The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is undeniably one of the most beautiful smartphones of 2024. After using it for several months, I have come to appreciate its unique design and functionality. As an Apple user, transitioning to a Pixel device was an entirely new experience. While there are many aspects I love about this foldable phone, there are also areas where improvements could be made.

First Impressions and Design

Having never owned a Pixel phone before, the launch of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold initially went unnoticed. However, after seeing a friend use it during a trip to Berlin, my curiosity was piqued. Shortly after, I decided to purchase one, and it has been my secondary device ever since.

Visually, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold stands out. It feels premium, with high-quality materials and a design that eliminates the gaps seen in earlier foldables. While it is slightly heavier than a traditional smartphone, this weight contributes to its premium feel. The device is impressively flat when folded, making it comfortable to carry.

To maintain its sleek look, I opted for a dbrand skin and screen protector instead of a bulky case. However, one downside of using a foldable is that it collects lint, and I’m always cautious about dust or sand getting into the hinge, which could potentially cause damage.

Display and Performance

One of the standout features of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is its display. The inner screen is a stunning 8-inch OLED panel with a 120Hz variable refresh rate and a resolution of 2076 x 2152 pixels. With 2700 nits of peak brightness, it remains highly visible even under direct sunlight.

The outer display, a 6.4-inch OLED panel with the same 120Hz refresh rate, is equally impressive. Unlike the Samsung Fold 5, which had a narrow outer screen, the Pixel Fold’s display feels like using a regular smartphone. Most of the time, I keep it folded and use it as a traditional phone, unfolding it only when I need the extra screen space.

Productivity and Multitasking

The larger inner display makes tasks like reading, browsing, and watching videos more enjoyable. It feels like having an iPad Mini in my pocket. The screen enhances multitasking as well, allowing for a side-by-side split-screen experience. However, I would have liked to see additional options like a four-way split-screen or a desktop mode similar to Samsung DeX. Given the phone’s hardware capabilities, this feels like a missed opportunity.

Gaming Experience

Gaming on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is immersive, especially for games optimized for the larger display. While not all games take full advantage of the foldable screen, those that do look stunning. Pairing the device with a Razer Kishi controller transforms it into a handheld gaming console, providing an even better gaming experience.

Camera Performance

The camera on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has received mixed reactions. While it doesn’t match the Pixel 9 Pro, the images still look great, especially with Google’s excellent post-processing. For quick snaps and social media uploads, the camera is more than sufficient.

One of the unique advantages of a foldable phone is using the hinge to prop it up for hands-free photography. This is particularly useful for taking timed photos, group shots, or high-quality selfies using the rear camera while framing the shot on the front display. The ‘Made You Look’ feature, which displays animations on the front screen to grab attention, is a fun addition, especially for parents trying to capture photos of young children.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is decent but not exceptional. With moderate use, it lasts a full day, but heavy use—especially on the inner display—drains the battery quickly. The 21W fast charging speed is slower compared to other flagship devices, which could be an inconvenience for power users.

Price and Final Thoughts

The biggest drawback of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is its price. At $1800 for the base model and nearly $2000 for higher storage options, it is an expensive investment. While it is a fantastic device with a premium build and unique features, its high price makes it difficult to recommend as a primary phone for most users.

If you’re looking for something fresh and different, and budget is not a concern, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is arguably the best foldable phone on the market. However, for those who need a reliable, all-around device, a traditional flagship might be the better choice.