Pixel 9a VS Xiaomi 15 Ultra
Pixel 9a
6.3-inch OLED 120Hz · Tensor G4 · 5100mAh · 48MP · IP68
MSRP
Xiaomi 15 Ultra
6.73-inch LTPO AMOLED 120Hz · Snapdragon 8 Elite · 5410mAh · 50MP · IP68
MSRP
Our verdict
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra takes the performance lead, 12% ahead overall, driven by its Snapdragon 8 Elite and an AnTuTu score of 2,950,000.
On value the Pixel 9a stands out at $499, pairing a 48MP main camera with a 5100mAh battery.
For most buyers the Pixel 9a is the smarter choice.
Performance winner
Xiaomi 15 Ultra
12% faster overall
Best value for money
Pixel 9a
21% better value per dollar
Pixel 9a best for
Value for money
21% better value per dollar
Overview
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra comes out ahead overall, scoring 92 to the Pixel 9a's 82. Priced at $1499 against $499, the choice between them is as much about budget as specs, and each phone leans toward a slightly different buyer.
Performance
For raw speed the Xiaomi 15 Ultra takes the lead, with an AnTuTu score of 2,950,000 against 1,150,000, driven by its Snapdragon 8 Elite. Both feel quick in everyday use, but the gap shows up in demanding games and heavy multitasking where the faster chip pulls ahead.
Cameras
The Pixel 9a pairs a 48MP main camera with optical zoom and a 13MP front sensor. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra answers with 50MP, zoom and a 32MP selfie camera.
Battery and charging
Battery favours the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, with a 5410mAh cell against 5100mAh. For refills the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is quickest at 90W, spending less time tied to a charger.
Display
Both use high refresh rate OLED screens. The Pixel 9a measures 6.3" and peaks at 2700 nits, while the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is 6.73" and reaches 3200 nits. Screen size and outright brightness are where they separate most.
Which should you buy
Overall the Pixel 9a is the one we would steer most buyers toward. Consider the Xiaomi 15 Ultra instead if longer battery life matters more to you.
battery
camera
display
Performance
Physical
software
Synthetic & compute benchmarks
Frequently asked questions
Is the Pixel 9a better than the Xiaomi 15 Ultra?
Overall the Xiaomi 15 Ultra scores 92 out of 100 against the Pixel 9a's 82, so it edges ahead on our combined rating. Even so, the two are close enough that price, size and your preferred ecosystem should also guide the decision.
Which has the better camera, the Pixel 9a or the Xiaomi 15 Ultra?
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra has the stronger camera on paper, leading with a 50MP main sensor and optical zoom. Both take excellent photos, but the Xiaomi 15 Ultra offers more reach and flexibility.
Which has better battery life, the Pixel 9a or the Xiaomi 15 Ultra?
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra carries the larger 5410mAh battery against 5100mAh, and the Xiaomi 15 Ultra charges fastest at 90W. For heavy all-day use the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is the safer bet.
Which is faster, the Pixel 9a or the Xiaomi 15 Ultra?
In benchmarks the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is quicker, posting an AnTuTu score of 2,950,000 against 1,150,000 thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Elite. Both handle everyday tasks smoothly, but the Xiaomi 15 Ultra pulls ahead in demanding games.
Should I buy the Pixel 9a or the Xiaomi 15 Ultra?
For most buyers the Pixel 9a is the smarter pick, balancing performance, features and price. Choose the Xiaomi 15 Ultra if longer battery life is your priority.
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