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The new Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is here, and if you're upgrading to a premium Android phone this year, you may wonder how it compares to its biggest competitor, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. Both phones are large and premium, offering some of the best features from Google and Samsung. 

Also: Pixel 11 Pro Fold vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra: How the big Android foldables compare

Though the Pixel 11 Pro XL was just announced, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has been around for a few months, so it's already been tested and used by a wider audience. Based on official information about the Pixel 11 Pro XL and our experience with the S26 Ultra, we'll break down the key differences between the two to help you choose the best option for your needs.

Specifications

How the new processor matches up

The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL features the Tensor G6 processor, built on TSMC's 2-nanometer process node, which delivers significant efficiency improvements for the Pixel in AI processing, battery life, and thermal management. However, the process node alone doesn't determine performance, especially when compared to the powerful Qualcomm chip within the S26 Ultra.

Also: This subtle Pixel 11 Pro feature reminded me of the golden days of Android phones

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra features the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. This chip features Qualcomm's third-generation Oryon CPU, Adreno GPU, and Hexagon NPU, for raw power and sustained performance. AI processes run quite smoothly on the S26 Ultra, as well as gaming and image processing. 

Once we have hands-on experience with the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL and benchmark tests on the Google Tensor G6, we'll have a better idea of how the new Pixel flagship compares to the S26 Ultra in terms of performance. 

What the cameras say so far

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra features a quad-camera array on the back, including a 200MP main camera, a 50MP ultrawide camera, a 10MP telephoto (3X), and a 50MP telephoto (5X). For comparison, the new Pixel 11 Pro XL features a triple-camera array with a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultrawide camera, and a 48MP telephoto camera. 

However, hardware alone doesn't necessarily translate into better photos. Google has long sold computational photography features on its Pixel phones that use AI to process images and improve quality. 

Also: I compared Google's pricier Pixel 11 series to Samsung's Galaxy lineup - here's the better value now

While Samsung features more camera hardware and versatility, with the ability for users to choose the camera they want to shoot with, the true test will largely depend on how each phone captures skin tones, moving objects, low-light images, and the telephoto lenses' performance. 

Pixel offers more fun in the sun

The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL features a brighter display than the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, and by a lot. The S26 Ultra features a 6.9-inch AMOLED screen with up to 2,600 nits peak brightness. The Pixel 11 Pro XL features up to 3,600 nits of peak brightness.

A higher peak brightness (measured in nits) indicates how well you'll be able to see your phone's display in sunny conditions. If you've ever been out in the sun and looked down at your dark phone, trying and failing to turn up the brightness so you can see what's on your screen, this specification should improve that. 

Writer's choice

Between the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL and the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, both of which start at $1,300, I have to give the latter the winner's ribbon in most categories. Unless the Google Tensor G6 processor can close the gap to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Elite, the Galaxy S26 Ultra promises a better raw performance than the Pixel 11 Pro XL. This translates into a better gaming experience, image processing, and efficiency.

Also: The new Pixel 11 isn't enough to make me give up my Pixel 9 Pro - here's why

However, that's not all -- the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra also features a stronger main camera setup with four cameras versus the 11 Pro XL's three, including a 200MP camera. Sure, the Pixel features a brighter display (by a lot), but the S26 Ultra also features the customizable Privacy Display feature and an included S Pen.