What are the key differences between the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the standard Pixel 9?

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers a foldable design with a larger internal display, enhancing multitasking and media consumption. In contrast, the Google Pixel 9 features a traditional single-screen design.

How durable is the Pixel 9 Pro Fold's hinge mechanism?

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold features a refined hinge mechanism designed for smooth folding and enhanced durability, tested for over 200,000 folds to ensure longevity.

Does the Pixel 9 Pro Fold support stylus input for note-taking or drawing?

Currently, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold does not support stylus input.

What charging options are available for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold?

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold supports 30W fast wired charging and is compatible with Qi wireless chargers for convenient wireless charging.

Are there any known issues with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold's inner display?

Some users have reported concerns about the inner display's durability, particularly regarding potential screen issues.

Reviews21 Feb 2025Posted byLiam Harris

Pixel 9 Pro Fold Long-Term Review: Is It Still Worth It?

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold made waves when it first launched, positioning itself as Google’s best attempt at a premium foldable phone. But months later, does it still hold up in everyday use? Has the excitement worn off, or is this Google’s most exciting phone yet?

Unlike typical reviews that only focus on specs, this long-term review dives into real-world usage—how it performs over time, whether the hinge holds up, how the battery fares, and if the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is still worth buying in 2025.

What Makes the Pixel 9 Pro Fold Stand Out?

Design & Build

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold still feels like a premium device months later. The sleek aluminum frame, matte glass back, and thin profile make it stand out. Unlike some bulkier foldables, Google has balanced size, weight, and usability well.

Key Design Highlights:

Thin and lightweight for a foldable, feeling like a regular phone when closed.
Matte back finish in Obsidian and Porcelain resists fingerprints better than glossy finishes.
A gapless hinge makes it look and feel more refined than its predecessor.

One of the most impressive aspects is that the front display is usable. Many foldable struggle with awkwardly narrow outer screens, but the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s cover display feels like a standard smartphone, making daily use practical and convenient.

Display

Outer Display (6.4-inch OLED, 120Hz)

Feels like a standard phone, no awkwardly tall or narrow screen.
Bright and vibrant for outdoor use.

Inner Display (7.9-inch OLED, 120Hz)

Large enough for seamless multitasking.
Less visible crease compared to the previous foldable, but still noticeable.

One standout feature is that this foldable remains incredibly thin when closed. Some competitors sacrifice usability on the outer display to prioritize the inner screen, but Google has struck an impressive balance.

However, one issue that has become noticeable over time is that the inner screen is a fingerprint magnet, requiring frequent cleaning.

Hinge & Durability

Google improved the hinge significantly in this generation. After months of daily use, it still feels smooth and solid, with no creaks or looseness.

Long-Term Durability Notes:

Tested for 200,000 plus folds, and it still feels sturdy.
IPX8 water resistance protects against spills.
Minimal visible wear on the hinge.

However, one concern that has emerged over time is a sticky feeling in the crease when pressing down on the inner screen. It is not a deal-breaker, but it does raise questions about long-term durability.

Performance & Software

The Tensor G4 chip is not the most powerful processor on the market, but it shines in real-world usage.

Performance Takeaways:

AI-driven features make everyday use smoother, with Call Screening, Live Translations, and Magic Eraser working seamlessly.
Handles multitasking well, making good use of the larger screen.
Two-app multitasking is smooth but lacks floating window support.

For those who love Google’s software experience, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold delivers an ultra-premium take on stock Android.

Camera

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers one of the best foldable camera setups, but it has its limitations.

Camera Specs:

50MP main sensor captures detailed and vibrant shots, even in low light.
48MP telephoto (5x zoom) performs well but struggles in low-light conditions.
12MP ultrawide lens lacks detail compared to other flagship ultrawide.

While daylight shots look fantastic, the telephoto and ultrawide lenses are not as sharp as what is found on the Pixel 9 Pro or other premium flagships. For casual users, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold still offers a solid photography experience, but if camera quality is the top priority, there are better options.

Battery Life & Charging

Battery life was one of the biggest complaints early on, but software updates have improved things.

Battery Performance:

4,800mAh battery lasts a full day with moderate use.
30W wired fast charging, reaching 50 percent charge in 30 minutes.
Wireless charging works, but does not align properly with the Pixel Stand.

If constantly switching between the cover screen and inner display, battery life can be inconsistent. However, for most users, it comfortably lasts a day.

What Could Be Better?

While the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is one of the most exciting foldable, it is not without compromises.

The premium price tag of A$2,699 is steep, but you can get a Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 5G (256GB) [Grade A] for A$1,699 at Phonebot.
The telephoto and ultrawide cameras need improvement.
The fingerprint reader placement is too high, making one-handed unlocking difficult.
Wireless charging does not align properly with the Pixel Stand.

Despite these drawbacks, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold remains one of the best foldables Google has ever made.

Final Verdict: Is the Pixel 9 Pro Fold Still Worth Buying?

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is not just a phone—it is an experience. Months after launch, it still feels exciting every time it is unfolded, something most smartphones cannot offer.

A refined, premium foldable design that feels great to use.
One of the best foldable cameras, despite minor limitations.
A clean stock Android experience with Google’s AI-powered features.

But is it worth A$2,699?

If looking for a foldable that feels like a real phone when closed and offers stock Android without bloat, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a top contender.
If looking for a premium foldable at a lower price, a Google refurbished phone from Phonebot is a smarter way to buy.

This remains one of the most exciting foldables available today, and if a foldable phone that truly feels premium is the goal, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is still a great choice.

Posted by Liam Harris

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Liam Harris

I’m Liam Harris, a tech writer at Phonebot with a passion for technology. I provide trusted insights on refurbished phones, tablets, and accessories, focusing on quality, sustainability, and affordability. With a solid understanding of the refurbished market, I offer practical tips, product comparisons, and the latest tech updates to help you make informed decisions. My goal is to connect you with high-quality devices that fit your budget and lifestyle. Stay tuned for more on the best in refurbished tech here at Phonebot.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold Long-Term Review: Is It Still Worth It?