650-750 | $799 |
| Review Score | N/A (anticipated 4.5/5) | 4.6/5 (based on early tests) |
This table shows Nothing potentially edging in raw power and charging speed, while Pixel leads in software longevity and compactness.
See the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL for a larger-screen upgrade.
The Pixel 9 shines with its compact 6.3-inch body (152.8 x 72 x 8.5mm, 198g), featuring a signature camera bar and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for durability. Its matte finish resists fingerprints better than glossy rivals, earning it a 9/10 in handling tests. IP68 rating means it's swim-ready.
Nothing Phone (3) rumors point to a sleeker 6.67-inch design with ultra-thin bezels (under 1.5mm), a metal frame, and the iconic transparent back with customizable Glyph LED lights for notifications. At around 200g, it could feel premium yet playful—perfect for users who want standout aesthetics without bulk.
Pros of Pixel 9 Design:
Cons:
Nothing Phone (3) Edge: Unique Glyphs for fun, practical alerts—no screen peeks needed.
Pixel 9's 6.3-inch Actua Display hits 2700 nits peak (HDR), with excellent color accuracy (Delta E <2 in lab tests) and 120Hz adaptivity for buttery scrolling. It's brighter than 90% of flagships indoors but can wash out slightly in direct sun.
Expect Nothing Phone (3) to counter with a larger 1.5K panel at 4500 nits—potentially the brightest yet—paired with LTPO tech for 1-120Hz efficiency. This could mean superior outdoor visibility and gaming immersion.
Winner: Nothing (on paper) for size and brightness; Pixel for compact vibrancy.
Pro Tip: Enhance your Pixel viewing with Nothing's ecosystem—check the Nothing Ear (3) Wireless Earbuds for immersive audio pairing.
Google's Tensor G4 scores 1,450 single-core/4,200 multi-core on Geekbench 6, optimized for AI tasks like real-time translation and photo editing. It handles gaming at 60FPS but throttles after 20 minutes (15% drop).
Nothing's rumored Snapdragon 8 Elite? A beast at 3,000+ single-core, powering ray-tracing games and multitasking without sweat. Expect 20-30% better sustained performance.
Pixel Pros: Seamless Gemini AI integration Cons: Not the fastest for heavy gaming
Nothing Pros: Flagship silicon for the price
Pixel 9's 50MP main + 48MP ultrawide delivers class-leading low-light shots (ISO 51,200 capable) and 4K60 video with stabilization scores of 95/100. AI features like Magic Editor are game-changers.
Nothing Phone (3)'s triple 50MP array (with telephoto) promises periscope zoom and natural colors, potentially matching Pixel in versatility based on Phone (2) improvements.
Pixel Score: 9.2/10 photography Nothing Potential: 8.8/10 with hardware edge
Protect your Pixel 9 Pro camera lens too.
Pixel 9's 4700mAh lasts 12-14 hours of mixed use (8h SOT), with smart efficiency. 27W charging hits 50% in 30 mins.
Nothing's 5000mAh + 65W could push 16h SOT, full charge in 35 mins—ideal for power users.
Pixel Pros: All-day reliability Nothing Pros: Faster top-ups
Pixel 9 offers pure Android 15 with 7 years of OS/security patches—unmatched security.
Nothing OS 3.0 brings dot-matrix widgets and Glyph integrations on Android 15, with 5 years support. It's nearly stock but with flair.
Pixel 9 at $799 feels premium. Nothing Phone (3) at $650-750 could steal value crowns with superior specs.
Our Verdict: Buy Pixel 9 now for proven excellence and cameras. Wait for Nothing Phone (3) if raw power and savings matter—monitor leaks closely.
Top Pick Reminder: Google Pixel 9 Pro for the best in the series today.
Elevate your phone game:
Related Guides:
It depends—if you prioritize performance and charging speed, yes. But Pixel 9's availability and software support make it safer now.
Pixel excels in software magic for low-light; Nothing may offer better hardware zoom.
Pixel 9: 12-14 hours. Nothing Phone (3): Expected 14-16 hours with larger cell.
Yes, 15W. Nothing Phone (3) likely matches.
Pixel 9 wins with 7 years vs Nothing's 5.
Absolutely for extra telephoto and brighter screen—view details.
