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The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is Google’s latest flagship, showcasing impressive hardware and design, but it comes with a significant drawback – its charging speed. Among Google’s newly released devices, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has the slowest charging rate, which might be a disappointment for users looking for quick refills on their battery.
Leading the lineup, the Pixel 9 Pro XL features Google’s fastest wired charging speed in years, pulling 37W from the wall. Similarly, the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro have also seen notable upgrades, now charging at 27W. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold falls behind with a maximum wired charging speed of just 21W. This figure was recently confirmed by Google and is based on using the company’s 45W charger, but it should apply to any similarly powerful charger.
Testing has confirmed that the slower charging speed leaves the Pixel 9 Pro Fold behind its counterparts. Despite being Google’s most expensive flagship, its charging performance is weaker, especially when compared to the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, both of which charge at faster rates and are equipped with slightly larger 4,700 mAh batteries. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold, on the other hand, houses a 4,650 mAh battery.
The reduced charging speed also applies to wireless charging. Not only does the Pixel 9 Pro Fold have slower wired charging, but it also does not support the Pixel Stand. Moreover, it is restricted to a maximum Qi wireless charging speed of 7.5W, just like its predecessor. While not necessarily a dealbreaker, it is a noticeable drawback for those who prioritize quick charging features.
In contrast, Google’s more budget-friendly Pixel 8a charges at a maximum of 18W, making the Pixel 9 Pro Fold only slightly faster. However, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s combination of slower wired and wireless charging speeds could pose a challenge when competing against other premium devices on the market.
As the most expensive option in the Pixel lineup, users might have expected the Pixel 9 Pro Fold to come with faster charging, but that’s not the case. Nevertheless, the phone’s other features may still make it a worthy option for those seeking high-end foldable tech.