Google Pixel 9 is the latest flagship smartphone line from Google. All the models, especially the Pro variants, bring many upgrades. But one of the most surprising things about the phones is that they all use UFS 3.1. This is unusual because most other flagship smartphones released in 2024 use UFS 4.0 storage.
It’s unusual to find UFS 3.1 storage in a flagship smartphone. This choice is strange because of the trend of high-end Android devices featuring faster standards like UFS 4.0. UFS 3.1 is typically associated with more budget-friendly options. It aims to balance performance and cost. So, at least the Google Pixel 9 Pro models were expected to feature UFS 4.0.
How Bad Is UFS 3.1 of Google Pixel 9 When You Compare UFS 4.0 of Other Flagships?
Google’s Pixel 9 series has faced criticism due to its use of UFS 3.1 storage instead of the faster UFS 4.0 standard. Google has confirmed this decision despite rumors suggesting otherwise.
Benchmark tests conducted by Android Authority revealed a significant performance gap between the Pixel 9 phones and competitors equipped with UFS 4.0. The sequential read and write speeds of the Pixel 9 models were considerably slower, with the base model reaching 980 MB/s and the Pixel 9 Pro XL hitting 911MB/s. In comparison, the Zenfone 11 Ultra, using UFS 4.0, achieved a top speed of 2,130MB/s – twice as fast.
This disparity raises concerns for potential buyers who may be looking for a top-tier smartphone with cutting-edge technology. But should UFS 3.1 discourage you from buying a Google Pixel 9 phone? Not all!
The UFS 3.1 Isn’t a Major Dealbreaker
Despite the performance gap revealed in benchmarks, the use of UFS 3.1 in the Pixel 9 series may not be a dealbreaker for most users. Yes, UFS 4.0 offers faster speeds. But UFS 3.1 can still handle many everyday tasks efficiently.
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Even with UFS 3.1, the Pixel 9 can record 8K 60FPS videos thanks to video compression. This technology reduces the required write speeds, ensuring smooth recording performance. Also, Google’s Tensor G4 processor is designed to work effectively with UFS 3.1, minimizing performance impacts.
Another important thing to note is that Google’s large AI model helps maintain image quality during compressed video recording, ensuring crisp and clear results.
While UFS 4.0 offers advantages such as faster speeds, energy efficiency, and a smaller footprint, the performance difference may not be noticeable in most daily-use scenarios. If you’re not frequently transferring large files or performing highly demanding tasks, UFS 3.1 is likely sufficient.
Hopefully Google Will Change Things Up with the Pixel 10 Series
While the Pixel 9 series may have faced some criticism for its use of UFS 3.1 storage, there is hope for improvement in the upcoming Pixel 10 lineup. Google is expected to equip the Pixel 10 series with the Tensor G5, its first in-house chipset manufactured using TSMC’s 3nm process.
This new chipset is anticipated to offer significant performance gains, potentially narrowing the gap with competitors. The Tensor G5’s improved efficiency and power management could also lead to longer battery life and better overall performance.
The Pixel 10 series is likely to be a major release for Google, and it will be interesting to see if the company can address the concerns raised by the Pixel 9’s storage choice. With the Tensor G5 and other potential upgrades, the Pixel 10 lineup could be a strong contender in the flagship smartphone market.
