Early benchmark results for Google’s new Pixel 9 smartphone reveal that its custom Tensor G4 chipset struggles to maintain peak performance under sustained loads. The results paint a concerning picture for the device’s capabilities compared to flagship rivals.

AnTuTu benchmark scores show the Pixel 9 achieving an overall score of 927,945 points. While respectable, this falls short of top-tier Android phones using Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon chips. In fact, my secondary device costing INR 23,999 ($286), the Infinix GT 20 Pro, scores higher than the Pixel 9 on AnTuTu. More worryingly, CPU throttling tests indicate severe performance degradation under extended use on the new Pixels.

A 15-minute CPU stress test saw the Tensor G4’s performance plummet by up to 41% from its peak. The chip struggled to maintain consistent clock speeds, with its maximum frequency of 3.10 GHz dropping significantly during the test duration. This level of throttling could impact real-world performance in demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.

Geekbench 6 scores further highlight the Tensor G4’s middling capabilities. Single-core and multi-core scores of 1556 and 3706 respectively trail behind current flagships from Apple and Samsung. The Wild Life Extreme graphics benchmark also shows the Pixel 9 lagging, with an overall score of just 2584 and average frame rate of 15.48 FPS. Forget the Pixel 9, even the Pixel 9 Pro XL throttled to 50% of its max performance, as highlighted by Tech Radar.

These results are not entirely surprising given Google’s focus on AI and machine learning capabilities rather than raw performance with its Tensor chips. However, the severe throttling is concerning and could impact the phone’s ability to handle sustained workloads smoothly.

It’s worth noting that benchmarks don’t tell the whole story of real-world performance. The Pixel 9 may still offer a fluid experience for most users thanks to Google’s software optimizations. Additionally, its AI capabilities powered by 16GB of RAM could provide unique features that set it apart from competitors.

Nonetheless, these early results suggest the Pixel 9 may struggle to compete with top-tier flagships in terms of pure processing power and sustained performance. Users looking for the absolute highest performance, particularly for gaming or other intensive tasks, may need to look elsewhere.

As always, it’s advisable to wait for comprehensive reviews and hands-on testing before drawing final conclusions. However, these benchmark results provide an early indication that Google’s latest Tensor chip may once again prioritize AI capabilities over raw horsepower in the upcoming Pixel 9 series.

Dwayne Cubbins
1231 Posts

My fascination with Android phones began the moment I got my hands on one. Since then, I've been on a journey to decode the ever-evolving tech landscape, fueled by a passion for both the "how" and the "why." Since 2018, I've been crafting content that empowers users and demystifies the tech world. From in-depth how-to guides that unlock your phone's potential to breaking news based on original research, I strive to make tech accessible and engaging.

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