Boring charging speeds have been a hallmark of Pixel phones for years. The original Pixel phone launched with a maximum charging speed of 18W (but only with certain charging stations). Eight years later, that went up to 27W on the Pixel 8. Compared to the whopping 100W+ charging speeds on Xiaomi and Oppo phones, this is an area that needs more improvement than shady AI tricks.
Things have changed, but only for those willing to pay a premium. While the wired and wireless charging speeds of the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro have remained unchanged from their predecessors, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a maximum charging speed of 37W. You’ll have to shell out $1,100 to take advantage of that.
That’s right, $1,100 for a charging speed that’s below the industry standard. These numbers are based on using Google’s 45W USB-C charger plugged into a wall outlet. This new charger is designed to pair with the Pixel 9 Pro XL, but has an 8W faster charging speed than the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Also, the Pixel 9 phones are not Qi2 certified. The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL offer wireless charging speeds of 15W, 21W, and 23W, respectively. However, you can’t use built-in Qi2 magnets when attaching accessories or charging your phone. You’ll need a case for that.
How to get the best charging speeds on Pixel 9 phones
The charging speeds on the Pixel 9 phones are disappointing, but there are still a few ways to make sure your phone hits the low bar set by Google every time you plug it into your charger.
First, get a charger that’s at least 30W (or 40W if you have the Pixel 9 Pro XL). While Google’s branded charger is a good option, at $30 it’s expensive for a charger with a USB-C port. The best chargers for the Pixel 8 also work for the Pixel 9, like the Ugreen 30W Nexode, which retails for $20. You can also find Google’s old 30W charger for $25.
Second, you should pay attention to the fast charging speed. In 30 minutes, the Pixel 9, 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL reach 50%, 55% and 70% respectively. This is impressive. Depending on the situation, you may have to wait up to two hours for the devices to reach 100%. Nevertheless, you can rely on the fast charging speed. For example, if you need to charge your Pixel 9 before heading home, plug it in 30 minutes before you leave to make sure you have at least half the battery left. Knowing these numbers will save you from waiting unnecessarily.
Third, if you use a wireless charger, choose the best one for your needs. All three phones reach their maximum wireless charging speed only with the Google Pixel 2 Gen Stand. Otherwise, each phone’s wireless charging speed is a measly 12W.
So here we are, another year, another round of disappointing charging speeds from Google. While the charging speeds aren’t exciting, the Pixel 9 has plenty of nifty features that make it a worthwhile upgrade.
Google Pixels 9
The Pixel 9 is Google’s most affordable flagship of 2024. It makes some compromises compared to the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL, but retains the Google smarts the lineup has become known for. An improved 48MP ultra-wide camera is paired with a 50MP main camera, and the selfie camera has additional autofocus. All of this comes with new Gemini AI features and a 2,700-nit Actua display for exceptional value in this price range.
